Taiwan exists under the shadow of its giant neighbor, mainland China. In the eyes of China, Taiwan is a rebel province that will one day be reunited with the mainland—whether peacefully or by force. But practically speaking, Taiwan is economically and socially independent of China.
Most Taiwanese people have clear goals in life: Work hard. Get rich. Within the span of one generation, Taiwan has become a wealthy nation with little poverty. Many Taiwanese can afford luxury cars and overseas vacations.

Other common sights: Mobile telephones and PDAs, McDonalds and Starbucks, B&Q and 7-11, young men and women wearing the latest fashion trends.

On the surface, Taiwan may look both modern and westernized. However, only about 2% of the Taiwanese are Christian. Half of these regularly attend church. The majority of Taiwan’s Christians come from the more highly educated and western-influenced middle class.

Meanwhile, Eastern values and religions such as Buddhism and Taoism continue to hold a powerful influence over old and young alike. Lucky charms provide protection on the road and fengshui influences architecture and interior design. For most people, their religion is pragmatic. Keeping the gods happy is one way to ensure peace and prosperity in their own lives.

A strange mix of old and new, East & West, technology and tradition—this is Taiwan.