There’s a relatively open stance on LGBT rights in Taiwan and travellers certainly should feel comfortable visiting – not least because people are so welcoming they don’t really care about sexual orientation. With such a liberal society, Taiwan must be a good place for gay travellers, right? It’s true that it is the most gay friendly nation in Asia. Which brings us to the other interesting thing about Taiwan – its civil society and democracy (standing somewhat in contrast to its huge neighbor China with it’s more questionable LGBT rights).

There’s also Taipei, a bustling city with excellent infrastructure. Travellers here will find stunning landscapes, from sea cliffs, soaring mountains, clear blue Pacific waters and gravity-defying rock formations. Definitely a step (or several!) off the beaten track, there’s plenty to be discovered in Taiwan, an island with a fascinating mix of Chinese, Japanese and Western influences and food that will keep your mouth watering for months afterwards.