Obsessed with the stellar performance of Asian economies, led by mainland China, we almost forget that Taiwan could represent, beyond its undeniable economic success, the model of society to which most of Asia could aspire. In terms of GDP, Taiwan's economy grew by 10.81TP3Q in 2010, under the triple effect of a boom in exports, investment and consumption.
But what is probably most fascinating about the Taipei of today is the very liberal mindset of its political and social organisation. A true democracy with a real political maturity, Taiwanese society has become emancipated, confident, dynamic and creative. This development is all the more remarkable given that it is taking place in the shadow of its big brother China, which has a very different social model.
While the economic rapprochement with China is a tangible reality - the multiplication of air and sea links is tangible proof of this - it also generates the paradox of reinforcing a Taiwanese identity that makes the island a very special market. And one that is often easier for a Western businessman to understand than the other side of the Formosa Strait...
If you have... two hours
The Taipei of the 21st century is developing in the shadow of the 509-metre-high Taipei 101 tower. Its interior architecture may not be in the best of taste, but the views over the city are breathtaking. Nearby are the Mitsukoshi-Shin and Hankyu department stores and the Eslite bookshop.
One afternoon
A must-see on any trip to Taipei: the National Museum and its 2,000 years of Chinese treasures. Warning: avoid weekends, as it's very crowded! Alternatively, the Museum of Fine Arts offers a glimpse of local artistic creation. Finish off at the Spot, the former US embassy converted into an art cinema centre.
