Once again we can see a lot of activities going on in Taiwan. Taipei has many museums with high international standards, of which we have mentioned a few on page 28. Taipei Fine Arts Museum, see page 10, once again spoils us with another exciting exhibition: the Taipei Biennial.

Furthermore, Taiwan offers a great variety of parks, if you would like to have a break from the hectic life and just explore the beauty of the green environment. Recharge yourself and get ready for the next activity of the day, which might be shopping. On page 26 are some suggestions for the busy traveler who MUST have some gifts to bring back for his or her family and friends.

Planning ahead is something we learn at an early age. From October 6th to 10th, the Taiwan Exhibition & Convention Industry Show will be held at the Taipei World Trade Center. For more information, see page 40.

We mustn't forget to give ourselves a treat, so take pleasure in a concert or dance performance! For those in Taipei, please look at page 30 onwards, and for other cities please look for information under each city.

Food: whether it's breakfast, lunch or dinner, it is an important part of our lives. Marco Polo Restaurant at Shangri-La's Far Eastern Plaza Hotel, Taipei, introduces their newest professional, Chef Antonio, who will create the most tantalizing meal for you. See page 1 for more details. More suggestions for different restaurants and bars can be found on page 22 onwards.

Run out of cash? Or you would like to apply for a credit card? No problem. HSBC will offer you help and good service. Look at page 2 for more information.

Would you like to experience Paris when in Taipei? Easy, just go to Palais de Chine Hotel, see page 74.

Taiwan this Month helps you find the latest activities around the island, useful information and MRT maps for Taipei and Kaohsiung. The monthly free, bilingual magazine has a trilingual web page: www.taiwanthismonth.com

Louise Byström
Editor-in-Chief