Tourist traps Stay away from a place called Window on China, which has miniature models of China's most famous attractions; unless kitschy tourist sights are your thing. It isn't even conveniently located; it's about an hour's drive, and there are few other pulls nearby that would make the trip worthwhile. The Democratic Progressive Party-led administration, which favours Taiwan independence, has been less keen to promote it.

Tipping etiquette Tipping is not common in Taipei though cab drivers will appreciate being allowed to keep small change. While most restaurants and bars add 10%, this “service charge” rarely sees its way into staff hands. Your added generosity, especially at bars and restaurants popular with Westerners, is highly appreciated. Internet cafés While most hotels have business centres with Internet access and computers, fees are generally steep. This can be avoided if you bring your own laptop and are staying at one of Taipei's hotels. It is very rare to find a hotel that does not have Internet access in guest rooms.

Gifts to buy The National Palace Museum has a good selection of prints and reproductions from its famous collection of imperial Chinese art. Jewellery is generally much more expensive in Taipei than other Asian cities as are designer labels.

CULTURAL DOS AND DON'TS
Name cards are a definite must for both business and casual travellers. But make sure you never use red ink to sign your name or write anyone else's: it signifies death. Ditto for sticking chopsticks into your bowl of rice, as this resembles the incense sticks used at funerals. If invited to dine with locals, avoid drinking by yourself. Always toast someone. Those familiar with Western customs, however, will be more comfortable with Western drinking habits. If the drinking is getting beyond your capacity, do not hesitate to beg off further urgings to down your glass. Remain polite, but be firm. Run fast if invited to join in a sing along at a KTV unless you like maudlin, weepy love songs and twerpy, Western “oldies but goodies”.