The Taipei metro area has a population of some 2.4 million, but if you include Greater Taipei it jumps to over 7 million. You do get a strong sense of this when you drive into the central area on any of the elevated freeways, passing row after row of apartment blocks, lights twinkling at night for added effect. For the first time visitor the old and the new stand side by side: splendid new tower blocks and contrasting grey areas that have seen better days. Ultra-fast wi-fi and a population glued to the phones contrast starkly with the homeless behind their cardboard boundaries at the main station entrances. Wide boulevards and extremely orderly traffic and a wonderful Metro system, with its subterranean shops and restaurants, sure make for connected living. There is much to see and do, but there are social challenges up ahead due to the noticeably ageing population seemingly in the fast lane. So, Taipei has its many charms, interspersed with little contradictions that catch your eye.

Above: Elephant Peak looking down on Taipei 101; Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall; Ximending; Jiufen Old Street.

Above: Shifen waterfall and Shifen Old Street - sky lantern town!

Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall and the changing of the guard.

Above: Longshan Temple; Below: Xingtian Temple

Above: The MRT and Taipei Main Station; Below: Jiufen Old Street and Ximending