Goasia Taiwan

Decided to join Go Asia Taiwan's Providence university Chinese mandarin adventure program earlier this year. Unfortunately only had a month to stay in Taiwan . The teachers , and fellow students as well as the facilities offered are amazing . I joined the gym at the university and swam every day in their new indoor pool . The facilities are modern and clean . I also spent a bit of time at the library in-between classes and was blown away with how much content in media and books were available as well as how comfortable and modern the place is. Although the facilities are great , what really makes Taiwan are the people - always keen to help and so friendly and genuinely go out of their way to make your stay a warm and hospitable one. In a month i have made so many friends . What put a cherry on the top was the opportunity to travel and learn stuff other than mandarin - we travelled to meet and see other local indigenous tribes in Hualien. Snorkeling in Taitung was fantastic - beautiful , clear water and rich with sea life. We also go to visit the tea producing areas and drink loads of green tea. The food in Taiwan is to die for ...i have never experienced a place that so much to offer and such a rich , colorful cultural experience. Definitely going back next year and would recommend this program to anyone who is serious to learn mandarin and wants to do so in a friendly , safe and interesting environment .

The programme is conveniently located, with friendly can-do admin staff. But of all the great things I liked about this course was how teachers allow students in a small class experience room to study in ways that suit individuals' learning styles.

The course covers from beginner-level classes - tuning into the sound of Mandarin - and relevant helpful everyday language. Attention to detail is important right from the start.

As the course progresses, rigorous listening exercises also help with being exposed to 'standard' and regional pronunciation. Writing is carefully taught along with reading texts which instil appreciation for modern and ancient Chinese culture.

Taichung is a wonderfully friendly Asian city suitable for the more independent traveller who doesn't need in-your-face tourist facilities to satisfy them. You have to make friends, (easy) and to really explore for yourself, and therefore you get a really more authentic vibe and experience.

The nearby mountains are a gateway to regions where some of the best teas I've ever tasted are produced; for hiking there are some of the most beautiful and highest trails in East Asia. This coming from a professional hiking guide whose been around! (see capetrekking.co.za).

It's a place where people really made me and my family feel at home, I would readily return there.