great individual attention in the warm heart of Taiwan

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.