ASK most Saudis their ideas about Taiwan and they will most likely roll their eyes, think for a moment, and then blurt out, “Computers.”

But Taiwan is much more than that. On a recent visit to this island country that nestles to the south of China, the most evident quality I discovered was the warmth and friendliness of the Taiwanese people toward visitors. And that warmth was reflected in just about everyone I met.

Whether schoolchildren or businessmen or shopkeepers, the Taiwanese embrace you with a warm and friendly smile. And there is nothing to suggest that the smile is manufactured. The Taiwanese people, living under a free and democratic system, appear to be happy. It was the kind of warmth and hospitality that made me want to visit again and again.

Taipei, the capital, is like most other metropolitan areas but with a difference. It has heart. While skyscrapers and modernity have indeed swept across the city, there is still plenty of kindness and down-to-earth graces; visitors will certainly not be disappointed with the reception they receive.

This is a country on the move, and the only direction they appear to be heading is up. While strides in technology have gained Taiwan a world-wide reputation for innovation and excellence, there are far more reasons to visit the island. Saudis intending to explore new business ventures would be flattered by the diversity of trade on offer. Be it heavy industry or machinery or consumer appliances and services, Taiwan has it all. A visit to the trade center in Taipei brought to my attention the keen interest of many countries in what Taiwan has to offer.

Education is something Saudis could take advantage of. The pragmatic approach to technology has inspired several scientific parks and cities, and they could serve as a model for some of our institutions of learning. And in the democratic country where critical thinking is freely exercised, that would be an added plus, freeing young energetic minds to go beyond the limits of boundaries.

For the tourist, there is plenty to do and see in and around Taipei. Taipei is the largest and most energetic city in Taiwan, and is also a city that never sleeps. A visit to Taipei 101, the tallest building in the world, with a smattering of shopping malls in and around the building, makes a day’s outing worthwhile. Prices are reasonable and the offerings are plenty. Domestic and imported products are abundant.

Tea and coffee shops in the neighborhood provide a break from shopping, with a variety of tastes for tea lovers. Nantou’s Oolong and Pinglin’s Wunshan Baojhiong tea are among the popular varieties. For the coffee junkie, there are more than enough international coffee chains and outlets.

For art and culture lovers, the National Palace Museum is a must on anyone’s agenda. Ranked among the top four in the world, the museum boasts a collection of around 620,000 pieces from China’s 5000-year history. Paintings, calligraphy, tapestries, bronzes, china and jade are among the many items exhibited over several huge halls and floors.

Another worthwhile trip is to one of the many night markets around the city. Offering an array of delicacies in numerous food stalls, visitor would be extremely tempted to grab a stool and pick and choose their evening fare. Taiwan’s cooking has absorbed influences from various regional Chinese cuisines such as Cantonese, Fujianese and Hakka in addition to Japanese ones. From seafood to steamed dumplings and vegetables of all kinds — some that I had not seen before — I enjoyed the cuisine while taking in the local view. The great variety of their food and taste never ceases to amaze. And food prices are extremely reasonable, whether at the night market or in a five-star hotel.

Danshuie, a port town with a 300-year-old fort, is another worthwhile trip. Visitors can walk along the riverbank and enjoy the gentle breeze flowing from the estuary. Fisherman’s Wharf, rumored to be the model for San Francisco’s own, is another attraction worth your time.

With its wide range of different climates, owing to its straddling the Tropic of Cancer, Taiwan can be visited throughout the year. And it is indeed a place worth a visit. Trust me; the friendliness of the Taiwanese people will not let you easily forget the place.