Taiwan Island Tour
 

In looking for a new place to explore (and only having 8 or 9 days total) the thought of touring around Taiwan popped into the picture.

Has anyone done that? Would it be sufficiently interesting for a week? How many days would be reasonably needed to get a feel for Taipei?

I spent 3 days in Taipei and had a good time of it. Pop into a book shop and look at a Lonely Planet guide to Taiwan. I think you'll find enough to keep you busy for 8-9 days.

There are some really good recent JBR or Trip Reports over on Trip Advisor. our upcoming trip will have us in Taipei for about 5 days, although we'll be visiting family more than seeing the sites.

Honestly, haven't seen too much information on Taiwan on this board.

You could see quite a bit of the island in 8-9 days. Three days is probably enough for Taipei. Elsewhere popular destinations include Sun Moon Lake, Taroko Gorge and Alishan.

I've lived in Taiwan for the past seven years. Check out my site for ideas:
http://www.travelsinasia.com/Taiwan/Taiwan.htm

Thanks for good info. Is the train a reasonable form of transportation on the island?

If you plan to travel in Taiwan next year, Taiwan High Speed Rail may operate. http://www.thsrc.com.tw/en/index.asp

Before that, the train is a good transportation, however, the schedule of train has been changed to complete with High Speed Rail (more short routes than longer routes).
Website: http://www.railway.gov.tw/e_index.htm

Some domestic air plan to lower their rates also because of the High Speed Rail Train.

When travel long distance, bus is also very convenient. However, if you leave Taipei city, you may need to drive or ride motobike.