Taiwan was recently named by Lonely Planet as one of the “Top 10 Best Countries to Visit in 2012.” With lush-green mountains towering over 13,000 feet and a sub-tropical climate weather, Taiwan may have found the right approach to promoting itself by stressing its natural resources.

In March, Taiwan will host two green events -- the International Orchid Show in Tainan from March 3 to 12, and Yilan Green Exposition in Yilan from March 31 to May 20 -- to demonstrate its commitment to eco-tourism. “Our island is considered a ‘green trendsetter’ because of our continuous effort to develop impactful events focusing on green living,” said Trust Lin, director of Taiwan Tourism Bureau Los Angeles. “To us, this style of living is the only way to preserve Taiwan’s natural treasures, and a healthy sustainable environment for our people and travelers.”

The Taiwan International Orchid Show in Tainan celebrates the fact that the island is the world’s largest orchid exporter. With an expected attendance of over 3,000 international floral exporters and buyers at the show, the “Orchid Kingdom” plans to unveil its newly developed breeds -- Phalaenopsis and Oncidium (Dancing Lady Orchid).

The 13th annual Yilan Green Expo plans to incorporate the “organic” concept into three key exhibit areas -- Garden, Food & Lifestyle and Farm. In the Garden area, visitors will learn the importance of how and which of the five Chinese natural elements -- metal, wood, water, fire and earth -- define their personality.