These 3 nations makeup not-China, each has had a controversial recent history and could be the flashpoint for future conflict but today they stand still with a unique chinese twist worth experiencing.
Taiwan is a wonderful place worth taking it slow and simply enjoying, from hiking to biking, from drinking to festivals - It has plenty to do and see.
Hong Kong is sadly losing it's identity but still has much to offer, the night life is incredible and it's recent history easy to get lost in.
Taiwan: 2 - 3 weeks / HK/Macau: 3 days - 1 week
Taiwan Dollar TWD / Kong Kong Dollar HKD / Macanese Palaca
February to November
Taiwan: $40usd / HK/Macau $150usd
Due to the expensive housing, many of the hostels are filled with locals which leads to a hostel culture devoid of friendship and connections
Hong Kong has some remarkably amazing hiking, due to the unique zoning laws which keep true vegetation on the cusp of dense civilization.