For years, Taiwan has been renowned as one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world. The country is probably one of the best places that we have visited. The country has everything in its fold to lure and wow you – from the vibrant nightlife, beautiful culture, amazing food, historical attractions to the magnificent beaches. I have curated a list of must-known Taiwan travel tips that I learned during my trip to Taiwan. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the list. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Taiwan Visas
Taiwan offers 90 days free visa for US nationals and European citizens. The period of free visas cannot be extended. However, one needs to have a valid passport in order to get a 90 days free Taiwan visa. Tourists from other countries can know about their visa requirements and procedures by contacting the concerned authorities in your country. You can check out all the information related to Taiwan visa fees here.
Airports in Taiwan
There are a number of airports in Taiwan. However, there are only four major airheads from where you can fly both domestically and internationally. These are:
- Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
- Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA)
- Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)
- Taichung Airport (RMQ)
** Getting around Taipei is easy with the well connected Taipei Transportation.
Medical information for Taiwan
Medical facilities in Taiwan are pretty advanced and high-tech. Besides, medical assistance in the country is also affordable. The country is dotted with high-tech hospitals and medical centers that are well-equipped with cutting-edge equipment and high-skilled doctors. Doctors and hospitals in Taiwan are English-friendly, hence getting medical treatment is quite easy here. However, I would suggest you get health insurance done so that you can easily deal with any sort of medical emergency. We highly suggest SafteyWing for your Taiwan tour and every other trip. After traveling for the last couple of years we don’t trust anyone else to protect us on our trips domestically or internationally. Click here to check them out.
Weather in Taiwan
Taiwan has a tropical and sub-tropical climate, hence, the country is blessed with an abundance of palm trees and white sandy beaches perfect for every backpacker and traveler. The climate of the country is split between the south and north regions of Taiwan. The island witnesses hot and humid weather during the months of summer, i.e., from June to August. Winters in Taiwan are short and mild as the season starts in the month of December and ends in February. From June to October, the country witnesses monsoon season.
Months from October to April are considered to be the best time to visit Taiwan. The rainfalls and the unfavorable weather condition makes it difficult for tourists to visit Taiwan between the months of June and September.
Voltage in Taiwan
You will not get to see much information on the internet about voltage in Taiwan. The voltage in Taiwan is the same as the United States, i.e., 110. The plugs are also the same as the United States. Hence, you will need 3-2 prong adapters for your laptops and mobile phones.
Safety in Taiwan
Taiwan tourism is totally safe to visit (also for solo female travelers and backpackers). For a fact, on a list of 163 countries of 2019’s Global Peace Index, Taiwan bags the 36th place. Though the country went down two places hey, it’s still a good number to be called Taiwan a safe destination.
However, Taiwan remains subjected to a number of natural hazardous during the months of typhoon season (May to November). During this time, the country always remains in danger of earthquakes, landslides, floods, and heavy rainfall. We visited during this season and boy oh boy, it was my first and hopefully my last earthquake.
** Getting around Taipei is easy with the well connected Taipei Transportation.
ATM’s in Taiwan
While in Taiwan, you can easily locate ATMs. ATMs can be found in convenience stores and banks. Make sure you have an international debit/credit card to use in Taiwan. For that, you can connect with your home bank branch. In the case of credit card, a pro-Taiwan travel tip is that – choose the option to pay with local currency as in that way, you will get the best exchange rates.
Language in Taiwan
Mandarin Chinese is the official language of Taiwan. However, the written language is traditional Chinese. English is not commonly used language in Taiwan. However, you can expect to communicate in English with the young generation.
Friendly and hospitable people in Taiwan
Undoubtedly, Taiwanese are one of the most friendly people in the world. You can expect people to come to you (out of the way) to help you. Besides, at the train stations or any market, you can freely ask for help or even some extra Taiwan travel tips from anyone – trust me, they will be more than happy to help you. You can also see locals approaching Taiwan backpackers to help them.
A mix of influences in Taiwan
The culture of Taiwan boasts the influences of both Taiwan and China. Here you can people worshipping the sea goddesses, Mazu, that is also worshipped in China. Not just this, the country also has a Japanese influence. It can be seen in the food and architecture, of many historical buildings in the older parts of the cities in Taiwan. On the whole, the culture of Taiwan is a hybrid.
Food in Taiwan
When it comes to food, Taiwan is one of the most-loved travel destinations amongst food connoisseurs. Taipei is the best city for the ultimate culinary experience in Taiwan. Taiwan at Night brings the best for food lovers. There are a number of markets in Taipei that sell some amazing street food including bubble tea and stinky tofu. Some of the top Taipei markets are Shilin Night Market, Raohe Night Market, Ximending Market, and Huaxi Street Night Market. Also, don’t forget about tipping in Taipei!
** Thinking of taking a 7 day trip to Taiwan? Check out our full guide here!**
Chinese number gestures
Before heading out for your Taiwan trip, make sure you learn some Chinese number gestures. This would certainly help you in Taiwan while purchasing things in convenience stores. The numbers 1 to 5 are particularly difference, whereas, 6 to 10 are quite easy to learn.
Creative Cultural Parks in Taiwan
Sightseeing in Taiwan is not just restricted to its fascinating attractions and vibrant nightlife. People often love to explore the creative aspect of the country through its cultural parks. Disused places are converted into the fun and creative spaces are named as creative cultural parks.
So, these are some of the top Taiwan tips that I learned on my trip. Hope you’ve liked them. You can also check out our other travel posts on Taipei here. Also, you can check out our recommended travel essentials that will help you with your Taiwan Travel Tips.
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Very cool Jesse I lived there for three years from 1969 thru 1971. Lived in Taipei but traveled the whole island. Awesome experience. Great read. Bought back many fond memories. Thanks
Thank you so much for taking the time to read!