IMPORTANT

To Note:

• Buying an Easy Card / Ipass – you can use it for transport, convenience stores, retail bikes and a few other things. Read more here.
• There is a general belief in self-virtue and the avoidance of loss of face. While one probably wouldn’t, try not to point out anything that would embarrass someone else.
• Avoid talking about Taiwan/China relations unless they invite you to.
• No eating or drinking on public transport.

Cultural

• Direct cultures (Australia, USA, Germany etc) may find that what they say could result in being misunderstood as rude.
• The concept of face (mien-tzu) is important; compliments (giving face), criticism/turning down an invitation/not keeping your word (losing face) and giving excuses/examples for problems that arise (saving face).
• Values are often based on Confucian ethics and describe the position of the individual in society. Read more here.

Dress Code?

• While Taiwan doesn’t have a dress code, women rarely share their shoulders. When visiting temples and shrines, try to dress more conservatively.
• Due to the climate, try to bring natural fabrics such as cotton, linen and silk (check your tags!) These dry quickly, are breathable and are light.

Driving?

• You’ll be driving on the right-hand side and people will pass you on the left.
• You MUST have an International License if you’re renting a car. They will not accept your government-issued ID solo.
• You’ll be required to have a credit card.

English

• You’ll have no issues speaking English in major cities and tourist destinations.
• In major cities and tourist destinations, they will have menus in English.
• Night Food Markets have a lot of signs in English
• Download Google Translate offline 🔗Apple 🔗Google Play

Insurance?

• You should always have travel insurance when going overseas. At least just to cover you for medical.
• For short trips I tend to use Tick Insurance or Fast Cover.
• If you’re already overseas and need to extend/buy new insurance, WorldNomads is an option.
• Register your trip details with Smart Traveller (Australia.)

Toilets?

• There are ‘sitting toilets’ and ‘squatting toilets’
• Toilet paper is not recommended to be thrown in the toilet.

Transport?

Water?

• You can drink the tap water in Taipei. Older buildings are generally avoided due to the pipes.
• People generally state to get bottled water in the country or if staying in older buildings.
  
  Article: Lonely Planet – Green Travel: How to ditch the plastic water bottle.

Weather

Taiwan lies on the border of two climate zones. North has a wet summer and cool winter. South has a tropical climate with wet and rainy seasons.

MONEY

*Remember to contact your bank and let
them know you’re going overseas!*

• You should always have some cash and other cards securely saved somewhere in case of any issues.
• Australia: I personally use my ING Visa while overseas and withdraw from that as it gives me rebates on all international ATM fees* (including the ones charged.)
• Not everywhere will accept your card, especially little markets or people selling on the streets. Cash is Key.
• Large bills you get from the ATM – exchange them for smaller bills inside the bank if possible.

Tipping?

•  Taiwan is not a tipping country.
• You can tip tour guides – especially the “Free walking ones.”
• A service charge may be included in some restaurants.
• You round up for taxi fares.

Working ATMS.

• 7/11 will often have a bank ATM

OTHER

FUN FACTS

• The most mountainous region in the world is Taiwan.
• Taipei City has an active volcano.
• Taiwan has more than 300 night markets.
• Taiwan holds the record for the longest-lasting rainbow in the world.
• Cat cafés came from Taiwan. The first café, at Flower Garden” (貓花園), opened in Taiwan City in 1998.

Author: Sarah

My only direction in life seems to be going around the world. View all posts by Sarah