Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Taiwan Travelers: 2024 Edition

Ah, Taiwan! The land of night markets, bubble tea, and breathtaking landscapes. As someone who's explored every nook and cranny of this beautiful island, I can tell you that planning a trip here can be both exciting and overwhelming. Did you know that Taiwan is home to over 150 hot springs? That's right, you could soak in a different one every day for nearly half a year! But don't worry, fellow adventurers – I've got your back. This ultimate cheat sheet for Taiwan travelers will be your trusty companion, ensuring you don't miss a beat on your Taiwanese adventure. From navigating the bustling streets of Taipei to discovering hidden gems in rural areas, we've got it all covered. So, grab your passport and let's dive in!

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Why Visit Taiwan

Taiwan is a hidden gem in East Asia that often gets overlooked by travelers. I fell in love with this island nation on my first visit, and I've been back several times since. The blend of modern cities and stunning natural landscapes is truly captivating. From the bustling night markets of Taipei to the serene beauty of Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan offers a diverse range of experiences.

One of the main reasons to visit Taiwan is its incredible food scene. I've never tasted street food as delicious as what I found in the night markets of Taipei and Kaohsiung. The fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and local Taiwanese flavors creates a unique culinary experience that's hard to find anywhere else.

Another compelling reason to visit Taiwan is its warm and welcoming people. I've always been amazed by how friendly and helpful the locals are, even when there's a language barrier. Their hospitality makes exploring the country a joy, whether you're navigating the efficient public transportation system or trying to find a hidden local restaurant.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Taiwan largely depends on what you're looking for in your trip. Here's a breakdown of what to expect in each season:

Spring (March to May)

• Comfortable temperatures (15-25°C)
• Cherry blossom season
• Occasional rain showers

Summer (June to August)

• Hot and humid (28-35°C)
• Typhoon season
• Great for beach activities

Fall (September to November)

• Mild temperatures (20-28°C)
• Less crowded
• Beautiful autumn foliage

Winter (December to February)

• Cool temperatures (10-20°C)
• Occasional rain
• Hot spring season

I personally prefer visiting in the fall. The weather is perfect for exploring, and the autumn colors in places like Yangmingshan National Park are breathtaking.

How Many Days is Enough to Visit

To truly experience Taiwan, I recommend spending at least 7-10 days. This allows you to explore the main cities and venture into the beautiful countryside. Here's a sample itinerary:

1. Taipei (3 days)
2. Jiufen and Shifen (1 day)
3. Taroko Gorge (2 days)
4. Sun Moon Lake (1 day)
5. Tainan (1 day)
6. Kaohsiung (2 days)

Of course, if you have more time, you can explore even more of what Taiwan has to offer. I once spent three weeks traveling around the island, and I still felt like I barely scratched the surface.

How Affordable Is It

Taiwan is surprisingly affordable, especially compared to other East Asian destinations like Japan or Hong Kong. Here's a rough breakdown of daily expenses:

• Budget: NT$1000-1500 (US$33-50)
• Mid-range: NT$1500-3000 (US$50-100)
• Luxury: NT$3000+ (US$100+)

I've found that food is particularly cheap, especially if you eat at night markets or local restaurants. A delicious bowl of beef noodle soup might only set you back NT$100-150 (US$3-5).

How to Get There

Most international visitors arrive at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), located about 40 km west of Taipei. Several major airlines offer direct flights to Taiwan from cities across Asia, North America, and Europe.

Once you land, getting to Taipei is easy. I usually take the Airport MRT, which is fast, convenient, and affordable. It takes about 35 minutes to reach Taipei Main Station and costs NT$160 (US$5.30).

Navigating

Getting around Taiwan is a breeze thanks to its efficient public transportation system. Here are the main options:

In Cities

• MRT (subway): Clean, punctual, and easy to use
• Buses: Extensive network, but can be confusing for non-Chinese speakers
• YouBike: Bike-sharing system in major cities

Between Cities

• High-Speed Rail (HSR): Fast and comfortable, covers the western coast
• Regular trains: Slower but reach more destinations
• Buses: Cheapest option, but take longer

I always recommend getting an EasyCard, which can be used for most public transportation and even in convenience stores. It makes getting around so much more convenient.

Where to Stay (For Each Budget)

Budget

• Hostels: NT$400-800 (US$13-27) per night
• Example: Star Hostel Taipei Main Station

Mid-range

• 3-star hotels: NT$1500-3000 (US$50-100) per night
• Example: CityInn Hotel Plus – Ximending Branch

Luxury

• 5-star hotels: NT$5000+ (US$167+) per night
• Example: W Taipei

I've stayed in all types of accommodations in Taiwan, and I've found that even budget options are generally clean and comfortable. For a unique experience, try staying in a hot spring resort in Beitou or Wulai.

What to Do – Top 5 Things to Do by Day for Tourists

1. Explore Taipei 101

   • Observation deck on the 89th floor
   • Fast elevators (37 seconds to the top)
   • Great views of the city

2. Visit Taroko Gorge

   • Stunning marble cliffs and turquoise waters
   • Hike the Shakadang Trail
   • Visit the Eternal Spring Shrine

3. Soak in a Hot Spring

• Beitou Hot Springs in Taipei
• Guguan Hot Springs in Taichung
• Relax and rejuvenate

4. Cycle Around Sun Moon Lake

   • Beautiful scenery
   • 29 km bike path around the lake
   • Stop at Wenwu Temple for great views

5. Explore Tainan's Historical Sites

   • Chihkan Tower
   • Confucius Temple
   • Anping Old Fort

I'll never forget cycling around Sun Moon Lake. The mist rising off the water in the early morning created an almost magical atmosphere.

What to Do – Top 5 Things to Do by Night for Tourists

1. Visit a Night Market

   • Shilin Night Market in Taipei
   • Liuhe Night Market in Kaohsiung
   • Try local street food and shop for souvenirs

2. Enjoy the View from Elephant Mountain

   • Hike up for stunning night views of Taipei
   • Best time: 30 minutes before sunset
   • Bring water and wear comfortable shoes

3. Experience Taiwan's Bar Scene

• Ximending area in Taipei
• Try local craft beers
• Karaoke bars for a truly Taiwanese experience

4. Watch a Performance at the National Theater

   • Traditional and contemporary performances
   • Beautiful architecture
   • Book tickets in advance

5. Take a Night Tour of Taipei

   • Longshan Temple
   • Huaxi Street Night Market
   • Ximending pedestrian area

The energy of Taiwan's night markets is something you have to experience to believe. The sights, sounds, and smells create an atmosphere that's uniquely Taiwanese.

What to Eat

Taiwan's food scene is diverse and delicious. Here are some must-try dishes:

1. Beef Noodle Soup
2. Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)
3. Gua Bao (Taiwanese Hamburger)
4. Stinky Tofu
5. Bubble Tea

Don't be afraid to try street food. Some of the best meals I've had in Taiwan were from small stalls in night markets. Just look for the busiest vendors – that's usually a sign of good food.

Where to Shop (For Each Budget)

Budget

• Night Markets: Shilin, Raohe, Fengjia
• Underground Mall at Taipei Main Station

Mid-range

• Ximending Shopping District
• Eslite Bookstores (open 24 hours)

Luxury

• Taipei 101 Mall
• Bellavita Shopping Mall

I always make sure to leave some space in my suitcase for shopping in Taiwan. From quirky souvenirs to high-end fashion, there's something for everyone.

Essential Sentences

Here are some useful phrases in Mandarin Chinese:

1. Hello: Nǐ hǎo (你好)
2. Thank you: Xièxiè (謝謝)
3. Excuse me: Duìbuqǐ (對不起)
4. Where is the bathroom?: Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ? (廁所在哪裡？)
5. How much is this?: Zhè ge duōshǎo qián? (這個多少錢？)

Even if your pronunciation isn't perfect, locals always appreciate the effort to speak their language.

Local Pro Tip

Always carry cash with you. While larger establishments in cities accept credit cards, many small shops and restaurants are cash-only. Also, don't be surprised if you see people lining up for hours outside a restaurant. It's common in Taiwan and usually means the food is exceptional.

Is It Safe

Taiwan is generally very safe for travelers. Crime rates are low, and violent crime against tourists is rare. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take normal precautions.

One thing to be aware of is the possibility of earthquakes and typhoons. Taiwan is located in a seismically active zone, so minor tremors are not uncommon. During typhoon season (June to October), stay informed about weather conditions and follow any evacuation orders.

FAQ – Top 15 Questions

1. Do I need a visa to visit Taiwan?

   • Many countries have visa-free entry for stays up to 90 days. Check with your local Taiwanese embassy for details.

2. Is English widely spoken?

   • English is not as widely spoken as in some other Asian countries, but you can usually find English speakers in tourist areas and hotels.

3. Can I drink tap water in Taiwan?

• It's generally safe to drink tap water in Taiwan, but many locals prefer to boil it first. Bottled water is widely available.

4. How do I use the MRT in Taipei?

   • Purchase an EasyCard for convenience. Follow the color-coded lines and station names in English.

5. What's the tipping culture like?

   • Tipping is not expected in Taiwan. Some high-end restaurants may add a service charge.

6. Are credit cards widely accepted?

• Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels and large stores, but many small shops and restaurants are cash-only.

7. What's the best way to exchange money?

   • Banks and licensed money changers offer the best rates. ATMs are also widely available.

8. Is Wi-Fi easily available?

   • Yes, many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi. You can also rent a pocket Wi-Fi device at the airport.

9. What's the voltage in Taiwan?

• Taiwan uses 110V, 60Hz electricity. You may need an adapter for your devices.

10. Can I use my cell phone in Taiwan?

    • Check with your provider about international rates. You can also purchase a local SIM card at the airport or convenience stores.

11. Is it necessary to learn some Chinese before visiting?

    • While it's not necessary, learning a few basic phrases can be helpful and is appreciated by locals.

12. What's the best way to get from Taipei to other cities?

- The High-Speed Rail (HSR) is fast and comfortable for traveling along the west coast. Regular trains reach other destinations.

13. Are there any cultural taboos I should be aware of?

    • Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as this resembles incense sticks at funerals. Remove shoes when entering someone's home.

14. What should I do in case of an emergency?

    • Dial 119 for ambulance and fire services, 110 for police.

15. Can I visit Taiwan during Chinese New Year?

- Yes, but be aware that many businesses may be closed and transportation can be crowded during this time.

Remember, part of the joy of traveling is discovering things for yourself. Don't be afraid to explore and create your own unique experiences in Taiwan!

Conclusion

As we wrap up our Taiwan travel cheat sheet, remember that the true magic of this island lies in its ability to surprise and delight at every turn. From the mouthwatering street food to the warm hospitality of locals, Taiwan offers an experience like no other. So, whether you’re slurping down a bowl of beef noodle soup or marveling at the view from Taipei 101, embrace every moment of your journey. Don’t forget to try something new each day, strike up conversations with locals, and most importantly, enjoy the ride! Taiwan is waiting to welcome you with open arms. Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Pack your bags, and let’s go explore the heart of Asia!