Welcome to Taiwan 😊

Quick Facts About Taiwan

Money and Finances

The currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan dollar (NTD). There are coins for denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 50 NTD and notes for denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1000 NTD.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in Taiwan, especially in urban areas. They typically accept major credit and debit cards.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in Taiwan, especially Visa and Mastercard. AMEX is accepted in some places but not as widely as the other two. However, some smaller businesses may not accept credit cards, so it's good to have some cash on hand, as well.

Internet and Phones

Taiwan has an average internet speed of 85 Mbps for downloads and 40 Mbps for uploads. There are currently no reports of government interference in internet use in Taiwan.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Major telco companies in Taiwan include Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and FarEasTone. The cost of a mobile phone plan in Taiwan varies depending on the package and provider, but the average cost is around NT$599 (about $21 USD) per month. Sim cards are widely available and there are no notable compatibility issues.

Dialling to Taiwan

To call Taiwan from another country, dial +886 followed by the area code (omit the leading 0) and phone number. The area codes in Taiwan are usually three digits long and are assigned to different regions within the country.

Transport Around Taiwan

Air Travel

Taiwan has two major international airports, Taoyuan International Airport and Kaohsiung International Airport, as well as several smaller domestic airports.

Train Travel

Taiwan has a well-developed inter-city train network operated by Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) with ticket prices ranging from 120 to 2000 TWD and journey times ranging from 40 minutes to 4 hours depending on the distance.

Metro / Local Trains

Taiwan has three major cities with metro systems: Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taoyuan. These local trains are convenient and affordable, with fares ranging from 20 to 65 TWD depending on distance traveled.

Buses

Taiwan has a comprehensive bus network operated by several companies with ticket prices ranging from 15 to 300 TWD and journey times varying by route and traffic conditions.

Rideshare

Uber and taxi sharing apps are not available in Taiwan. However, there are several local taxi companies and car rental services that offer competitive prices for travel.

Driving by Car

Driving in Taiwan is relatively easy and straightforward, with good road conditions and mostly right-hand drive. The usual speed limit on highways is 100 kph while the city speed limit is 50 kph.

Local Customs

In Taiwan, tipping is not expected but is appreciated for exceptional service. Locals usually greet each other with a slight nod or bow, and it is customary to address individuals by their title and last name. When speaking with strangers, it is important to be polite and avoid direct confrontation. Women and men address each other with the respective titles followed by their last names, and it is considered impolite to use first names unless specifically permitted by the individual.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Taiwan has a comprehensive healthcare system with a mix of public and private hospitals and clinics. Citizens are enrolled in the National Health Insurance Program, which covers the majority of medical expenses. Visiting a doctor typically costs around $10-20 USD. Private insurance options are also available for those who want additional coverage.

COVID Situation

Taiwan has been praised for its effective handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government implemented swift and strict measures such as border controls, testing, and contact tracing. As of October 2021, Taiwan has reported a total of 16,929 cases and 845 deaths.

Common Health Risks

Taiwan is generally considered a safe destination with few major health risks. However, travelers should take precautions for mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis, especially during the rainy season. Food poisoning can also be a concern, so it's important to stick to clean and well-cooked food. Air pollution is also a potential issue in major cities, so those with respiratory problems may want to take additional precautions.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Taiwan, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. You can purchase alcohol at a convenience store or supermarket, but drinking in public places such as streets, parks, and beaches is strictly prohibited. Driving under the influence of alcohol can result in a heavy fine and imprisonment.

Recreational Drugs

Drug use is illegal in Taiwan, and any drug related offenses can lead to heavy fines and/or imprisonment. This includes the use and possession of soft drugs such as cannabis. Taiwan takes a very strict stance on drug use and trafficking.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Taiwan has no specific laws in regards to pre-marital relationships, but any sexual activity with a minor (under 18 years old) is considered statutory rape and can lead to imprisonment.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex marriage was legalized in Taiwan in 2019, making it the first country in Asia to do so. However, discrimination and harassment against LGBTQ individuals still exist, particularly with regards to employment and healthcare.

Firearms / Guns

It is typically illegal to own or possess guns and firearms in Taiwan. Weapons can only be used for military or law enforcement purposes, and require a special permit to own and operate. Violations of firearms laws can carry heavy fines and imprisonment.

Regions in Taiwan

There are many wonderful regions to visit in Taiwan, browse through each to see what to visit.

3 Popular Travel Destinations in Taiwan