The Ultimate Taiwan Travel Guide

October 17, 2024 Melinda

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Taiwan is incredibly important to me. Not only because of my Taiwanese heritage, but also because I lived in Kaohsiung for two years and my family has connections to Taipei.

Even though Taiwan is small, it offers a wide range of experiences. Whether you're interested in trying local street food, exploring fascinating museums, admiring the beautiful architecture, traveling through different cities to learn about their history, or seeking solitude in the scenic mountains just a few hours' drive away, Taiwan has it all. The country strikes a harmonious balance between preserving its rich history and embracing modern conveniences.

In this guide, I will take you through Taiwan’s rich culture, offering planning tips, and guidance on transportation, and sharing my personal experiences in Taiwan!

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know before you go!

Fooding Smoke in Taichung

LANGUAGE
Taiwan is a linguistic melting pot. While Mandarin, Chinese is the official language and is widely spoken, the island's rich history has left a diverse linguistic landscape.

Mandarin Chinese: The primary language of business, government, and education.
Taiwanese: Often referred to as Hokkien, this language is prevalent among older generations, especially in rural areas.
Hakka: A distinct language with multiple dialects, spoken primarily by the Hakka people, who are concentrated in specific regions.
Japanese: Due to Taiwan's colonial past under Japanese rule, many older Taiwanese, like my grandparents, are fluent in Japanese.
English: Widely understood in urban areas, especially among younger generations and in the tourism industry. However, English proficiency can vary significantly in rural regions.

CURRENCY
New Taiwan Dollar, abbreviated as NT, NTD, or TWD.

CASH TO BRING WITHOUT DECLARATION

Taiwan allows you to carry up to NTD 100,000 (approximately USD 3,000) in cash without needing to declare it at customs.

For more information, you can view Taoyuan International Airport’s Currency Restriction.

PRICING
When you see a price tag in Taiwan, such as $30 TWD, rest assured that this amount includes all applicable taxes. There are no additional taxes at the register.

So, what you see is what you pay!

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plan your trip

Lukang Old Street in Changhua County

BEST TIME TO VISIT

I recommend visiting Taiwan during the spring (March to April) and fall (October to November) seasons.

Summers tend to be crowded with tourists, especially in the top cities, and the weather can be very hot and humid with occasional typhoons. Airplane tickets during the summer are the cheapest because it’s incredibly hot and humid — and no one really wants to be outside.

While winters in Taiwan are relatively mild, the airfare prices can be quite high from December to February, mainly due to preparations for the Chinese New Year holidays, which typically fall in January or February, depending on the Lunar Calendar.

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book your flight to Taiwan!

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travel guides

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helpful guides

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getting around

Here are a couple of transportation options in Taiwan.

The main mode of transportation in Taiwan, aside from riding a moped or driving a car, is walking. Walking is very common, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes. If you're interested in hiking, make sure to bring suitable footwear for that as well!

Click on the images with a "»" to learn more!

— Other ways to get around

YELLOW CAB OR UBER

Taxis are readily available in Taiwan but can be relatively expensive, especially if you're on a budget.

DRIVE
If you plan to rent a car and drive in Taiwan — be cautious. Especially as there are many people riding their mopeds on the roads. Pay attention to your surroundings before switching lanes. You also need to get your International Drivers Permit before you arrive in Taiwan, or else they won’t let you rent a car.

You can rent a car online through Klook and choose from various locations depending on where you are or will be in Taiwan. This is super convenient because the prices are amazing, and you can pick up your car not only in Taipei but also in other cities!

⟢ You can book your car here

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where to dine

From street food, and small businesses with unique flavors that you can’t even possibly imagine, to iconic restaurants like ChunShuiTang, and fun bars to have a couple of drinks, here are some of the BEST places I would recommend visiting in Taiwan

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🥢 Dining Tips & Ettiquete

ORDER & PAYMENT

In smaller establishments, like food stands or small businesses, you'll typically receive a menu upon entering. You'll order and pay at the counter. However, in larger or fine-dining restaurants, you'll be seated and served without the need to order at the counter.

RESERVATIONS

If you find a restaurant that you’re interested in dining at and reservations are available, you should definitely make reservations if available. Although most restaurants in Taiwan are walk-in only — meaning it’s first come, first serve — many restaurants do allow reservations, which you can make online.

Making reservations is a good idea to avoid disappointment from not being able to dine at the restaurant, as places tend to get booked up quickly, especially during Taiwanese holidays.

RESPECT YOUR ELDERS

In group settings with family or friends, show respect by serving your elders first. Even if they're just a bit older, serving the older members of the group is a tradition.

The youngest often takes on the serving role. Remember, it's considered disrespectful to help yourself before serving others, and this extends to pouring tea as well. ☕️🫖

TAP WATER

Drinking tap water is safe after boiling and cooling it.

WARM WATER TRADITION

Embrace the local custom of avoiding cold drinking water. In Taiwan, it's common to drink warm, hot, or room-temperature water, as many believe it's better for your health than iced water.

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