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Taiwan Travel Tips

Updated: 05 07 , 2013 19:41
Climate
Taiwan's climate is subtropical, with average annual temperatures of 21.7C (71.2F) in the north and 24.1C (75.7F) in the south. The rainy season, in May and June, typically heralds the start of summer. Summers, which last from May through September, are usually hot and humid with daytime temperatures from 27C to 35C (in the 80's and 90's F). Winters, from December through February, are short and mild; snow falls only on the island's higher mountains.

In general, visitors should wear lightweight clothing from April through November; sweaters and coats are necessary only from December through March and in air-conditioned restaurants, cinemas, etc.

Currency

The currency used in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NT$). As of 1998, the exchange rate was close to NT$33 to US$1. Foreign currencies can easily be exchanged for local NT$ at most banks, hotels, and even some departmental stores. After any transaction, be sure to keep the receipts if you want to exchange unused NT$ before departure.

Taiwan notes come in the form of NT$100, 500, and 1,000. Coins are available in denominations of NT$1, 5, 10, 50, and 100.

Traveler's checks and major credit cards are accepted in most places on the island. Among them are American Express, Carte blanche, MasterCard, Diners Club, and Visa.

What to wear

As Taiwan has four seasons, appropriate clothing should match the right season.
In the summer, pack light and loose clothing, preferably cotton, casual sportswear, and comfortable walking shoes. If it is a business trip, bring a jacket and tie, though the weather may be too hot for that type of attire. Most Chinese businessmen choose to wear leisure suits with open collars to beat the heat.

Winter in Taiwan is a bone-chilling experience. Be sure to prepare enough woolens, sweaters, jackets, pants, and socks to overcome the frosty weather. You may also want to include a rain-gear as thunderstorms can appear out of the blue.

Airport Tax

When departing Taiwan, an airport tax of NT$300 must be paid and the receipt kept when checking-in to the departure hall.

Medical Services

It does not cost much to get medical treatment and dental care in Taiwan. This does not mean, however, that the services are not as good or efficient as in some other countries. In fact, the quality of medical services here is superb and up-to-date.

Tipping

It is not really necessary to give tips in Taiwan. However, a small tip for bellboys or taxi drivers would sometimes be much appreciated. Hotels normally include a 10 percent service charge to the room rates and meals. Heavy tips are expected at wine-houses and dance-halls.

Business Hours

Most businesses and service sectors are open at 9 a.m. Banks open from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Monday-Friday) and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Commercial firms begin work at 9 a.m. and end at 5:30 p.m. Some commercial firms operate half-day on Saturdays.
Departmental stores open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. while smaller stores open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Government sectors start from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a one hour break and continue to 5:30 p.m. (Monday-Friday). They are also open from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays.

Electricity & Water

Taiwan uses electric current of 110 volts at 60 cycles. Many buildings have sockets with 220 volts especially for the use of air conditioners.

Tap water is drinkable but drinking unboiled water is not recommended. Most hotels provide boiled drinking water. Bottled spring water is easily available at convenience stores and supermarkets.

Languages

Mandarin and Taiwanese are the main languages spoken in Taiwan. Many locals have a basic knowledge of English, but they appreciate visitors making an effort to learn at least a few words of their language.

Etiquette and Customs

Greeting someone in Taipei

Hand shaking is a standard form of greeting. A slight bow is a sign of respect, but should not be done to excess; a modest forward tilt will suffice. Business cards are of high importance here, especially if you are on business and should be presented with both hands and a modest bow if meeting someone for the first time.

Local Customs

"Face" is a crucial element in Taiwanese culture and society. "Face" to the Chinese has no direct translation in the west, though the closest comparison would be 'pride'. It is considered the height of bad manners to cause someone else to loose face, so most Taiwanese do not show much emotion or express extreme opinions for fear of causing offence. In order to impress and avoid any social mistakes it is wise to follow the same approach. This extends to very generous gift giving, offering to pay for restaurant bills and general flattery of your hosts.

Air Travel

Taiwan has two international airports - at Kaohsiung in the South and at Taoyuan in the North. Chiang Kai-SHek International Airport at Taoyuan is 24miles (40km) southwest of Taipei. The airport departure tax is NT$300.

Domestic Transportation

Traveling around Taiwan is easy and convenient. Domestic airlines provide daily flights between Taipei and other major cities, as well as to nearby Green and Orchid Islands and the Penghu Archipelago.

Reliable express buses connect Taipei with all major cities and most major scenic spots, and reserved-seat, air-conditioned express trains provide fast, comfortable service around the island. Rental cars are also available. Fares for buses and trains are quite reasonable. Taxi charges are NT$65 for the first 1.65 km and NT$5 for each additional 350 meters. An additional NT$5 is charged for every three minutes of waiting, and a 20% surcharge is added to fares between l l p.m. and 6 a.m., the price of radio cars, and carrying luggage in the boot adds NT$10.

Tourist Information Hot Line

The Hot Line provides a wide range of assistance in English (or other languages as needed) on every aspect of travel in Taiwan. The hot line is operated every day of the year from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Taipei time).


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