Overview of Taiwan
Taiwan may not be as popular a destination as Hong Kong or the People's Republic, but its culturally rich cities and arresting natural beauty will captivate the world's travellers.
Chinese nationalists fled to the island when the Communist Party seized control in 1949. Under their leader, Chiang Kai-Shek, they left the mainland with national treasures, gold and foreign reserves, and the goal of regrouping and retaking China. They never returned and relations between the two parties remain tense. Taiwan has thrived since the civil war ended, though.
Today holidaymakers can pack their visits full of vastly different adventures, as they tour thriving cities of glass-fronted boutiques and bustling streets, or celebrate lively traditional festivals around ancient temples. This blend of old and new makes Taiwan a world-class destination, along with being one of Asia's great economic success stories.
For nature lovers, the island's national parks have some fascinating wildlife species, many of which are rare or endangered. Popular outings include train trips through the Alishan mountain range or hiking in Taroko Gorge.
Taiwan offers visitors the cream of Asian sophistication and some of the region's finest landscapes. Anyone with a passion for East Asia should look into planning a trip.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Mandarin is the official language but many people speak Taiwanese (also called Hokkien). There are a growing number of English speakers.
- Passport/Visa:
-
Former China nationals who have resided outside of China for more than four years, and obtained the nationality of the country they reside in may enter Chinese Taipei according to the visa requirements of their acquired nationality. They will need to show documentation supporting the change in nationality.
It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
-
Taiwan's currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Travellers will receive the best rates when exchanging money at banks, though not all banks will change money and many will only change US dollars. Anyone arriving with other currencies should use Mega Bank and the Bank of Taiwan at the airport. Rates are not as competitive at hotels and shopping malls. Major credit cards are accepted and ATMs are plentiful except in villages.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 110 volts, 60Hz. Two-pin, flat blade plugs are standard.
Travel to Taiwan
Overview
Taiwan has a tantalising number of awe-inspiring experiences, especially for such a small, island country. Everything from towering skyscrapers and lively night markets to beautiful old temples and stunning national parks will be on offer for visitors.
Taipei 101 is usually a hit with tourists. Once the tallest building in the world, the attraction's observation decks provide stunning views of Taipei, and its restaurants and stores are well worth visiting. History buffs should look no further than the National Palace Museum, which has an incredible collection of Chinese imperial artefacts. Longshan Temple, Chimei Museum, Fort Zeelandia and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall will appeal to them as well.
Nature lovers will be spoiled for choice, with Taroko National Park (home to the Eternal Spring Shrine), Yushan National Park and Sun Moon Lake all making wonderful day trips.
Climate in Taiwan
Taiwan has sub-tropical climate with temperatures that vary from hot and humid in the south, to cooler in the north and inland mountainous region. Sudden rain showers fall all over the country, so rainwear is an essential part of any visitor's luggage. The driest time of year is autumn (September and October), which leads into a short, generally damp and chilly winter when snow falls on the island's mountain peaks. Summer temperatures can reach 90ºF (35ºC) at the coast, and typhoons can strike during this time of year.
Health Notes when travelling to Taiwan
Taiwan's medical facilities can handle routine, emergency and outpatient treatment, with some centres also employing English-speaking staff. Travellers should have up-to-date vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid and Japanese encephalitis.
There has been an increase in cases of dengue fever, so travellers should pack insect repellent, especially if they're visiting the south of the island. Health insurance is recommended.
Safety Notes when travelling to Taiwan
Most visits to Taiwan are trouble-free, with the only concerns being a low incidence of petty crime and natural hazards such as typhoons, tropical storms and earthquakes. The natural hazards are seldom severe.
Customs in Taiwan
The concept of 'saving face' is very important on the island and tourists should try to avoid embarrassing locals. Self-control is another key point of etiquette, with the Taiwanese frowning on outbursts and other public spectacles. It's impolite to have shoes on when entering someone's home or to make physical contact with strangers.
Duty Free in Taiwan
Travellers aged over 20 may enter Taiwan without paying customs duty on 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 454g tobacco, 1 bottle of alcohol (maximum 1 litre), and a reasonable amount of perfume. Travellers are also permitted to bring personal goods valued up to NT$20,000 duty free (or NT$10,000 for those under 20 years). Guns, narcotics, fresh meat and fruit are prohibited.
Doing Business in Taiwan
Doing business in Taiwan is a pleasure for those who value a high work ethic and technologically savvy business partners. The island has traded heavily with the West for many years and business formalities have melded over time. However, it's important to observe and respect the cultural heritage many cling to.
Confucian values tend to dictate business etiquette in Taiwan, so locals generally appreciate gratitude, respect, mutual understanding and studiousness. Also, bar a few multi-nationals, most businesses in Taiwan are medium-sized and family-owned. In this context, the family's paternal head is always consulted, meaning business decisions can take longer.
Two important aspects of business culture in Taiwan are face and 'Guanxi' (relationships). Face relates to the dignity of a person or a company, and it informs all social and business interactions. It's important to save face at all times. For this reason, foreigners should not correct colleagues or expect them to correct themselves.
Gift giving and conducting deals slowly are key to operating in Taiwan. Generally, business people give a simple gift to all members involved in a meeting, and a better gift to the most important person. It's impolite to open gifts in front of hosts.
Foreigners should always accept invitations to events outside of normal business hours, as this is when locals build relationships. Business people consider it disrespectful to make direct or prolonged eye contact with someone who is in a very senior position, but will always direct conversation to the most senior person in the meeting.
The Taiwanese expect punctuality for meetings. Shaking hands is common for men and women nowadays, though a bow goes a long way as a sign of respect. Business hours are from 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. Business cards are exchanged often and should be printed in both English and Mandarin. Work clothes tend to be formal and conservative. Men wear dark suits, women wear modest dresses and skirts rather than pants. Mandarin is the language of business and hiring a translator is often necessary.
Communication in Taiwan
Taiwan's international access code is +886. Travellers can purchase local SIMs for unlocked phones; wifi is widely accessible in hotels, hostels, homestays, cafes, restaurants and some shopping malls.
Tipping in Taiwan
Tipping isn't expected in Taiwan, though it is appreciated. Guests usually tip the porter at better hotels (100 TWD is considered courteous), and add 10 percent to their tour guide's fee if they're happy with the service.
Passport/Visa Note
Former China nationals who have resided outside of China for more than four years, and obtained the nationality of the country they reside in may enter Chinese Taipei according to the visa requirements of their acquired nationality. They will need to show documentation supporting the change in nationality.
It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
-
US citizens do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days, provided they hold a passport valid for the period of intended stay. Visas cannot be extended or converted. Visitors not holding return/onward tickets could be refused entry.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
-
Canadian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days, provided they hold a passport valid six months from their date of arrival.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
-
Passports must be valid for six months from date of arrival. Visas are not required for stays of up to 90 days for holders of British passports with nationality of 'British Citizen'. Those with temporary or emergency passports endorsed 'British Citizen' can obtain a visa on arrival for stays of up to 30 days. Holders of British passports with other endorsements should confirm official requirements.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
-
Australian nationals may stay in Taiwan for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they hold a passport valid six months from their date of arrival.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
-
Irish nationals may stay in Taiwan for up to 90 days without a visa and require a passport valid for at least six months from entry.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
-
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least six months from entry. No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
-
South African nationals require a visa for travel to Taiwan and a passport valid for six months after intended travel. Passengers with an ROC (Taiwan) Business and Academic Travel Card issued by Chinese Taipei are exempt for a maximum stay of 30 days.
Tourist Offices
Taiwan Tourist Office: +886 2 2349 1500 (Taipei) or eng.taiwan.net.tw
Taiwan Embassies
- In the United States:
-
Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Washington DC, United States: +1 202 895 1800.
- In Canada:
-
Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 231 5080.
- In the United Kingdom:
-
Taipei Representative Office, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7881 2650.
- In Australia:
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Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, Barton, ACT, Australia: +61 2 6120 2000.
- In Ireland:
-
Taipei Representative Office, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 678 5413.
- In New Zealand:
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Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, Auckland, New Zealand: +64 4 473 6474.
- In South Africa:
-
Taipei Liaison Office, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 430 6071/2/3.
Foreign Embassies in Taiwan
- American Embassy
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American Institute in Taiwan, Taipei: +886 2 2162 2000.
- Canadian Embassy
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Canadian Trade Office, Taipei: +886 2 8723 3000.
- British Embassy
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British Office Taipei (formerly British Trade and Cultural Office), Taiwan: +886 2 8758 2088.
- Australian Embassy
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The Australian Office in Taipei: +886 2 8725 4100.
- Irish Embassy
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Office closed in 2012.
- New Zealand Embassy
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New Zealand Commerce and Industry Office, Taipei: +886 2 272 05228. After hours emergency assistance for New Zealanders Phone: +886 934 404 594.
- South African Embassy
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Liaison Office of South Africa, Taipei: +886 2 2715 2295.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Taiwan
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hide Vaccines and Medicines
Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.
| | Find Out Why | Protect Yourself |
All travelers You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel. |
| Routine vaccines | Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. |   |
Most travelers Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting. |
| Hepatitis A | CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Taiwan, regardless of where you are eating or staying. |  |
Some travelers Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US. |
| Hepatitis B | You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures. |   |
| Japanese Encephalitis | You may need this vaccine if your trip will last more than a month, depending on where you are going in Taiwan and what time of year you are traveling. You should also consider this vaccine if you plan to visit rural areas in Taiwan or will be spending a lot of time outdoors, even for trips shorter than a month. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. See more in-depth information on Japanese encephalitis in Taiwan. |  |
| Rabies | Although rabies can be found in bats and other mammals in Taiwan, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups: - Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites or other animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
|  |
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Taiwan, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
You may need this vaccine if your trip will last more than a month, depending on where you are going in Taiwan and what time of year you are traveling. You should also consider this vaccine if you plan to visit rural areas in Taiwan or will be spending a lot of time outdoors, even for trips shorter than a month. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. See more in-depth information on Japanese encephalitis in Taiwan.
Although rabies can be found in bats and other mammals in Taiwan, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:
- Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites or other animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
Key
- Get vaccinated
- Eat and drink safely
- Prevent bug bites
- Keep away from animals
- Reduce your exposure to germs
- Avoid sharing body fluids
- Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment
Top
Hide Stay Healthy and Safe
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Taiwan, so your behaviors are important.
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
- Food that is cooked and served hot
- Hard-cooked eggs
- Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
- Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
- Food served at room temperature
- Food from street vendors
- Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
- Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
- Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
- Bottled water that is sealed
- Water that has been disinfected
- Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
- Carbonated drinks
- Hot coffee or tea
- Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
- Tap or well water
- Ice made with tap or well water
- Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
- Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Hide Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Taiwan. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
- Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
- Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
- Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
- Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
- DEET
- Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
- IR3535
- Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
- Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
- Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?
Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.
For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.
Hide If your travel plans in Taiwan include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
- Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
- Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
- Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
- Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
- If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
- Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
- Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
- Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
- Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
- Do not dive into shallow water.
- Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
- Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
- To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Hide Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
- Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
- Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
- Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
- If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Go to a doctor right away.
- Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Hide Reduce your exposure to germs
Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
Hide Avoid sharing body fluids
Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.
Protect yourself:
- Use latex condoms correctly.
- Do not inject drugs.
- Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
- Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
- If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
Hide Know how to get medical care while traveling
Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:
- Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
- Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
- Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
- Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Taiwan’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
- Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Hide Select safe transportation
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
- Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
- Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
- Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
- Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
- Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
- Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
- Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
- Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
- Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
- Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
- Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
- Wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
- When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
- Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Taiwan may be poor.
- Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
- Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
- If you choose to drive a vehicle in Taiwan, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
- Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
- Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
- Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
- If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
- Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.
Hide Maintain personal security
Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Before you leave
- Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
- Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
- Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
- Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
- Follow all local laws and social customs.
- Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
- Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
- If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
Hide Top
Hide Healthy Travel Packing List
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Taiwan for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Top
Hide Travel Health Notices
Be aware of current health issues in Taiwan. Learn how to protect yourself.
Watch Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions
- Updated Lunar New Year December 06, 2017 The Year of the Dog begins on February 16, 2018, and many people will travel to Asia to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Destinations include Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Mauritius, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Top
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.
Top
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
Taiwan's currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Travellers will receive the best rates when exchanging money at banks, though not all banks will change money and many will only change US dollars. Anyone arriving with other currencies should use Mega Bank and the Bank of Taiwan at the airport. Rates are not as competitive at hotels and shopping malls. Major credit cards are accepted and ATMs are plentiful except in villages.
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Exchange rate for 1 TWD - New Taiwan Dollar
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0.03 BMD
Bermudan Dollar
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0.03 EUR
Euro
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0.03 USD
U.S. Dollar
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0.02 GBP
U.K. Pound Sterling
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3.34 JPY
Japanese Yen
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0.04 CAD
Canadian Dollar
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0.03 CHF
Swiss Franc
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0.04 AUD
Australian Dollar
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0.77 UAH
Ukrainian Hryvnia
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10.35 KZT
Kazakhstani Tenge
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46.17 LBP
Lebanese Pound
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0.02 LYD
Libyan Dinar
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0.21 BOB
Bolivian Boliviano
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3.31 NPR
Nepalese Rupee
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0.01 OMR
Omani Rial
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0.11 QAR
Qatari Rial
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0.04 SGD
Singapore Dollar
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0.25 SEK
Swedish Krona
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0.20 TTD
Trinidad Tobago Dollar
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0.31 VEF
Venezuelan Bolivar
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1.41 DOP
Dominican Peso
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0.21 HRK
Croatian Kuna
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0.57 MXN
Mexican Peso
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17.97 XOF
West African CFA Franc
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0.10 PGK
Papua New Guinean kina
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0.03 BSD
Bahamian Dollar
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0.06 FJD
Fiji Dollar
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0.69 HNL
Honduran Lempira
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3.39 DZD
Algerian Dinar
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36.52 MMK
Myanma Kyat
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0.34 BWP
Botswana Pula
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0.10 PEN
Peruvian Nuevo Sol
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21.26 CLP
Chilean Peso
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14.66 AMD
Armenia Dram
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0.74 CZK
Czech Koruna
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0.61 MDL
Moldova Lei
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3.81 ISK
Icelandic Krona
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90.09 UZS
Uzbekistan Sum
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0.12 ILS
Israeli New Sheqel
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0.02 JOD
Jordanian Dinar
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0.01 KWD
Kuwaiti Dinar
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0.96 UYU
Uruguayan Peso
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1.09 MUR
Mauritian Rupee
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0.87 NIO
Nicaraguan Córdoba
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0.26 NOK
Norwegian Krone
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0.12 PLN
Polish Zloty
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0.11 SAR
Saudi Riyal
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4.48 LKR
Sri Lanka Rupee
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1.09 THB
Thai Baht
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0.11 AED
U.A.E Dirham
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0.11 BRL
Brazilian Real
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0.12 RON
Romanian New Leu
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0.24 HKD
Hong Kong Dollar
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18.02 XAF
Central African CFA Franc
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689.02 VND
Vietnamese Dong
|
0.43 ARS
Argentine Peso
|
0.08 XCD
East Caribbean Dollar
|
0.24 GTQ
Guatemalan Quetzal
|
0.30 MAD
Moroccan Dirham
|
0.01 BHD
Bahrain Dinar
|
0.03 PAB
Panamanian Balboa
|
0.05 AZN
Azerbaijan Manat
|
95.58 COP
Colombian Peso
|
2.09 KGS
Kyrgyzstan Som
|
8.58 HUF
Hungarian Forint
|
0.24 TJS
Tajikistan Ruble
|
419.49 IDR
Indonesian Rupiah
|
0.27 EGP
Egyptian Pound
|
36.52 KRW
South Korean Won
|
173.81 PYG
Paraguayan Guaraní
|
0.13 MYR
Malaysian Ringgit
|
16.52 CRC
Costa Rican Colón
|
0.04 NZD
New Zealand Dollar
|
3.21 PKR
Pakistani Rupee
|
2.05 RUB
Russian Rouble
|
0.48 ZAR
South African Rand
|
0.07 TND
Tunisian Dinar
|
0.06 BBD
Barbadian Dollar
|
0.05 BGN
Bulgarian Lev
|
0.09 TRY
Turkish Lira
|
1.43 PHP
Philippine Peso
|
6.02 NGN
Nigerian Naira
|
3.28 XPF
CFP Franc
|
0.12 GHS
Ghanaian Cedi
|
3.83 JMD
Jamaican Dollar
|
0.06 ANG
Neth. Antillean Guilder
|
0.04 BND
Brunei Dollar
|
3.39 RSD
Serbian Dinar
|
0.20 CNY
Chinese Yuan
|
610.04 BYR
Belarussian Ruble
|
0.20 DKK
Danish Krone
|
0.11 TMT
New Turkmenistan Manat
|
2.06 INR
Indian Rupee
|
|
|
|
Exchange Rate for
U.S. Dollar to New Taiwan Dollar
Exchange Rate for
Euro to New Taiwan Dollar
Exchange Rate for
Canadian Dollar to New Taiwan Dollar
Exchange Rate for
U.K. Pound Sterling to New Taiwan Dollar
Exchange Rate for
Australian Dollar to New Taiwan Dollar
Exchange Rate for
New Zealand Dollar to New Taiwan Dollar
Exchange Rate for
South African Rand to New Taiwan Dollar
Taipei Airport (TPE)
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport
http://www.taoyuan-airport.com/main_en
Location: Taipei The airport is situated about 24 miles (38km) southwest of Taipei city centre.
Time: Local time is GMT +8.
Contacts:
Tel: +886 3 2733728.
Transfer between terminals:
The Skytrain provides free transport between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, and a shuttle bus also connects the two terminals. There are regular buses to Taipei's other international airport, Songshan.
Getting to the city:
Several bus companies provide services to Taipei and other destinations around Taiwan. The journey to Taipei takes about 55 minutes. Travellers can buy tickets at counters in the arrivals section, and the bus platforms are located outside the terminals.
Buses depart from the airport roughly every 20 minutes. Metered taxis are available 24 hours a day, but are more expensive. Also, there's a shuttle bus to the high-speed rail service that connects travellers to various stations in the city.
Travellers can find English-speaking assistance at a Visitor's Desk in the Arrivals hall.
Car rental:
Car rental service counters are located in the Arrivals lobby of both terminals.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis from the airport to downtown Taipei are available all day and night, but fares vary substantially depending on traffic, distance and route. Taxis are metered.
Facilities:
The airport's banks have bureaux de change and ATMs. Travellers will also find a post office, wifi, information desks, and a tourist-services desk.
Both terminals have Asian and Western-food outlets, as well as bars and restaurants. There is ample duty-free shopping, with several boutiques stocking a wide range of goods. A business lounge offers VIP service, and there are good facilities for the disabled.
Parking:
Plentiful parking is available. It is free for the first half hour, thereafter rates start at TWD 30 for 60 minutes and TWD 20 per half hour thereafter. The daily rate is TWD 490.
Kaohsiung Airport (KHH)
Kaohsiung Siaogang Airport
http://www.kia.gov.tw
Location: Kaohsiung The airport is located six miles (9km) from the city centre of Kaohsiung.
Time: Local time is GMT +8.
Transfer between terminals:
The airport has two terminals.
Getting to the city:
The KRTC Metro provides easy access to Kaohsiung. Intercity bus services offer routes from the airport to Kenting. The bus to Kenting departs every 20-30 minutes between 6am and 1am. The two-and-a-half-hour journey costs TWD 309.
The bus to Chiayi was suspended in 2014, so travellers will need to take the airport metro line to Kaohsiung Railway Station, and transfer to bus or train routes to Chiayi.
Car rental:
Car rental companies are located between the International and Domestic Terminals, close to the bus stop.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available at the curbside outside the terminals. Taxis run on meters, with surcharges added for things like use of the trunk.
Facilities:
Airport facilities include dining and shopping options, insurance, currency exchange, telecommunication services, a post office, a nursery and a VIP lounge.
Parking:
Motorcycle parking is available at TWD 20 per day. For cars, the first 30 minutes are free. It costs TWD 30 for the first hour and TWD 15 for every 30 minutes after that. The daily rate is TWD 240 and is reset at midnight.
Overview of the Attractions in Taiwan
Taiwan has a tantalising number of awe-inspiring experiences, especially for such a small, island country. Everything from towering skyscrapers and lively night markets to beautiful old temples and stunning national parks will be on offer for visitors.
Taipei 101 is usually a hit with tourists. Once the tallest building in the world, the attraction's observation decks provide stunning views of Taipei, and its restaurants and stores are well worth visiting. History buffs should look no further than the National Palace Museum, which has an incredible collection of Chinese imperial artefacts. Longshan Temple, Chimei Museum, Fort Zeelandia and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall will appeal to them as well.
Nature lovers will be spoiled for choice, with Taroko National Park (home to the Eternal Spring Shrine), Yushan National Park and Sun Moon Lake all making wonderful day trips.
Taipei 101
Taipei
Taipei 101 is the city's financial centre and was once the world's tallest building. Designed to resemble a gigantic bamboo stalk, it is Taipei's major landmark, with observation decks on the 88th and 89h floors. The building's lift takes a thrilling 40 seconds to get from ground level to the 89-th floor, where a spectacular view of the action-packed city awaits visitors. Decent restaurants and some of Taipei's swankiest malls make up the lower levels. It's also worth noting that the building incorporates the number eight, considered lucky in Chinese culture, through the eight sections of the outside building.
Website: http://www.taipei-101.com.tw/index_en.htm
Shilin Night Market
Taipei
Taipei's biggest and best night market is not just for shopping. Instead, it is a cultural experience that every visitor should enjoy. The action begins when the sun sets and thousands of stalls and stores open for business, selling everything from clothing to pets, souvenirs and DIY tools. It's wise to visit with an empty stomach, given the array of tempting treats on offer. Among many other things, visitors can try oyster omelettes, Shanghai-style fried buns, sticky tofu and Shilin big sausages.
National Palace Museum
Taipei
Taipei's National Palace Museum houses an astonishing collection of Ancient Chinese artefacts and artwork. Representing over 5000 years of Chinese history, it is the largest and perhaps finest collection of Chinese art in the world. The collection was once displayed in Beijing's Forbidden City and was moved to Taipei as a result of the Chinese Civil War. Visitors can view world-famous exhibits such as the 'Jade Cabbage' (a piece of jade carved to resemble a cabbage head), and a valuable copy of the Qingming Scroll.
Website: http://www.npm.gov.tw
Longshan Temple
Taipei
Longshan is one of the most popular temples in Taipei. Dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin, it is an excellent example of the architecture commonly seen in Taiwan's older buildings. Chinese settlers built it in 1738 and its troubled history has seen it destroyed several times. To date, it has suffered damage by earthquakes, fires and even American bombers during World War II. Undaunted, Taipei residents have rebuilt it each time and it remains very much in use.
Taipei Zoo
Taipei
Taipei Zoo is home to hundreds of animals, including local Taiwanese species such as the flying fox, Formosan black bear and Chinese pangolin. Arranged into different habitat sections that contain their native species, the zoo lets visitors see African savannah wildlife, tropical rainforest creatures and more in context. Visitors should set aside at least three hours to take everything in. The zoo has shifted its focus away from being a living museum and is running several conservation projects that span cities, counties and countries.
Website: https://english.zoo.gov.taipei/
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park
Taipei
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park is the pride of Taipei. Built in memory of the former Taiwanese President, the walled complex contains an impressive, pyramid-shaped monument to Chiang Kai-shek and is also home to the National Concert Hall and National Theatre. Everything stands inside a lovely park, which is fronted by a vast plaza where folk performances or other events often take place. The Memorial is the main venue for Taipei's famed Lantern Festival, Shangyuan, which draws thousands of lantern-carrying revellers to mark the Chinese New Year.
Public Holidays in Taiwan
| |
2020 |
2021 |
| Children's Day |
Fri. April 4 |
Fri. April 4 |
| Peace Memorial Day |
Fri. February 28 |
Fri. February 28 |
| Chinese New Year |
Fri. January 24 to Wed. January 29 |
Tue. February 11 to Sun. February 16 |
| New Year's Day |
Wed. January 1 |
Wed. January 1 |
| Tomb Sweeping Day |
Sat. April 5 |
Sat. April 5 |
| Labour Day |
Thu. May 1 |
Thu. May 1 |
| Ng Tuen Festival |
Wed. June 25 |
Sat. June 14 |
| Mid-Autumn Festival |
Wed. October 1 |
Sun. September 21 |
| National Day |
Fri. October 10 |
Fri. October 10 |
