In the heart of the 17th century, a world away from our modern conveniences, Taiwan beckoned adventurers and explorers with its mystical allure. Join us on a captivating journey as we step back in time to explore this enchanting island in an era when it was known as Formosa.
Did you know that the name “Formosa” was given to Taiwan by Portuguese explorers in the early 16th century? It means “beautiful island” in Portuguese, a name that still resonates with Taiwan’s breathtaking landscapes today.
Imagine setting foot on the rugged shores of Taiwan, a land of lush greenery, towering mountains, and pristine coastlines. In the early 1600s, European sailors, Dutch traders, and Chinese settlers converged on this vibrant island, each leaving their indelible mark on its history and culture. Prepare to embark on a voyage of discovery, where we’ll unearth the 10 Travel Tips for Beginners in Taiwan
10. Be Careful Where You Sit on Public Transportation
Securing a seat in Taiwan’s public transportation can be a surprising challenge. While locating them is easy, sitting in one, even if seemingly unoccupied, risks disapproving glances akin to challenging local etiquette. To avoid the stink-eye and show respect, it’s advised to stand tall and preserve these VIP seats for those who truly need them, embodying the essence of a considerate traveler in Taiwan.
9. Bring Your Own Drink to Restaurants
Here’s a unique Taiwan travel tip: In contrast to the cultural norm of not bringing your own beverage into a restaurant, Taiwan offers a delightful exception. Bubble tea, a popular drink, is easily found at walk-up windows throughout the country. Interestingly, many restaurants in Taiwan are perfectly fine with patrons bringing their own drinks. While some smaller eateries may not offer beverages, most do. So, why not enjoy the one you got elsewhere at a more budget-friendly price? Taiwan’s dining scene, where it’s acceptable to BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage), adds a delightful twist to your culinary adventures.
8. Visa is the Most Widely Accepted Credit Card
In Taiwan, Visa is the widely preferred credit card, with MasterCard and American Express also accepted, though less commonly. Major retailers and hotels usually welcome any major credit card, but local eateries and stores may be less certain. Being aware of this payment landscape is essential for a hassle-free trip, as discovering your card isn’t accepted can be a traveler’s nightmare, especially when low on cash. For peace of mind, one traveler successfully used a MasterCard for rail ticket purchases in Taiwan.
7. Cash is King
When traveling in Taiwan, it’s crucial to carry cash, as many establishments, including iconic night markets, only accept it. Cash is especially handy for small indulgences like enjoying bubble tea, avoiding credit card conversion fees. A savvy traveler may secure cash beforehand to sidestep overseas ATM fees or exchange money upon arrival, steering clear of airport kiosks notorious for high charges. This strategy helps keep more cash in your pocket for savoring Taiwan’s delights.
6. Cities are Walkable but Spread Out
The avid walker, unlike the average traveler, relishes the idea of covering long distances on foot when exploring new places, often strolling for over an hour between destinations. However, in Taiwan, this walking enthusiast acknowledges that practicality sometimes outweighs their passion for pedestrian exploration.
While many tourist attractions in Taiwan are indeed within walking distance, cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung sprawl out, making public transportation a more time-efficient option. For those on a tight schedule, maximizing time with efficient public transit is advisable.
Yet, for those fortunate enough to have several weeks to spare and a fondness for wandering by foot, Taiwan’s streets are ripe for exploration. So, if you’re anything like this intrepid walker, feel free to hit the pavement and immerse yourself in the adventure, one step at a time
5. English is Widely Spoken
Worrying about language barriers in Taiwan? Fear not! Communicating won’t be a noodle-scratcher here. Many locals, especially the younger crowd, have a knack for English.
Navigating the maze of metro stations, buses, trains, and metro cars becomes a breeze thanks to English signage, ensuring you won’t end up on the “Lost in Translation” train.
Taiwanese folks are friendlier than a sunflower in full bloom! They’ll eagerly assist you if you’re adrift or in need. Be ready for some impromptu chats about your hometown and your thoughts on Taiwan – they’re curious like cats in a yarn shop.
While a few might not speak English fluently, rest assured, they’ll summon the language gods and find someone who does. No linguistic kerfuffles here!
4. Get a Transportation Card
Travel Tips for Beginners in Taiwan will find themselves reliant on public transportation, making it imperative to grab an EasyMoney or iCash 2.0 card. These nifty cards can be snagged at convenience stores, Taipei airport’s MRT station, or metro stations in Taipei and Kaohsiung, offering the added convenience of reloading funds on the go.
The magic of these cards lies in preloading them with money, allowing effortless tap-and-go access to buses and trains, sparing you the inconvenience of purchasing single-journey tickets each time.
Sure, there’s a nominal fee for procuring one of these transportation cards, but trust us, it’s a wise investment that’ll keep you from wrestling with exact change and handing back little cards to bus drivers – a task no one really enjoys.
3. Pay When You Order and No Tipping
Travel Tips for Beginners in Taiwan: In Taiwan, say goodbye to the awkward bill-grabbing dance at the end of your meal. The dining system is smooth – you order, pay upfront, enjoy your meal, and leave gracefully. If you crave more dishes, let your server know, and they’ll handle separate payments. No need to worry about tipping, as it’s not customary in Taiwan; service staff receive fair wages. Breaking the North American tipping habit can feel unusual, but it saves you from the customary 15% to 20% add-on to your dining expenses.
2. No Talking on Public Transportation
Here’s a Travel Tips for Beginners in Taiwan that not only helps travelers blend in but also aligns with local customs when navigating the country’s public transportation.
One of the perks, and a personal favorite, of using public transportation in Taiwan is the peaceful journey it offers.
So, rest assured, you won’t be that traveler annoying everyone with a loud discussion on the train or bus. Save the chatter for when you disembark, and you’ll earn the gratitude of your fellow passengers for maintaining the tranquil atmosphere of Taiwan’s transit systems.
1. Eat Like a Local
Travel Tips for Beginners in Taiwan: Taiwanese cuisine stands out in the realm of Asian food for its delectable offerings, and the best part is you can savor these delights without breaking the bank. The key to culinary satisfaction is to dine where the locals do—explore night markets, street vendors, department store food courts, and cozy mom-and-pop eateries. Look for places with more locals than tourists for a sure sign of a culinary treat. Finding these hidden gems may feel like a treasure hunt, but your hotel can provide recommendations, or you can trust Google Maps and reviews for savory discoveries during a whimsical stroll through neighborhoods. Remember, if the locals approve, you’re in for a tasty adventure!
Final Thoughts
Embarking on a Taiwanese adventure? Here are 10 essential tips. 1: Navigate public transport carefully, respecting reserved seats. 2: Bring your own drink to restaurants, a unique twist on dining etiquette. 3: Visa is widely accepted; cash is king, especially in night markets. 4: Get a transportation card for easy access to buses and trains. 5: English is spoken widely, reducing language barriers. 6: Cities are walkable, but public transit is efficient for time-crunched travelers. 7: Pay when you order and forget about tipping in Taiwan. 8: Silence is golden on public transportation; save conversations for later. 9: Use EasyMoney or iCash 2.0 cards for seamless travel. 10: Eat like a local to savor Taiwan’s culinary treasures without breaking the bank. Happy travels!
Enjoy Our Featured Video
Embark on a budget-friendly journey through Taiwan with our top 10 travel tips for beginners. Start your adventure today! You may also like our video about “BEST Places In Southeast Asia To Visit this 2023”
FAQs
Is tipping customary in Taiwan’s restaurants?
No, tipping is not a common practice in Taiwan. Service staff receive fair wages, so there’s no need for additional tips.
What is the preferred credit card in Taiwan, and are other cards widely accepted?
Visa is the most widely accepted credit card in Taiwan. While MasterCard and American Express are also accepted, it’s advised to have Visa for smoother transactions, especially in local establishments.
How do I navigate public transportation in Taiwan, and are there any etiquettes to be aware of?
It’s essential to stand tall and preserve these seats for those who genuinely need them to avoid disapproving glances.
What’s the dining experience like in Taiwan, and how does the payment process work?
Dining in Taiwan involves paying upfront when you order. Tipping is not customary. If you want to order more dishes during your meal, inform your server, and they will handle separate payments. This system eliminates the need for the awkward bill-splitting dance at the end of the meal.
Set out on an extraordinary global journey with Travel 195 for unforgettable adventures worldwide, turning every trip into an exceptional and memorable experience. Click here!
