What to expect on arrival in Taiwan

Although Taiwan’s infrastructure and accommodation have improved greatly over the last few years you are still likely to feel a sense of culture shock as you arrive. Here are some important things to bear in mind as you travel through this fascinating country:

• Taiwan is a stable democracy with a strong and well-developed economy. However, tourism is still a young industry in Taiwan and as such you may not experience the same level of service you get at home or in other Asian countries.
  
  
• Government action and weather can sometimes disrupt itineraries and it helps to be flexible and patient if such situations arise.
  
  
• In remote areas the hotel choice may be limited and some of the hotels you stay in may be more basic and less accustomed to western visitors than you are used to.
  
  
• English is not spoken widely. Educated Taiwanese will have a basic level of English, but many people you meet will not know any English at all. Learning the basic local phrases may come in handy. Over 111 local dialects are spoken in the country.
  
  
• Avoid drinking tap water. Most hotels will provide either bottled water or filtered water in the rooms. Bottled water is available everywhere, but to cut down on plastic use we recommend taking your own refillable or filtered bottle and refilling as you go.
  
  
• It is usually wise to eat at established restaurants and avoid peeled or cut fruit as well as ice cubes.
  
  
• The Taiwanese tend to take dinner in the early evening, around 6-7pm and as a result you may find yourself being taken for dinner slightly earlier than usual.
  
  
• When visiting temples and other religious buildings great care must be taken to appear modest and correctly dressed. Women should not wear shorts, sleeveless T-shirts or have bare shoulders when visiting such places. Shoes and socks must always be removed at pagodas and monasteries.
  
  
• Never leave home without your rain gear, umbrella, and wet weather clothing during the rainy months from June to October as well as when setting out to the more mountainous areas.
  
  
• Comfortable yet sturdy footwear is best, as travelling in Taiwan will often involve some walking.
  
  
• When heading to the remote areas, come prepared with an insect repellent and even your own water in handy containers.
  
  
• Casual clothing is acceptable inside churches and business offices. Dining establishments and hotels impose no dress code but slippers are deemed improper.