Taiwan Travel Notes
A place on my travel map. More of my story is still to come.
- Languages
- Mandarin · Some English
- Currency
- New Taiwan Dollar · TWD
- Cash
- Essential For Night Markets.
- Cards
- Usually Yes At Larger Venues.
- Tap To Pay
- Available. Local Wallets Differ.
- WiFi
- Available. Quality Varies.
- Mobile Data
- SIM Or eSIM · Check Coverage
- Small Shops
- Varies. Keep Cash Handy.
- Tipping
- Usually Not Expected
What To Wear
What To Pack
Light layers, rain protection, and comfortable walking shoes suit many city days. Winter in the north can feel cool and damp; mountain outings need warmer clothes than a Taipei street forecast.
Money And Payments
Cash And Cards
Cards are useful at hotels, department stores, and larger retailers. Keep Taiwan dollars for night markets, small eateries, and businesses that take cash only. A local wallet or transit card is a separate payment method, not a promise that your foreign bank card will work at every counter.
Travel Cards
A foreign travel card is not an EasyCard and does not replace cash for every night market stall. Check both bank card fees and local transit top up options.
Tipping Culture
Tipping is not the normal expectation in restaurants or taxis. A restaurant service charge does not mean you need to add another tip. Example: for an NT$300 restaurant bill, pay the bill and any stated service charge. You do not need to add a percentage. Tipping is generally not expected, rather than automatically offensive; if a voluntary tip is declined, do not insist.
Getting Around
Taipei Metro And Transit Cards
In Taipei, the MRT and stored value cards such as EasyCard are useful. Keep cash for topping up where needed. A local transit card is different from an unlimited pass or an intercity rail ticket.
Traveling Between Stops
High speed rail mainly serves the western corridor; conventional rail covers different routes. Check the exact station, because the high speed station may be outside the city centre.
Staying Connected
Using T Mobile In Taiwan
Taiwan is listed for international roaming on eligible T Mobile plans. Data allowances, speeds, and call charges depend on your plan. Check before you travel.
Mobile Data For This Trip
Check that a travel eSIM covers Taiwan specifically. Download your hotel name in Chinese and the route from your arrival station before leaving the airport.
Where To Stay
Choosing Your Area
A Taipei base near an MRT station makes city days easier. Choose the actual neighborhood around your stops and check room size and noise. These are planning suggestions rather than my hotel reviews.
Before You Arrive
Before You Fly
Check visa eligibility separately from the Taiwan Arrival Card. Eligible visitors should complete the official online TWAC before arrival; the arrival card is not a visa.
Sources And My Visit
Practical information was researched and checked on 22 October 2026. My reviews describe my own visits. Area comparisons are planning advice, not hotels I claim to have inspected. Entry advice must match your passport, residency, route, and travel date.
