Taitung Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards

Taiwan has Chunghwa Telecom, Far EasTone, and Taiwan Mobile.

Acquisition

Purchase at Taoyuan Airport (TPE) or Taitung stores.
Passport identification for registration.
Tourist SIMs offer unlimited data plans.

Internet Access

Internet access is widely available and generally reliable.

Connectivity

Most hotels, cafes, restaurants, convenience stores offer free Wi-Fi.
ITaiwan: free public Wi-Fi by the government.
Portable WiFi from Solis Wi-Fi

Language Support

Mandarin Chinese is the official language. English proficiency varies.

Translation Tools

Google Translate (offline Mandarin pack).
Pocket translator devices.
Pre-written phrases or a phrasebook.

Basic Phrases

Expressions

Hello: Nǐ hǎo (你好)
Thank you: Xièxiè (謝謝)
Yes: Shì (是) / No: Bù shì (不是)

Advanced Phrases

More Expressions

You're welcome: Bù kèqì (不客氣)
How much?: Duōshǎo qián? (多少錢?)
I don't understand: Wǒ bù dǒng (我不懂)
Delicious: Hǎochī (好吃)

Language Learning

Learn Mandarin with Rosetta Stone
Immerse yourself in new languages
Enhance your travel experience
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Engage with Locals

Even a few words in Mandarin are appreciated and open doors to local interactions.

Business & Travel Services

Understand typical operating hours and airport facilities.

Shop Hours

Most retail shops operate from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Convenience Stores

Open 24/7, useful for snacks and necessities.

Restaurant Hours

Vary, with breakfast from 6-7 AM, lunch 11 AM-2 PM, dinner 5-9 PM.

Public Holidays

Holidays can bring crowds and impact business hours.

Dates

Lunar New Year (Jan/Feb)
Dragon Boat Festival (June)
Mid-Autumn Festival (Sep/Oct)

Seasonal Adjustments

Typhoon season (July-Sep) may temporarily close outdoor attractions.

Weather Preparedness

Monitor local news for updates.
Rural areas may have shorter hours.
Ferry services can be suspended.

Airport Comfort

Airport Lounges

Relax before your flight.
Complimentary food and drinks.
Access to Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Lounge Access

Priority Pass for global lounge access.
Priority Pass
10% commission, 30 days cookie.

Timely Information

Verify specific operating hours for attractions and businesses before your visit, especially during holidays.

Cultural & Access

Understand local customs and accessibility provisions.

Local Etiquette

Taiwanese people are generally welcoming; effort is appreciated.

Social Norms

Simple nod or 'Nǐ hǎo' greeting.
Politely ask permission for photos.
Remove shoes before entering temples.

Dining & Customs

Tipping is not expected. Sharing dishes is common.

Cultural Sensitivity

Slurping noodles acceptable.
No chopsticks upright in rice.
Avoid touching heads or pointing feet.

Inclusivity

Taiwan is progressive regarding LGBTQ+ rights.

Welcoming Environment

Same-sex marriage legalized.
Taitung is generally open-minded.
Travelers can feel comfortable and safe.

Accessibility

Infrastructure improving, but challenges outside major cities persist.

Mobility Access

Newer buildings, major train stations have ramps/elevators.
TRA trains generally have accessible carriages.
Taitung Forest Park paths suitable.

Flight Disruptions

Compensation Service

Delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
Service helps receive compensation.
Compensair

Commission Info

€5-12 fixed commission.
30 days cookie duration.
Review terms before using.

Advance Planning

For specific mobility needs, contact venues directly and plan routes thoroughly.

Taitung Travel Tips