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Taichung Travel Tips

Local SIM Cards & Mobile

Taiwan has three main mobile carriers: Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and Far EasTone. All having reliable service.

SIM Card Options

  • Purchase tourist SIM cards at international airports upon arrival.
  • Your passport is needed for registration, with unlimited internet plans.
  • Ensure your mobile phone is unlocked to use a local SIM card.

ESIM & Portable Wi-Fi

For immediate connectivity, eSIMs and portable Wi-Fi devices feature convenient alternatives to physical SIM cards.

Modern Connectivity

  • Check if your cell phone supports Airalo eSIMs for a seamless digital setup.
  • Renting a Solis Wi-Fi portable device signifies a personal hotspot for your trip.
  • Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public places like iTaiwan.

Postal Services

Chunghwa Post (中華郵政) is Taiwan's reliable postal service, with offices located throughout Taichung.

Mail & Hours

  • You can send postcards, letters, and packages.
  • Typically Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
  • Larger central branches might have Saturday morning hours.

Language Barriers & Help

Mandarin Chinese is the official language. Ability to speak english varies, being more common in main tourist spots.

Translation Tools

  • The Rosetta Stone app assists with basic phrases.
  • Google's Translation App (with offline Mandarin) is highly beneficial.
  • A small phrasebook or a notebook and pen are helpful.

Important Phrases

Essentials

  • Hello: Nǐ hǎo (你好)
  • Thank you: Xièxiè (謝謝)
  • Excuse me / Sorry: Duìbùqǐ (對不起)
  • How much is this?: Zhège duōshǎo qián? (這個多少錢?)
  • I am not't understand: Wǒ tīng bù dǒng (我聽不懂)
  • Can you speak English?: Nǐ huì shuō Yīngwén ma? (你會說英文嗎?)
  • No: Bù (不)
  • Yes: Shì (是)

Language Tip

Don't expect everyone to speak English, especially in local eateries or markets. Be patient and utilize translation apps or written phrases for clearer communication.

Business Hours & Schedules

Knowing typical operating hours shapes your planning in Taichung efficiently.

Shops & Retail

Generally open from 10:00 AM or 11:O'CLOCK IN the MORNING to 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM.

Convenience Stores

Mostly 24/7, found on almost every street corner, having various services.

Restaurants & Markets

Open for lunch (11:30 AM-2:00 PM) and dinner (5:30 PM-9:00 PM). After-dark markets operate late into the night.

Bank & Museum Hours

Plan banking and museum visits according to their standard operating hours.

General Times

  • Banks: Typically Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM.
  • ATMs are widely available 24/7 for cash needs.
  • Museums/Attractions: Generally open Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays.

Religious & Public Holidays

Taiwan observes numerous public holidays; travel services might be limited and prices higher during these periods.

Dates & Impact

  • Lunar New Year (late Jan/early Feb): Numerous businesses close down for a few days.
  • Transportation can become very crowded around major holidays.
  • Other holidays include 228 Peace Memorial Day, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival.

Accessibility Information

Mobility Infrastructure

  • Taichung MRT stations generally having elevators, ramps, and available toilets.
  • Newer buses are low-floor and has ramps.
  • Sidewalks in older areas can be uneven or obstructed.

Accessible Locations

  • Main sights such as National Taichung Theater and museums feature accessible facilities.
  • Taichung HSR Station is fully accessible for travelers.
  • Efforts for visually or hearing impaired are getting better.

Pre-Trip Checks

Always check set hours for museums and attractions. If traveling over the main holidays, anticipate crowds and potential service limitations for smoother planning.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Adhering to local customs enriches your experience and shows respect for Taichung's heritage.

Greeting Customs

A slight bow or a nod of the head is common and polite. Handshakes also occur.

Interactions

  • Handshakes are frequently found in business settings or among younger generations.
  • Saying "Nǐ hǎo" (你好) is always appreciated.
  • A polite and respectful demeanor is well-regarded-regarded received.

Appropriate Attire

Taiwan generally has a relaxed dress code for daily wear, but certain settings call for specific considerations.

Dress for Occasions

  • Conservative dress (shoulders and knees covered) is recommended for temples.
  • Beachwear is limited to beaches or swimming the poolside.
  • Comfortable casual attire is suitable for most daily activities.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, and certain chopstick manners are observed.

Mealtime Manners

  • Tipping is not customary; there's no expectation to tip.
  • Do not stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice (resembles funeral incense).
  • Communal dining is common, especially in group settings.

Photography & Sensitive Topics

Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Respect quiet in residential zones.

Awareness & Caution

  • Be on the lookout for signs regarding flash photography within museums.
  • Avoid discussing controversial political subjects, especially concerning mainland China.
  • When giving gifts, avoid sharp objects, umbrellas, or clocks due to implied meanings.

Religious Site Etiquette

Visiting Temples

  • Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered.
  • Remove your shoes before entering temples where indicated.
  • Maintain a quiet and respectful presence.

Temple Customs

  • Do not disturb worshippers during prayers or ceremonies.
  • Step over door sills when entering or exiting, do not step on them.
  • Temples are lively places of worship, observe practices respectfully.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Progressive Environment

  • Taiwan is progressive regarding LGBTQ+ rights, including marriage equality.
  • Taichung is broadly welcoming, especially in urban areas.
  • Public displays of affection are common for all couples.

Traveler Experience

  • Travelers of all gender identities and orientations are generally well-received.
  • Observe local etiquette, but generally no specific concerns.
  • Cultural acceptance extends to diverse relationships.

Mindful Interactions

Politeness, patience, and adherence to local customs like queuing and shoe removal foster positive interactions. A respectful demeanor enriches your travel experience.