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Resources & References

Resources & References

Taipei, Taiwan

Essential Apps for Digital Travel

Navigation & Communication

  • Google Maps

    Guides navigation, walking directions, public transport. Download offline maps for areas like Yangmingshan.

  • Taipei Metro App

    Provides MRT-specific information, route planning, and arrival times. For subway navigation.

  • Google Translate

    Offline Mandarin pack invaluable for language barriers, reading signs, and communicating.

  • Taiwan Taxi

    Most popular local ride-hailing app. Book taxis directly and see estimated fares.

  • LINE

    Messaging app widely used in Taiwan for communication. Businesses use it for customer service.

Online Information

  • Taiwan Tourism Bureau

    Official tourism site for attractions, events, itineraries, and general travel advice.

  • Yangmingshan National Park

    Official park website for up-to-date information on conditions, trails, and announcements.

  • Taipei Travel

    Official Taipei tourism site. Detailed information on city attractions, events, food, and transport.

  • Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA)

    Check latest visa and entry requirements for your nationality. Consult this official source.

  • NordVPN

    A VPN service assists in securing internet connections on public Wi-Fi.

Print Resources

General Guidebooks

A general Taiwan travel guidebook provides comprehensive information beyond Taipei and Yangmingshan. For broader travel planning.

Historical Narratives

"Formosa Betrayed" by George H. Kerr. Historical context of Taiwan's post-WWII period.

Fiction and Local News

"Green Island" by Shawna Yang Ryan offers a narrative set against Taiwan’s historical backdrop. Free English magazines at airports.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 110
  • Fire/Ambulance: 119
  • Tourist Information Hotline: 0800-011-765 (Taiwan Tourism Bureau). Multi-language assistance.
  • Lost Documents: Report to local police immediately. Obtain a police report.

Medical & Embassy

  • Major Hospitals: National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Cathay General Hospital. High-quality care, English-speaking staff.
  • Embassy/Consulate: Locate your country's office in Taipei. Keep contact details accessible.
  • Natural Disasters: Follow instructions from authorities. Monitor local news and official alerts.
  • Emergency documents: Your embassy guides obtaining temporary passports.

Further Reading & Exploration

Visual Narratives

  • "A City of Sadness" (悲情城市): Historical drama, a poignant look into Taiwan's history.
  • "Eat Drink Man Woman" (飲食男女): Ang Lee film explores family dynamics and food culture.
  • These films offer cultural and historical perspectives.
  • Seek other titles on streaming platforms for more insights.

Creative Immersion

  • Taiwanese pop music (Mandopop). Listen to current hits.
  • Traditional aboriginal music. Discover unique sounds.
  • Contemporary Taiwanese art at museums and galleries in Taipei.
  • Immerse yourself in the local creative scene for connection.

Community and Phrases

  • Reddit communities: r/taiwan and r/taipei for traveler questions and tips.
  • Travel forums: Dedicated to Taiwan, these provide valuable insights.
  • Language learning apps: Duolingo or Memrise for basic Mandarin phrases.
  • Even a few phrases greatly enrich your travel experience.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Tailor Your Journey

Solo Traveler Focus

  • Taiwan's safety: The country is safe for solo travelers, including solo females.
  • Hostels: Excellent for meeting others and joining social events.
  • Local tour groups: Consider joining specific activities for connection.
  • Cafes and co-working spaces: Good for quiet work or meeting digital nomads.

Family Travel Considerations

  • Family-friendly attractions: Taipei and Yangmingshan have many options.
  • Erhziping Trail: Accessible for strollers in Yangmingshan.
  • Taipei Zoo and Children's Amusement Park: Good choices for kids.
  • Beitou hot springs: Family-friendly hot spring options are available.

Group Logistics

  • Private vans: For larger groups, transfers to Yangmingshan or day trips offer convenience.
  • Restaurant reservations: Make these for sit-down meals, especially for dinner.
  • Shared costs: Dividing expenses among the group simplifies budgeting.
  • Meeting points: Designate clear meeting spots to keep the group together.

Accessibility Considerations

General Accessibility

  • MRT system: Generally very accessible for mobility challenges.
  • Research locations: Confirm accessibility features before visiting specific sites.
  • Accessible routes: Some parks and attractions have designated accessible pathways.

Support Services

  • Public transport support: Staff members often assist those with special needs.
  • Visitor centers: Some offer information on accessible facilities.
  • Audio guides: Available at some museums for visually impaired visitors.

Local Customs and Social Norms

Respectful Conduct

  • Queueing is highly respected and strictly followed everywhere.
  • Maintain polite and quiet behavior on public transport. Avoid loud conversations.
  • People rarely litter in Taiwan. Dispose of trash properly in designated bins.

Interaction Tips

  • It is common to see people wearing face masks, even before the pandemic, for health reasons or against pollution.
  • Locals often use small, hidden hand gestures for directions.
  • Taiwanese people are very friendly. Do not hesitate to ask for help if lost.

Phrases that Impress Locals

Common Greetings & Thanks

  1. "Nǐ hǎo" (Hello)
  2. "Xièxiè" (Thank you)
  3. "Duìbùqǐ" (Sorry)
  4. "Bú kèqi" (You're welcome)
  5. "Zàijiàn" (Goodbye)

Dining & Shopping Phrases

  1. "Hěn hào chī" (Very delicious – for food)
  2. "Zhè ge duōshǎo qián?" (How much is this?)
  3. "Wǒ yào zhè ge" (I want this one)
  4. "Qǐngwèn" (Excuse me / May I ask?)
  5. "Mǎi dān" (Check, please – at restaurants)

Cultural niceties

Scooter Presence

Do not be surprised if scooters briefly drive on sidewalks to bypass traffic or park.

Pointing Etiquette

Pointing with a flat hand or open palm is more polite than an index finger.

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, especially at local eateries and taxis.

Critical Reminder

Always consult official government sources for travel advisories and health notices related to your nationality and Taiwan.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Solo Traveler Safety and Social Opportunities

Safety & Security

  • High Safety Level

    Taiwan is exceptionally safe for solo travelers, including solo female travelers.

  • Document Security

    Keep copies of important documents separate from originals.

  • Local Assistance

    Locals are generally helpful if you encounter difficulties.

Social Connections

  • Hostel Stays

    Hostels provide excellent settings for meeting other travelers and joining social events.

  • Join Local Tours

    Consider joining local tour groups for specific activities to connect with others.

  • Online Communities

    Connect with other travelers via online forums or social media groups.

Family-Friendly Adaptations and Kid-Specific Tips

Kid-Friendly Spots

Many attractions in Taipei and Yangmingshan adapt well to families. The Taipei Zoo and Children's Amusement Park good choices.

Park Accessibility

The Erhziping Trail in Yangmingshan welcomes strollers, making it a pleasant outdoor option.

Relaxing Hot Springs

Family-friendly hot spring options exist in Beitou, offering relaxation for all ages.

Managing Group Logistics and Reservations

Transport for Groups

  • For larger groups, private vans for transfers to Yangmingshan or for day trips simplify travel.
  • Public transport is easy to use with children.
  • Designate clear meeting points to keep the group together during outings.
  • Coordinate schedules for group activities for efficiency.

Dining & Booking for Groups

  • Make restaurant reservations for sit-down meals, especially for dinner.
  • Pre-book popular tours or specific day trips to secure your spot.
  • Dividing expenses among the group simplifies budgeting.
  • Book group accommodations well in advance for better rates and availability.

Accessibility Considerations for Different Travelers

Mobility Access

  • MRT system: Generally very accessible for mobility challenges.
  • Research specific locations and attractions for their accessibility features before visiting.
  • Some public facilities include tactile paving and braille signage.
  • Check for assistive listening systems at performance venues.

Specific Needs & Information

  • Some major tourist information centers offer sign language services or interpreters.
  • Service animals are typically welcome in public spaces and on public transport.
  • Many public phones and service counters cater to those with hearing difficulties.
  • Refer to specific accessibility guides for detailed site information.

Important Reminder

Learning basic Mandarin phrases shows respect. "Xièxiè" (Thank you) and "Hěn hào chī" (Very delicious) delight locals.