5 Taipei Travel Tips For Perfect Planning
Experience Taipei’s culinary scene best by visiting one of its night markets. Sample some exciting new dishes or innovative takes on classic ones while exploring these vibrant and exciting places.
The National Palace Museum is an essential stop on any tour through history, so plan to spend at least an afternoon here. Cathay Pacific offers very simple entrance through flights with several routes, like Tel Aviv to Taipei.
1. Take the MRT
Taipei may be large by Asian standards, yet its size belies its sense of intimacy thanks to a homey atmosphere found across many neighborhoods and an incredible public transportation system centered on the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit). This metro system has color-coded lines with English signage — it goes everywhere you might need in Taipei City itself as well as New Taipei City that lies beyond.
MRT travel can be easy, but to remain safe it is wise to keep certain aspects in mind. Don’t leave your backpack or wallet hanging from the back seat; be aware of potential pickpocketing incidents (rare but possible in areas like Ximending and night markets); avoid public displays of affection (PDA) like holding hands and hugging.
Bringing along water and snacks may come in handy on long walks; remember to also apply sunscreen and wear a hat, as Taiwan’s UV levels can even on cloudy days be quite high.
Another way to save money by taking advantage of slower local trains instead of high-speed ones, and opting for them instead. They are approximately 50% less costly while still offering convenient travel; plus you will get to experience more of the countryside on your travels!
2. Plan your itinerary
Taipei, Taiwan’s capital and modern metropolis, boasts skyscrapers alongside traditional temples and night markets. This metropolis features all of the conveniences associated with large cities – an affordable but efficient MRT system, well-managed parks and public spaces; but what truly sets it apart from others is its signature feature: Elephant Mountain is right in the center of town! Take a hike up Elephant Mountain for an immersive nature experience in no time at all, forgetting you are even within an urban environment!
City residents also take pride in the impressive variety of temples and shrines scattered throughout Xinsheng South Road – commonly referred to as “Road to Heaven”, it features numerous buildings dedicated to Buddhism, Taoism, Chinese gods as well as mosques, churches and even a Hindu temple.
National Museum of Natural History is another must-visit spot, featuring two buildings: one is a traditional museum covering subjects like native tribes and recent history; while a converted bank houses a prehistoric species exhibit.
If you love animals, make sure not to miss Taipei Zoo. As Asia’s largest zoological park and with its extensive collection of animals specializing in Asian wildlife – particularly giant pandas! But there’s so much more here than just these iconic species!
Taipei’s ideal time of year to visit is between early March and mid-May when temperatures are cool and dry; perfect for exploring Taipei’s night markets! Conversely, avoid traveling during its typhoon-prone summer months; it is hot, humid, and potentially hazardous.
3. Wear comfortable shoes
As Taipei is an energetic city, wearing comfortable footwear is essential. Taiwan boasts an excellent public transportation system which makes getting around easier – the MRT has six lines covering every corner of Taipei and offers single journey tokens or rechargeable EasyCards that can be purchased from station kiosks; buses offer additional transportation services with tickets sold directly by drivers or at designated bus stands.
While most Taipei residents speak English, it’s always beneficial to pick up some basic Chinese words and phrases so as to communicate more easily with locals during your trip. Downloading an application with Mandarin translation capabilities as well as travel guide functionality could also come in handy for getting around Taipei city centre more smoothly.
Taiwanese fashion is generally very casual; women typically pair skirts and dresses with denim shorts for casual everyday wear, though don’t be intimidated to experiment! Keep in mind, though, that temperatures tend to drop in the evening so bring along an additional jacket or sweater just in case!
Respect Taiwanese culture and customs when traveling there, including taking off shoes before entering temples or someone’s home, bowing slightly and using both hands when greeting others or giving or receiving gifts, bowing slightly when greeting people, bowing slightly when giving or receiving presents, bowing slightly when greeting others, using both hands when giving or receiving presents, bowing slightly when greeting others and making eye contact with strangers, among other practices.
Even though bartering with locals in Taipei might seem tempting, doing so could cause offense. Furthermore, it would be wise not to bring up politics or any issues related to China when speaking to locals.
4. Bring cash
Although plastic payments are becoming more popular in Taiwan, cash remains the predominant form of payment at food stalls and small shops. While larger restaurants and convenience stores accept credit cards, cash should always be carried for emergencies as some banks may impose international transaction fees that must be addressed prior to traveling abroad.
Ideally, budget travelers looking for Taipei should avoid Chinese New Year (early February), the summer heat (Taiwan is basically in a bowl that traps hot air), and Ghost Month (around August). Also try traveling on weekdays when possible in order to save money and avoid crowds when visiting popular attractions in Taipei.
Taipei is generally safe to visit, though you should remain cautious to protect your belongings in crowded areas like Ximending such as pickpocketing. Taiwanese are not typically fond of public displays of affection; therefore it would be prudent to avoid kissing or hugging in public as this is considered rude behavior in Taiwan.
Remember, Taiwan is not a tipping country; don’t leave tips at restaurants or taxi drivers. Additionally, bring plenty of film for your camera if you plan on taking pictures in Taipei; major brands of color film should be easily found locally while slide or high/low ASA films may require further searching. Lastly, many airports, military installations, and sensitive areas are restricted from photography; most visitors don’t mind these restrictions when travelling around Taipei.
5. Wear a hat
Taiwanese are well-known for being welcoming to visitors from other cultures, and will typically greet foreigners with an eager welcome. But they might be intimidated by your English skills – so when exploring Taiwan it would be wise to wear a hat in case anyone who might feel intimidated by you speaks only Chinese is nearby.
Taiwan may boast tropical weather conditions, but winter temperatures can become quite cold, making warm clothing essential. Typhoons are possible between May and mid-October so visitors should pack a lightweight raincoat as part of their packing list if visiting Taipei at this time.
Pack a swimsuit if you plan on spending any time at one of the many gorgeous beaches. Although the sea temperature can be chilly, swimming can provide an effective way to cool off after an exhausting day of sightseeing and visiting museums and other tourist spots. Furthermore, there are hotels which feature swimming pools to provide relief from heat.
Clothing-wise, Taiwan offers nearly everything you need – including an impressive variety of international and K-beauty brands. Soap and body wash don’t need to be brought along since they can easily be found at convenience stores and supermarkets; face masks can also be bought easily at local drugstores such as Poya and Watsons; alternatively visit K-beauty shops such as Innisfree or Etude House for some exciting options that might suit your skin type! The staff there can assist in finding suitable masks tailored to your skin type by staff who specialize in K-beauty brands!