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Taiwan Basics

Taiwan is a large island 120 km southeast of mainland China with a marine tropical climate. The whole island is hot and humid from June through to December.

Taiwan Time

GMT +8

Voltage

110 Volts 60 Hertz with the same two-pin flat blade plugs (NEMA 1-15) found in America and Japan.

Taiwan Dialling Code

+886
When making international calls from Taiwan to another country, first dial 002 + destination country code + area code + phone number

Mobile Phones

Cellular communications are widespread. Coverage and penetration excellent. The supported systems are GSM 900/1800. Pre-paid SIM cards are available from 7-Eleven stores etc and operators have all the usual roaming agreements with overseas operators.
See also: SIM Cards

Internet

Internet cafes are everywhere in big cities. Taiwan is well connected to the internet.

Coming to Taiwan? Take a look at our hotel rates: Taiwan Hotels

Money

The New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) usually comes in $100, $500 and $1000 notes. Coins most often seen are $1, $5, $10 and $50.
Recent years have seen Taipei become an important banking centre, with many international banks setting up offices.
Banking hours are typically Monday to Friday 9.00 am - 3.30 pm, Saturday 9.00 am - 12.00 pm
See also: Banking

Tipping

Tipping is not expected or encouraged. Many restaurants add a service charge (usually 10 percent) so there is no need to tip. Unlike other countries where a service charge may be levied, you'll actually get attentive service.
You should however give a small tip to bellhops in international hotels (if they carry your bags of course and only if you wanted them to) and if you make use of airport porters etc

Safety

Taiwan is still generally very safe. However, wherever you are it is wise not to carry too much cash. Hotel security is occasionally questionable if it's less than 4 stars (stay somewhere reputable).
Steer clear of drugs. Penalties are severe and using them impairs your judgement.
See also: Is Taiwan Safe?

Need advice? Got a question? Go to our Taiwan Forum