Taiwan

Taiwan is an island nation rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its bustling cities like Taipei, stunning mountain ranges, and serene coastal landscapes, Taiwan offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Add to that its delectable street food, friendly locals, and vibrant night markets, and you'll see why Laura choose to live there for 8 months in 2015 and still considers it a must-visit destination.

Best time to travel

The best time to visit Taiwan is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and typhoon season has passed.

Nomad Score

8/10 - Excellent infrastructure, affordable cost of living, and a thriving digital nomad community, especially in Taipei.

Currency

New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)

What to expect

I fell in love with Taiwan in 2015, when I lived in Taipei for 8 months doing an internship. In my opinion, the country has the perfect blend of amazing food, beautiful landscape, interesting cultural sites and bustling cities. When Cordt and me went back there for 3 months end of 2023, I found a country that had become much more popular with international tourists, but had kept all the charme that drew me to it in the first place.

Destinations

What is the best time to travel to Taiwan?

The best time to visit Taiwan is during the spring months (April to June) and fall months (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island. Try to avoid the typhoon season (July to September).

Nomad Score:

Taiwan scores an 8/10 for digital nomads. The country boasts excellent internet connectivity, a relatively low cost of living, and a welcoming atmosphere for foreigners. Cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung have a growing number of co-working spaces and cafes that cater to remote workers. The public transportation system is incredibly efficient, meaning you can get from A to B very fast.

Language:

The official language is Mandarin Chinese, but Taiwanese Hokkien and other indigenous languages are also spoken. In major cities and tourist areas, English is understood by many younger people, especially if they work in the service industry. However, learning some basic Mandarin phrases can greatly enrich your interactions and experiences with locals. I only speak very few words of Mandarin and just an attempted "Ni Hao", """Xie-Xie" and "Bu Keqi" will bring smiles to peoples faces.

Currency and ATMs:

The currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). ATMs are widely available in urban areas, and most accept international cards. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially when you visit night markets, small eateries, or rural areas.

Safety:

Taiwan is considered one of the safest countries in Asia. Violent crime is rare, and the streets are generally safe to walk at any hour. Petty theft is uncommon but still exercise standard precautions with your belongings. The locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality towards tourists.