Discover Taiwan

English is common in major citiestourist attractionsand hotels. Many signstransportation announcementsand menus are bilingual. Younger Taiwanese generally speak some English. Howeverlearning basic Mandarin phrases is helpfulespecially when venturing to rural areas or interacting with older locals.

Taiwan is widely considered one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is extremely rareand locals are generally honest and helpful to international visitors.

• Personal Safety: It is generally safe to walk around cities at night. Most streets are well-litcovered by surveillance camerasand busy with activity thanks to 24-hour convenience stores.

• Theft & Scams: Pickpocketing is uncommoneven in crowded places like night marketsbut standard precautions are still recommended. Be mindful of your belongings and cautious of overly persistent strangers in major tourist hubs.

• Solo Travel: Taiwan is an excellent destination for solo travelersincluding women. Harassment is rareand the environment is welcoming.

In shortwhile no place is completely crime-freetravelers seldom face safety issues in Taiwan beyond the need for common sense.

Taiwan has a generally reliable and safe transportation systembut there are some challenges to be aware of—especially for pedestrians.

• Public Transport: Taiwan’s trainshigh-speed railmetro systems (MRT)and buses are modernpunctualand safe. Most signage includes Englishand ticketing is user-friendly.

• Urban Traffic: In citiesthe streets can be busyand scooters are very common. While overall road safety is goodpedestrian infrastructure can be lacking in some areas. Crosswalks may not always be respected by drivers or ridersso it’s important to stay alert when walkingeven at green lights.

• Driving: Renting a car or scooter is possible with an international license. Roads are in good conditionbut driving in cities or rural mountain areas can be challenging for first-time visitors.

• Cycling & Walking: Taiwan has many scenic bike pathsand bike-sharing is widely available. Howeversidewalks in some city areas may be narrowunevenor shared with scooters.

In summaryTaiwan is safe and easy to travel aroundbut pedestrians should exercise extra caution in urban traffic.

Both options work well in Taiwandepending on your travel .

• Independent Travel: You can take high-speed trainslocal trainsbusesor the MRT (subway) in major cities. You can buy tickets online or at stationsand signs are often in English. Popular apps like Google Maps or the Taiwan Railway app make planning simple. If you prefer more freedomyou can also rent a car or scooter (an international license is required). Most attractions are easy to reachand many locals are happy to help if you ask.

• Group Tours: Joining a tour is a good option if you prefer conveniencewant to visit remote areas (like Alishan or Taroko Gorge)or don’t speak Chinese. Tours often include transportationaccommodationand a guide who can explain local culture.

Absolutely! Taiwan's street food is renowned globallywith high standards of hygiene and freshness. Night markets like ShilinRaoheand Keelung offer incredible variety at reasonable prices. Must-tries include stinky tofuoyster omeletsbubble teaand gua bao (Taiwanese hamburgers). Even sensitive travelers rarely experience digestive issues.

Taiwan offers exceptional value compared to many other Asian destinations. Budget travelers can comfortably explore Taiwan on $80–100 USD per daycovering accommodation in clean hostels ($20–50 per night)street food meals ($2–5 each)and efficient public transportation ($0.60–2 per ride).

For mid-range travelersa daily budget of $100–150 USD allows for stays in comfortable hotelsmeals at sit-down restaurants ($8–15 per meal)and participation in guided tours.

Many attractions—like night marketstemplesand parks—are either free or very affordable. Museum entry fees typically range from $3–10 USDwhile taxi fares start at around $3 USD. Even luxury experiences in Taiwan tend to be much more affordable than in JapanSouth Koreaor Western countries.