Taiwan Flights and Travel Guide

Language

Mandarin is the official language of Taiwan, but Taiwanese is often spoken and English is widely understood.

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Money

Taiwan's currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD), which is divided into 100 cents. Foreign currencies and travelers checks (American Express, Citibank or Thomas Cook) can be exchanged at government-designated banks and hotels. Receipts are given when currency is exchanged, and must be presented in order to exchange unused NT dollars before departure. Major credit cards such as American Express, Master Card, Visa, and Diners Club are accepted. Banks are open Monday to Friday. U.S. dollars are the preferred currency. ATMs are plentiful but not all accept international bank cards.

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Communications

Taiwan's international country code is +886 and the outgoing code is 002 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0021 for the U.S.). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)2 for Taipei. Six network operators provide mobile telephone services in various regions using either GSM 900 or1800 networks. Internet cafes can befound in Taiwan's cities and towns, and most hotels in Taipei have Internet access in their bedrooms.

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Tipping

Tipping is not customary, although if offered it will be accepted. Baggage handlers at hotels and the airport will be pleased with some loose change. Hotels and restaurants will add a 10 percent service charge to the bill.

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Safety

Most visits to Taiwan are trouble-free. The country has only a low incidence of petty crime, and is considered safe. The only threats are natural ones, because the island is prone to typhoons and tropical storms, usually between May and November, as well as earthquakes and tremors. These are seldom severe, however.

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Health

Vaccination certificates for yellow fever and cholera are required for entry to Taiwan from travelers arriving from areas infected by these diseases. Travelers are advised to have up-to-date jabs for hepatitis A and typhoid. Due to recent outbreaks of dengue fever, insect repellents and other measures to prevent mosquito bites are recommended for those traveling to the southern part of the island. Visitors should only drink bottled water and should be wary of potential food poisoning. Taiwan's medical facilities are first-class, but health insurance is recommended for travelers.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 110 volts, 60Hz.

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