Travel Information
Tips for Travellers to Taiwan
1. Weather and Clothing
November to December Climate: Chiayi enjoys mild weather during late November to early December. Expect temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 25°C (77°F). It’s mostly dry, but occasional rain showers can occur.
Packing Tips: Bring light layers, a medium-weight jacket for cooler evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella or raincoat just in case.
2. Travel Documents and Visas
Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry.
Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter Taiwan. Many countries have visa exemption agreements, but it’s best to verify this on the official Taiwanese immigration website or with your local Taiwanese embassy.
3. Currency and Payments
Local Currency: The currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places.
Currency Exchange: You can exchange money at the airport, banks, or authorized exchange counters. It’s a good idea to have some local currency on hand for small purchases and in case you visit places that don’t accept cards.
4. Language
Official Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language. However, many people, especially in tourist areas and younger generations, understand basic English.
Helpful Phrases: Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can be useful:
Hello: 你好 (Nǐ hǎo)
Thank you: 謝謝 (Xièxiè)
Excuse me/Sorry: 對不起 (Duìbùqǐ)
Yes: 是 (Shì)
No: 不是 (Bù shì)
5. Safety and Health
Safety: Taiwan is generally very safe, with low crime rates. As always, practice standard safety precautions like being aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure. The organizers take no liability for personal injuries or loss or damage to property belonging to the participants, either during or as a result of the event.
Healthcare: Taiwan has excellent healthcare facilities. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are widely available for any over-the-counter needs.
6. Emergency Contacts
Emergency Numbers:
Police: 110
Fire/Ambulance: 119
Your Country’s Embassy: Know the contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate in Taiwan.
7. Internet Service
Internet service is often provided in public places such as airports, train stations, and bus terminals in Taiwan. Convenience stores, cafes are also good places to access to WiFi. It is of course available on site during the conference.
8. Electricity
Voltage and Plugs: Taiwan uses a voltage of 110V with a frequency of 60Hz, similar to the United States and Canada. The power plugs and sockets are of type A and B.
Adapters and Converters: If your devices use a different voltage or plug type, you will need a power adapter and possibly a voltage converter. Check your devices to see if they support 110V.
9. Local Cuisine and Dining
Must-Try Foods: Don’t miss local delicacies like beef noodles, bubble tea, xiao long bao (soup dumplings), and seafood dishes. Visit night markets such as Wenhua Road Night Market for an authentic food experience.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian and vegan options are available, but it’s helpful to know the Chinese phrases for your dietary needs. Halal food is less common, but some options are available in major cities.
