UK
Island of Culture, Cuisine & Coastlines
Taiwan blends ancient traditions with modern flair. From vibrant night markets and lush mountains to serene temples and coastal escapes, it’s a destination that delights foodies, nature lovers, and culture seekers alike.
Air Travel
Flights from London to Taipei (Taoyuan International Airport) take around 13–15 hours, typically with one stop via hubs like Dubai, Istanbul, or Frankfurt.
Airlines
Popular carriers include EVA Air, China Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. Budget options like Scoot and AirAsia connect regionally.
Taiwan
Island of Culture, Cuisine & Coastlines
Landmark
Travel Season
- Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov): Mild and ideal for sightseeing
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot and humid, great for beaches and festivals
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Cool and dry, best for hot springs and hiking
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)
- Credit cards accepted in cities; cash preferred in markets and rural areas
- ATMs widely available; exchange rates better at banks than airports
Connectivity
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas and transport hubs
- Local SIM cards (Chunghwa, Taiwan Mobile, FarEasTone) available at airports
- Pocket Wi-Fi and eSIMs are popular for longer stays
Getting Around
- High-speed rail (HSR) connects major cities
- Metro systems in Taipei and Kaohsiung are clean and efficient
- Buses and trains cover scenic routes
- YouBike rental system for urban cycling
Time Zone
- Taiwan Standard Time (TST) – GMT+8
Etiquette & Culture
- Queue politely and speak softly in public
- Remove shoes before entering homes and some temples
- Tipping is not customary but appreciated
- English is spoken in tourist areas; Mandarin is the official language
Top Destinations
- Taipei: Night markets, museums, and city buzz
- Tainan: Historic temples and street food
- Kaohsiung: Harbour views and art districts
- Hualien: Gateway to Taroko Gorge
- Alishan: Mountain railways and sunrise views
- Kenting: Beaches and coral reefs
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Beef noodle soup, Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), Lu Rou Fan (braised pork rice), Bubble Tea
- Night markets offer cheap and delicious eats
- Tap water is safe in cities but bottled water is recommended
personal_bag What to Pack
- Lightweight clothing and umbrella
- Modest attire for temples
- Power adapter (Type A/B plugs, 110V)
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
Best Time to Visit
- March–May: Spring blossoms and mild weather
- September–November: Autumn colours and cultural festivals
- December–February: Great for hot springs and hiking
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Taiwan is very safe for tourists
- Emergency number: 110 (police), 119 (ambulance/fire)
- Travel insurance is recommended
- No special vaccinations required for UK visitors