If you couldn’t attend our January 11, 2024, webinar on helpful tips for planning your trip to Taiwan, don’t worry. We’ve compiled all the relevant information, along with a recorded video and a Q&A segment for easy access.
During the webinar, we covered key topics such as the eVisa application process, advice on booking accommodations, and essential travel information like weather conditions, SIM card options, transportation, and currency exchange. You are welcome to explore the video recording to access this valuable information at your convenience.
Visa Information
To start, determine the visa you need based on your country of origin. If you are not from a visa-exempt country or eligible for an ROC Authorized Certificate, you have two options:
- Visitor Visa for Attending Conference
- eVisa
If you opt for an eVisa through WordCamp Asia, please follow the specific application process. For detailed information, refer to the visa page or our webinar video.
4 Tips for finding accommodations in Taiwan
- Choosing the right area to stay: Location is key for a convenient and enjoyable trip.
- Different Types of Accommodations & their pros and cons: Understand your options to make the best choice.
- Things to Consider When Booking a Place: Important factors to keep in mind.
- Securing the Best Price: Strategies for finding affordable accommodations.
Important Information While Traveling in Taiwan
This section covers crucial travel tips:
- Payments and Currency Exchange: How to handle money transactions.
- Staying Connected: Information on SIM cards, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
- Local Travel Secrets: Discover unique and lesser-known spots.
- Additional Tips: Weather, tipping etiquette, cultural norms, and restrictions.
We’ve also prepared more travel information to help you explore Taipei and ensure a delightful journey!
- Muslim-friendly information
- Where to eat
- Transportation Guide
- 9 Useful Apps in Taiwan
- Free Tours in Taipei
- Taiwan Lucky Draw
Q&A
Travel Related Questions
Are there customs we need to be aware of when interacting with locals? E.g. when meeting people (for the first time)
In Taiwan, while there are no stringent customs, it’s important to note that using the middle finger is widely regarded as rude. Additionally, not everyone may be comfortable with handshakes, hugs, or cheek kisses; a nod and a smile can serve as a polite greeting. Beyond this, maintaining a friendly demeanor with smiles goes a long way. You’ll find that people are generally very welcoming and friendly.
My flight ticket says Taipei – Terminal 1. Which airport would that be?
“Taipei” here means Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) . Please refer to our “Location” page for airport info
Are tips mandatory in Taiwan?
There’s no need to tip in Taiwan, but a service charge of 5-10% will be added to the final bill at some restaurants.
Will there be any 220v power supply available at WordCamp Asia premises, or every one need to purchase converter from 220v to 110v?
You will have to bring your own, but most chargers for laptops and cell phones are fine.
How do we travel with luggage city to city on high speed trains. Would there be place to keep 1-2 checkin bags on the train.
There’s suitcase compartments on high speed rails for large ones. For carry-ons, you can put in front of your legs or overhead spaces.
Are we allowed to drink outside?
Yes!
Which airport do you recommend?
Songshan Airport is located in Taipei but not many flights go there. Most international flights go to Taoyuan International Airport. Please refer to the Location Page for more information.
Can we use AMEX in Taipei?
Not every place takes AMEX in Taipei.
Is there a rental bicycles in Taipei?
There’s a shared bike called Youbike in Taipei, and it’s very easy to find and use. Please refer to our “Get Around in Taipei” page for more information.
Are the toilets safe in Taipei? Can we flush the toilet papers?
Some toilets are not allowed to throw in toilet paper. Please follow the instruction of the sign in the restroom.
Will there be emergency medical help provided at the venue?
Yes, there will be.
Is there an ATM at the WCAsia venue?
Yes. ATM are also located at MRT stations and convenience stores.
Does WordCamp Asia provide WiFi at the venue?
Yes, there will be WiFi.
What are the other popular cab or taxi apps?
Besides Uber, you can also use Yoxi or 55688, but it’s easier to use Uber.
Are the convenience stores open 24 hours?
Most of them are open 24/7.
what kind of converter to bring? do you have any recommendation?
Anything that can plug in to A/B type outlet would work.
How much cash should we carry? Any suggested amounts to cover airport taxi up n down to venue and basic subsistence?
It really depends on the length of your trip and lifestyle. The taxi ride from Taoyuan International Airport to the venue costs around NT$1,200 (approx. 40 USD) A normal meal can be NT$150-500 ($5-18USD) per person.
Can I buy the EasyCard with credit card? How can you get the Easy card? Where to purchase it?
No. EasyCard can be purchased at all MRT stations and convenience stores with cash.
Is there a name for the Sim Card? I presume it is easily identified Kiosk at the airport right?
It’s easy to see in the airport. There are Chunghwa, FETnet, and Taiwan Mobile.
Is Uber available in Taipei?
Yes, Uber is easy to get in Taipei.
Do you have tips for the mobile companies?
If you stay in the city, most of the mobile services would be good, but if you go into mountains, for example, Chunghwa has the widest coverage.
What is the weather in Taiwan?
In early March, it will be between 15 to 22 celcius. It should be very nice with low chance of rain. But the tropical climate is unpredictable.
Visa Related Questions
Can I apply for family visa by ending of this month with my own eVisa application?
We recommend submitting all of your family’s eVisa applications at the same time as a group. In each eVisa application, you can indicate that it should be considered as part of a group application and use the same group name for all of them.
If there are restrictions to stay in Airbnb, or service apartments, then what is the purpose of Gold card, how we can stay for a long time (3 years) in hotels?
The Gold Card is an employment visa that allows you to reside in Taiwan based on the duration of your Gold Card (1/2/3 years). If you are planning to stay in Taiwan for an extended period, you may prefer renting a house or apartment instead of staying in expensive hotels or using third-party booking platforms.
All type of hotel and airlines are accepted? Or any recommendation?
There are no restrictions on which hotels or airlines to choose when applying for visas. However, please exercise caution when booking through third-party platforms, as some listings may not be legal.
If I’m going to apply for eVisa via WordCamp Asia, do I still need to download visa letter?
No, you do not need to download visa letter. We will issue visa letter for you with detailed flight information and accommodation.
Where is the eVisa application form link to apply via WordCamp Asia?
You will find eVisa application link in your ticket confirmation email. If you purchased tickets in first 3 batches, please email us at aisa-local@wordcamp.org.
In the eVisa application Google form that was sent via email, I do not see option to upload ticket email pdf, will you guys fetch it with email and name?
Yes, we will look up your ticket information on the official website and cross-check your details.
For eVisa do we need to verify documents from notary or from ROC embassy?
No, document verification is not required when applying through WordCamp Asia. However, if MOFA requests document verification after we submit your application, please follow their guidelines.
For the eVisa application, should I upload the bio page of my new passport or is the old one also required?
We only accept current passports, so please ensure that your passport has a validity of at least 6 months.
Do I have to write my full name on the event ticket? I don’t want to show my full legal name on the badge.
It is necessary to include your full name on the event ticket, including your middle name. This requirement is in place because the visa letter is valid only when it is attached to the event ticket. Please ensure that your name on the ticket, visa letter, and passport all match. If you prefer not to display your full name on the badge, you can utilize the ‘Name on the badge’ field in the ticket. You can then select ‘What information you want printed on the Event Badge QR’ to display only the information you choose.
Me and my husband got the WordCamp ticket, so we can apply for eVisa via Flexible Mechanism Process, but how can I get the visa for my 4 years old daughter?
Children can also apply for eVisa. Please ensure that when submitting each application, you apply as a group. Children under 12 do not need to purchase a ticket. Additionally, please fill in your children’s school name in the “Company/Institution/Organization” field.
We had Gold Card Webinar Last week, do we need a visa in addition to Gold Card or this is only for those who can’t apply for Gold Card.
Please note that there is no conflict in applying for a Gold Card and a visa at the same time. The Gold Card itself grants unlimited visa entries, so if you are approved for a Gold Card, you do not need to apply for another visa.
I hold a Chinese passport. Which visa should I apply for?
You will need to apply for a business visa for attending the conference. Please email us at asia-local@wordcamp.org, and we will connect you to our Taiwan representative entity, Open Culture Foundation. They will assist you with the visa process. For detailed visa information, you can refer to this link.
I need a visa letter for Visitor Visa for Attending Conference. How do I get it?
You can download the visa letter from: https://wpasia.org/visa-letter/
I am coming from India and I am not eligible to apply for an ROC Travel Authorization Certificate. So we applied through WordCamp Asia. Is that the correct way?
If you are not eligible for the ROC Travel Authorization Certificate, you still have two options: the Visitor Visa for Attending Conference and MOFA’s eVisa Program Flexible Mechanism. Each option has different requirements and processes, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your travel plans and circumstances. You can find a comparison table for these two options on the visa page here.
Comments
One response to “Webinar Summary: Travel to Taiwan with Ease”
Thank you, this was really helpful!