Group trips to Taiwan

Find out the entry requirements for Taiwan (Province of China), and, if needed, apply for your visa through our partner Sherpa.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Taiwan (Province of China) – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

Taiwan is in the Taiwan Standard Time (TST) zone, which is UTC+8. Taiwan does not observe daylight saving time, so it stays the same throughout the year.

• If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 8pm in Taiwan.
• If it is 12pm on the East Coast of the USA, it will be 1am the next day in Taiwan.
• On the West Coast of the USA, 12pm will be 4am the next day in Taiwan.

The currency used in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). As of the latest update, the exchange rates are approximately:

• 1 GBP = 40 TWD
• 1 USD = 32 TWD
• 1 EUR = 35 TWD

You can exchange currency at banks, currency exchange counters at the airport, and hotels. Always check for the best rates before exchanging your money.

Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas in Taiwan. However, smaller shops and markets might prefer cash. It's a good idea to have some New Taiwan Dollars (TWD) on hand for smaller purchases. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also becoming more popular. ATMs are available for withdrawing cash, but check with your bank regarding international transaction fees.

In Taiwan, tipping is not a common practice and is not expected in most situations. However, some higher-end restaurants or hotels may include a service charge in your bill, usually around 10 percent. Taxi drivers and casual eateries do not expect tips, but if you receive exceptional service, you can leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation. Overall, you can enjoy your visit without worrying about tipping in most everyday situations.

In Taiwan (Province of China), internet connectivity is generally excellent. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces, but for reliable internet access everywhere, we suggest you buy a local SIM or an e-SIM data plan. Providers like Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and FarEasTone offer good prepaid options. These can be purchased at the airport or convenience stores around the country. This way, you can navigate and stay connected easily during your travels.

In Taiwan, the official language is Mandarin Chinese. While traveling there, you might find these useful colloquial expressions:

• Hello: Nǐ hǎo
• Thank you: Xièxiè
• Yes: Shì
• No: Bù shì
• How much is this?: Zhège duōshǎo qián

Most people in urban areas might speak some English, but it's always handy to know a few phrases in the local language.

In Taiwan, the plugs used are type A and type B, similar to those in the USA. The standard voltage is 110 volts, and the frequency is 60 Hz. If you're coming from the UK or Europe, you'll need a universal adapter since your plugs won't fit. Make sure your devices can handle 110 volts to avoid any mishaps.

The main religion in Taiwan is a mix of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. These three religions often blend together in practice, with many people incorporating elements of each into their daily lives. Important religious holidays include:

• Lunar New Year
• The Ghost Festival
• The Mid-Autumn Festival

These events are celebrated widely, with public festivities and traditional rituals. Dress codes are generally relaxed, so there's no specific attire you need to worry about when visiting temples or religious sites.

Packing for Taiwan can be fun and straightforward. Here's a handy list to help you prepare your backpack for your trip:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight, breathable clothes
  • A rain jacket or poncho
  • Warm layers for cooler months
  • Swimwear if you're visiting beaches
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for casual outings
  • Hiking boots if you plan to explore nature trails
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Universal power adapter (Taiwan uses type A/B plugs, 110V)
  • Portable charger
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Travel guidebook or map
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Common travel medication like pain relievers and motion sickness tablets

This list will ensure you're well-prepared for your adventure in Taiwan!

Taiwan has a subtropical climate in the north and a tropical climate in the south. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Northern Taiwan: Mild winters and hot, humid summers. The best time to visit is from October to December when it's cooler and less rainy.
• Central and Southern Taiwan: Warm and humid most of the year, with typhoon season from July to September. For less rain, visit between November and April.
• Eastern Taiwan: Similar to the south, but receives more rain throughout the year. November to April is the best time for visiting.

Keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to check the forecast closer to your travel dates.