What to do before arriving to Taiwan?

Landing Smoothly: What to Prepare Before Your Taiwan Arrival

Taiwan, the beautiful island nation known for its vibrant night markets, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality, beckons travelers from around the globe. To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience from the moment you step off the plane, a little pre-arrival preparation goes a long way. While excitement might be your dominant emotion, tackling these few essential tasks beforehand will save you precious time and frustration upon arrival.

Forget the last-minute scramble and focus on these key areas:

1. Master the Metro: Secure Your EasyCard Advantage

Taiwan’s public transportation system is incredibly efficient and clean, particularly the Taipei Metro (MRT). Navigating the city, and other areas in Taiwan, becomes significantly easier with an EasyCard. This rechargeable contactless smartcard allows you to effortlessly pay for fares on the MRT, buses, trains, and even some ferries.

While you can purchase an EasyCard at the airport or MRT stations, pre-planning offers a significant advantage. Consider these options:

• Online Retailers: Some online retailers offer pre-loaded EasyCards with tourist designs, which can be shipped to your home before your trip. This allows you to hit the ground running immediately.
• Check Availability: Check with your travel agent or online forums to see if any promotions are available that include an EasyCard.

Having an EasyCard ready to go avoids lines, simplifies transactions, and lets you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Taiwan without fumbling for change.

2. Stay Connected: Consider a Local SIM Card

In today’s hyper-connected world, having readily available internet access is crucial for navigation, communication, and staying updated. While Wi-Fi is prevalent in Taiwan, it’s not always reliable or available when you need it most. A local SIM card offers a convenient and cost-effective solution.

Before your trip:

• Check Your Phone’s Unlock Status: Ensure your phone is unlocked to accept a local SIM card. Contact your current provider if you’re unsure.
• Research Providers: Taiwan Mobile, Chunghwa Telecom, and Far EasTone are popular providers offering tourist SIM cards with various data and talk time packages. Browse their websites to compare deals and find the best fit for your needs.
• Weigh the Options: Consider the duration of your stay and your anticipated data usage when choosing a plan. You can purchase a SIM card upon arrival at the airport, but researching beforehand ensures you get the best deal and understand the terms.

Staying connected with a local SIM card provides peace of mind and allows you to effortlessly use map applications, communicate with local contacts, and share your amazing Taiwan experiences.

3. Currency Exchange: Airport Convenience, but Consider Alternatives

Exchanging currency upon arrival at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is readily available and convenient. Banks and currency exchange booths are easily accessible. However, keep in mind that airport exchange rates often aren’t the most favorable.

While exchanging a small amount for immediate expenses is wise, consider these alternatives for larger sums:

• Local Banks in Cities: Banks in larger cities generally offer more competitive exchange rates.
• ATMs: Using your debit card at ATMs to withdraw Taiwanese New Dollars (TWD) can sometimes offer better rates, but be mindful of international transaction fees charged by your bank.

4. High-Speed Rail: Skip the Airport Booking

While the idea of booking your High-Speed Rail (HSR) tickets immediately upon arrival might seem appealing, it’s often best to avoid doing so at the airport.

• Jet Lag and Haste: You’ll likely be tired and potentially rushed, making it difficult to carefully consider your options and secure the best timings.
• Flexibility: Booking in advance online or at train stations within the city allows for more flexibility in choosing departure times and seat preferences.

Instead, focus on settling into your accommodation and then leisurely planning your HSR journey. Online booking platforms offer user-friendly interfaces and often provide discounts for early bookings.

By tackling these simple preparations before arriving in Taiwan, you’ll pave the way for a smoother, more enjoyable, and truly unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, charge your devices, and get ready to explore the wonders that await you in Taiwan!