Taiwan could quite possibly be one of the most convenient countries in the world. You can find anything you need here at any time, almost anywhere. In the cities, almost everything is within walking distance and there are seven-elevens on every street (often more than one) .The train and subway (the MRT) are also exceptional and in English, and the city boasts free wifi, even for tourists! Taiwan is tourist friendly, beautiful, diverse and extremely convenient. These are some of our top hacks to know.

1.Luggage delivery options.

Once you have arrived, if you would rather not lug your luggage around with you, you can choose to have your luggage delivered to your hotel or hostel and it is not expensive!

There are two ways in which you can do this.

A) Visit a convenience stall at your arrival airport and ask for your luggage to be shipped to your designated location. It should reach you in 1-2 days time. Similarly, if you do not wish to lug your heavy luggage to the airport, you can do the same! All you need to do is to have it packed and bring it to the convenience stall near you 2-3 days ahead of your flight and collect it again at the designated area at your terminal. The cost will vary depending on your luggage size and weight.

B) If you need your luggage sooner than 1-2 days try the left luggage option in Terminals 1 and 2. They provide collection and delivery services from and to your home or hotel. Book online before 6:00 pm one day prior to the date you will use the service and drop off your luggage with airport staff or your hotel reception before 12:00 pm on the selected date. You will be guaranteed delivery to the airport by 4:00 pm or your to your hotel by 6:00 pm. Call for exact rates : +886-3-255 2290/50

2 . Transport from the airport.

A) Using the subway. It is the cheapest and fastest option and Taiwan offers one of the best systems in the world. The MRT system (mass rapid transit) at Taoyuan International airport links up Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and its surrounding cities, and it is fast, enormously efficient and convenient. With its express service taking just 37 minutes to Taipei Main Station, it is the fastest and most convenient way from the airport to Taipei and you can catch it directly on arrival. See our blog for more details.

B) For those that would like a little more convenience and comfort try a shared ride. It is definitely worth it.There are numerous options but these are the most popular.

• CallCar has been operating for ten years in Taiwan, offering airport shuttle services from as little as NT200. Simply schedule a trip on the app, and CallCar will link you up with others to share the ride. The basic price is NT$199 - NT$389 per person but the price will be calculated based on the number of occupants traveling in the vehicle. The more people who share the less you pay, it's that simple. At the moment the areas of service are Taipei City, New Taipei City, and Taoyuan City. Refer to their website.
• AirPoPO, won the Jury prize at the IDEAS Show@APEC IN 2016. They offer services from Changhua, Taichung, Taipei or any nearby area, and won't leave you feeling out of pocket. You can get a low-cost shared-ride shuttle or a private-ride charter service, simply by using their app to reserve the 24-hour service. If you want to enjoy a comfortable trip and save money, you will find AirPoPo to Taoyuan Airport convenient, cheap and frankly fantastic! Their website.

• UBER Taiwan offers a convenient, inexpensive and safer way to take a taxi. Its services rely on an app which has a record of the driver, the passenger, and the journey. What's more, UBER Taiwan offers you three ways to ride. Prefer to pay with cash, use uberTAXI; prefer to pay by credit card, choose uberX or UberBLACK. All it takes is the push of a button on your phone, with the APP, and you'll have an Uber taxi in a matter of minutes.

3. Private tours.

Sound expensive? Well, the good news is it isn't. You can find private tours in Taiwan that are really affordable. There are some really great private tour companies where you can customize according to your preference, and they are not heavy on the pocket.

• Ownrides. Ownrides is an online platform for tourists to customize their private tours through booking drivers directly and affordably. Prices are quoted instantly, there is flexible pickup time and drivers have tour experience .
• If you're looking for transport from the airport in Taiwan but one that also lets you be the master of your own itinerary; then we may have just what you are after, its called Ding Taxi. Ding Taxi offer affordable rates that are predetermined prior to jumping into the cab. What's more, the company also offers private tour services with English speaking drivers, and you can plan a whole day (or a couple of days) travel including getting lots of great itinerary advice beforehand. It's a super cool and convenient way to plan your travels while you are in Taiwan and it's really easy to do.
  
  4.Staying connected in Taiwan.
  
  If you are planning a trip to Taiwan, you will be pleased to know that getting connected here is inexpensive, fast and can also be found for free.
• Taiwan's Free WIFI!
  
  Taiwan offers free Wifi to all tourists! Awesome right! You can find free hotspots all over the country and on most public transport. To access this, you need to register at any tourist kiosk in the airport or at any of the main stations. Simply produce your passport and email address. You can also register online before you arrive at www.tpe-free.taipei.gov.tw/tpe/index_en.aspx
• Prepaid Data Providers, The Options.

If you need fast more secure internet you'll be pleased to know Taiwan has one of the fastest connections in the world and it is affordable.With all four providers you will be able to purchase SIM cards from their branches and at the airport when you arrive.

If you are only staying in Taiwan for less than 30 days, it is your best option to get an airport package, specifically for visitors. However, you will not be able to top it up as you will have data use within a set time frame only. Remember, you will need to produce your passport to purchase this. If you apply outside the airport you will be able to top up on your plan, but take an additional form of ID with you when you purchase the SIM. Top ups for most providers can be made in store and at all major convenience stores

The options are:

- Chunghwa (Emome).

• Ranked third for 4G speed.
• Currently the biggest private carrier.
• Providing 3G(WCDMA)/4G services.
• Considered to have the best signal, covering mountains and more remote areas.- Taiwan Mobile (My Fone).

• Ranked second for 4G speed.
• Providing 3G(WCDMA)/4G services.- FarEasOne.

• Ranked number one for 4G speed.
• Providing 3G (WCDMA)/4G services.- T star.

• Ranked number four for 4G speed.
• Providing 3G (WCDMA)/4G services.

5. Using the subway (MRT).

Taipei's reliable, squeaky clean, and extremely efficient Mass Rapid Transit System (MRT), is one of the many reasons Taiwan is rated so highly as a tourist destination. At the moment Taiwan has three MRT systems operating:

1. Taipei MRT in the north.
2. Kaohsiung MRT in the south
3. The Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport MRT, which shuttles travelers from the airport to Taipei Main Station in the capital city in about 35 minutes.
   Visit our blog for more information.

 6. Using the trains.

Taiwan's trains are efficient, and fast, showcase beautiful landscapes right around the island with comfort and connect all major cities. It is a system easily accessible to the traveler and what’s more, English signage is pretty decent and available in most stations and on trains.

A) Tze-Chiang (limited express), Chu-Kuang (express) and Fu-Hsing (semi-express).

These are express trains and are therefore the fastest, and most expensive. However, discounts are available for senior citizens, children, and there are ‘early bird sales’ when purchased in advance, so try to make use of this. The high-speed trains run from Nangang, just north of Taipei City, and go all the way down south to Kaohsiung. For additional information on the high-speed-rail system or to book go to : https://www.thsrc.com.tw/en/TimeTable/SearchResult

B)Local Trains (not express).

These access a majority of locations all over Taiwan, stop at every station and are cheaper. They are slower too with speeds that vary as they can be very old or very new. You cannot reserve seating but are generally quieter than the express trains. If you are happy to take your time they are air-conditioned and do make for a peaceful and enjoyable trip.For local train timetables and bookings go to https://www.railway.gov.tw/en/CP.aspx?sn=16988&n=19590

C) Taiwan's high speed rail.

If you are looking for the fastest way to travel in Taiwan, Taiwan's High-Speed Rail system is by far the way to go.There is even an option to purchase a ‘special’ tourist pass and it operates between 06:30 to 24:00 every day connecting Taipei (main station) in the north to Kaohsiung (Zuoying station) in the south. It's an easy way to see Taiwan if you only have a short time here. For more information visit our blog.

7. Free walking tours in Taipei

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan is modern and vibrant and full of the unexpected and what's even better, its possible to see this amazing city for free. Join in on one of its free guided walking tours and experience the streets as the locals do. Simply book a spot online, meetup and join in on the fun. No need to worry about how you’ll see the city or even about how much it will cost. The tours are free, they’re professional and they’re guided by locals. What's better than that! Check out our blog for more information.

When talking about Taiwan, most people only think of the sweet potato-shaped island, but it’s more than just that. In fact, Taiwan has many outlying islands that are still little-known, where you get to enjoy a whole beach to yourself and bike for an hour or two without any cars blocking your way.

Here is a quick intro to the main outlying islands around Taiwan.

Penghu (west of Taiwan)

Located on the west side of Taiwan, Penghu archipelago actually consists of 60 to 100 small islands (depending on how you see it), out of which only 20 are inhabited.

Magong is the main town where tourists come and go, but it is important to get off the main roads and wander into the less popular areas to really see the island. For instance, on the east side of the main island of Penghu, you’ll find a beautiful green countryside where you can walk and admire old choral stone houses more than 400 years old!

Green Island (east of Taiwan)

Green Island is one of the most popular islands around Taiwan, brimming with tourists throughout the summer. Although the beaches aren’t especially remarkable, it is the perfect place for underwater activities like snorkeling and freediving. Above water, there are also a few cross-island trails with nice scenery and great wildlife-watching occasions (try to look for the sika deer, Green Island’s most popular animal residents).

Orchid Island (Lanyu)

Lying just off the southeast coast of Taiwan, Orchid Island is a volcanic island surrounded by countless unpolluted coral reefs and is home to green sea turtles, making itself the best destination for nature-lovers.

Inhabited by the Tao aboriginal tribe, Orchid Island’s cultural features are also another main reason for you to visit: depending mostly on the sea for their livelihood, the aboriginals wear narrow loincloths when fishing or hunting; they go out in beautifully-painted canoes and perform huge ceremonies to start off the annual flying fish season. Definitely worth a visit!

Xiaoliuqiu (southwest of Taiwan)

Off the southwestern coast of Taiwan, the island is the only outlying island composed of coral and also the smallest one of them all. You can easily bike around the island while checking out the fascinating rock formations along the coast.

If you’re visiting Taiwan around April, one special event not to miss on the island is the largest Taiwanese festival to honor Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea.

Kinmen and Matsu (near Fujian China)

Near Fujian Province of China are two other islands: Kinmen and Matsu.

Kinmen is quite different from the other outlying islands, it isn’t known for its scenic views but is without doubt the best destination for those who are into culture and architecture. Once one of the most fortified places on earth, the island is home to an impressive concentration of historic structures: ancient military sites that were once important, memorial arches from the Ming dynasty, “wind-lion god” statues that for centuries have watched over Kinmen’s villages, and countless more.

Matzu is also historically and culturally distinct from mainland Taiwan. As the inhabitants’ ancestors were originally immigrants from northern Fujian, most of the islanders kept their fishing heritage and speak the Minbei dialect. Out of all the other outlying islands, Matzu has the most to offer: historically, it also has the best hikes and ocean views, as well as beautiful Fujian-style villages with old stone houses.

The MRT system (mass rapid transit) at Taoyuan International airport's Terminal 2, links up Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and its surrounding cities, and it is fast, enormously efficient and convenient. With its express service taking just 37 minutes to Taipei Main Station, it is the fastest and most convenient way from the airport to Taipei and you can catch it directly from  Terminal 2 on arrival.

Finding the Airport Terminal 2 station.

The Airport Terminal 2 station is located directly under Terminal 2 of Taoyuan International Airport.

• After baggage collection, you will exit the arrivals hall on the first floor.
• Facing the arrivals hall turn right and follow the signs directing you to the MRT station. It will be easy to find as all the signs are in English, and they are very clear.
• You will need to go down to level B2 to get there.
• Walk near the side of level B2’s food court. (There are MRT signs).
• The MRT entrance is near exit 1.
• It will take you just 5 minutes walking from the arrivals hall to get here. 

  

Take the MRT to Taipei Main Station

The airport line at Terminal 2 offers two types of trains; the express service (Purple Line), which is the fastest (37 min), and the commuter service (Blue Line) that takes a little longer as it stops at all stations (79 min). Both trains run until midnight so even if you arrive late, you can still catch a train into the city. They depart every 7.5 minutes and are available from 06:09 am (Blue) and 06:14 am (Purple) to 22:42 pm (Purple) and 23:42 pm (Blue) .

Please visit the Taoyuan Metro website for details.

Ticket Information.

• Tickets can be paid in the following ways:
• Cash at a ticketing machine or at a booth will give you Single-Use tokens to scan at the gate on entrance. Ensure you keep the tokens until you leave the MRT station on the other side as you are required to put them into a slot to exit.
• Easy cards can be purchased at any convenience store. If you are going to be using the trains a lot in Taiwan, this is a good and easy option. Commuter passes are available for 30, 60, and 90-day durations.
• One-Day Pass (unlimited rides until the end of the day for NT$150)
• 24-Hour Pass (unlimited rides for 24 hours for NT$200)

Ticketing booths have multilingual systems and are easy to use.

TICKET INFORMATION

Getting onto the MRT.

At the airport, scan your Easy card, Ipass or MRT token at the entrance gates to the MRT system. From here, you will see arrows directing you to the commuter train platform or the express train platform. Trains have luggage racks and charging panels for your mobile devices and free wifi.

Useful Links.

• An easy guide to using the Taoyuan MRT
• Taoyuan Metro promotional short film on using Taoyuan Airport MRT
• Directory of Taoyuan Airport Terminals (Pg 24 for Terminal 2)
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZCvC7yOMIo

In Taipei, shopping is basically a national sport. No plans for the weekend? Shopping. Bored on a cold rainy day? Shopping. Want to hang out with your bestie? Shopping. The city is filled with shopping malls, local markets and boutiques, selling everything you can think of: high-end designer brands, handpicked vintage European jewelry, popular Korean skincare…

So, for those who are planning to do some (crazy) shopping in Taipei, continue reading!

Wufenpu

Let’s start with the cheapest option. Wufenpu shopping district is a wholesale area consisting of hundreds of small open-front shops, where all the street vendors buy their products from. It has literally everything, and with prices as low as just NT100 for a t-shirt! One small advice: if you see something you like, just go for it. It’s like a night-market style maze in there, no way you’ll find your way back to the shop again…

Although try-ons are not allowed in Wufenpu, you get to bargain with the shops if you’re buying more than one piece of clothing. Shops are usually open the whole day from 11am all the way to midnight, so take your time there!

How to go: take the MRT to Houshanpi Station and get out at exit 1. Walk straight towards the intersection of Zhongpo N. Road and Yongji Road Intersection.

Shida Night Market

Another cheap spot to check out is the Shida Night Market. Usually night markets in Taiwan are about food, but this one is known for its affordable yet good-quality shopping, probably because of its location in a university area. You will find plenty of clothes, shoes, jewelry and headwear of the latest style trends, at prices not as crazy-cheap as Wufenpu but definitely friendlier than boutique prices (you can buy a warm scarf for NT200).

How to go: take the MRT to Taipower Building Station and get out at exit 3.

East District

On the more expensive side is Dongqu, also known as the East District of Taipei. It’s most lively area is around the Zhongxiao Dunhua MRT Station, where you can find not only chic boutiques, but also fancy restaurants, bars and nightclubs. There is also a huge SOGO department store and a few international brands like Zara, Forever 21 and Mango.

Compared to the two places mentioned before, East District offers products that are pricier but also much better in quality, most of them being imported from Korea, Japan and the States, so if you’re more concerned about quality over price, here’s the place to be!

How to go: take the MRT to Zhongxiao Dunhua Station and get out at exit 2. Walk into the small street next to Zara and there starts your hunt.

Watson, Cosmed, Tomod’s and Poya

Who talks about shopping without mentioning makeup and skincare products?

If you walk around Taipei (or any city in Taiwan), you’ve definitely seen one of those cosmetic shops around the corner. This is where you can do all your beauty shopping.

Japanese makeup brands, Korean skincare, local hair products… everything you need in your makeup bag, you can find them here. They constantly have discounts and buy-1-get-1-frees, and you don’t even need to worry about missing out: the employees usually come stand in front of the shop with big signs and a loudspeaker to inform everyone! Best place to buy gifts for your girlfriends/besties.

If the idea of juicy dumplings filled with leeks gets your mouth watering or a spicy portion of chili tofu in fried rice, Taiwan might just be the perfect destination for you. In Taiwan you will find that veggie options are easily available almost everywhere; in supermarkets, street stalls, restaurants, buffets and even in the back of small trucks. There is even an entire vegan supermarket in Taipei called ivegan. Could you ask for more!

http://en.taiwan2go.com/Article/D_A201608300000002

With Taipei’s vegetarian restaurant per capita exceeding that of London and New York City, Taiwan's love for  fruit, vegetables, and tofu make it one of the best veggie destinations In the world, here's why.

1. Taiwan is one of the few countries in the world where vegetarianism is respected because of its deep Buddhist roots. Chinese Buddhism is based on the Dharmic concept of ahimsa (non-violence), which applies to all living beings including animals. As 10 % of Taiwan is Buddhist, vegetarianism is common here even for meat eaters, who sometimes choose to be vegetarian at certain times of the year, for religious or for health reasons.

2. Vegetarian labeling laws are very strict in Taiwan. Laws state that food labeled as vegetarian must specify whether or not it is vegan, vegan without onion, garlic, and related herbs (for Buddhists),  Lacto-veg ( no milk), ovo-veg (no eggs) or Lacto-ovo veg (no eggs or milk). There are serious fines for companies breaching this policy.

3. You'll see tofu everywhere in Taiwan and in many different varieties.Tofu originated in China over 2000 years ago and today serves as one of the most popular basic foods in Taiwan. It also serves a crucial nutritional role in the life of most Taiwanese, which is good news for vegetarians. There are so many different types of tofu here, that you probably could never try them all in one trip.

Taipei, Taiwan Market Tour

4. As Taiwan is located in a subtropical region you will find many varieties of fruits and vegetables available throughout the year. In summer especially, Taiwan produces many fruits; pineapples, mangoes, apples, and pears to name a few. The Taiwanese also love mushrooms and you will find numerous types in supermarkets, as well as a daunting display of unusual greens. (Bok choy, Chinese broccoli, Water spinach, Fava greens, Seaweed and many more).

https://www.quora.com/What-does-stinky-tofu-taste-like

5. Taiwan loves streetfood, and you will find vegetarian options in the open air markets. Some popular choices are:

• Vegetable steamed buns (made from rice), are soft, puffy and delicious filled with cabbage, leek, carrot, mushroom, corn or a combination of these.
• Freshly made vegetarian dumplings, filled with fresh cabbage and cellophane noodles, they are juicy and extremely moreish.
• Spicy fried tofu on a stick, can be found at most chip and dip stores.
• Stinky tofu, which is a delicacy here and easy to find if you follow the pungent smell (it is not for everyone).
• Barbecued corn on the cob, hot off the grill and with or without a sauce or spice.
• Baked yams, can even be found at seven-elevens.
• Fried mushroom on a stick, pretty self explanatory.
• Taiwanese vegetarian burritos, vegetables in a sweet peanut sauce wrapped in a burrito. Remember to ask for the vegetarian option.

https://www.seriouseats.com/2015/08/what-to-eat-in-taiwan.html

https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/40-taiwan-food/index.html

http://www.thejasmineedit.com/vegan-and-vegetarian-street-food-in-taipei/

http://blog.seasonwithspice.com/2012/09/crunchy-golden-fried-tofu-recipe.html

6. The Restaurants. Taipei’s vegetarian restaurants tend to belong to one of two groups: The buffet (usually pay by weight) and the ‘mom and pop’ places found on most streets. In Taipei, you will find a number of upper market vegetarian eateries as well. Just look for the Chinese characters 素食 indicating vegetarian food or the Buddhist swastika. 我吃素.

• The Buffett - Take a tray, if you are eating in, or box, for takeout, and fill it with various foods set out on tables. The total cost usually is based on weight.
• A few popular vegetarian restaurants in Taipei :

About Animals Vegan Restaurant and Bar

This is an east meets west fusion restaurant.

Vege Creek

Delicious made-to-order meals. You simply select your ingredients and bring them to the chef who will make you a dish.

Ooh Cha Cha Cafe

Serves up fusion food in a European atmosphere including raw vegan desserts!

Yu Shan Ge.

One of Taipei’s swankiest veg restaurants.

For more check out these links.

The ten best vegetarian restaurants in taipei - Tripadvisor.

The 15 Best Places for Vegetarian Food in Taipei - Foursquare

Vegan and Vegetarian restaurants in Taipei - The happy cow.

Useful Phrases

1. I am a vegetarian. 我吃素Wǒ chī sù.
2. I’m a vegan. 我是純素食者Wǒ shì chún sùshízhě.
3. (Buddhist vegans don't eat onions, spring onions, garlic and cooking wine.)
4. I cannot eat meat. 我不吃肉Wǒ bùchī ròu.
5. I cannot eat seafood. 我不吃海鮮Wǒ bùchī hǎixiān.
6. Please don’t add MSG. 請不要放味精 Qǐng bùyào fàng wèijīng.
7. I cannot eat eggs. 我不吃蛋Wǒ bùchī dàn.
8. I can eat eggs. 我可以吃蛋 Wǒ kěyǐ chī dàn.
9. I can eat onions and garlic. 我可以吃蔥和大蒜 Wǒ kěyǐ chī cōng hé dàsuàn
10. I cannot eat dairy products. 我不吃乳製品 Wǒ bùchī rǔzhì pǐn
11. I can eat dairy products. 我可以吃乳製品 Wǒ kěyǐ chī rǔzhì pǐn
12. vegetarian restaurant素食餐廳 sùshí cāntīng
13. organic food 有機食品 yǒujī shí pǐn

Taoyuan Airport has three different options for storing your luggage.

1. Storage Lockers
2. Left Luggage
3. Bonded Luggage Storage (left in customs)

• Storage lockers

@taoyuanairport

Taoyuan International Airport has smart luggage lockers in terminals 1 and 2 in three different sizes, and with four languages options: traditional Chinese, simplified Chinese, English, and Japanese. Travelers can store their baggage for up to three days and prices are as follows.

• Small $40 NT/ 3 hrs
• Medium $60 NT / 3 hrs
• Large $80 NT / 3 hrs

In terminal 1 these smart luggage lockers are located in two areas:

1. Next to check-in counter 1 in the departure hall of Terminal 1.
2. Across from the Pelican counter in the hallway of the first floor. (Next to check in counter 12).

http://res.klook.com/image/upload/v1512459076/桃機一_英文-01_gxx4dv.jpg

http://www.asiadarts.com/7ADATOUR/arrport_travel.htm

http://res.klook.com/image/upload/v1512459076/桃機一_英文-01_gxx4dv.jpg

• Left Luggage lockers

Left luggage and luggage packing service counters are located in Terminals 1 and 2 and provide collection and delivery services from and to your home or hotel.

You can save yourself the hassle of dragging your bags around and book online before 6:00 pm one day prior to the date you will use the service and drop off your luggage with airport staff or your hotel reception before 12:00 pm on the selected date.

You will be guaranteed delivery to the airport by 4:00 pm or your hotel by 6:00 pm.

After arrival, you must take luggage through customs first in order to use this service. When you get to your hotel or to check in, show your voucher and your bags will be waiting for you.

Call for exact rates : +886-3-255 2290/50

You can find Left luggage services:

In Terminal 1 in front of Immigration counter on the 1st Floor, in the Departure Hall , next to No. 12 check-in counter.

http://res.klook.com/image/upload/v1498545814/Terminal_1_vbit5y.jpg

In Terminal 2: In front of Immigration counter on 3rd Floor, in the Departure Hall, next to No. 15 check-in counter.

• Bonded Luggage Lockers

If you have luggage that you do not wish to take through customs, you can deposit it at the bonded luggage counter before you go through customs, for collection on your departure.

Simply :

1. Go to the customs counters and tell them you want the store the luggage as bonded and they will fill in a form.
2. Take the form and walk to the counter at the far right corner.
3. Hand in the luggage form and pay the fee.
4. The agent will give you a bag tag.
5. Then when you check in for your departure flight, you give that bag tag to the counter agent and they will send your luggage directly from storage to the airplane.

Baggage is charged by weight.

London có Oyster Card, Hồng Kông có Octopus, Đài Loan tất nhiên cũng có một loại vé điện tử có thể tiết kiệm thời gian di chuyển khi đi du lịch.

Vé điện tử của Đài Loan khá giống với Nhật Bản. Các nhà cung cấp khác nhau thì phát hành các loại thẻ khác nhau, thông thường hầu hết các vé có thể hoán đổi cho nhau. Bên cạnh việc không cần phải nhớ và giữ tiền xu, vé điện tử còn giảm 20% khi đi tàu điện ngầm, ngay cả đi ăn gà rán KFC cũng có thể thanh toán bằng thẻ này.

Với hầu hết khách du lịch, sự lựa chọn phổ biến và dễ dàng nhất là EasyCard và iPASS, HelloWings sẽ giới thiệu cho bạn về hai loại thẻ này.

 Làm thế nào để mua thẻ:

EasyCard: Máy bán vé điện tử tại sân bay Quốc tế Đào Viên, bốn hệ thống cửa hàng tiện ích chính ở Đài Loan, và tuyến Metro Đài Bắc ở ga Đài Bắc.

Loại thuê: 100 NTD mỗi thẻ, mỗi thẻ có tiền thế chân là 100 NTD, quỹ có sẵn là 0 NTD (Nếu thẻ được hoàn lại trong vòng ba tháng và dùng nhiều hơn 5 lần, bạn sẽ được hoàn lại 80 NTD là một phần tiền thế chân)

Loại mua lại: 100 NTD trên mỗi thẻ, không bao gồm khoản tiền thế chân và quỹ sẵn có, không hoàn lại

iPASS: bốn chuổi cửa hàng tiện lợi lớn của Đài Loan, tuyến Metro Đài Bắc ở ga Đài Bắc, Ga tàu điện ngầm Cao Hùng.

Loại mua lại: 100 NTD trên mỗi thẻ, không bao gồm khoản tiền gửi và quỹ sẵn có, không hoàn lại

Sử dụng nó ở đâu?

Các Kênh Giao thông Metro
Metro (MRT): EasyCard chỉ có thể sử dụng trong Metro Đài Bắc, nhưng iPASS có thể được sử dụng trên cả tàu điện ngầm Kaosiung và Taipei.

Đường sắt Đài Loan (TRA): Cả EasyCard và iPASS đều có thể được sử dụng, nhưng chỉ ở giữa Suao = Keelung = Chaozhou. Tuyến này bao gồm các tuyến nhánh nhưng không bao gồm tuyến Đường sắt Rừng A Lý Sơn.

Xe buýt thành phố¹: Tùy thuộc vào tín hiệu đèn, bạn sẽ biết phải trả tiền khi lên hay xuống xe. Nhưng khi xe chạy hết tuyến thì bạn sẽ phải trả thêm.

Xe buýt cao tốc¹: cà thẻ để thanh toán cả khi lên và xuống xe.

Xe đạp công cộng ở thành phố: Ví dụ như YouBike của Đài Bắc và CityBike của Cao Hùng, bạn có thể đăng ký trực tuyến hoặc tại Kiosk ngay trạm xe, sau đó cà thẻ để thanh toán cho chiếc xe đạp.

Để có thêm thông tin đầy đủ về cách sử dụng thẻ, vui lòng truy cập trang web chính thức của EasyCard và iPass.

Thanh toán tại cửa hàng

Khi mua sắm ở cửa hàng tiện lợi, cửa hàng thức ăn nhanh, hoặc chợ đêm, bạn có thể sử dụng EasyCard hoặc iPASS để thanh toán. Thông thường nếu cửa hàng hoặc gian hàng chấp nhận hình thức thanh toán này, sẽ có dán nhãn hoặc biển báo ở cửa trước và để phần cà thẻ thanh toán khu vực gần quầy tiếp tân.

Để biết các cửa hàng chấp nhận thanh toán bằng EasyCard, vui lòng nhấp vào đây, Để biết các cửa hàng chấp nhận thanh toán bằng iPASS, vui lòng nhấp vào đây.

Làm thế nào để nạp thẻ

EasyCard: bạn có thể nạp thẻ tại bất kỳ trạm nào của Metro Đài Bắc (ngay cả ở dạng đồng xu), hoặc tại bất kỳ cửa hàng tiện lợi nào với nhãn dán EasyCard (số tiền phải là bội số của 100 NTD)

iPASS: bạn có thể nạp thẻ tại bất kỳ trạm nào của Metro Đài Bắc, bất kỳ máy tính phí nào tại Kaohsiung metro và các cửa hàng tiện lợi.

Câu cuối cùng: Vậy nên chọn thẻ nào?

Với quá nhiều thông tin, bạn vẫn biết chọn thẻ nào? Dưới đây là một số lời khuyên thực tế:

Không có sự khác biệt lớn giữa hai loại thẻ. Nếu hành trình của bạn chủ yếu bao gồm khu vực thành phố Đài Bắc thì EasyCard sẽ là lựa chọn đầu tiên của bạn vì nó cũng bao gồm các giao dịch nhỏ hơn. Nếu bạn cũng đến Kaohsiung, thì iPASS cũng có thể là một lựa chọn khả thi. Nói cho cùng sự khác biệt tập trung ở các cửa hàng hoặc máy bán hàng có thể thực hiện thanh toán điện tử. Nếu so sánh về khía cạnh này, thì EasyCard sẽ là lựa chọn để đi do tính phổ biến của nó.

Chú thích:

1. Xe buýt thành phố (Fare Zones) và xe buýt đường cao tốc (Distance Traveled) đều có cách thức thanh toán riêng theo từng tuyến đường. Những gì chúng tôi liệt kê ở đây là tình huống phổ thông nhất. Nếu bạn không chắc chắn thì hảy hỏi bác tài "Tôi có nên Trả?" và họ sẽ cho bạn biết. Nhìn chung, với mô hình vùng giá vé bạn sẽ không bị tính phí hai lần ngay cả khi bạn nhấn để thanh toán hai lần trong cùng một khu vực.

The MRT system (mass rapid transit) at Taoyuan International airport's Terminal 2, links up Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and its surrounding cities, and it is fast, enormously efficient and convenient. With its express service taking just 37 minutes to Taipei Main Station, it is the fastest and most convenient way from the airport to Taipei and you can catch it directly from  Terminal 2 on arrival.

Finding the Airport Terminal 2 station.

The Airport Terminal 2 station is located directly under Terminal 2 of Taoyuan International Airport.

• After baggage collection, you will exit the arrivals hall on the first floor.
• Facing the arrivals hall turn right and follow the signs directing you to the MRT station. It will be easy to find as all the signs are in English, and they are very clear.
• You will need to go down to level B2 to get there.
• Walk near the side of level B2’s food court. (There are MRT signs).
• The MRT entrance is near exit 1.
• It will take you just 5 minutes walking from the arrivals hall to get here.

Take the MRT to Taipei Main Station

The airport line at Terminal 2 offers two types of trains; the express service (Purple Line), which is the fastest (37 min), and the commuter service (Blue Line) that takes a little longer as it stops at all stations (79 min). Both trains run until midnight so even if you arrive late, you can still catch a train into the city. They depart every 7.5 minutes and are available from 06:09 am (Blue) and 06:14 am (Purple) to 22:42 pm (Purple) and 23:42 pm (Blue) .

Please visit the Taoyuan Metro website for details.

Ticket Information.

• Tickets can be paid in the following ways:
• Cash at a ticketing machine or at a booth will give you Single-Use tokens to scan at the gate on entrance. Ensure you keep the tokens until you leave the MRT station on the other side as you are required to put them into a slot to exit.
• Easy cards can be purchased at any convenience store. If you are going to be using the trains a lot in Taiwan, this is a good and easy option. Commuter passes are available for 30, 60, and 90-day durations.
• One-Day Pass (unlimited rides until the end of the day for NT$150)
• 24-Hour Pass (unlimited rides for 24 hours for NT$200)

Ticketing booths have multilingual systems and are easy to use.

TICKET INFORMATION

Getting onto the MRT.

At the airport, scan your Easy card, Ipass or MRT token at the entrance gates to the MRT system. From here, you will see arrows directing you to the commuter train platform or the express train platform. Trains have luggage racks and charging panels for your mobile devices and free wifi.

Useful Links.

• An easy guide to using the Taoyuan MRT
• Taoyuan Metro promotional short film on using Taoyuan Airport MRT
• Directory of Taoyuan Airport Terminals (Pg 24 for Terminal 2)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZCvC7yOMIo

With none of the hassle and stress of planning a trip or being restricted by a pre-planned itinerary, Ownrides is an online platform for tourists to customize their private tours through booking drivers directly and affordably. Prices are quoted instantly, there is flexible pickup time and a driver with tour experience is provided. No more squeezing on crowded trains or waiting around for buses to arrive. Its safe, affordable and it's super easy!  

Ownrides offer not only destination information, but also gives you local perspective through their online support. On their site, you can talk to someone who will help you establish the best itinerary for your needs, and you can build your plan step by step online with the estimated times and dates and locations on a map. Furthermore, Ownrides not only make sure your trip is as smooth and comfortable as possible, they also promise you professional and quality private drivers; only professional drivers who are licensed and have more than 5 years of driving experience are selected.

How does it work?

1. Simply go to their site and opt to either take a look through their most popular itineraries which can be customized to your preference or simply build your own itinerary from scratch. It is really easy and clear to use.
2. Ownrides will find a suitable driver for you and you can choose a vehicle from the list of car options.
3. Select your preferred language, Chinese or English ( an extra NT$ 300 for English).
4. You will see all your charges on the right-hand side of the screen. Each itinerary has its own fair price, calculated to include the fuel cost, highway toll and parking fee required for the itinerary. There are no hidden fees and you don’t get charged for anything you don’t need.
5. Save your trip for later or proceed to payment and input time and date.
6. You will be required to pay a small deposit and the remainder will be due to the driver in cash at the end of your trip. (in New Taiwan Dollar)
7. Once you have paid the deposit you will be sent the drivers details and communication is very easy, either through your profile on the site or via Viber, Whatsapp, Messenger or LINE.

Inclusions

Private driver’s service fee

Car’s fuel cost, highway toll, parking fee

Transportation for entire tour

Pick up and drop off at city

Additional Info

1. Overtime fee of 250 TWD per half hour is required if trip exceeds duration set for this tour
2. Gratuity/tip is optional but we recommend 10% if the driver’s service is good
3. Modification to tour should be discussed with the driver directly and is possible.

See Reviews.

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Ah, the stunning East Coast of Taiwan. There is no way you can leave Taiwan without seeing the breathtaking sceneries that Taitung and Hualien have to offer. These two cities are located in the southeast of Taiwan, where secret waterfalls and surf spots can be reached within half an hour from the city center. If you choose the right place to be, a beach can even be within walking distance!

The hostels on the East Coast are slightly different than those in Taipei: they’re not less stylish than any other hostel, but they do have a more laid-back and relaxing vibe, with plenty of water and hiking activities ready for you to choose. Here are a few of the best ones that we’ve chosen for you!

WaGaLiGong Surf Hostel

Website: http://www.wagaligongtaiwan.com/

Contact: wagaligongdulan@gmail.com

Address: Highway 11, #89, Dulan Village, Donghe Township, Taitung (40 mins from Taitung Train Station by bus)

Price range: dorm room 300NT up; private room 800NT up

What’s special:

• Restaurant/bar on the first floor with a warm atmosphere (best homemade pizza ever)
• Rooftop garden
• Surfboard/SUP/windsurf rentals and professional coaching/tours
• Free bicycles and cheap rental scooters

Things to do nearby:

• Dulan Sugar Factory
• Cape Café
• Moonlight Inn
• Dulan Beach, Dulan mountain trail
• Jia Mu Zi Bay

Attention to all surfers and nature lovers: you will want to be here. WaGaLiGong is a small family-run business located in the cultural village of Dulan on Taiwan's scenic east coast. Dulan has a bohemian mix of aboriginal Taiwanese, foreigners, Han Chinese, artists, musicians and surfers, making it arguably one of the best places in Taiwan to spend time in. The owners are from South Africa and Taiwan, all passionate people who are willing to share their experiences and way of life with travelers.

In WaGaLiGong, you can enjoy a homemade pizza with surf movies on a big screen, practice yoga and meditation on our rooftop garden (with a view of the Pacific and Green Island), and even bike to Dulan Beach within 10 minutes for a tranquil sunbathing or surf session. And by the way, they are always looking for artists to help, in exchange for lodging and surfing!

40 INN Backpackers Warehouse

Website: https://www.facebook.com/40INN/

Contact: backpackers40inn@gmail.com

Address: No.40, Wenhua St., Taitung City, Taitung County 950 (15mins drive from Taitung Train Station)

Price range: dorm room 599NT up; private room 1999NT up

What’s special:

• Close to Main Bus Station
• Free healthy breakfast bar
• Balcony
• Public computer, huge range of books and movies
• Travel plan recommendation

Things to do nearby:

• Tiehua Music Village and Railway Art Village
• Taitung Art Museum
• Taitung Forest Park and Haibin (seaside) Park
• Taitung Jialulan Coast
• National Museum of Prehistory

40 INN Backpackers Warehouse is a stylish hostel perfectly located in Taitung, near the popular Tiehua Music Village and Railway Art Village, as well as the city’s main bus station. There are plenty of restaurants with must-try food within walking distance, even the weekend night market isn’t too far away! The hostel has a sunny balcony for guests to enjoy the view of the city, and offers a varied breakfast for every guest to start their day.

If you go on 40 INN’s official fan page and scroll through the comments section, there are pretty much only 5 star reviews, every traveler who has stayed there loves it! The owner Paul and his staff are more than helpful when it comes to introducing Taitung, so if you need any advice and tips about the city, just head over to 40 INN.

Hualien Wow Hostel

Website: http://hualienwow.com/en/index

Contact: wowwowservice@gmail.com

Address: No.83, Guolian 1st Rd., Hualien City (3mins walk from Hualien Train Station)

Price range: dorm room 650NT up; private room 1799NT up

What’s special:

• Closest hostel to the Hualien Train Station
• Huge lounge area and full kitchen
• Double bed dorms
• “Tourism desk” to assist with trip planning
• Occasional art and travel talks  

Things to do nearby:

• Taroko Gorge
• Chishingtan Beach
• whale watching tours and Qingshui Cliff kayaking
• Walami hiking trail

Hualien Wow Hostel is located right in front of Hualien Train Station with only 2 minutes walking distance. Reshaped from an antique hotel, the hostel provides not only comfortable accommodation but also a very laid-back lounge space, hoping to “wow” the travelers the moment they step in.

The owner Howard executes his travel experiences and passion for nature, creating a hostel of “Ecology, Consideration, and Warmth”, and wishes to bring Taiwan to the world with our spectacular natural environment and local culture.

Through understanding the beauty of our island and experiencing it, Hualien Wow Hostel hopes that after staying with them, foreign travelers would eventually share and recommend Taiwan to the rest of the world; give them a hand!