Last November, I embarked on a week-long trip to Taiwan, arriving on a Sunday and departing the following Saturday. Scheduled just before Thanksgiving, this adventure offered a rich mix of culture, nature, and vibrant city life. Here’s a reflection on my unforgettable experience.
The trip began with a 13-hour flight from California, landing at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. Flying with EVA Air made the journey much more comfortable, with excellent service, three-course meals, and thoughtful touches like blankets and small lumbar pillow. Upon arrival, the local time was 16 hours ahead of California, making it essential to adjust to Taiwan time quickly. Flying overnight allowed me to get some sleep and be able to stay up and acclimate to their time.
Currency conversion was simple, with the Taiwan dollar (TWD) being the standard. At the time, the exchange rate was roughly 32 Taiwan dollars to 1 US dollar, making it easy to manage expenses.
Taiwan’s culture reflects a strong Japanese influence, evident in its emphasis on quality and precision. The streets were exceptionally clean, and the lush greenery of the environment was striking.
Despite frequent rain showers, the weather was comfortable. I found carrying a compact umbrella more practical than wearing a jacket, as the mild air conditioning indoors rarely warranted extra layers. A T-shirt, pants, and shoes with good grip for the occasionally slippery streets were ideal.
The people of Taiwan, totaling about 23.9 million, were incredibly friendly and courteous. Simple gestures like standing on the right side of escalators to allow others to pass or offering directions in basic English made navigating the city much easier. Their hospitality was evident in every interaction, creating a welcoming atmosphere that enhanced the experience.
Getting around Taiwan was an absolute breeze, thanks to its world-class public transportation system. The Taiwan High Speed Rail connected major cities on the west coast efficiently, making long-distance travel fast and convenient. Within cities, trains were frequent and color-coded for easy navigation. The respect shown by passengers was heartwarming, with blue seats reserved for the elderly or handicapped. It was not uncommon to see children traveling alone, reflecting the safety and trust embedded in Taiwanese society. Scooters dominated the streets, while modern vehicles like Toyota and Honda were common due to strict regulations on older cars. Traffic flowed patiently, with countdown timers on green lights and speed cameras ensuring safe driving.
Driving is highly regulated, with countdown timers on traffic lights and speed cameras enforcing safe behavior.
One of the most iconic experiences was visiting the Taiwan 101 building. This architectural marvel, once the tallest skyscraper in the world, offers breathtaking views of Taipei and stands as a symbol of Taiwan’s modernization.
Food was another highlight of the trip. Night markets were a culinary paradise, with dishes like stinky tofu, potato balls, and sesame-filled rice dough balls floating in syrup. I also tried MOS Burger, a local favorite, where the fish burger and crispy potato wedges did not disappoint.
