About Taiwan

Taiwan, a hospitable country with abundant natural scenery, is located off the southeast coast of the Asian Continent at the western edge of the Pacific Ocean, between Japan and the Philippines, and right in the center of the East-Asian island arc, Taiwan forms a vital line of communication in the Asia-Pacific region.  Besides, due to Taiwan’s rich historical background and diverse society, the culture is inclusive while embracing differences, which makes Taiwan an affable destination for business People.

Language
The official language of Taiwan is Mandarin; however, with the diverse races, other languages are widely spoken.  For the foreign language, English is spoken quite commonly. The Taiwanese government plans to make English an official language by 2030.

Climate
Taiwan enjoys a subtropical climate with warm weather all year round and is a perfect destination for traveling. The average temperature in June is 23°C-28°C; however, it may reach as high as 32°C in Kaohsiung.  In addition, Taiwan is prone to thunderstorms in the afternoon, it is recommended to carry rain gear. For more weather information, please click here.

Currency 
The currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NT$). Coin denominations are NT$1, NT$5, NT$10, NT$50. Banknotes are NT$100, NT$200, NT$500, NT$1000, and NT$2000. The usual exchange rate is around US$1 to NT$30.
Foreign currencies can be redeemed at the airport, banks, and department stores. Opening hours of banks are typically 9:30 to 15:30, Monday to Friday. If you need to make a withdrawal, ATMs can be found throughout Kaohsiung. 

Electricity
Taiwan uses an electric current of 110 volts at 60 cycles. Many buildings also have 220-volt sockets. Visitors with appliances of different voltages are urged to bring adapters with them.



Telephone & WI-FI
Free public Wi-Fi service is available across Kaohsiung City in some public places. The SSID of Wi-Fi access is iTaiwan. Visitors who wish to use the service can set up an account with a valid passport or entry permit. To check the free public Wi-Fi service in Kaohsiung, please click here.
In addition to free Wi-Fi access, a payable Wi-Fi card is also available in most 7-11 convenience stores across Taiwan. Prepaid access cards can be purchased over the counter at the stores, and the costs vary.

Tip/Tax/VAT Refund
Tipping is not customary here. Sales tax is included in the listed price. Foreign travelers, with the entry document, who make purchases of at least NT$2,000 on the same day from the same designated stores with the "Taiwan Tax Refund"-label are eligible to request the "Application Form for VAT Refund." To claim the refund, they must apply at the port of their departure from the R.O.C. within 90 days following the date of purchase, and they must take the purchased goods out of the country with them. For more information, please click here.
 
Emergency Dial Number
110 : Police
119 : Fire emergencies, injury or accidents & hospital services
112 : Emergency services
 
Useful Website
-Taiwan Immigration Service: https://www.immigration.gov.tw/7152
-Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://en.mofa.gov.tw/
-Taiwan Tourism Bureau: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/