Host Country

Taiwan is a medium-sized archipelago in East Asia, located at 23°30N, 121°00E and running through the middle of the Tropic of Cancer (23°5N). The main island of Taiwan, also known as Formosa, is located in East Asia off the coast of China, southwest of Japan. The island is 394 kilometers (245 miles) long and 144 kilometers (89 miles) wide and consists of steep mountains covered by tropical and subtropical vegetation. The useful link for the traveling information in Taiwan are as follows: 1. Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government 2. Tourism Bureau, Republic of China (Taiwan) 3. National Parks

Host City

As the capital of the Republic of China, Taipei is a vibrant blend of traditional culture and cosmopolitan life. Taipei is the political, economic, educational and recreational center of the country, offering an array of significant cultural sights. The city is situated in a basin in northern Taiwan that was inhabited by aboriginal peoples until settlers from China moved into the area about 300 years ago. The first permanent settlements were in the present-day districts of Wanhua and Datong, in western Taipei. These areas still retain many of their old customs, as visitors can readily see in the architecture, sculptures, and ceremonies of the old streets and temples. A more recent cultural focal point in the city is the National Palace Museum, which houses hundreds of thousands of Chinese antiques and art works. The museum is located in the north of the city and is a must-see for lovers of ancient Chinese culture. With the wealth of interesting and fun activities available in Taipei, and its warm hospitality, visitors are certain to have an unforgettable experience in this remarkable city.

Local Transportation

In Taipei, main transportation includes the Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT), buses, and taxis. MRT and buses are frequent, and the fares depend on the distance traveled. To reach cities and scenic spots outside Taipei, trains and highway bus services are also available.   MRT The MRT metro system is the easiest way to get around in Taipei. Clean and air-conditioned trains arrive every five minutes. There are currently five lines: Brown, Red, Orange, Green, and Blue, connecting a variety of attractions and scenic spots. The well-maintained transit system is well-loved by office workers, students and tourists. (Note: to keep the transit system clean, smoking, eating and drinking is strictly prohibited.) Bus Buses in Taipei are numerous and bus routes are well-planned. Once you get a hang of it, buses are a great way to get around the city. Buses take EasyCard or cash. Prices are calculated by distance. The typical price of a ride on a bus is NT 15 one-way and longer routes are divided into two or three NT 15 segments. Taxi Taxis are the most convenient form of transportation in Taipei. Charges are NT70 for the first 1.25km, and NT5 for each additional 250 meters. An additional NT5 is charged for every 100 seconds of waiting, and an NT20 surcharge is added for fares between 11p.m. and 6a.m.

Currency

The unit of currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan dollar (NT, or TWD), in five denominations in both paper and coin money. Paper money comes in NT2000, NT1000, NT500, NT200, and NT100 denominations. Coins come in NT50, NT20, NT10, NT5, and NT1 denominations. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the Taoyuan International Airport, banks, and hotels. Receipts are given when currency is exchanged, and will be required in order to exchange unused NT dollars before departure. Major credit cards such as American Express, Master Card, and VISA are accepted, and traveler’s check may be cashed at foreign exchange banks and tourist-oriented businesses and hotels.

Electric Supply

Taiwan’s electricity is supplied at 110V 60Hz. Appliances from Europe, Australia, and South-east Asia will need an adaptor or transformer. Power outlets only accept flat two-parallel pin plugs, type A. Participants from areas with different currents may bring a transformer to operate the electrical appliances.

Tipping

Generally, tipping is neither necessary nor expected. However, a 10% service charge is usually automatically added to (high-end) restaurant and hotel bills, and porters at hotels and airports customarily receive tips for their services. It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers unless the driver assists with your luggage.

Telecommunications

Public phones in Taiwan are divided primarily into four types: coin phones, card phones, dual-function phones, and credit card phones. Coin phones accept NT10, NT5, and NT1 coins. The telephone IC cards can be used all over Taiwan and are available in face values of NT100 and NT210. The cards are sold in most convenience stores. Credit card phones are typically limited to airports and tourist hotels.