General Information
About Taiwan
Taiwan, located in the center of East Asia, is an ideal gateway for travelers who want to travel to and within Asia. Taiwan was once christened "Formosa" or "beautiful island" in Portuguese by Portuguese marines in the 16th century. From mountains to beaches, the surface takes forms from a variety of geological formations, cultivating an abundance of peculiar landscapes and ecosystems.
Climate
The Tropic of Cancer runs straight through the middle of Taiwan bringing with it tropical and subtropical weather. Taiwan typically presents an average temperature is around 29 °C ( 85°F) to 23 °C ( 73°F). There is no severe cold in winter, but it has brutal heat and high humidity in summer.
Time Zone
Taiwan is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
Currency
The currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar. The exchange rate in recent months is around NT$30 for US$1. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at the banks, airport, and hotels. Payment by major credit card is accepted almost everywhere around Taiwan.
Credit Card
Major credit cards such as American Express, Master Card, Visa, JCB, and UnionPay are accepted. Traveler's checks may be cashed at foreign-exchange banks, some tourist-oriented businesses, and most international tourist hotels (by room guests).
Electricity
In Taiwan, the standard voltage is 110 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. The power sockets that are used are of type A / B. Visitors with appliances of different voltages are urged to bring adapters with them.
Tipping & Tax
Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, but some hotels and restaurants automatically add a 10% service fee to the bill. Otherwise, there are no hard and fast rules. Sales tax is included in the listed price in Taiwan.