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  4. Taiwan Solo Trip: Need Your 'WTF-to-Avoid' List, STAT!

Taiwan Solo Trip: Need Your 'WTF-to-Avoid' List, STAT!

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    Franklin Weimann IV
    wrote last edited by
    #1

    Taiwan Solo Trip: Need Your 'WTF-to-Avoid' List, STAT! 1

    Hello everyone! This week, I'm about to embark on a solo trip to Taiwan!

    *Do you have any good suggestions or things that are especially important to note and common pitfalls to avoid? *
    Also, what's the weather like in Taiwan during this season, and what kind of clothing would be suitable?

    My itinerary is roughly:

    • Taipei + Xinbei (which includes areas around Taipei, such as Jiu Fen and Danshui)
    • Nantou (Yushan Lake, Qingjing Farm, etc.)
    • Chiayi (Alishan!) or Taichung (still indecisive)
    • Are there any characteristic souvenirs or local specialties that I should bring back from these places? Recommendations are greatly appreciated!

    And by the way, I applied for the "Experience the Golden Bliss of Taiwan" lottery organized by the Taiwan Tourism Bureau. According to rumors, the chances of winning shopping vouchers recently haven't been very high, so I chose accommodation discount coupons, feeling more practical.
    I alone travel as a regular thing at home, so I feel confident in safety and am not too worried.
    Compared to recommending 'must-visit' places, I am actually more interested in hearing your personal experiences of 'definitely do not go' or 'I regret going there'. Can you share with me? For example, as far as I concerned, the 101 observation deck in Taipei left me a bit disappointed, long queuing time, mediocre experience once you get up, not a high value for the price. Do you have similar 'avoiding pitfalls' experiences? Come tell me quickly!

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      Elaine Boyle PhD
      wrote last edited by
      #2

      Bring a jacket!!!

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        Arnold Predovic
        wrote last edited by
        #3

        I only have a light sweater and a heavy jacket.

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          Morris Schneider
          wrote last edited by
          #4

          In Taiwan, people primarily use cash and credit cards; Alipay isn't widely accepted. Make sure to bring enough cash. It's currently the plum rain season, so expect a lot of rain. Besides an umbrella, it's a good idea to have backup plans for rainy days. You can also download Uber; it's quite convenient for getting around. Night markets are generally quite similar, so just pick one that's convenient for you. I personally think Taipei has many interesting cultural and creative markets or parks worth visiting. Also, Taiwanese cuisine tends to be on the lighter side. If you're worried you might not be used to it, you could bring your favorite sauces. However, be careful not to bring anything containing meat or animal fats, as you'll face fines from customs.

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            Alejandro Runolfsdottir
            wrote last edited by
            #5

            I have Apple Pay; should that work all over Taiwan? Also, I have 1000 RMB (which I'll exchange for TWD) – I wonder if that'll be enough.

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              Justin Zieme
              wrote last edited by
              #6

              You can ask Taiwanese girls to help take your photos! They're usually really good at it.

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                Arnold Predovic
                wrote last edited by
                #7

                I'm a super introvert (a big 'I' person), so I always take my own photos wherever I go. I feel bad bothering others.

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                  Beatrice Thiel
                  wrote last edited by
                  #8

                  A sun-protective jacket, a hat, and light clothing!

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                    Elsa Wyman
                    wrote last edited by
                    #9

                    It's super hot... Remember to bring mosquito repellent or bite relief cream, a sun-protective jacket, and an umbrella (you can buy one there cheaply at convenience stores). Try to exchange enough cash, as most places primarily accept cash. Credit cards are better for larger purchases like luxury items.

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                      Kelvin Shanahan DVM
                      wrote last edited by
                      #10

                      Thanks for the replies! I've decided to take everyone's advice and exchange more cash.

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                        Roosevelt Reynolds
                        wrote last edited by
                        #11

                        My homepage features unique Taiwanese food and scenery! You're welcome to visit.

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                          Melody Jacobi
                          wrote last edited by
                          #12

                          Flip-flops!

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                            Marc Price
                            wrote last edited by
                            #13

                            Genuinely asking, how did you manage to go? I'd love to take my mom too!

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                              Jo Douglas
                              wrote last edited by
                              #14

                              You just submit an application. It should be easier to apply from overseas.

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                                Dr. Guadalupe Homenick
                                wrote last edited by
                                #15

                                Quick question for everyone in the comments: Is Hualien suitable for solo travel? And between Hualien and Kenting, which would you recommend more?

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                                  Franklin Weimann IV
                                  wrote last edited by
                                  #16

                                  Hualien has been affected by heavy rain these past few days, impacting some roads and train services. Not sure when you're planning to visit, though. Kenting itself is fine, but be wary of some unscrupulous vendors on Kenting Main Street and with electric scooter rentals. It really depends on your interests.

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                                    Garrett VonRueden PhD
                                    wrote last edited by
                                    #17

                                    Help! I'm also going to Taipei solo this week. Is it okay to wear shorts daily? I really don't want to wear long pants... For seven days, would 13,000 TWD be enough for food, drinks, and transportation?

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                                      Guadalupe Barton
                                      wrote last edited by
                                      #18

                                      I think shorts are fine; just bring a jacket. The key is to bring flip-flops or buy a pair here – they're essential for rain and comfortable even when it's not raining. For seven days, I think 13,000 TWD should be enough unless you're planning on expensive activities or restaurants.

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