Exploring Taiwan: Travel Tips and Essential Insurance Advice
18/06/2024
Taiwan, a vibrant and dynamic island nation, offers a rich blend of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and modern conveniences. From bustling night markets and towering skyscrapers to tranquil temples and breathtaking natural parks, Taiwan provides an unforgettable travel experience. To ensure a smooth and worry-free trip, having the right insurance coverage is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to exploring Taiwan and securing the appropriate insurance.
Discovering Taiwan: Must-Visit Destinations
1. Taipei
- Taipei 101: Visit one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers, featuring an observation deck with panoramic views of the city.
- National Palace Museum: Explore one of the world's greatest collections of Chinese art and artifacts.
- Shilin Night Market: Sample delicious street food and shop for unique souvenirs at this bustling night market.
2. Taroko National Park
- Taroko Gorge: Hike through this stunning marble gorge, known for its towering cliffs and scenic beauty.
- Eternal Spring Shrine: Visit this picturesque shrine built to commemorate those who died during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway.
- Shakadang Trail: Enjoy an easy walk along this trail that offers beautiful views of the Shakadang River.
3. Sun Moon Lake
- Lalu Island: Take a boat ride to this sacred island in the middle of Sun Moon Lake.
- Ci'en Pagoda: Climb to the top of this pagoda for spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Cycling Trails: Explore the scenic cycling routes around the lake.
4. Kaohsiung
- Fo Guang Shan Monastery: Visit this large Buddhist monastery known for its impressive Buddha statues and tranquil atmosphere.
- Liuhe Night Market: Experience the vibrant nightlife and local cuisine at this popular night market.
- Love River: Stroll along the banks of this picturesque river, which is beautifully lit up at night.
5. Alishan
- Alishan Forest Railway: Take a ride on this historic narrow-gauge railway that winds through lush forests and mountains.
- Sunrise at Zhushan: Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the sea of clouds at Zhushan.
- Cherry Blossom Season: Visit during spring to see the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Essential Insurance Tips for Your Taiwan Adventure
1. Travel Insurance
- Medical Coverage: Ensure your travel insurance includes coverage for medical emergencies and evacuation, as healthcare costs can be high, especially in private hospitals.
- Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Protect your investment with coverage for unexpected trip cancellations or interruptions due to illness, injury, or other unforeseen events.
- Lost or Delayed Baggage: Choose a policy that provides compensation for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage to minimize inconvenience during your trip.
2. Health Insurance
- Vaccinations: Check if you need any vaccinations before traveling to Taiwan. Common recommendations include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid.
- Supplementary Health Insurance: Consider additional health insurance to cover private healthcare costs and medical repatriation if necessary.
3. Car and Scooter Insurance
- Driving in Taiwan: If you plan to rent a car or scooter, ensure your rental insurance includes coverage for collision damage, theft, and liability. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and road conditions.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): Depending on your home country, you may need an IDP to drive in Taiwan. Check the requirements before your trip.
4. Home Insurance
- Unoccupied Home Coverage: If you’re leaving your home unoccupied during your trip, check if your home insurance policy covers unoccupied property. Consider additional coverage if needed.
5. Personal Liability Insurance
- Accidental Damage: Personal liability insurance can protect you if you accidentally cause injury to someone or damage property during your trip. This coverage can be especially valuable in unfamiliar surroundings.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Taiwan
1. Language
- Mandarin Proficiency: Mandarin is the official language, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. Learning basic phrases can enhance your travel experience and help you communicate with locals.
2. Transportation
- Public Transport: Taiwan has an extensive public transport network, including high-speed trains, buses, and metros. The EasyCard is a convenient payment method for public transportation.
- Domestic Flights: For long-distance travel within Taiwan, consider domestic flights, which are affordable and convenient.
3. Local Customs
- Respect for Culture: Taiwanese people have great respect for their culture and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites.
- Night Markets: Experience local culture by visiting night markets, but remember to be respectful and mindful of local customs.
4. Safety
- Stay Vigilant: Taiwan is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution in crowded areas and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious with your belongings.
- Health Precautions: Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses, and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites, especially in rural areas.
5. Weather
- Tropical Climate: Taiwan has a tropical climate with a hot, humid summer and a cooler winter. Pack lightweight clothing for summer and warmer layers for winter.
Taiwan is a country of vibrant culture, rich history, and natural beauty. By securing comprehensive insurance coverage and following practical travel tips, you can ensure a safe and memorable journey through this captivating destination. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, hiking through stunning national parks, or indulging in delicious street food, proper planning and insurance will help you make the most of your Taiwan adventure. So, pack your bags, get insured, and get ready to explore the wonders of Taiwan!
This article is designed to offer general advice and may not apply to every insurance, broker, insurer, cover or policy. You would need to check the individual policy benefits of each cover with your insurer or broker.
