Currency: The New Taiwan Dollar (NTD or NT$) is the local currency. Notes come in NT$100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 denominations; coins in NT$1, 5, 10, and 50. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and chain stores, but many night markets, small restaurants, and street vendors are cash only. ATMs are everywhere, including in all 7-Eleven and FamilyMart convenience stores.
Language: Mandarin is the official language and is used in all public signage, schools, and government. Taiwanese (Hokkien) and Hakka are widely spoken at home. English is taught in schools and many younger Taiwanese, particularly in the cities, can communicate reasonably well. Street signs, metro stations, and most tourist infrastructure are in English. Outside the big cities, English is less common but goodwill and patience go a long way.
Electricity: 110 volts, 60Hz. Sockets are the flat two-pin American type. European and UK travellers need an adapter.
Water: Tap water is technically treated but most locals don't drink it directly. Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere. Hotels typically provide boiled or filtered water.
Tipping: Not customary in Taiwan. Most restaurants and hotels already add a 10% service charge. Additional tipping is optional and not expected.
Health: No vaccinations are required for entry. Taiwan has an excellent healthcare system with modern hospitals and clinics. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Pharmacies (藥局) are widespread and well-stocked.
Safety: Taiwan is a very safe country for travellers. Street crime is low and solo travel — including for women — is comfortable in cities and rural areas alike. The main hazards are traffic (scooters in particular) and, seasonally, typhoons and earthquakes. Heed typhoon warnings seriously.
Communications: Mobile coverage is excellent throughout the island. Prepaid SIM cards with data are available at the airport and in convenience stores; registration requires a passport. Free Wi-Fi is available in airports, MRT stations, and many cafes.
Emergency: Police 110; Fire and ambulance 119.