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Health and Safety Tips for Travelers Visiting Taiwan

Taiwan is an incredible destination full of vibrant cities, lush landscapes, and rich culture. Whether you’re hiking through stunning national parks or exploring the night markets, staying healthy and safe is crucial for having a rewarding experience.

Health Tips for Staying Well in Taiwan

Bring Your Own Prescription Medications

If you take any regular medications, bring enough to last throughout your trip. It can be hard to find your exact prescription in Taiwan, and language barriers might complicate things. It is a good idea to carry a copy of your doctor’s prescription with you, just in case.

Tap Water Safety

Do not drink the tap water in Taiwan. Even locals often boil their water before drinking it. Stick to bottled water, or bring a portable water filter if you prefer. Most convenience stores sell cheap bottled water, so it’s easy to stay hydrated. If you can, avoid ice cubes unless you’re sure the water is purified.

Stay Hydrated in Summer

Taiwan summers can be incredibly humid and hot. Make sure you drink lots of water to stay hydrated, as outdoor activities can easily leave you dehydrated. Coconut water or isotonic drinks are a great way to replenish electrolytes if you’re sweating a lot.

Be Mindful of the Weather

Taiwan has a typhoon season that runs from June to October. Keep an eye on weather reports, and always follow local advice in case of severe storms. If you’re traveling to the mountains, pack layers: the weather can change rapidly.

Vaccinations Before You Go

Before visiting Taiwan, check you are up to date with common vaccines, including:

  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Typhoid
  • Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis

There is no risk of malaria, but mosquito-borne diseases, like dengue fever, can occur occasionally. Use insect repellent, especially when hiking or visiting rural areas. Wearing long sleeves and pants helps too.

Health Care Access in Taiwan

Taiwan boasts an excellent healthcare system. Hospitals are modern, and doctors are usually well-trained. If you need medical attention, most urban centers have international clinics where staff often speak English. However, bring some basic Mandarin phrases to make communication smoother in more rural areas.

Travel insurance is essential. Even though healthcare in Taiwan is affordable compared to Western countries, unexpected medical emergencies can be costly. Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation, especially if you’re planning risky activities like hiking or cycling in remote areas.

Emergency Numbers

In case of an emergency, follow these numbers:

  • General Emergency: 112
  • Medical Emergency: 119
  • Police: 110

Safety Tips for Travelers in Taiwan

Stay Safe in the Cities

Taiwan is one of the safest places to travel in Asia, with very low crime rates. Petty crime like pickpocketing is rare but not impossible. Keep your belongings in front of you in crowded places, like night markets or public transport.

Taipei, the capital, is incredibly safe, even at night. However, use common sense, as you would anywhere. Avoid flashing expensive electronics or huge amounts of cash. When in doubt, ask locals for advice.

Transportation Safety

The public transport system in Taiwan is efficient, clean, and safe. The MRT (subway) in Taipei and Kaohsiung is well-maintained and easy to use. Buses are equally reliable, but make sure to hold on to handrails: drivers tend to brake sharply.

When taking taxis, ensure the cabs are properly registered. You can also use services like Uber if you feel safer. If you’re renting a scooter, wear a helmet at all times; traffic in Taiwan can be chaotic, and accidents are not uncommon.

Scammers and Tourist Traps

Scams targeting tourists are quite rare in Taiwan, but it’s always smart to be cautious. Be wary of anyone offering “too-good-to-be-true” deals in busy tourist spots. If you’re unsure, politely decline and continue your day.

Hiking Safety in Taiwan’s Mountains

The mountains of Taiwan are beautiful, and hiking is a popular activity for both locals and tourists. However, some trails, especially in national parks, can be challenging. Always research the hike you’re planning and ensure it matches your fitness level.

Weather conditions in the mountains can change quickly. Always check the forecast, and avoid hiking after heavy rain as landslides are common. It’s recommended to notify someone of your plans if you’re venturing into more remote areas. There is good cell reception in most places, but not everywhere, so bring a fully charged phone or portable charger.

Respect Local Customs and Laws

Taiwanese people are generally friendly and respectful. Show the same courtesy in return. Avoid raising your voice or causing a disturbance in public spaces. Refrain from smoking in non-smoking areas and be mindful when taking pictures, especially of people without permission.

The legal system in Taiwan is strict, and penalties for drug possession are severe. Do not take unnecessary risks: always abide by local laws to keep yourself out of trouble.

Emergency Kits and General Precautions

Essential Items to Pack

It’s always a good idea to carry a small first aid kit that includes things like bandaids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. You never know when you might need them. Add an insect repellent and sunscreen to protect yourself while outdoors.

If you’re heading out on hikes, always bring extra water, snacks, and a flashlight, even if the hike seems short. Power outages can also occur in remote areas, so having a small portable charger or power bank is a smart precaution.

Food Safety

Taiwan is known for its street food, and most stalls are clean and safe. However, sensitive stomachs might want to avoid raw or undercooked food, especially seafood. If you’re not sure about a street vendor, walk around and see if locals are frequenting it: that’s usually a good sign the food is safe.

If you have food allergies, be cautious. The language barrier can make it tough to explain your allergies at smaller restaurants or food stalls. Consider having a translation card that clearly explains what you cannot eat.

Plan and Stay Informed

It’s always smart to stay informed about local events. Taiwan can experience protests or large gatherings near government buildings. These are generally peaceful but can cause disruptions in traffic or public transport.

Check the news for any updates, and avoid areas where big protests are expected. As in any country, it’s wise to have a plan and know where you’re going beforehand to avoid unnecessary stress.

Stay Calm and Enjoy!

Taiwan is a wonderful country that’s welcoming to travelers of all backgrounds. Staying prepared, exercising good judgment, and being mindful of local customs will go a long way toward keeping you safe. As long as you follow these basic tips, you’re likely to have an enjoyable and trouble-free trip.

Stay healthy, enjoy the culture, and make the most of the incredible experiences Taiwan has to offer!

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