Taipei, Taiwan

• Taipei has a strong reputation for safety. Streets are well-lit, convenience stores run 24/7 every few blocks, and crime rates are low. Walking around late at night feels secure, and locals generally help if you look lost. Night markets like Shilin and Raohe stay busy with families and tourists past midnight.
• Lots of people eat and work alone in cafes - places like Yaboo or Coffee Xover fill up with laptop users who camp out for hours. It's normal to sit by yourself. English isn't common outside tourist areas, though MRT announcements are bilingual and younger people can usually help with directions. Have Google Translate ready for menus.
• The MRT is clean, runs until midnight, and has women-only waiting areas on platforms at night. Security cameras are widespread - it might feel like a lot of surveillance, but it contributes to low crime. Pickpockets work the crowded night markets occasionally, though less than in other major cities.
• Taiwan legalized same-sex marriage in 2019, making it more progressive than most Asian countries for LGBTQ+ travel. The Red House area in Ximen has 25+ gay bars and venues. Weather is subtropical - summers are hot and humid, winters mild. Typhoons can hit June through October.

Mandarin Chinese is the main language. English works at major hotels, tourist attractions, and with younger service staff. MRT has full English signage and announcements. Tourist Hotline (0800-011-765) has English-speaking operators. Get Google Translate for restaurants and shops outside tourist areas.

• Dress casually - tank tops, shorts, dresses all work. You'll see everything from business clothes to streetwear. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples, and don't point at deity statues.
• Taiwanese people are polite but reserved. They won't usually start conversations, but they'll help if you ask. Use both hands when exchanging money or business cards - it shows respect.
• Don't tip anywhere - restaurants, taxis, hotels. Nicer restaurants include service charges in the bill. Useful phrases: 'Xièxiè' (thank you), 'Bù hǎo yìsi' (excuse me/sorry), 'Duōshǎo qián?' (how much?).
• Recycling is taken seriously. Sort trash into general waste, recyclables, and food waste. Watch what others do if you're not sure. Public trash cans have multiple compartments.

• The MRT is efficient, clean, and runs until midnight covering major areas. Get an EasyCard (rechargeable transit card) that works on MRT, buses, and convenience stores. Women-only waiting areas are marked on platforms at night.
• Buses are extensive but confusing for visitors since announcements aren't always in English. Stick to the MRT if you're not sure. YouBike (bike share) costs NT$10 for 30 minutes and works for short neighborhood trips.
• Taxis are metered and safe, though drivers rarely speak English. Have your destination written in Chinese or pull it up on your phone. Uber operates here. Walking works well - sidewalks are decent and drivers generally respect pedestrian crossings.
• Don't eat or drink anything on the MRT, not even water - fines are NT$1,500. Stand right on escalators, walk left. Keep conversations quiet on transit since locals prefer peaceful commutes.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Taipei with local guides and curated experiences.