Taipei For The First-Timer

Taipei is the largest city, and the capital of The Republic of China, a series of islands off the southern tip of mainland China (People's Republic of China). The country is more commonly known by the name of its main island, Taiwan, or by its former name, Formosa (a Portuguese word meaning 'beautiful island'). The People's Republic of China refuses to recognize Taiwan's sovereignty, challenging any attempt to change the name to The Republic of Taiwan.

The island of Taiwan is distinguished by mountainous terrain and rugged coast-lines. A major economic force in Asia, it produces much of the world's consumer electronics. The Taiwanese are approximately 98% Han Chinese, and the official language is Mandarin.

The first time visitor to Taipei will benefit from the excellent choice of day tours. Two of the best half-day tours are:

A city tour ($28), which includes stops at most of Taipei's must-see landmarks, including; The National Palace Museum, The Martyr's Shrine and Chiang Kai shek Memorial Hall.
The Northern Coast Tour ($32), features Keelung City and harbor, The Buddha Statue, Yehlin Park and Queen's Head.

Once the newcomer has a feel for the city, getting around is easy. Unlike many Asian cities (e.g. Tokyo and Manila), Taipei is compact and easily navigated. An excellent subway system covers most of the city, and has maps, both of the entire system, and of the surrounding area at each station. All directions are in both Mandarin and English. Tokens are purchased from vending machines, or attendants. No trip costs more than a dollar.

The Taiwanese are friendly and helpful. Getting lost is difficult, as someone will always come forward to offer directions. Even those who speak little English will attempt to accommodate with gestures and hand-drawn maps.

Language, though, is often a problem for tourists. Most people here speak Mandarin only. As English is now taught in schools, young people are more likely to speak it than their elders, but even in hotels conversation is usually limited to the essentials. Restaurants are unpredictable, with one offering you service in fluent English, and its next door neighbor not understanding a word you say. Menus are often uni-lingual, with pictures patrons can simply point at. This is not always helpful, as much of the food is unfamiliar to Westerners. Get used to chopsticks, as forks aren't always available.

Pros: Compact and easy to navigate, it is a city where cheap public transit makes getting around a breeze. Taipei is clean and safe, and foreigners can move about at all hours without fear. The people are friendly and helpful. Excellent dining is available in all areas of the city, with options ranging from fast-food to elegant.
Cons: Language is definitely an issue for English-speaking tourists. The city isn't geared to tourists, and lacks facilities (such as information centers) for visitors. The length of the trip is daunting. Flights from most east-coast cities are 16 hrs. (non-stop) or more.

Taipei and the surrounding countryside are well worth the long trip. The ease of getting around, safety, and the friendliness of its inhabitants, make for a rewarding travel experience.

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I'm Ian Stevenson, administrator and author at Flights To Tours.