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For such a small island, Taiwan packs a big punch.

Most travel centres around capital city, Taipei. History buffs will be pleased to know that the city is home to some fascinating Chinese relics. Hundreds of thousands of artifacts were shipped to the island nation during China’s Cultural Revolution, and now sit at the National Palace Museum. Dinner should be at the Shilin Night Market where neon signs glow over some 500 food stalls. Take in the nighttime city sights from the top of Taipei 101, the fifth tallest building in the world. As the name suggests, it is 101 storeys high!

Lesser known about Taiwan is that it can be a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Many travellers use Chiayi as the starting point for journeys into Alishan National Scenic Area. Found in part of Taiwan’s mountainous area, Alishan has a number of hiking trails that take trekkers through forests, near waterfalls, and into traditional villages. It’s an especially popular spot during the spring when cherry blossoms are in bloom. Also popular is Taroko National Park along the eastern coast of the island.

Tainan is another popular tourism destination, and the oldest city is famous for its diverse temples, indigenous cuisine, and many night markets. Directly south of Tainan is Kaohsiung City where you can take a stroll or boat cruise along the romantically named Love River.

Whether you’re in Taiwan for work or play, make sure you travel around. The relative safety and established infrastructure make the country a good one for travellers.

What Vaccines Do I Need for Taiwan?

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends travellers see a travel medicine specialist at least six weeks prior to departure.

• Hepatitis A– Taiwan is famous for its street food. Though it may be delicious, contaminated food and water can lead to travellers contracting Hepatitis A, a serious liver disease.


• Hepatitis B– This contagious liver disease is contracted through the exchange of bodily fluids or contact with contaminated needles or piercing tools.


• Japanese Encephalitis– There have been recently reported incidents of this insect-borne virus in Taiwan. Talk to a travel medicine specialist about whether vaccination is recommended based on your itinerary.


• Measles– Both imported and indigenous measles cases have been reported in Taiwan in recent years. The vaccination is recommended for Canadian travellers who may not have received it as part of routine immunization.


• Typhoid Fever– Travellers to Taiwan should take food and water precautions. This will help mitigate the risk of contracting this bacterial infection.

Taiwan is prone to insect-borne diseases such as Dengue Fever and Lyme Disease. Precautions against bites should be taken.

Medical facilities are adequate in Taiwan, though it may be difficult to find English speaking staff. Payment for service may be required upfront, regardless of whether or not travellers have health insurance.

For more details on any of the above vaccinations, visit the detailed Passport Health specialty vaccination pages or make an appointment at your local Passport Health by calling or booking online today.

What Is the Climate Like in Taiwan?

Here’s what you can expect of the weather in a few destinations in Taiwan:

• Taipei– Summers in Taipei are hot, humid, and often accompanied by heavy rainstorms. Temperatures in June to August rarely drop below 30º Celsius. During the rest of the year, the average daily temperature sits around 17º Celsius, though the winter months can bring a cold front. Temperatures are moderated by Taipei’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean.


• Chiayi– Considerably cooler than Taipei, this southern city has temperatures throughout the year ranging from 16º Celsius to 28º Celsius. Despite being cooler temperature-wise, Chiayi has a high level of humidity, regardless of whether it is summer or winter.


• Tainan– Tainan has similar temperatures as Chiayi, though the evenings get cooler. The rainy season lasts from April through to September.

Taiwan experiences a typhoon season between June and October.

How Safe Is Taiwan?

Crime rates in Taiwan are quite low, especially against foreigners. General caution and common sense should be exercised, especially around transit hubs, main tourist areas, and crowded markets and streets.

Taipei roads can be congested. If travelling out of the capital, be wary of narrow and poorly planned roads. Canadians have been involved in traffic accidents before. Pedestrians should also be careful when walking, as the behaviour of traffic, particularly motorcycles and scooters, may be erratic.

To help with navigation, carry a business card from your hotel that has its name and address written in Chinese. You can show this to taxi drivers who may not speak English.

What Should I Pack for Taiwan?

Here are some items to consider packing when planning your trip to Taiwan:

• Reusable water bottle– Many tourism destinations in Taiwan have hot and cold clean water dispensers. This will prevent you from having to spend valuable tourism dollars on bottled water and is earth-friendly.


• Chinese dictionary or app– To help travellers conquer the language barrier.


• Umbrella– The rain in Taiwan can be acidic, so even the faintest of drizzles merits use of an umbrella. Bring a foldable umbrella from home, or prepare to buy one in-country. You’ll also see Taiwanese using umbrellas to shield the sun.


• A modest swimsuit– While not as conservative as other Asian countries, it is rare to see females in two-piece swimsuits. Consider packing a tankini or one piece if you plan to spend time by the water.


• Layered clothing– Taiwan has warm days and cooler nights. Packing layers will help with the transition.

Canadian Trade Office in Taiwan

All Canadians visiting Taiwan should register online with the Canadian Trade Office in Taiwan before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation. If you plan to purchase a local SIM card you can also enter your phone number to receive SMS updates from the office.

Canadian Trade Office in Taiwan
6F, Hua-Hsin Building, No. 1
SongZhi Road, Xinyi District
Taipei 11047, Taiwan
Telephone: +886 (2) 8723-3000
Fax: +886 (2) 8723-3092
tapei-cs@international.gc.ca

Hours of Operation (consular section)
Monday to Thursday: 08:15 – 12:00 and 12:30 – 17:00
Friday: 08:15 – 12:45

Visit the Canadian Trade Office in Taiwan website prior to your departure to confirm correct contact details for the office.

The Government of Canada also operates a 24 hour Emergency Operations Centre. The collect call number to reach the centre while abroad is +1-613-996-8885.

Entry and Exit Requirements for Taiwan

Canadian travellers to Taiwan do not require a tourist visa for stays of up to 90 days. They must, however, possess a Canadian passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended date of departure. Once in-country, stays can be extended by a further 90 days with approval from the Taiwanese Bureau of Consular Affairs.

If you have any questions about travelling to Taiwan or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment today by calling or booking online now.