Taiwan is an amazing country full of stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and mouthwatering food. But when it comes to visiting, there are a few common travel mistakes in Taiwan that you’ll want to avoid. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, knowing what not to do can save you a lot of hassle. Let’s dive into the dumbest travel mistakes that can really mess up your trip if you’re not careful!
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Mistake #1: Underestimating the Language Barrier
One of the dumbest travel mistakes in Taiwan is assuming everyone speaks English. While English is taught in schools and you’ll find people in touristy areas who can communicate, a lot of daily conversations happen in Mandarin or Taiwanese. If you hop into a local restaurant or try to take a taxi, don’t expect to get by with just English. A little preparation goes a long way—download a translation app or learn some basic Mandarin phrases before you go. This will make your experience a lot smoother and more enjoyable.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Taiwan’s Cash Culture
You’d think that in a tech-savvy country like Taiwan, credit cards would be accepted everywhere. Wrong! One of the biggest Taiwan travel errors is assuming you can pay with plastic all the time. Many local markets, small restaurants, and even some taxi drivers only accept cash. Always carry enough Taiwanese dollars (NTD) with you, especially when visiting night markets or smaller towns. ATMs are widely available, but don’t get caught off guard.
Mistake #3: Not Understanding Local Etiquette
A huge travel mistake in Taiwan is not respecting local customs. For instance, it’s considered rude to point at things with your finger, especially when interacting with elders. Another quirk? When you’re visiting temples, make sure to walk around them in a clockwise direction—it’s part of the cultural respect. Getting these little things right shows you’re considerate of Taiwanese traditions and helps you blend in better.
Mistake #4: Forgetting About the Weather
Taiwan’s climate can surprise you, especially if you’re visiting during the summer or typhoon season. One of the most avoidable Taiwan tourist mistakes is not packing appropriately. The summers are hot and humid, and the winters can be chillier than you might expect. Plus, Taiwan has its fair share of typhoons, so always check the weather forecast before heading out. Pack a light raincoat or an umbrella, no matter when you’re visiting!
Mistake #5: Skipping Out on Street Food
If you’re worried about hygiene and end up avoiding Taiwan’s famous street food, you’re making a huge mistake. Taiwan’s night markets are legendary, and the street food is not only safe but also some of the best you’ll find anywhere in the world. Sure, you might come across something weird like stinky tofu, but be adventurous! Don’t miss out on delicious treats like scallion pancakes, bubble tea, or xiao long bao (soup dumplings).
Mistake #6: Underestimating Public Transportation
It’s easy to assume that getting around Taiwan is difficult, but it’s actually the opposite. A common Taiwan travel mistake is relying too much on taxis. Taiwan’s public transportation system—especially in cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung—is incredibly efficient and cheap. The MRT (metro) is clean and punctual, and buses are well-connected throughout the island. So, don’t make the dumb mistake of overpaying for cabs when you can explore Taiwan’s beauty with ease through public transit!
Mistake #7: Failing to Plan Ahead for Popular Attractions
One of the most frustrating Taiwan travel mistakes is showing up at a popular spot only to find it packed with tourists. Taiwan has some incredible attractions like Taipei 101, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge, but they can get crowded. To avoid the rush, plan to visit early in the morning or book tickets in advance. Trust me, you don’t want to waste precious time waiting in long lines.
By avoiding these dumb travel mistakes in Taiwan, you’ll have a far more enjoyable and stress-free trip. Taiwan has so much to offer, and with a little preparation and awareness, you can make the most out of every moment.
