Information about Taipei
The beautiful city of Taipei provides the world with an ideal stage for the free play of economic activity. In addition to the friendly, welcoming nature of its inhabitants, the rich cultural heritage of 5,000 years of Chinese history and the high level of development created by Taiwan's economic miracle make Taiwan a cosmopolitan city that brings together the traditional and the new. The National Palace Museum houses the world's finest collection of Chinese art; beautiful temples are the setting for colorful folk festivals. As far as culinary delights are concerned, visitors can enjoy regional specialties from all parts of China. On top of all this, Taipei also offers bustling night markets, areas of spectacular natural beauty, streets lined with shops selling brand name products, and numerous international hotels. More information about Taipei please refers to Taipei City Government, Tourism Bureau at http://www.taipeitravel.net/en/ .
Climate
Most area of Taiwan enjoys a subtropical climate. The weather is warm and mild all year round, particularly suitable for travel. The temperature is around 21 ~ 24°C in March. Please go to Central Weather Bureau for more information.
Time Zone
Taiwan is 8 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Useful world time and date converter website: http://www.timeanddate.com/.
Currency
The exchange rate is quoted around TWD 28~29 to USD 1. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at the airport upon arrival, or at government-authorized banks and tourist hotels. Useful currency converter website: http://www.xe.com/ucc/
Electricity
Taiwan uses electric current of 110 volts at 60 cycles.
Transportation
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport
Buses, taxis, shuttle bus to the Taiwan high speed rail, and limousine services are available at this airport. The costs are approximately TWD 1,200-1,500 to get to Taipei City area from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport by taxi. The rate for taxis in Taipei is TWD 70 for the first 1.25 kilometers and TWD 5 for each additional 200 meters. Extra TWD 20 will be charged between 11p.m. and 6 a.m. Different rates apply in other areas.
All other transportation (Buses, Taxi, and Taiwan High Speed Rail) to Taipei:
https://www.taoyuan-airport.com/main_en/Intimate_service.aspx?is_id=10&uid=510&pid=420
Taiwan High Speed Rail shuttle bus: http://www.thsrc.com.tw/en/?lc=en
Taoyuan Metro: https://www.tymetro.com.tw/tymetro-new/en/index.php
Taipei Songshan Airport
Located conveniently near downtown Taipei City area, Taipei Songshan Airport is accessible by buses, taxis and Taipei Metro (MRT Brown Line). It offers a variety of convenient services in the terminal building, including: airliner operation, identification check, security inspection, banking, insurance, post office, telephone-telegraph, shopping, restaurant, and artifact display and gift shops.
Taipei Songshan Airport transportation: http://www.tsa.gov.tw/tsa/en/home.aspx
Metro Taipei: http://english.metro.taipei/np.asp?ctNode=70239&mp=122036
Tipping / Taxes
Tipping is optional. It is common, however, to tip for restaurant service and hotel porters. A 10% service charge and a 5% value-added tax are added to room rates and meals.
