Hi John, I lived in various parts of Taiwan for 5 years. I agree that the subway system in Taipei is really good. I always found that if I stood with confused look on my face at a bus stop, some University student would always stop and ask if they could help. Wonderful people and the kids were always a lot of fun.
I found Taipei to be quite English friendly. Even when I met those who didn't speak English, they were quite friendly and tried to communicate with me in some type of way. And I agree, the morning breakfast shops can be quite challenging, as there's virtually no English whatsoever.
Lindo Korchi no question about the friendliness of the Taiwanese. Taipei is the most English friendly of all of the cities in Taiwan. The language barrier is more away from the commercial and tourist areas. Still lots of restaurants and services with no English.
it really depends on who you talk to, If u talk u people age range under 30 or even better, 20, they are most likely to be able to speak and understand English well. I live in Taipei
Awesome video and tips! Thank you for promoting Taiwan. Am a filipina and a taiwanese now. I live in Taiwan since year 2000 and counting. I love Taiwan with all my heart. Peace to the world.
Hi john. Well I’m a 56yr old Male and flying to Taiwan in late August for the first time and your videos have been so amazingly tutorial for me and I can’t wait to experience Taipei where I’m staying. Thank you sooooo much and keep up the good work. Mark from England 👍
I live here for a month every year and it’s always great! All the information you gave is awesome and is still valuable. A little advice, if you plan to be in the city for about a month and use public transportation (busses, metro) a lot, get the t-pass it will save a lot of money
Born and raised in Taipei, I appreciate your effort in promoting my country. The morning (farmer's) markets and the night markets are the essence of our economy. Also remember to get out of the city to be in nature. Driving can be dangerous but taking a taxi or bus or train is fun.
Thanks for sharing! I lived in Taipei for more than five years and I have to say that visiting the morning markets and night markets were always the highlight along with the festivals of my time there. Public transportation in Taiwan is world class so either of these ways of getting around are highly recommended along with the MRT systems in Taipei and Kaohsiung!
John Saboe, I lived in Taipei for more than 25 years and every now and then local friends will take me to some new spots I've never visited before. Me too enjoy being a tourist and hanging around.
i m from malaysia, i found Taiwan is the best to visit..clean,efficient transport and friendly people there... event immigration staff,i can said the best among other contry ,only halal food quit problem to get there anyway i`m sure ill come again
SHAP NUNA here is the Google Maps location near the Taipei Beimen North Gate. There’s another Halal noodle restaurant next door but this one is my favorite! 清真黃牛肉麵館 No. 23, Yanping South Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100 +886 2 2331 8203 goo.gl/maps/9qiUvc5BtzNJvdaW8
John Saboe! Im in Taipei now and I want to thank you for videos which I watched before I came here. They are truly helpful!! :) Wishing you more success!
All of these tips (except the VAT tax) is true for Japan as well. More people speak English in Taiwan than in Japan, especially if you are lost or need help. I love Taiwan and was impressed by their MRT train system when I visited Taipei last year.
Yes I think you’re correct in the observation about the frequency of people willing to speak English in Taiwan compared with Japan. Japan is very aware of this and is upping their game in the public school system to increase English proficiency. They especially want to be prepared for the upcoming Olympics.
I’m half Taiwanese-Half American and I’m planning to possibly live there in the future and become a citizen, since I’m biologically Taiwanese. I haven’t been to Taiwan in a very long time, so this video helped me out a lot. Thanks!
pro tip extra...you can also add money into the easy card in any of the major convenience stores in Taiwan, besides that you will also be able to purchase those cards in the convenience stores across the island
Now that students start learning English since they are little like kindergarten or elementary school.They learn hard but most of them are shy to speak or afraid to make mistakes.But even they can't speak or don't understand what you are saying,Taiwanese people are very kind and would find ways to solve your problems. :)
Natalia Colman Eriksson Nice!!! That's a great place to stay in Taipei! I'm just putting together another video this week on my favorite districts to stay in Taipei. Main Station is one of my top picks!
Thank you for introducing Taiwan Taipei in a tourist way and complement. Middle of Taiwan going to have our own MRT system too, and please come to Taichung which have more nature surrounding environment and latest architecture technology opera house. Wish you enjoy and have great time in Taiwan.😃
Si T thank you so much! Yes I have been to Taichung before and it's lovely! Birthplace of bubble tea(Pearl milk tea) great night markets and in the future a much needed MRT!
Hi Thanks for bringing the friendly hints! You remind me that one day I was taking MRT to work. When I was walking out the gate, an English-speaking grandpa pat my shoulder and asking my help to use the machine to buy a Easy Card for him. I was curious that the machine has the English instructions so why he can't use it, he said "because I know you can help me!" lol Funny old man must saw my office badge and think me a MRT employee.
Hi, this is an excellent short tutorial for a tourist. I have lived here for almost 7 years, but I never knew about the tipping thing. I thought tipping in general is totally unnecessary, non whatsoever. I have lived in 5 stars in a few places outside of Taipei but don't recall seeing anyone tipping.
Joseph Studley thank you! I can only surmise that it's expected with this level of service in particular with bell staff and cleaning personnel. I have seen some modest places leave tip jars out but this is rare and yes not expected.
I have a Taiwanese friend in Hungary. He is very friendly and kind. I think they all are kind as Mr.Saboe said in his video. But unfortunately I haven't had this chance to go to Taiwan.
From what I can tell, English works pretty well in Taiwan. It's "English friendliness" is between Japan and some of the more English friendly southeast asian countries. Like Japan, English is a required second language. If you speak slowly, almost everyone can understand......even in the night markets. However, like Japan, France and Germany, good luck getting them to speak English back to you unless its in their job description:-D Again, like Japan and France, if you learn to greet in one of their languages, they'd be more willing to take the plunge:) (doesn't quite work in Germany, sorry) Remember, this is a developed country with GDP per capita on par with Germany, so mutual respect goes a long way in earning that famous hospitality they provide.
FlyingPigNJ you made some pretty good points particularly extending an olive branch and trying to speak a little Mandarin. However after living here and traveling through Asia now for several years I can tell you that Taiwan is not as English friendly as Southeast Asia. It just isn't. Although the British were here for a short time as merchants and tax collectors and the US was here for military and humanitarian support the impact was just not the same as the effects of British colonialism in Malaysia, which includes a portion of Borneo, and Singapore. Taiwan also doesn't get the same visitor numbers from Western countries that Southeast Asia gets including Vietnam, and Thailand so the people here are not exposed to English speakers with the same frequency that people are in Southeast Asia. Taipei City would be the most English friendly city but once you venture out into the smaller towns you will have much more difficulty communicating in English. Plus factor in the shyness of the culture and people will notice a difference. Also if you are just hanging out in tourist spots than of course you'll have better luck communicating in English. But I do agree with you if you try speaking a little mandarin it can help give someone the courage to use their limited English skills.
Like I said, it's a bit better than Japan, but it's not quite as bilingual as Philippines, hong kong, singapore, malaysia or even parts of indonesia. Some English signs are hilarious too:-D At least they try....... I have a quick overnight stopover in TPE on my way to Vietnam for the first time next month. I'm looking forward to a night of good food.
Oscar Mendoza yes you will be charged in NTD which will be converted to US dollars. Some places will allow you to charge in US dollars like luxury good stores and department stores. They will give you the option on the pos terminal.
Easier to find English speakers in Taiwan than in Japan. Easy Card can be used at many places besides just transport and convenience stores. Even a very few in the Night Markets now take it.
Warren Lauzon depends on the city plus Japan is massive compared to Taiwan. Yes you are right, Easycard can also be used at convenient stores as well as some longer bus routes, and local trains.
Very good review with loads of valuable information, John reminded me of fellow You Tuber Dennis Bunnik style of reviews which are straight to point with zero waffle .10 out of 10
Awesome video! I am planning on visiting Taiwan on December but am living in the US, I am a community college student and would like to know if I need a Taiwanese visa to stay for at least 5 years? As I am not familiar how to register for a visa or what the requirements are to travel from the US to Taiwan. Please reach out to me!😃
If you’re studying in Taiwan for a longer period than 3 months then yes you’ll need a student visa. You will have to renew it periodically but I’m not sure how often. You won’t be able to get a 5 year visa however you could stay that long with renewed visas. You can contact a Taiwan(Republic of China) trade office nearest you to find out the details.
I live in Taipei. Of course it’s better to know the Chinese language, but I find them friendly and sometimes you can find English speakers. Just don’t expect them to understand everything you say. It’s very limited, but learning Chinese Mandarin is the way forward. 👍🏻
The question is definitely not if people are friendly, they’re the friendliest! Yes some do speak basic English. You’re absolutely correct that it’s very helpful to know some Mandarin, especially if you’re planning on staying for an extended period of time.
Thank you kindly for this super informative video! I'm visiting for the first time in November 2018 & the info you provided is helping to settle my anxiety about visiting ^-^
That’s great and you’re very welcome! Taipei is a very friendly city. Most visitors I meet immediately feel comfortable and safe walking around the city!
Sorry don’t know anything about New era caps, maybe someone else knows that’s reading this? There are Levis stores everywhere almost in every city in Taiwan!
Where do you recommend exchanging USD to NTD? Upon arrival at the airport? Banks (which bank)? Are there places that give you favorable exchange rates or they're about the same everywhere?
+planetzito there are no money exchangers in Taiwan so the banks are your best bet. Their rates are all going to be competitive. There are Bank of Taiwan counters at Taoyuan Airport so you can exchange some money there and the rate should be no different than any other branch. Department stores also have exchange counters and their hours are longer. ATM's are available as well for those on Cirrus or Plus networks.
Very great video, I was only at the airport 6 hours. I went to Thailand. It is not as English friendly in most cities. I will make sure to visit longer in Taiwan. Thank you!
really enjoying your video!! thanks for sharing your travel experience of Taiwan hope to see you somewhere in Taiwan there are lots of things you have to try in Taiwan :)
CNVideos yes I agree younger people are likely to know some English but I also find some of the older people in their 60's and older can also speak a little. Perhaps they were exposed to more Americans during the Vietnam war when they took leave in Taiwan and also during the American military and Air Force support in the 60's,70's. I believe people were exposed to more English speakers on a daily basis then today.
Warren Lauzon I'd disagree with you on Hong Kong. There are way more expats living in HK than Taipei and more English speaking offices. Plus there are way more English speaking foreigners that visit HK than Taipei and the influence is obvious.
I'm watching all these Taiwan and now, Taipei videos to get some ideas on what to do, see and eat (especially what to eat 👀) for my trip there in march! Any tips of what is worth while to vlog??
In fact, some Restaurants will add 10% services fee in the final bill, that's kind of "Tip". There are several bus directly from airport to Taipei or New Taipei City very convenience and cheap.
That’s true about the 10% service charge. I usually find that mostly in upscale cafes and restaurants. Yes there is bus service from the airport pretty much 24/7.
@@iamjohnsaboe Yes, but if we directly pay tip to the waitress, they still have to put it back to the cashier, I don't know how they handle the tip exactly.
Yeah I’m not sure exactly how they handle it but if like anywhere you like the waitstaff it’s better to give them the tip directly. Sometimes they share it with everyone too. Anyways it’s mostly something you don’t need to worry about in Taiwan as you know as tipping is not customary.
Hey, Great video! It's a shame that many Taiwanese have already learned English for many years in school, but most of them are still afraid of using it to communicate with foreigners.
Sindy Chen thanks so much! Yes I totally agree with you! Also they have it the toughest as there are not as many English speaking foreigners living or visiting here as frequently as in Southeast Asia.
Sindy Chen yes I understand what you mean. It’s perfectly understandable the way people are and it is not a negative criticism on my part. It’s just the way things are but I’m encountering more people that have the courage to try!
Sindy Chen 都是好可惜的意思，但是it's a shame在語感上隱射該行為不恰當。而且不會說英文也沒什麼好可惜的，人本來就需要累積到一定程度才有可能開口說一個語言。你可以去google關於沉默期的學術文章來看。會說英文很好，但不會說也不會怎麼樣，別的國家的人到一個國家本來就被期待至少可以說一點那個地方的語言。現在那麼多人學中文，你到英語系國家旅遊也很難找到非華人背景又能說清楚中文的人啊!!
The rule concerning foreigner's VAT refund in Taiwan just adjusted last year, as long as your purchase is over NTD$2000 accumulatively in the same refund shop during the same day, you can claim the VAT refund. Just remember to claim VAT refund the same day your purchase invoice is issued; otherwise the shop would be unable to give your the VAT certificates for later refund collection.
Oscar Lu yes I think until recently many shops were still requiring a purchase of NTD$3000 or more but you are correct it's now NTD$2000. Thanks for the update!
I'd like to remind people visiting Taiwan not to forget their manners. For some reason people think it's ok for them not to give their thanks when directions are provided, or it's ok for them to cut in line. Just because you are foreigners do not make you superiors. Don't be rude.
Nice video John. Do yourself live in Taipei? My wife and I are planning a trip to Taiwan, but not sure where... do you recommend any particular cities? We will be in Taiwan coming Oct and staying 3night or 4 depends on what we can do there... thanks!
flacosinthehouse hi yes I do. If it's your first visit you should of course stay in Taipei and use it as a base to visit some smaller towns in Northern Taiwan. Easy days trips include Jiufen, an old mining town with beautiful views of the north coast. Next to it is another little mining town with some beautiful Japanese houses and buildings. Also Pingxi is also a nice town to visit, home of the world famous sky lantern festival.
Thank you for promoting Taiwan in such a positive way.
kuohsien wang it's my pleasure, thank you!!! Loving Taiwan is easy!!!
Much thanks to you too. We don't need commies taking over the world...
I like Taiwan!
Taiwanese people are very nice. We all should learn from this.
Hi John, I lived in various parts of Taiwan for 5 years. I agree that the subway system in Taipei is really good. I always found that if I stood with confused look on my face at a bus stop, some University student would always stop and ask if they could help. Wonderful people and the kids were always a lot of fun.
Yes absolutely!!! Thanks for sharing your experience!!!
I second that❤ lovely people
I found Taipei to be quite English friendly. Even when I met those who didn't speak English, they were quite friendly and tried to communicate with me in some type of way. And I agree, the morning breakfast shops can be quite challenging, as there's virtually no English whatsoever.
Lindo Korchi no question about the friendliness of the Taiwanese. Taipei is the most English friendly of all of the cities in Taiwan. The language barrier is more away from the commercial and tourist areas. Still lots of restaurants and services with no English.
I found Tainan to be a bit more challenging.
it really depends on who you talk to, If u talk u people age range under 30 or even better, 20, they are most likely to be able to speak and understand English well.
I live in Taipei
k
Learn Chinese then, stoopid
Awesome video and tips! Thank you for promoting Taiwan. Am a filipina and a taiwanese now. I live in Taiwan since year 2000 and counting. I love Taiwan with all my heart. Peace to the world.
Thanks very much!!!
Safe food, friendly people, great scenery and clean air. Wonderful city!
Feel the same way, thanks for sharing!!!
Thanks a lot! Visit again someday!
🇹🇼
Thank you! I most certainly will!
As a Australian born Taiwanese, I would like to offer my thanks to you for educating the English speaking world about Taiwan. 謝謝您！
You’re very welcome! I hope to make more videos in Taiwan, the beautiful island soon!
Hi john. Well I’m a 56yr old Male and flying to Taiwan in late August for the first time and your videos have been so amazingly tutorial for me and I can’t wait to experience Taipei where I’m staying.
Thank you sooooo much and keep up the good work.
Mark from England 👍
Thanks so much Mark!!! Hope you have a great time and I’m really glad you found the videos helpful!!!
I live here for a month every year and it’s always great! All the information you gave is awesome and is still valuable. A little advice, if you plan to be in the city for about a month and use public transportation (busses, metro) a lot, get the t-pass it will save a lot of money
Thanks very much and yes that’s a great idea!!!
yes i agree Taiwan is beautiful and clean I had been thet ladt year !!
Thanks for sharing!!!
Born and raised in Taipei, I appreciate your effort in promoting my country. The morning (farmer's) markets and the night markets are the essence of our economy. Also remember to get out of the city to be in nature. Driving can be dangerous but taking a taxi or bus or train is fun.
Thanks for sharing! I lived in Taipei for more than five years and I have to say that visiting the morning markets and night markets were always the highlight along with the festivals of my time there. Public transportation in Taiwan is world class so either of these ways of getting around are highly recommended along with the MRT systems in Taipei and Kaohsiung!
John Saboe, I lived in Taipei for more than 25 years and every now and then local friends will take me to some new spots I've never visited before. Me too enjoy being a tourist and hanging around.
Country 😂
i m from malaysia, i found Taiwan is the best to visit..clean,efficient transport and friendly people there... event immigration staff,i can said the best among other contry ,only halal food quit problem to get there anyway i`m sure ill come again
Thanks very much for sharing! I know the best noodle place in Taipei that is also halal! For your next visit!
@@iamjohnsaboe Hi, I'm going to Taiwan next month. Would appreciate if you could tell me the halal noodle place. Love your video :)
SHAP NUNA here is the Google Maps location near the Taipei Beimen North Gate. There’s another Halal noodle restaurant next door but this one is my favorite! 清真黃牛肉麵館
No. 23, Yanping South Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100
+886 2 2331 8203
goo.gl/maps/9qiUvc5BtzNJvdaW8
@@iamjohnsaboe Omg you're amazing. Thank you so much :)
John Saboe! Im in Taipei now and I want to thank you for videos which I watched before I came here. They are truly helpful!! :) Wishing you more success!
Jinky Gomez I’m so glad you found them helpful! Thanks again for watching the channel!!!
very beautiful country... i’ve been there too!!!
All of these tips (except the VAT tax) is true for Japan as well. More people speak English in Taiwan than in Japan, especially if you are lost or need help. I love Taiwan and was impressed by their MRT train system when I visited Taipei last year.
Yes I think you’re correct in the observation about the frequency of people willing to speak English in Taiwan compared with Japan. Japan is very aware of this and is upping their game in the public school system to increase English proficiency. They especially want to be prepared for the upcoming Olympics.
I’m half Taiwanese-Half American and I’m planning to possibly live there in the future and become a citizen, since I’m biologically Taiwanese. I haven’t been to Taiwan in a very long time, so this video helped me out a lot. Thanks!
You’re welcome!!! Taiwan is pretty cool with a sweetness like no other place. Hope you love living there, I did!
Biologically Taiwanese. I love and support Taiwan. But you do know that it's a little bit of a stretch? DEATH TO CCP!
Cool! I can speak a little bit Chinese. I hoping will visit Taipei one day!! Thank you for sharing ....this video is really helps!
Scottie Chernofsky that's awesome! You will have a huge advantage over other foreign visitors!!! Hope you will visit soon!!!
Yippee!!
pro tip extra...you can also add money into the easy card in any of the major convenience stores in Taiwan, besides that you will also be able to purchase those cards in the convenience stores across the island
very cool video thanks for sharing,,its putting me in a vacation mood
You’re welcome! I’m glad the video had that effect on you!!!
Now that students start learning English since they are little like kindergarten or elementary school.They learn hard but most of them are shy to speak or afraid to make mistakes.But even they can't speak or don't understand what you are saying,Taiwanese people are very kind and would find ways to solve your problems. :)
Beautiful county,and very friendly people.
Agreed!
Beautiful city I have visited twice. Last time I have also visited Tainan and Kenting. I stayed at I-Staytion over Qsqare and Main Station.
Natalia Colman Eriksson Nice!!! That's a great place to stay in Taipei! I'm just putting together another video this week on my favorite districts to stay in Taipei. Main Station is one of my top picks!
Natalia Colman Eriksson u
Hi,
What is required from a foreigner to visit Taiwan?
Great tips. After spending some time in Taiwan last year I can't think of anything I would add.
Subscribed
Ten Minute Vacations thank you so much! Appreciate that!!!
Thank you! My Taiwanese friend was telling me how wonderful Taiwan is. Now this city is in my bucket’s list 😊.
You’re welcome! You won’t be disappointed!!!
John Saboe looking forward to it 😊
omg so cool! I will spend a month in Taiwan this summer and I am super excited!
Great, hope you have an awesome trip!!’
Thanks John! I'll use this video for one of my lessons.
Pleasure, thanks!
Thanks you for the nice intro of Taipei, Taiwan.
哈囉~謝謝你介紹台灣!這些資訊真的非常有用~
另外台灣最美的是自然美景~~
推薦你阿里山(Alishan) 八斗子(Badouzi )等等!希望你會喜歡~~
Adam Jay thanks so much and thank you for sharing these other wonderful places!!!
Thank you for introducing Taiwan Taipei in a tourist way and complement. Middle of Taiwan going to have our own MRT system too, and please come to Taichung which have more nature surrounding environment and latest architecture technology opera house. Wish you enjoy and have great time in Taiwan.😃
Si T thank you so much! Yes I have been to Taichung before and it's lovely! Birthplace of bubble tea(Pearl milk tea) great night markets and in the future a much needed MRT!
Hi Thanks for bringing the friendly hints!
You remind me that one day I was taking MRT to work. When I was walking out the gate, an English-speaking grandpa pat my shoulder and asking my help to use the machine to buy a Easy Card for him.
I was curious that the machine has the English instructions so why he can't use it, he said "because I know you can help me!" lol Funny old man must saw my office badge and think me a MRT employee.
Maverick Liou that's a great story! All of the machines have English as an option but I guess he didn't check. Thanks for helping him!
Very nice and informative thanks
Thanks very much!!!
I was in Taipei in April, 2017. Going back in February, 2018. Wonderful city. Wander off the "beaten path" and you will be amazed.
Christian Levesque great! Yes I agree!!!
Great place and people in Taiwan. I go often. It is my second home country.
You are blessed!
One more tip, you can use the MRT restroom inside station without tickets. Just ask staff for assistance.
Great tip, thanks!!!
Good tips. Thank you .
My pleasure!
Hi, this is an excellent short tutorial for a tourist. I have lived here for almost 7 years, but I never knew about the tipping thing. I thought tipping in general is totally unnecessary, non whatsoever. I have lived in 5 stars in a few places outside of Taipei but don't recall seeing anyone tipping.
Joseph Studley thank you! I can only surmise that it's expected with this level of service in particular with bell staff and cleaning personnel. I have seen some modest places leave tip jars out but this is rare and yes not expected.
I have a Taiwanese friend in Hungary. He is very friendly and kind. I think they all are kind as Mr.Saboe said in his video. But unfortunately I haven't had this chance to go to Taiwan.
Hope you can visit one day!
Thank you Sir
Very informative! Got more excited for my trip on the 20th of July!
Cottnie Pld great! Check out these videos too! th-cam.com/play/PLqTUz1nnqrdtS5UH7U4mHihW1n2EQTaeS.html
Easy card can also be used in convenient store and some other stores
Great vid. Im here now. I love taiwan.
Cool, enjoy your trip!!!
Taiwan is also very safe at any times of day
Yes that’s true!
From what I can tell, English works pretty well in Taiwan. It's "English friendliness" is between Japan and some of the more English friendly southeast asian countries. Like Japan, English is a required second language. If you speak slowly, almost everyone can understand......even in the night markets. However, like Japan, France and Germany, good luck getting them to speak English back to you unless its in their job description:-D Again, like Japan and France, if you learn to greet in one of their languages, they'd be more willing to take the plunge:) (doesn't quite work in Germany, sorry)
Remember, this is a developed country with GDP per capita on par with Germany, so mutual respect goes a long way in earning that famous hospitality they provide.
FlyingPigNJ you made some pretty good points particularly extending an olive branch and trying to speak a little Mandarin. However after living here and traveling through Asia now for several years I can tell you that Taiwan is not as English friendly as Southeast Asia. It just isn't. Although the British were here for a short time as merchants and tax collectors and the US was here for military and humanitarian support the impact was just not the same as the effects of British colonialism in Malaysia, which includes a portion of Borneo, and Singapore. Taiwan also doesn't get the same visitor numbers from Western countries that Southeast Asia gets including Vietnam, and Thailand so the people here are not exposed to English speakers with the same frequency that people are in Southeast Asia. Taipei City would be the most English friendly city but once you venture out into the smaller towns you will have much more difficulty communicating in English. Plus factor in the shyness of the culture and people will notice a difference. Also if you are just hanging out in tourist spots than of course you'll have better luck communicating in English. But I do agree with you if you try speaking a little mandarin it can help give someone the courage to use their limited English skills.
Like I said, it's a bit better than Japan, but it's not quite as bilingual as Philippines, hong kong, singapore, malaysia or even parts of indonesia. Some English signs are hilarious too:-D At least they try.......
I have a quick overnight stopover in TPE on my way to Vietnam for the first time next month. I'm looking forward to a night of good food.
FlyingPigNJ yes that's true it probably is a little better than Japan. Enjoy your layover and trip to Vietnam!
GDP of Germany is 4x higher and 2x higher if to compare the GDP per capita.
@@akonvano yes, so is the cost of living😁 I even had to pay just to use a toilet!
Hope you have fun in Taiwan, welcome!!!
James Chang hey thanks so much!
介紹的很棒，我是外國人的話也會想來走走。
Great introduction.
張一文 thanks so much!!!
I'm leaving from NY to Taipei in 2 weeks, will my american credit card convert to NTD if used in Taipei
Oscar Mendoza yes you will be charged in NTD which will be converted to US dollars. Some places will allow you to charge in US dollars like luxury good stores and department stores. They will give you the option on the pos terminal.
Hi John ,welcome to Taiwan , my friend.
kevin wang thank you so much!!!
I did not know about the VAT reclaim.
Thanks!
No problem!
I'll go to taiwan alone ...thank you for your video ...great information
Elysa Littrell you’re welcome!!! You’ll have an awesome time!!!
Can't wait to get there and experience it!
Awesome! Hope you have a great time!!!
Easier to find English speakers in Taiwan than in Japan. Easy Card can be used at many places besides just transport and convenience stores. Even a very few in the Night Markets now take it.
Warren Lauzon depends on the city plus Japan is massive compared to Taiwan. Yes you are right, Easycard can also be used at convenient stores as well as some longer bus routes, and local trains.
You can also use super Easy card to purchase items in many convenient stores such as 7-11, circle k, family mart or wasons....
pangus pon thank you for sharing!
Very good review with loads of valuable information, John reminded me of fellow You Tuber Dennis Bunnik style of reviews which are straight to point with zero waffle .10 out of 10
Cool, thanks very much!!! I appreciate that!!!
I am planning to visit Taiwan. Thanks for the vid. Love Taiwan💮🌸
You’re welcome! Me too!
Easycard can also be used to pay in all convenient stores like 7-11 and many other stores.
Brian Huang thanks for sharing!!!
Very nice detail tips especially no tipping required. Thanks
James Chuaycham ป้อม ศักดิ์ชัย you’re welcome!!!
Awesome video! I am planning on visiting Taiwan on December but am living in the US, I am a community college student and would like to know if I need a Taiwanese visa to stay for at least 5 years? As I am not familiar how to register for a visa or what the requirements are to travel from the US to Taiwan. Please reach out to me!😃
If you’re studying in Taiwan for a longer period than 3 months then yes you’ll need a student visa. You will have to renew it periodically but I’m not sure how often. You won’t be able to get a 5 year visa however you could stay that long with renewed visas. You can contact a Taiwan(Republic of China) trade office nearest you to find out the details.
6
it helps a lot.. thank you John Saboe
You’re welcome!
I love Taipei but eating time is always a challenge! So hard to navigate through those wall menus with just writings.
I live in Taipei. Of course it’s better to know the Chinese language, but I find them friendly and sometimes you can find English speakers. Just don’t expect them to understand everything you say. It’s very limited, but learning Chinese Mandarin is the way forward. 👍🏻
The question is definitely not if people are friendly, they’re the friendliest! Yes some do speak basic English. You’re absolutely correct that it’s very helpful to know some Mandarin, especially if you’re planning on staying for an extended period of time.
@@iamjohnsaboe I ended up staying for 12 years. Haha
Thank you kindly for this super informative video! I'm visiting for the first time in November 2018 & the info you provided is helping to settle my anxiety about visiting ^-^
That’s great and you’re very welcome! Taipei is a very friendly city. Most visitors I meet immediately feel comfortable and safe walking around the city!
Note: Easycard also provides you a discount when you use public transportation systems
hi john! new sub here from the philippines. . . . .thank u for such a very informative video. . . . GOD BLESS!
Thank you!!!
Welcome to Taiwan ! Have a great time!
The master piece of Vincent Callebaut are already under construction!! Nice~
Will be visiting taipeh soon
Have a nice stay!
@@iamjohnsaboe ...hi sir john...where can i find levi's store and New Era caps in taiwan ? By the way new subscriber here..
Sorry don’t know anything about New era caps, maybe someone else knows that’s reading this? There are Levis stores everywhere almost in every city in Taiwan!
@@iamjohnsaboe ...thanks for d reply sir john...
Where do you recommend exchanging USD to NTD?
Upon arrival at the airport?
Banks (which bank)?
Are there places that give you favorable exchange rates or they're about the same everywhere?
+planetzito there are no money exchangers in Taiwan so the banks are your best bet. Their rates are all going to be competitive. There are Bank of Taiwan counters at Taoyuan Airport so you can exchange some money there and the rate should be no different than any other branch. Department stores also have exchange counters and their hours are longer. ATM's are available as well for those on Cirrus or Plus networks.
John Saboe Thanks John!
planetzito you're welcome!
Hi John Saboe! We will be going to Taiwan and we are glad we came across your video which is very informative. :) Thank you!
You’re welcome! Hope you have a great time!
Very great video, I was only at the airport 6 hours. I went to Thailand. It is not as English friendly in most cities. I will make sure to visit longer in Taiwan. Thank you!
Thanks very much!!! Hope you can stay longer next time!!!
@@iamjohnsaboe Yes me too, any suggestions for staying longer? I may visit 1 or 2 months. How is the room rentals there. Thank you.
If you want an inexpensive place to stay longer term try the hostels.
Also watch this video: th-cam.com/video/_9_8CeJxpaw/w-d-xo.html
Wowoww!!!! I love your videos!!!!!! Thank you for making this video for all the people around the world!!!! :)
Daniel Hsu thank you! It's my pleasure!!!
Thanks. useful information. Simple n nice trip report👍🏼👍🏼😊
You’re welcome and thanks!
Great video! Keep the good work.
jojo 1998 thank you!!!
Thanks info ... helpful
Hopefully able to travel to Taiwan 🇹🇼 soon from the Philippines 🇵🇭
Hope so!
Nice video with complete required guidelines on How to survive in Taiwan. Great Video. Just subscribed..... :)
Thanks very much!!!
really enjoying your video!!
thanks for sharing your travel experience of Taiwan
hope to see you somewhere in Taiwan
there are lots of things you have to try in Taiwan :)
TJia Liu thank you so much! I'm very tall! You can't miss me-haha! I love Taiwan!!!
Very informative video good job
Thanks very much!!!
Thanks for the information!
Nancy Chen you’re welcome!!!
In Taiwan, younger people are more likely to speak English than older people.
CNVideos yes I agree younger people are likely to know some English but I also find some of the older people in their 60's and older can also speak a little. Perhaps they were exposed to more Americans during the Vietnam war when they took leave in Taiwan and also during the American military and Air Force support in the 60's,70's. I believe people were exposed to more English speakers on a daily basis then today.
That goes in Hong Kong (especially), Korea, and Japan also.
Warren Lauzon I'd disagree with you on Hong Kong. There are way more expats living in HK than Taipei and more English speaking offices. Plus there are way more English speaking foreigners that visit HK than Taipei and the influence is obvious.
John Saboe I was born in Taiwan I live in America
Meh 10!
Great advice
Chimpangel thanks so much!!!
I'm watching all these Taiwan and now, Taipei videos to get some ideas on what to do, see and eat (especially what to eat 👀) for my trip there in march! Any tips of what is worth while to vlog??
Nightmarkets, anything food, motorbikes, ocean escapes. All good for vlogs!
Great Video!
Andres Ramos thank you very much!!!
In fact, some Restaurants will add 10% services fee in the final bill, that's kind of "Tip".
There are several bus directly from airport to Taipei or New Taipei City very convenience and cheap.
That’s true about the 10% service charge. I usually find that mostly in upscale cafes and restaurants. Yes there is bus service from the airport pretty much 24/7.
@@iamjohnsaboe Yes, that's why we don't need to pay any "Tip". Haha...
Service charge BTW doesn’t mean it always goes to the wait staff.
@@iamjohnsaboe Yes, but if we directly pay tip to the waitress, they still have to put it back to the cashier, I don't know how they handle the tip exactly.
Yeah I’m not sure exactly how they handle it but if like anywhere you like the waitstaff it’s better to give them the tip directly. Sometimes they share it with everyone too. Anyways it’s mostly something you don’t need to worry about in Taiwan as you know as tipping is not customary.
Hey, Great video!
It's a shame that many Taiwanese have already learned English for many years in school, but most of them are still afraid of using it to communicate with foreigners.
Sindy Chen thanks so much! Yes I totally agree with you! Also they have it the toughest as there are not as many English speaking foreigners living or visiting here as frequently as in Southeast Asia.
It's NOT a shame for not speaking english well or feel embarassed to speak a foreign language.
@陳郁璟 你可能誤會了 It's a shame在英文是「很可惜」而不是羞恥的意思。
我表達的是「台灣人學了很多年的英文，但卻害怕使用它來和外國人溝通，這是件很可惜的事。」
Sindy Chen yes I understand what you mean. It’s perfectly understandable the way people are and it is not a negative criticism on my part. It’s just the way things are but I’m encountering more people that have the courage to try!
Sindy Chen 都是好可惜的意思，但是it's a shame在語感上隱射該行為不恰當。而且不會說英文也沒什麼好可惜的，人本來就需要累積到一定程度才有可能開口說一個語言。你可以去google關於沉默期的學術文章來看。會說英文很好，但不會說也不會怎麼樣，別的國家的人到一個國家本來就被期待至少可以說一點那個地方的語言。現在那麼多人學中文，你到英語系國家旅遊也很難找到非華人背景又能說清楚中文的人啊!!
Hi John, what's the name of that street in minute 1:17? Thanks
Juan Vicente Garcia Yongkang Street
John Saboe Thanks a lot!
Juan Vicente Garcia you're welcome!!!
You can get there by taking MRT to Dongmen Station.
Thank you for the tips. I'm leaving for Taipei from Manila on November 23. This is really helpful :)
Falcon Splendid awesome glad you found it helpful!!!
very helpful video. short and direct. Very efficiently done. We love it. ;)
Thanks very much! I really appreciate that!
I like and support Taiwan. I love Taiwanese goods, Taiwanese brands...
Taipei is so much cleaner than Hong Kong.
Wow so many changes since I was there 40 years ago lol
I can imagine!!!
Nice tips! Cheers!
Thanks!
The rule concerning foreigner's VAT refund in Taiwan just adjusted last year, as long as your purchase is over NTD$2000 accumulatively in the same refund shop during the same day, you can claim the VAT refund. Just remember to claim VAT refund the same day your purchase invoice is issued; otherwise the shop would be unable to give your the VAT certificates for later refund collection.
Oscar Lu yes I think until recently many shops were still requiring a purchase of NTD$3000 or more but you are correct it's now NTD$2000. Thanks for the update!
Nice video thumbs up 👍
Thanks very much!!!
Quite accurate
Very helpful! Thank you very much :)
I'd like to remind people visiting Taiwan not to forget their manners. For some reason people think it's ok for them not to give their thanks when directions are provided, or it's ok for them to cut in line. Just because you are foreigners do not make you superiors. Don't be rude.
Jennifer Wu this bothers me too when visitors don't respect local customs and culture.
Wow!!! Your video helped me so much!!! I am moving to Taiwan soon!! Take Care. Bye :)
Zehra Haciismailoglu great, thanks so much!!! Good luck with everything!!!
Nice video !!
Hao n Kay Love travel thank you!!!
Nice video John. Do yourself live in Taipei? My wife and I are planning a trip to Taiwan, but not sure where... do you recommend any particular cities? We will be in Taiwan coming Oct and staying 3night or 4 depends on what we can do there... thanks!
flacosinthehouse hi yes I do. If it's your first visit you should of course stay in Taipei and use it as a base to visit some smaller towns in Northern Taiwan. Easy days trips include Jiufen, an old mining town with beautiful views of the north coast. Next to it is another little mining town with some beautiful Japanese houses and buildings. Also Pingxi is also a nice town to visit, home of the world famous sky lantern festival.
flacosinthehouse if you take the tourist train from Ruifang to Pingxi you can also stop in Shifin, and walk to the waterfalls from the train station.
The youbikes look great but I don't have a Taiwan mobile number to register to join. Is there any other way to use them?
Not that I recall.
Soon...
Hi #JohnSaboe , thank you so much for the tips ....we will need them. Thanks again and greeting from your new friends in Belgium👍👍
Cambodia love taiwan
NaRen Kong Great!!!