🇹🇼 Travel eSIM plans for Taiwan

Taiwan surprises at every turn. Beyond Taipei's neon-lit streets lie misty mountains, hot-spring towns and dramatic coastline. The Central Mountain Range cuts through the island, creating distinct climates and landscapes. Hire a car or join a small-group tour to reach places like Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge, where the marble cliffs drop straight into turquoise water. Public transport is excellent, but booking seats on the high-speed train in advance saves time. For connectivity, pick up a local SIM or eSIM from Chunghwa Telecom at the airport. Don't try to cover the whole island in a week - focus on one region, such as the north or the east coast. English is less common outside cities, so load a translation app before you go. Tipping is not expected, and tap water is safe to drink in most urban areas.

Taiwan offers a mix of natural wonders and urban energy. These seven places are worth planning around:

• Taroko Gorge National Park - Hike the Zhuilu Old Trail for vertiginous cliff views. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
• Taipei 101 & Xinyi District - The observation deck gives a sweeping view of the city. Combine with a stroll through the upscale Xinyi neighbourhood.
• Jiufen Old Street - This hillside village inspired Miyazaki's Spirited Away. Go on a weekday to dodge the crush.
• Sun Moon Lake, Nantou - Cycle the 17-km lakeside path or take a ferry to remote temples.
• Shilin & Raohe Night Markets, Taipei - Two of the best places to sample street food. Raohe is more manageable than Shilin.
• Alishan National Scenic Area - Famous for sunrise views over a sea of clouds. Stay overnight to catch the first train up.

Taiwan's food scene is one of Asia's most exciting. Night markets are the best entry point, but local restaurants and hawker stalls also deliver. These six dishes are essential:

• Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵) - A hearty broth with tender beef and chewy noodles. Every Taiwanese cook has their own variation.
• Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶) - Invented in Taichung, this sweet milk tea with tapioca pearls is now a global phenomenon. Try it at a dedicated cha shop.
• Scallion Pancake (蔥油餅) - Crispy, flaky and savoury. Often sold from street carts, it makes a quick breakfast or snack.
• Oyster Vermicelli (蚵仔麵線) - A silky, garlicky soup with small oysters. Best eaten at a busy night-market stall.
• Three Cups Chicken (三杯雞) - A clay-pot dish of chicken cooked in soy sauce, sesame oil and basil. Rich and aromatic.
• Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐) - Fermented tofu with a pungent smell. Love it or hate it, it's a cultural experience.

Taiwan's weather varies by region and altitude. Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are the most comfortable seasons, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Cherry blossoms appear from February in Wulai and Yangmingshan National Park. Autumn brings clear skies to Taroko and Alishan, ideal for hiking and photography. Summer (June to September) is hot, humid and prone to typhoons, especially in July and August. If you travel during this period, monitor the weather bureau's updates and book flexible accommodation. Winter (December to February) is cooler and wetter in Taipei, but the mountains occasionally see snow. Avoid the Lunar New Year period unless you enjoy crowds and higher prices; many shops and restaurants close for the holiday.

Pack for humidity, sudden rain and varied terrain. Here's what you need:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing - Cotton and quick-dry fabrics work best. Humidity in summer can be oppressive.
• Rain jacket or compact umbrella - Rain is common year-round, especially in Taipei and the mountains.
• Hiking boots for Taroko and Alishan - Trails can be uneven and slippery. Sturdy footwear prevents injury.
• EasyCard transit card - Buy one at any convenience store or metro station. It works on buses, trains and even in some taxis.
• Cash in New Taiwan Dollars - Many street stalls and small shops only accept cash. ATMs are plentiful but charge a fee.
• A travel eSIM - Pre-load a data plan before departure. Chunghwa Telecom offers tourist SIMs at the airport.