Book cheap flights to Taipei

Taipei’s seasons are different to what you may be used to, so some planning may be needed before booking your holiday there. Summers (June to August) in Taipei can become very uncomfortable, with high humidity and temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius. If the heat is too much for you, you can always head to the air-conditioned malls or take full advantage of the night markets. Tropical cyclones have been known to hit the city over the months of June through to early October, so consider booking somewhere between mid-October and November. It is during this autumn time that most outdoor activities are recommended, with an average temperature of 25 degrees. Spring is also a good time to visit Taipei (March – May).

South Africans do require a visa for visiting Taiwan. Luckily, they are free of charge. Those who wish to apply should do so online before making a trip to the Taipei Liaison Offices in Cape Town or Pretoria. Visa processing time is between 3 – 4 days.

Taipei Liason Office, Pretoria: 1147 Schoeman Street, Hatfield, Pretoria

Phone: 27-12-4306071

Fax: 27-12-342-7110

Cape Town: Suite 1004, Main Tower, Standard Bank Centre, Hertzog Boulevard, Cape Town

Phone: 27-21-418-1188

Fax: 27-21-425-3022

Taipei has been known to be very safe for tourists, with the level of crime decreasing over the last few years. Of the few crimes that get reported, one of them is pick-pocketing, so just be mindful of where you leave your handbag.

It is recommended that you drink bottled water, or pre-boiled water in Taipei. Free water dispensers are available all around the city for you to refill and stay hydrated.

Travelling from South Africa, yellow fever vaccinations are required and Hepatitis A and B are also recommended. If you find yourself needing to visit a hospital, there are English speaking staff to help you out. Also, medical expenses are quite cheap in Taipei.

A good fit for your stay in Taipei will depend on what it is that you’re after. For a look into Taipei’s cosmopolitan city feel, Xinyi District is very popular. This area is home of famous tourist attraction, Taipei 101, as well as many great restaurants and fancy night clubs.

Zhongzheng is a great area that has streets lined with historical buildings and many of Taipei’s famous landmarks such as the Presidential Office.

And then for those looking for a relaxing break with beaches and walks along the Tamsui Old Street boardwalk, Dansui is the place to be.

When in Taipei, do as the locals do and travel by MRT and bus – it’s easy and convenient. The MRT has six major routes to all around the city, and the trains run often and on time. You can buy a prepaid EasyCard to use the subway system, and all instructions/directions are available in both Mandarin and English too.

Buses are also a very commonly used mode of transport in Taipei. The buses are clean and efficient and, with a bus guide, you’re sure to get where you want to be in no time at all.