Travel to Taiwan to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Intro: life and experiences in Taiwan
  • Taiwan has an interesting mix between Japanese and Chinese influences, not so strange considering that the (tropical) island belonged to both countries in the past. Taipei is an international city, with tall buildings (Taipei 101!), scooters, people who speak English and a huge amount of vegetarian restaurants (as a change from the meaty Chinese food). The city is a good introduction to a future trip to China, or other parts of the country that are a little less modernized. Taiwan is also a good destination for beautiful natural parks.

 

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    Where to study in Taiwan, do an internship, do volunteer work or look for a job in Taiwan?

    Where to study in Taiwan, do an internship, do volunteer work or look for a job in Taiwan?

    Why study, intern, volunteer or work temporarily in Taiwan?

    • because Taiwan has a rich culture and history to explore. There is much to explore: temples, historical sites and museums.
    • because Taiwan has a diverse landscape, with mountains, beaches, forests and lakes. You can easily hike, bike, swim and do other outdoor activities.
    • because Taiwanese are in general hardworking, ambitious, humble and friendly colleagues.
    • because of its high ranking compared to other universities in Asia.
    • because you can easily hike, bike, swim and do other outdoor activities.
    • because the standard of living in Taiwan, despite substantial increases, is still relatively affordable.
    • because you can get around easily without a car. All cities and towns are generally easy to reach by public transportation.
    • because of the opportunity to learn Mandarin because you are surrounded by Mandarin every day, you learn faster and easier.
    • because of the good technological developments in the country and all the opportunities around it.
    • because he standard of living in Taiwan is relatively affordable.

    What should you pay attention to?

    • the well-known bureaucracy can make things like visa applications complicated and time-consuming to arrange.
    • Taiwanese people are very polite and respectful. It is customary to bow when greeting someone and to say "thank you" and "please."
    Why to live in Taiwan, why to emigrate to Taiwan or stay for a long time?

    Why to live in Taiwan, why to emigrate to Taiwan or stay for a long time?

      Why live in Taiwan as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

      • because of the high quality of life.
      • because of the efficient health care system.
      • because of a well-developed economy.
      • because of the low crime rate and sense of security.
      • because of the clean environment.
      • because of its hospitable and friendly residents.
      • because of the good work ethic and commitment to work of employees.
      • because of the career opportunities for expats.

      What should you pay attention to?

      • that it is helpful to speak a little Mandarin. Communicating with locals can be difficult if you don't speak any Mandarin.
      • Taiwan has a humid climate, which is not pleasant for everyone.
      • Stay informed about political relations and possible tensions.
      What are typical Taiwanese habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Taiwan?

      What are typical Taiwanese habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Taiwan?


      What are the customs in Taiwan regarding food?

      • Leave some food on your plate. It shows appreciation for the amount of food served and is considered polite.
      • Characteristic are the many choices of dishes that you eat together with rice. Rice is the staple food. 

      What are the best recipes in Taiwan?

      • Stinky tofu, chou doufu: Don't let the name fool you! Stinky tofu is a popular Taiwanese street food made from fermented tofu that has a strong odor but a surprisingly mild and creamy flavor. It's usually served deep-fried and topped with a variety of sauces and pickles.
      • Taiwan is famous for the amount of streetfood available. The Taiwanese kitchen is a blend of Chinese and indigenous food. The focus is on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and variety.

      What are the best drinks in Taiwan?

      • Taiwan is famous for it's tea. There are tea plantations found in Taiwan, from Oolong to Jasmine tea.
      • Bubble tea is a Taiwanese invention called the king of Taiwanese drinks, bubble tea is a global phenomenon. This sweet and creamy concoction features a tea base (usually black or green tea) with chewy tapioca pearls and other toppings like jellies, fruits in all kinds, and whipped cream.
      • Wheat Grass Tea is an unique and healthy drink, wheatgrass tea is made from the young shoots of the wheat plant. It has a grassy flavor and is believed to have various health benefits.

      What are notable activities, holidays and festivals in Taiwan?

      • KTV – Karaoke is a popular waste of time or night.
      • Founding Day of the Republic of China (ROC) is on January 1. This is a three-day bank holiday that celebrates the founding of the ROC in 1912.
      • Chinese New Year (depending on the moon, in general late January or February): This is a 15-day holiday that is the most important holiday in Taiwan. It is a time for families to come together and celebrate the beginning of the new year.
      • Tomb Sweeping Day is on April 5. This day is a time for families to visit the graves of their ancestors and clean them.
      • Mid-Autumn Festival (September). This festival is also known as the Moon Festival. It is a time to celebrate the harvest and give thanks for the bounty of the earth. Mooncakes are a popular food during this festival.
      • All festivals have their specific traditions and customs.

      What are the notable habits in Taiwan?

      • Politeness - Taiwanese people are very polite and respectful. It is customary to bow when greeting someone and to say “thank you” and “please.”
      • Respectfulness - Taking off shoes when entering a house: In Taiwan, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone's house. This is done as a sign of respect and to keep the house clean.
      • Respect for elders is considered vital, as is loyalty toward the family
      • Cleanliness - Using toilet paper with the right hand: In Taiwan, toilet paper is used with the right hand, while the left hand is considered unclean.
      • Convenience stores – Open 24/7, with a variety of food, drinks and everyday items available.
      • Gift giving is an art and gifts have a meaning. Knives and scissors are not appreciated and will be seen as severing a relationship. Clocks and handkerchiefs are best avoided, that will be connected to death and funerals.
      • Check the label of the gift you would like to give: made in Taiwan is not an interesting gift and the recipient from Taiwan already has (all) things made in Taiwan.
      Favorite stories, blogs and texts related to Taiwan
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