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General
Information
Information
about Taipei
Located in northern Taiwan, Taipei is the political, economic,
financial, and cultural center of the Republic of China. It
has thriving arts and academic scene and countless modern
commercial buildings. With its vibrant cultural and economic
growth, it has become a modern international metropolis.
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.
Visa
Information
Fourteen-day visa-free privileges are afforded to citizens
of 20 countries. Eligible countries for application are: Australia,
Austria, Belgium, Canada, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Greece,
Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand, the Netherlands (Holland),
Portugal, Spain, Singapore, Sweden, U.K, U.S.A. and Switzerland.
Thirty-day
landing visas are afforded to citizens of 23 countries. Eligible
countries for application are: Australia, Austria, Belgium,
Canada, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand, the Netherlands
(Holland), Poland, Portugal, Spain, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland,
U.K. and U.S.A.
Electricity
110 Volts A.C
Time
Zone
Taiwan is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
Currency
The exchange rate is quoted around NT$ 35 to US$ 1. Foreign
currencies can be exchanged at the airport upon arrival, or
at government-authorized banks, tourist hotels.
Climate
Most area of Taiwan enjoys a subtropical climate. The weather
is warm and mild all year round, particularly suitable for
travel. The mean temperature is over 20¢XC~25¢XC in March.
Transportation
Buses, taxis, and limousine services are available at the
CS Airport. The costs are approximately NT$ 1300-1500 to get
to Taipei from the CKS Airport by taxi. The rate for taxis
in Taipei is NT$ 70 for the first 1.65 kilometers and NT$
5 for each additional 350 meters. A 20% surcharge is added
between 11p.m. and 6 a.m. and a "waiting surcharge"
for each 3 minutes is added when the taxis are stopped or
have traveled less than 5 kilometers per hour. Different rates
apply in other areas.
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.
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