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Country facts

When to visit

Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov). Summers very humid; winters mild but rainy in subtropical areas.

Typical costs (USD)

Wide range. Major cities + Taipei premium; smaller towns exceptional value.

Essential phrases

Numbers

What to pack

• Light layered clothing
• Compact rain jacket (humid + rainy)
• Walking shoes
• Type A/B/G plug adapter (check destination)
• Hand fan for summer (typhoons + humidity)

Cultural notes

• WeChat and Alipay dominate payments — international cards work in fewer places
• VPN needed for Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp — set up before arrival
• Tap water isn't drinkable — buy bottled water
• Don't tip in restaurants — staff may chase you to return the money
• Personal-space + queueing norms differ from Western expectations — what feels assertive is just everyday, not rudeness

Universal courtesies

• Try a greeting in the local language even if it's the only word you know — it's appreciated everywhere.
• Match local dress norms when entering religious sites, government buildings, or rural areas.
• Ask before photographing people, especially children or in religious settings.
• Tipping customs vary — never assume your home country's expectation applies.
• Remove shoes when entering homes if your host does; watch their cue.
• Keep voices lower than at home in temples, mosques, museums, public transport.
• Hands and gestures mean different things across cultures — observe before reaching out.
• Cash + cards: rural areas often need cash; major cities take cards. Carry small notes.
• Don't compare countries to each other in front of locals — every culture stands on its own.
• If you don't know the etiquette, watching for 30 seconds usually teaches it.