Is it Safe to Visit Taipei: Everything You Need to Know

Taipei is the capital city of Taiwan and one of the most visited cities in Asia. From traditional temples to bustling night markets, Taipei has a lot to offer to its visitors. However, with the current global situation, one may wonder whether it is safe to travel to Taipei. In this blog post, we will explore the safety measures and precautions taken by Taipei, making it one of the safest cities to travel to in the world.

The Current Situation

As of writing, Taiwan has one of the lowest numbers of COVID-19 cases in the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Taiwan has only reported 1,039 cases of COVID-19 and 10 deaths as of February 2021. The Taiwanese government has been praised for its swift action in containing the virus, including implementing travel restrictions, mandatory wearing of face masks, and conducting extensive testing.

Safety Measures Implemented in Taipei

Taipei has implemented various safety measures to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors. Here are some of the measures:

Wearing Face Masks

All individuals in Taipei, including tourists, are required to wear face masks when in public areas, including public transportation and indoor spaces such as malls, shops, and restaurants. The government has also distributed free masks in various locations.

Temperature Checks

Temperature checks are conducted in various locations, including hotels, malls, restaurants, and public transportation. Individuals with a high temperature are not allowed to enter the premises.

Social Distancing

Social distancing measures are implemented in public areas, and individuals are encouraged to maintain a distance of 1-2 meters from each other.

Hand Sanitization

Hand sanitization stations are available in various locations, including hotels, malls, and public transportation.

Travel Restrictions and Regulations

Taipei has implemented certain travel restrictions and regulations for tourists entering the country. Here are some of the regulations:

Quarantine Requirements

All tourists entering Taipei are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine period. Travelers must quarantine in a government-approved facility or a designated hotel at their own expense.

COVID-19 Testing

All tourists entering Taipei are required to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival at the airport. Travelers must quarantine until the test results are released.

Conclusion

Despite the ongoing global situation, Taipei has taken extensive measures to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors. With a low number of COVID-19 cases and strict safety protocols and regulations, Taipei is considered as one of the safest cities to travel to in the world. However, it is important to always follow the safety protocols implemented by the government, wear face masks, practice social distancing, and maintain proper hygiene. Enjoy your trip to Taipei and stay safe!

Insider’s Guide to Taipei: Everything You Need to Know

Taipei, the bustling capital city of Taiwan, is a popular tourist destination for its vibrant night markets, rich cultural heritage, and delicious street food. While many tourists flock to this picturesque city, safety can be a concern for some visitors. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about staying safe in Taipei and the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to enhance your trip.

Safety in Taipei

First and foremost, Taipei is a safe city for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low, and violent crimes against tourists are uncommon. Nevertheless, it is always essential to stay vigilant, especially in crowded tourist areas or areas with low lighting at night.

Also, drivers in Taipei are known to be less cautious, and accidents are common. Pedestrians who cross the street without using crosswalks are subject to a fine, and it is good practice to use pedestrian bridges or underground walkways to cross busy roads.

Top Attractions

Taipei 101: Standing at 509 meters tall, Taipei 101 (formerly known as Taipei World Financial Center) has become an icon of the city and a must-visit attraction. Visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the 89th-floor observation deck, where they can marvel at the 360-degree panoramic views of the city.

National Palace Museum: The National Palace Museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Chinese artifacts and artwork, including some of the rarest and most valuable pieces of Chinese art in the world. Be sure to check out the Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat-shaped Stone during your visit.

Ximending: Often referred to as the ‘Harajuku of Taipei,’ Ximending is a popular pedestrian shopping district filled with trendy boutiques, street performers, and an array of local and international cuisines.

Dining Spots

Taiwanese cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavors, and Taipei is no exception. Here are some of the top dining spots in Taipei:

Din Tai Fung: Din Tai Fung is a world-famous restaurant chain originating in Taiwan and known for its steamed pork dumplings (xiao long bao). These delicious dumplings are a must-try when visiting Taipei.

Shilin Night Market: While not a specific restaurant, the night market in Shilin is a food lover’s paradise. You’ll find vendors selling everything from stinky tofu to fried chicken fillet, and bubble milk tea to the famous Taiwanese dessert, shaved ice.

Tian Wai Tian: Also known as “Frog Street,” Tian Wai Tian is a favorite local spot for Taiwanese hot pot. The restaurant offers a variety of soup bases and ingredients, including frog legs!

Cultural Experiences

Taipei is a city full of traditional temples, historic landmarks, and modern culture. Here are some of our top cultural experiences:

Longshan Temple: Longshan Temple is one of Taipei’s oldest and most revered temples. Visitors can witness several religious ceremonies throughout the day, with the temple’s peak hours between 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM.

Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall: Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall was established to honor the former president of the Republic of China. The building has become a landmark tourist attraction and features a large statue of the former president with a changing of the guards ceremony every hour.

Taipei Zoo: Taipei Zoo is the largest zoo in Asia and has a significant focus on conservation programs. The zoo is home to over 400 animal species, including giant pandas, koalas, and penguins.

Local History

Taipei has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore the city’s fascinating history in several ways:

Fort San Domingo: Fort San Domingo, situated in a scenic part of Taipei overlooking the city, was originally built by the Spanish in the 17th century. The site has been through numerous battles over the years and now serves as a museum where visitors can learn about the history and growth of the city.

Taipei 228 Memorial Museum: The Taipei 228 Memorial Museum honors the victims of the “228 Incident,” a turbulent period in Taiwan’s history that occurred between late February and early March 1947. The museum provides visitors with a glimpse into Taiwan’s historical and political struggle during that time.

Tamsui Old Street: Tamsui Old Street is a former center of trade for the city, located along the Tamsui River. The street has preserved its historical architecture, including shops and restaurants, and is a great place to explore for a glimpse of Taipei’s past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For travelers who want to explore Taipei beyond the typical tourist attractions, here are some unique off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

Elephant Mountain: Also known as Xiangshan (which means “elephant mountain”), this hike provides beautiful panoramic views of Taipei’s skyline. The trail is challenging but worth the trek, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city both during the day and at night.

Huashan 1914 Creative Park: Huashan 1914 Creative Park is an innovative cultural and creative center that offers art exhibitions, live performances, and workshops. The park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, making it a unique destination that’s always worth checking out.

Taipei City Hakka Cultural Park: The Taipei City Hakka Cultural Park showcases Taiwan’s Hakka culture, including traditional clothing, food, and artwork. Visitors can immerse themselves in the village’s history and discover unique experiences such as trying on Hakka clothing and making traditional Hakka cuisine.

Conclusion

Taipei is a bustling city that offers a unique blend of traditional culture and modern attractions. While safety concerns can be an issue for some travelers, visitors can explore the city with ease as long as they take reasonable precautions. Whether it’s sampling street food at a night market, visiting iconic landmarks, or exploring off-the-beaten-path experiences, Taipei offers something for everyone.