What is the availability and reliability of internet services in Taiwan?

Taiwan boasts some of the most reliable and widely available internet services in the world. According to a 2020 report from OpenSignal, 98.8% of the population had access to 4G LTE networks, while 91.7% of users had access to 3G networks. The average download speed for 4G LTE connections is 55.5 Mbps, while the average latency is 44.6 ms. Most of the country’s internet services are provided by Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and FarEasTone Telecommunications.

Are there any restrictions or censorship on internet usage in Taiwan?

Yes, there are some restrictions and censorship on internet usage in Taiwan. The government of Taiwan actively censors the internet by blocking access to websites deemed illegal or inappropriate. Additionally, Taiwan’s laws prohibit the spread of content that is considered to be indecent, obscene, or contrary to public morality. These restrictions mainly apply to pornography and gambling sites, as well as certain political topics.

What are the options for obtaining a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device in Taiwan?

1. Tourist SIM Card: These SIM cards can be purchased at Taiwan’s two major airports (Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport and Kaohsiung International Airport) as well as at many convenience stores throughout the country. They are designed specifically for tourists and come with generous data plans and other features.

2. Local SIM Card: Local SIM cards can be purchased from major mobile carriers in Taiwan, such as Chunghwa Telecom, FarEasTone, and Taiwan Mobile. These SIM cards can be purchased at the carriers’ shops and some convenience stores.

3. Portable Wi-Fi Device: Portable Wi-Fi devices can be rented from airport kiosks or major mobile carriers in Taiwan. They are easy to use and come with pre-loaded data plans.

Is public Wi-Fi widely available, and are there any security considerations I should be aware of in Taiwan?

Public Wi-Fi is widely available in Taiwan, although it is not always secure. There are many free Wi-Fi hotspots available in public places such as cafes, restaurants, malls, and airports, but they usually lack proper encryption. As a precaution, it is recommended that users only connect to trusted networks and avoid using public Wi-Fi to perform sensitive activities such as online banking or transferring money.

Are there specific apps or online services that are commonly used in Taiwan?

Some popular apps and online services used in Taiwan include:

1. LINE: A popular messaging app with over 60 million users in Taiwan.

2. Yahoo: A popular search engine with over 40 million users in Taiwan.

3. ibon: A popular online payment service with over 20 million users in Taiwan.

4. WeChat: A popular social media platform with over 30 million users in Taiwan.

5. PChome: A popular e-commerce platform with over 10 million users in Taiwan.

What is the cost of data plans or internet packages for travelers in Taiwan?

The cost of data plans or internet packages for travelers in Taiwan depends on the provider and the package that is chosen. Some providers offer prepaid SIM cards with data packages for travelers, which start from around NT$150 (US$5) for 3GB of data, or NT$250 (US$8) for 7GB of data. There are also packages available for up to 30 days with even larger amounts of data.

Are there areas or regions in Taiwan where internet connectivity might be limited?

Yes, there are areas in Taiwan where internet connectivity may be limited. These areas are typically rural and mountainous regions, and they often have limited resources for infrastructure development. Additionally, some of the offshore islands of Taiwan may also have limited or poor internet connectivity.

How can I stay connected with family and friends back home while in Taiwan?

There are a variety of ways to stay connected with family and friends back home while in Taiwan, such as video-calling services, online messaging services, and social media networks. Video-calling services such as Skype, FaceTime, and Google Hangouts allow you to visually connect with people back home. Online messaging services such as WhatsApp, WeChat, Line, and Viber offer text-based communication. Social media networks such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram provide a platform for sharing updates about your life in Taiwan with family and friends back home.

Are there cyber security concerns or precautions I should take into account in Taiwan?

Yes, there are cyber security concerns and precautions that should be taken into account in Taiwan. It is important to be aware of the latest news and updates on online security. Security measures like setting strong passwords for your accounts, using two-factor authentication, and avoiding suspicious links are essential if you are going to use the internet in Taiwan. Additionally, it is a good idea to install anti-virus and anti-malware software on your devices to protect against malicious software and hackers. Finally, it is important to ensure that your devices and important data are stored securely and backed up regularly.

Can I use my U.S. cell phone in Taiwan, and what are the associated roaming charges?

Yes, you can use your U.S. cell phone in Taiwan, though there may be additional roaming charges associated with using it while abroad. Depending on your service provider, roaming charges could be as high as several dollars per minute for calls and several dollars per megabyte of data. To avoid these fees, you may want to purchase a local SIM card or rent a cellular phone once you arrive in Taiwan.

What is the typical speed and performance of the internet in hotels and public spaces in Taiwan?

The typical speed and performance of the internet in hotels and public spaces in Taiwan can vary widely. Generally speaking, the speeds tend to be slower than those found in the home, but they are still usually sufficient for basic tasks such as browsing the web, checking emails, and streaming videos. Most public places offer Wi-Fi hotspots with speeds ranging from 3 Mbps to 100 Mbps, which should be enough to stream HD videos.

Are there internet cafes or co-working spaces available for travelers in Taiwan?

Yes, there are a variety of internet cafes and co-working spaces available for travelers in Taiwan. The largest chain of internet cafes in Taiwan is called “GAMECITY” and has locations in most major cities. Additionally, there are several independent cafes, co-working spaces, and even coworking hotels throughout the country.

What is the local emergency number, and how can I ensure I have internet access for emergency situations in Taiwan?

The local emergency number in Taiwan is 119. To ensure internet access for emergency situations, you can purchase an international prepaid SIM card, which will give you access to the internet in Taiwan.

Are there any cultural norms or etiquette regarding the use of smartphones or electronic devices in Taiwan?

Yes, there are several cultural norms and etiquette regarding the use of smartphones and electronic devices in Taiwan.

1. When talking to someone in person, it is considered rude to be distracted by your phone or other electronic devices.

2. It is best to keep your phone on silent or vibrate, and avoid using it in public places, such as in restaurants or on public transportation.

3. Talking loudly on your phone in public places is considered rude.

4. Do not take photos or videos without asking permission first.

5. Respect people’s privacy by not sharing photos or videos taken without permission.

6. Do not use your phone while walking, as it can cause distractions and accidents.

7. It is considered polite to turn off your phone at public functions or events.

Is it advisable to use a virtual private network (VPN) for added security when using public Wi-Fi in Taiwan?

Yes, it is advisable to use a virtual private network (VPN) for added security when using public Wi-Fi in Taiwan. VPNs provide an extra layer of protection by encrypting your connection and hiding your IP address. This prevents cybercriminals from monitoring your online activity and stealing sensitive information such as passwords and credit card numbers. Additionally, it can also help you access content that may be blocked in your country or region.

How can I manage data usage to avoid unexpected charges while using my phone abroad in Taiwan?

1. Invest in a local SIM card: Purchasing a local SIM card from a Taiwanese provider is the best way to ensure that you don’t experience any unexpected data charges. Not only will you pay local rates for your data, but you’ll also have access to better coverage and faster connection speeds when you’re in Taiwan.

2. Turn off data roaming: If you don’t want to purchase a local SIM card, you can always turn off data roaming on your phone. This will prevent your device from connecting to any foreign networks and prevent any unexpected charges.

3. Use Wi-Fi whenever possible: Make sure to take advantage of the free Wi-Fi networks that are available in many public places throughout Taiwan. This will help you stay connected without using any of your own data.

4. Monitor your usage: it’s important to keep track of how much data you’re actually using while in Taiwan. Many apps and websites allow you to monitor your usage in real-time so that you can keep track of how much data you’re consuming.

Are there any local websites or online platforms that are particularly useful for travelers in Taiwan?

Yes, there are several local websites and online platforms that are particularly useful for travelers in Taiwan:

1. Taiwan Tourism Bureau – This official website provides information about tourist attractions, travel tips, and the latest news about Taiwan’s tourism industry.

2. Taiwan Hostel Network – This is a great resource for finding hostels and other types of accommodation in Taiwan.

3. Taiwan Fun – This website offers a wide range of travel information and tips about exploring Taiwan, including information about cultural activities, natural attractions, public transportation, and more.

4. Taiwan Taxi – This app allows users to book taxis and get estimated fares in advance.

5. KKday – This website specializes in providing unique experiences and tours in Taiwan for travelers, from day trips to multi-day adventures.

What are the options for charging devices, and what type of power outlets are used in Taiwan?

The main options for charging devices in Taiwan are wall chargers, car chargers, and USB ports. The two types of power outlets used in Taiwan are the Type A plug (2-prong) and the Type B plug (3-prong).

Is it common to find free Wi-Fi in restaurants, cafes, and tourist attractions in Taiwan?

Yes, it is fairly common to find free Wi-Fi in restaurants, cafes, and tourist attractions in Taiwan. Many restaurants, cafes, and tourist attractions offer complimentary Wi-Fi as a service to their customers. Some may even require a code or password to access the Wi-Fi, which customers can get from the staff.

What are the alternatives if I encounter issues with internet connectivity in Taiwan?

1. Consider using a mobile hotspot to access the internet. This is a small device that provides a wireless internet connection when connected to a cellular network.

2. Look for public Wi-Fi spots in places like cafes, hotel lobbies, and airports.

3. Consider buying a prepaid SIM card for your mobile device with data plan.

4. Try satellite internet, which can provide high-speed access even in remote locations.

5. Ask your hotel if they offer wired internet access (i.e. ethernet cable).