Arriving in a new country can be overwhelming, but having the right apps can make the transition much smoother especially in Taiwan. Here are a few that were especially helpful during my experience:

• LINE: This is the primary messaging app in Taiwan. I used it to stay in touch with local friends, communicate with businesses when scheduling appointments, and even contact my dormitory staff.

• Google Translate: A lifesaver for language barriers. When using this app remember that Taiwan uses Traditional Chinese. 

• YouBike 2.0: This app allows you to rent public bikes from stations all across the city. It’s a convenient and affordable way to get around Taipei and other major areas. 

One of the first things you’ll want to do when arriving in Taiwan is to get an EasyCard which is a rechargeable transportation card that can be used across the country on MRT trains, buses, and even in convenience stores for everyday purchases. You can purchase an EasyCard at any MRT station or convenience store, but keep in mind payment to buy or reload an EasyCard is only cash. They also come in a variety of designs. 

Another thing to keep in mind is during school registration, you'll receive a student ID card that also functions as an EasyCard. It offers discounted fares on public transportation. So, avoid loading too much money onto your initial EasyCard, as you’ll likely switch to using your student ID for daily travel once it’s issued.

When getting a local SIM or eSIM in Taiwan, it's important to check your current mobile provider’s rules and restrictions. If your phone is still under a payment plan or locked to a carrier, it may not be compatible with foreign SIM cards. Make sure your phone is fully paid off and unlocked before you leave, as this can affect your ability to use a local SIM abroad.

When getting a local SIM or eSIM in Taiwan, two common options make life simpler:

• Buy one at the airport upon arrival

• Visit a telecom store later in town:  I went to "Chunghwa Telecom" after settling in and got a prepaid e-sim. They also offer student plans that can be a bit cheaper.

I personally opted for an eSIM so I could continue using my home SIM card to stay in touch with friends and family back home, while using the eSIM primarily for data during my time in Taiwan.

One thing to note is that during NTU registration they do require to have a phone number on file so you must get a local sim card before that  in order to get a taiwanese phone number. 

Taipei’s weather can be quite unpredictable one moment it’s sunny, then suddently it’s pouring. Taiwan is also known for being humid and rainy, especially during certain seasons. Always check a weather app before heading out, and carry an umbrella with you. It’ll come in handy for sudden rain showers or even as shade on hot, sunny days.

Make full use of the convenience stores in Taiwan. Major chains like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and a local convience store chain called Hi-Life are everywhere and open 24/7. More than just a place to grab a late night snack but you can also pay bills, send packages, print documents, buy SIM cards, and even purchase event tickets. They’re incredibly useful for daily life, especially as a student.

The Hi-life near my Dormitory (Yuantong Dormitroy) is also where I payed my dorm fee on the day that I arrived!

Taiwan is filled with natural beauty and diverse landscapes, making it the perfect place for weekend adventures. Be sure to explore destinations like Jiufen, Tainan, Alishan, Wulai, and more! Thanks to Taiwan’s efficient and affordable high-speed rail system, getting around the island is both easy and convenient.

One thing I really appreciated during my travels was how different areas would have its own signature dishes. While some cities may feel similar at first glance, their unique local foods set them apart. Trying a specialty dish in the city where it originated from made the taste and experience more meaningful.

Photo is outside of Taipei in Taichung.