Taiwan

Getting around Taiwan is a masterclass in efficiency, whether you are ziping across the island or navigating the bustling streets of Taipei. The Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) connects the north and south in just 90 minutes, with tickets from Taipei to Kaohsiung costing roughly TWD 1,490 ($46). For local travel, the EasyCard (or iPass) is your best friend; this rechargeable smart card works on the MRT, local buses, and even at convenience stores like 7-Eleven. You can pick one up for a non-refundable deposit of TWD 100 ($3).

To ensure you never miss a stop or get lost in the labyrinthine underground malls, reliable data is essential. It is highly recommended to buy and activate a Hello eSIM before you land. This allows you to bypass the airport kiosks and have immediate access to navigation apps the moment you touch down. If you are traveling with friends, use the Hello trip planning feature to sync your train schedules and keep your itinerary organized in one place. Remember that while the MRT is incredibly clean, eating or drinking (even water) on trains or in stations is strictly prohibited and can result in a fine.

Taiwan is arguably the street food capital of the world, and its night markets are the epicenter of this culinary heritage. In Taipei, Raohe Night Market offers a more traditional feel than the massive Shilin, while Liuhe Night Market in Kaohsiung is famous for its seafood. Must-try dishes include:

• Black Pepper Buns (Hujiao Bing): Crispy, clay-oven baked rolls filled with peppery pork.
• Oyster Omelets: A gooey, savory staple topped with a sweet-and-spicy sauce.
• Beef Noodle Soup: Often considered the national dish; a hearty bowl costs between TWD 150 and TWD 250 ($5–$8).

Because many market stalls are cash-only, it is easy to lose track of small notes. You can use the Hello budget tracking tool to log your spending in TWD, ensuring you stay within your daily limit. If you are sharing a variety of snacks with a group—the best way to experience a market—the Hello expense splitting feature makes it simple to divvy up the costs of that extra-large fried chicken cutlet or a round of authentic brown sugar bubble tea.

Taiwan offers a stunning contrast between its high-tech cities and rugged natural beauty. Start in the capital by visiting Taipei 101; once the world's tallest building, it offers panoramic views of the basin. For a more active afternoon, hike the Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) Trail at sunset for the most iconic view of the skyline. Beyond the city, Taroko Gorge National Park is a must-see. Located near Hualien, this marble-walled canyon features turquoise rivers and dramatic suspension bridges.

When venturing into more remote areas like Taroko or the tea plantations of Alishan, staying connected is vital for checking weather alerts or bus timings. A Hello eSIM ensures you have a stable connection even when you are away from city Wi-Fi. Use the Hello trip planner to map out your transition from the neon lights of Ximending to the misty forests of the central highlands. Whether you are booking a private driver for a day in the gorge (roughly TWD 3,500 or $108) or taking the local Pinxi Line train to release lanterns in Shifen, having your plans and data ready on your phone makes the transition between urban and wild seamless.