The Holy Trinity of Logistics
1. The EasyCard (Yoyo Ka)
This is not just a subway card. It is legal tender.
- Buy it: At any 7-11 or airport.
- Use it: MRT, Bus, Convenience Stores, Taxis (sometimes).
- Top up: ATMs or cashiers.
- Hack: You can use it to rent YouBike (public bicycles). Register your phone number at the kiosk first.
2. The HSR (High Speed Rail)
Japan has the Shinkansen. Taiwan has the HSR. It uses the same 700T series trains.
- Speed: Taipei to Kaohsiung (north to south) in 90 minutes.
- Booking: Book early (28 days prior) for "Early Bird" discounts up to 35% off.
- Business Class: Worth it solely for the free coffee and snacks if you are hungry.
3. Uber vs. Taxi
- Uber: Reliable, clean, no language barrier.
- Yellow Taxis: Cheaper, everywhere.
- Pro Tip: Most taxi drivers are honest, but hold your hand out flat to hail one. Flailing looks desperate.
Etiquette 101
The Handover
When paying or receiving a business card, use two hands. It shows respect.
The "Thank You"
- Xie Xie: Standard.
- Bu Hao Yi Si: (Boo-how-yee-sue). This is the magic word. It means "Excuse me", "Sorry", "Thank you", and "Please".
- Bumped into someone? Bu Hao Yi Si.
- Asking a waiter? Bu Hao Yi Si.
- Receiving a gift? Bu Hao Yi Si.
Trash Cans
There are none. Bring a plastic bag. Taiwan has a "trash doesn't touch the ground" policy. You carry your trash home.
