Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Taiwan (Seriously, Don't Be *That* Tourist)
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Thanks to all my friends and fellow Taiwanese for their additional input and clarifications. I've been getting a lot of DMs asking for travel tips, and I'll get back to you gradually, so please be patient. As for those who criticize me, I won't respond—if it makes them happy, so be it. Everyone has different life experiences and perspectives on the world. I just want to express my most genuine experiences and thoughts, and share some friendly suggestions with those who haven't had the chance to visit Taiwan yet. It's great if I can be of help. What I've shared is basic common knowledge, and while that's true, it doesn't mean everyone is aware of these things. Even when traveling to other cities within one's own country, it's important to respect local customs. I find Taiwan to be a very inclusive place—the scenery is beautiful, but the people are even more so. I really hope independent travel reopens soon so more people can come to appreciate and fall in love with Taiwan.
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Regarding point seven, it seems this mainly applies to Taipei, probably because of the faster pace of life there.
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The first point is spot on. People have different experiences and ways of looking at things, so everyone has their own understanding. You're out to have fun, so stubbornly debating sensitive topics is pointless—it's not like you're going to change anyone's mind.
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I also find these kinds of questions rather pointless. I have a Taiwanese friend, and I greatly respect his views. Everyone comes from different educational backgrounds and has different understandings, so what's the point in pressing these issues?
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When using public transport, try to let passengers exit before you board. (This is to avoid unexpectedly encountering people rushing to get off; sometimes you might even get chided and told to let those on board alight first.)
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The same applies to elevators: let people out before you get in.
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Anyone can use a priority seat; just offer it up if you see someone who needs it more—no need to feel pressured. Not all elderly individuals expect you to give up your seat; some feel they're still quite young and don't require it, and may even decline. However, if you see someone who is visibly pregnant, people will generally offer their seat, regardless of whether it's a regular or priority one, since it's risky for a pregnant woman to stand.
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Exactly. If my foot is hurting and the only seat available is a priority seat, I'll take it too.
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Regarding point 4 (about flushing toilet paper), that's not always a given, so be mindful, everyone. You wouldn't want to clog the toilet.
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I've been flushing it for over a decade and never had it clog.
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I absolutely love Taiwan! I definitely want to visit if I get the chance.
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They're not even issuing visas, so how exactly are you planning to go?
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Why can't you bring outside food in?
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Perhaps it's because the establishment doesn't want to have to dispose of your trash.
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Regarding point five: You can't get takeout when dining in a restaurant? Why not? I actually get takeout quite often.
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It means you can't bring food you've gotten as takeout from another place into a restaurant to eat when you're dining in. Take another look more carefully.
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These seem pretty standard everywhere, don't they?
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Speak for yourself, don't lump me in with you.
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You're amazing at taking photos!!!!!