See the True Taiwan: an insiders guide

There are a lot of threads in discussion forums which ask how much money is the bare minimum to get by in Taiwan. Since many countries now get up to 3 months of visa-free entry, there are a lot of backpackers looking to set up shop but not set their roots too deep, and students who are here for a short exchange. If you're in the 1 to 9 month category, this guide will prove to be best suited to you. The simple answer is if you plan to be in Taipei you will need 15,000 NTD or around 500 USD per month. If you live on the east coast or a smaller city you can get the number down to about 12 to 13,000 NT a month. Food and entertainment prices are generally the same, but your rent will be lower and quality of life a bit higher. Here's how it works out: Unless you're joining family, have a significant other, or some secret way to live for free, you'll need to pay rent somewhere. If you're staying in Taipei or New Taipei City for less than one year it will be hard to f...

Right before the Chinese New Year Taipei City started demolishing a long ramp up to the Zhongxiao Bridge which, while helpful for drivers, was a massive eye sore in one of the city's most heavily visited central areas. Now, several weeks on, the construction is nearing its end, commuters have gotten used to new traffic flows, and a small park has been built around what was previously an overlooked landmark. Despite living here for a long time, there is something cool about actually being able to pass through the gate and hang out in the space around it without being in the middle of traffic. The outward side of the gate, as seen from the new park. The new park under development, with the Zhongxiao bridge in the back. The city side of the gate seen from Boai Road. The move was one of many designed by city hall to make Taipei a more pedestrian friendly place and encourage residents and visitors to get around on their own power. Many visitors to Taipei at some po...