10 Must-Have Travel Apps for Exploring Taiwan

Introduction

Exploring a new country can be an exciting but overwhelming experience, especially if you don’t know the local language or customs. Luckily, with the power of smartphone technology, there are many travel apps available that can make your trip to Taiwan much easier and more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll introduce you to 10 must-have travel apps for exploring Taiwan that will help you navigate the cities, communicate with locals, find the best food, and more.

1. Google Maps

Google Maps is a must-have app for any traveler, and it’s especially useful in Taiwan where many street signs are in Chinese characters. The app provides detailed maps and directions for walking, driving, or taking public transportation. You can also use it to search for nearby restaurants, cafes, or attractions.

2. Taiwan Railways Timetable

If you plan on exploring Taiwan by train, the Taiwan Railways Timetable app is essential. It provides real-time train schedules and lets you search for the best routes to your destination. You can also purchase tickets through the app or use it to check train delays or disruptions.

3. Uber or taxi app

While taxis are readily available in Taiwan, it’s not always easy to hail one on the street. Using Uber or a local taxi app like Taipei Taxi will save you time and make getting around much more convenient. Plus, the app lets you know the fare upfront, so you don’t have to worry about being overcharged.

4. KKday

If you’re looking to book travel experiences and tours in Taiwan, KKday is the app for you. It offers a wide range of activities, from food tours to day trips to Kaohsiung or Taroko Gorge, and lets you book them directly through the app. Plus, the app often offers discounts and promotions for certain activities.

5. LINE

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Taiwan, and it’s a great way to stay in touch with locals or fellow travelers. You can use it to chat, send photos or videos, or make voice and video calls. Plus, many businesses in Taiwan use LINE to communicate with customers, so it’s worth downloading the app before your trip.

6. Pleco

If you’re not fluent in Chinese, Pleco is a lifesaver. This app is a comprehensive Chinese-English dictionary that includes over 100,000 words and phrases. It also has a handwriting recognition feature that lets you draw Chinese characters if you don’t know how to type them.

7. Taipei Metro

Taipei Metro is one of the most convenient and efficient ways to get around in Taipei. The Taipei Metro app provides real-time schedules and route planning for the MRT system, as well as information on station facilities and nearby attractions.

8. OpenRice

OpenRice is the go-to app for foodies in Taiwan. It provides detailed information on restaurant menus, prices, and user reviews, as well as the ability to make reservations. You can also search for food by cuisine type or location.

9. Taiwan Lantern Festival

If you’re visiting Taiwan during the annual Lantern Festival, downloading this app is a must. It provides information on the festival schedule, lantern exhibitions, and activities in various cities throughout Taiwan. Plus, the app has augmented reality features that allow you to interact with the lanterns in real-time.

10. AirVisual

Air pollution can be a concern in Taiwan, especially during the winter months. AirVisual is an app that provides real-time air quality information for cities around the world, including Taipei and other parts of Taiwan. It also gives you tips on how to protect yourself from pollution and provides recommendations for outdoor activities based on the current air quality.

Conclusion

With these 10 must-have travel apps for exploring Taiwan, your trip will be much smoother and stress-free. From navigating the cities to finding the best food, these apps will make your experience in Taiwan much more enjoyable. So, be sure to download them before your trip and get ready to explore this beautiful country.