Report from exchange study program in Taiwan (Tainan) 2

This report offers sort of basic info about survival student life in Tainan. 

Transportation in Tainan 

o   Bike

Bike is the most common transport for students. Costs around 1500NT in the shop in Sheng-li campus. If you think it’s too much, you can wait till January when university provides free bikes. These bikes are, however, very poor and need to fixed. But, it’s also solution. J

o   Scooter

Scooter from shop costs round 12 – 15 000NT. However, you can buy 100 – 125cc from students and friend from 6000NT. Scooters are almost necessary if you want to move around or outside Tainan more comfortably. We were hesitating, but finally the scooter was very good choice. For traveling around the island you will need at least 125cc and more.

o   Train

Train is comfortable transportation if you travel outside of Tainan. To Kaohsiung in 45 min. by local train for around 80 – 100NT. Don’t forget to use your university’ student card.

o   Bus

Local bus – ticket costs: 18NT and bus routes are searchable: http://ebus.tncg.gov.tw/TNWeb/EIndex.jsp?locale=en_US

However, to rely on bus is not the best option. The bus has longer periods in between routes and everything is in Chinese. 

Distant buses – behind the train station on the right there are 3 bus companies. Bus ticket can be purchased in the offices there, not in the bus.

Weather

Mostly hot and humid- at least for most of us, Europeans! Summer is apprx. from April to November. Though, you shouldn’t underestimate winter – it’s quite cold and next time I would bring a winter jacket with me as well (From December to February). 

Typhoons – local people will tell you a lot and panic, but our stronger storms sometimes are more dangerous. However, you shouldn’t underestimate it too.:)