Soon to be visa-free for Filipinos, Taiwan has now focused on strengthening their ties with the Philippines even more through various tourism offerings.
If you’ve ever dreamed of booking a solo trip but felt a little nervous about safety, Taiwan should be on top of your list. If you want a worry-free solo trip, Taiwan’s got you. Explore crazy cool night markets, hike stunning mountains, or sip tea in lantern-lit cafés without stressing.
People can’t stop talking about how friendly Taiwan is. Locals will help you out if you look lost, and crime is super low. Some even say you could leave your bag on a café table and no one would touch it. You might not try that yourself, but it shows how honest and kind people here are.
Also read: 9 Most Instagrammable Spots in Taiwan Every Filipino Traveller Needs to Visit
Where to go solo?
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Filipino travellers will love how easy it is to get around in Taiwan. Even if English isn’t widely spoken outside the big cities, you can always rely on Google Translate or have key addresses written in Mandarin. Here are the cities to visit in Taiwan:
Taipei – Kick off your trip in the capital. Take the elevator up Taipei 101 for insane city views, devour world-famous soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung, and explore Shilin or Raohe Night Market for stinky tofu, scallion pancakes, and bubble tea (yep, it started here). For sunset vibes, hike up Elephant Mountain for a killer view.
Jiufen – This hillside village looks straight out of a movie. Think red lanterns, cozy teahouses, and sea views everywhere. Don’t skip Jiufen Old Street where you can munch on taro balls and peanut ice cream wraps.
Taichung – Artsy and chill, this city is full of colourful spots like Rainbow Village, cute handmade markets at Shen Ji New Village, and Fengjia Night Market for all the street food you can handle.
Tainan – The oldest city in Taiwan and a total food heaven. Slurp beef soup, try coffin bread, wander Anping Old Street, and discover hidden cafés like Narrow Door Café tucked down tiny alleyways.
Taiwan is very safe, but it’s still smart to stay aware. Violent crime is rare, though you should watch your belongings in crowded spots like night markets. Keep key numbers handy, 110 for police and 119 for medical or fire emergencies, and dress modestly if you visit temples. You can explore at night without worry, just stay alert and trust your instincts.
Also read: Must-Visit Meteor Garden Filming Spots in Taiwan for Filipino Fans
Taiwan is safer and super accessible!
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Compared to Japan, Taiwan is much easier on the wallet, though it is still a bit pricier than other Southeast Asian countries. Street food is everywhere, from bubble tea to scallion pancakes and stinky tofu, so you can eat like a local without worrying about overspending. Bonus for Pinoy shoppers: branded shoes and fashion items are often cheaper in Taiwan than in the Philippines.
Even if you want a more comfortable stay, Taiwan has options for all kinds of travellers. You can stay in boutique hotels, join small group tours to Jiufen or Taroko Gorge, or enjoy rooftop bars and fancy dining in Taipei. On a budget, you can still experience all the food, culture, and vibrant city vibes by hopping between Taipei, Taichung, and Tainan. For Pinoy travellers, Taiwan strikes the perfect balance of safety, adventure, and affordability.
How to make the most of your solo travel in Taiwan
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Also read: Best time to Visit Taiwan Based on Weather
The best time to visit Taiwan is outside the typhoon season from June to August. Aim for March to May or September to November when the weather is cooler, the skies are clearer, and the crowds are smaller. This makes it perfect for exploring without feeling crushed in a night market or hiking in sweat. Solo travel here does not mean you will be lonely. Locals are super friendly and willing to help, and even if English is not widely spoken outside big cities, apps like Google Translate or having key addresses in Mandarin makes getting around easy.
You can meet other travellers in plenty of ways. Join group walking tours in Taipei or Tainan, sign up for food or hiking trips with fellow travellers, or stay in social hostels with common lounges. For Pinoys looking to try solo travel, Taiwan is basically the perfect starter spot. It is close, safe, and affordable, with endless food, culture, and adventure. From catching skyline views at Taipei 101 to slurping noodles in buzzing night markets or chilling in lantern-lit alleys, Taiwan proves that travelling alone can be fun, social, and totally unforgettable.
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