Welcome to another GO! Overseas featured destination. Our series continues with a look at Taiwan. As always we’ll start with some background on the country and, with your excitement building, we’ll finish with programs through which you can teach, study, or volunteer on the beautiful island of Taiwan!

Taiwan has seen its fortunes rise dramatically in recent decades as it has become a worldwide leader in information technology services. Along with Singapore, Hong Kong, and South Korea, Taiwan is one of the Four Asian Tigers, so named for their highly developed and industrialized economies. Of the four, Taiwan enjoys arguably the highest standard of living at the lowest cost. This makes the island an ideal location for those interested in teaching, studying or volunteering abroad.

Taiwan has become a very popular destination for ESL teachers. This is particularly true for recent college graduates searching for a quality lifestyle in a Mandarin speaking country. The expat community in Taipei (the capital of Taiwan) is lively and welcoming to new teachers. Most English teachers enjoy a very flexible schedule teaching kindergarten students in the morning, and elementary students in the afternoon. This leaves teachers with plenty of time to explore and experience all that Taiwan has to offer.

Taiwan also provides excellent opportunities to study Chinese culture and language. In fact, many feel Taiwan is a better place to learn Chinese than China itself. The local accent is easy to understand for beginners, and their writing system still uses Traditional characters. Mainland China has adopted a simplified character set - cutting you off from thousands of years worth of literature and art.

There are also many long-term volunteer opportunities in Taiwan aimed at nurturing stronger communities and youth development. This could be your chance to have a positive impact on the lives of others.

Living in Taiwan - What to Expect

Whether you are teaching, studying, or volunteering in Taiwan, you can expect to enjoy a unique and exciting lifestyle. Anyone who has spent time here will tell you Taiwanese people are extremely friendly and helpful toward foreigners. We challenge anyone to stand on a street corner with a map for more than five minutes without someone stepping forward to politely ask whether you need assistance!

Taiwan, however, is not without its own cultural traits, so here are some tips to help you adjust:

Magnificent temple in Taiwan.

• Addresses in Taiwan are a little confusing to understand at first. As you are learning to get around, take the business cards of any interesting restaurants or shops you find. When you’re ready to return simply hand the card to a taxi driver who can easily take you straight there.
• August through November is typhoon season in Taiwan. Expect heavy rain and wind, but otherwise there is usually not much to worry about. Most restaurants and stores will close during a typhoon, so it is a good idea to stock up on a little extra food just in case.
• Stinky tofu is a common Taiwanese delicacy that you may want to try. It really does stink, but the worse it smells, the better it tastes!
• Bring strong shoes able to survive heavy rain.
• Don’t bring or buy an expensive umbrella. There seems to be an unspoken agreement amongst Taiwanese that any umbrella left outside a restaurant or store is fair game.

Featured Blogger in Taiwan - My Several Worlds

One of the best ways to learn more about living abroad in Taiwan is to follow a blogger who is already there. There are many quality blogs in Taiwan, several of which are listed here. One blog you should put on your favorites tab is My Several Worlds by Carrie Kellenberger. Carrie has been teaching in Taiwan since 2006, and her blog is an excellent resource for information about living in Taiwan, and traveling throughout Asia.

Map of Taiwan

Teach in Taiwan


Teach in Taiwan with Reach To Teach

We Recommend: Teach in Taiwan with Reach To Teach
Where: Locations throughout Taiwan
The Lowdown: Do you enjoy travel? Do you enjoy being around children? Do you think you have what it takes to be a creative and inspirational teacher? If so, then teaching ESL (English as a Second Language) may be the perfect opportunity for you. Reach to Teach staff are all former ESL teachers from countries around the world. We understand the business and care about our teachers and their students. The schools we represent are among the best in the business. When you arrive at your school, our support does not end. We are there to help you through your exciting year of cultural challenges and adventures. We currently have many exciting opportunities in Taiwan. Reach to Teach is a FREE ESL (English as a Second Language)

Study in Taiwan


Study in Taiwan with CIEE

We Recommend: Study Abroad with CIEE in Taipei
Where: Taipei
The Lowdown: The goals of the Intensive Chinese Language and Culture program are to enhance students' Chinese language and research skills through experiential learning, lectures from scholars and professionals, and conducting oral interviews. These goals are accomplished through intensive language training use of traditional characters and specialized language electives coupled with critical inquiry on topics related to Taiwan and Chinese societies. The program is ideal for those who plan to utilize their language training and experiences in Taiwan as part of their long-term academic or career goals.

Volunteer in Taiwan


Volunteer in Taiwan with United Planet

We Recommend: Long-Term Projects in Taiwan with United Planet
Where: Taipei
The Lowdown: Work with people of all ages on an island with a true mix of modern and traditional aspect: Taiwan. Visit the ancient temples, learn about Buddhism, Taoism & Confucianism and visit the urban metropolis of Taipei.

Work at the St Theresa Opportunity Center with the disabled or create a joyous place for children of all ages to retreat to. Take a look at our wonderful opportunities so you can observe this unique and ever evolving culture.

Discover Related Content:

Why You Should Live in Taiwan, Teaching ESL in Taiwan, Why You Should Learn Chinese in Taiwan