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Showing posts with label Asia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Asia. Show all posts

In a significant move aimed at boosting its tourism sector, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has officially announced new visa-free privileges for Indian nationals entering the country for tourism purposes.



These updated policies, effective since June 8, 2025, are set to open up the popular Southeast Asian destination to a wider segment of the Indian travel market.

The new regulations introduce two distinct visa-free entry options for Indian tourists, catering to different travel needs and existing visa statuses.

If you consider visiting as a tourist, here's Everything You Need to Know Before Going to the Philippines!

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1. 14-Day Visa-Free Entry for General Tourism

Indian nationals can now enter the Philippines without a visa for a period of 14 days. This privilege is non-extendible and non-convertible to other visa types. To avail of this, travelers must present:

  • A passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond their intended stay.

  • Confirmed hotel accommodation or booking.

  • Proof of financial capacity to support their trip.

  • A confirmed return or onward ticket to their next country of destination.




2. 30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Holders of Select Valid Visas (AJACSSUK)

For Indian nationals who hold valid and current visas or residence permits from specific developed countries, the Philippines offers an extended visa-free stay of 30 days. This applies to those with valid visas from American, Japanese, Australian, Canadian, Schengen, Singapore, or United Kingdom (AJACSSUK) jurisdictions. Like the 14-day privilege, this 30-day entry is non-extendible and non-convertible. Requirements include:

  • A passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond their contemplated stay.

  • Their valid and current AJACSSUK visa or residence permit.

  • A confirmed return or onward ticket to their next country of destination.

The DFA clarified that these updated visa-free privileges can be availed at any Philippine port of entry. It is crucial for all Indian nationals utilizing these privileges to ensure they do not have any derogatory records with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to guarantee smooth admission into the country.



It's important to note that these visa-free policies are strictly for tourism purposes. Indian nationals intending to transit through the Philippines, or those planning long-term visits or engaging in non-tourism activities such as work or study, are still required to apply for the appropriate Philippine visa at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate in their country of origin or legal residence.



Furthermore, the DFA reminds the public that Indian nationals eligible for e-Visas can continue to apply through the official Philippine e-Visa website, evisa.gov.ph. Similar to the visa-free entries, e-Visas are also not extendable or convertible to other visa-based stay or admission status categories.

This strategic policy shift by the Philippine government is anticipated to significantly boost tourism arrivals from India, a growing outbound travel market, and strengthen the ties between the two nations.



Philippines Grants Visa-Free Entry to Indian Tourists


Taiwan is a destination that captivates the heart of every traveler with its rich cultural heritage, modern cities, scenic nature spots, and delicious street food. For Filipino tourists, Taiwan offers a mix of comfort and adventure, affordability and charm, and most importantly, visa-free access (as of 2025) that makes it one of the most convenient international getaways from the Philippines. If you are planning a Taiwan trip and don’t know where to begin, this ultimate travel guide is for you.

Me in Taipei

Packed with practical information, detailed itineraries, personal experience, and helpful tips, this long-form blog is tailored to give Filipino travelers a thorough and enjoyable preparation for their journey to the heart of East Asia.

2025 UPDATE: Taiwan Extends Visa-Free Entry for Philippine Passport Holders Until 2026



Getting to Taiwan from the Philippines

Flying to Taiwan from the Philippines is very straightforward, especially from Metro Manila. Several airlines, including Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, Philippine Airlines, and China Airlines, offer direct flights from NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) to Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), which is Taiwan’s main international gateway.

NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport

The average flight duration is approximately 2 hours, making it a short-haul international destination suitable for both quick getaways and longer vacations. These airlines regularly offer promotional fares, so it's wise to monitor seat sales and book tickets at least two to three months in advance to secure the lowest possible fares.

Goodbye Manila

For example, during a promo season, you can score roundtrip tickets for as low as PHP 3,500 to PHP 6,000.



Touchdown Taiwan!

Once you arrive at Taoyuan International Airport, you can conveniently take the Airport MRT to downtown Taipei, which takes around 35 to 45 minutes.

Us on Taoyuan Airport MRT

Alternatively, you can ride the Kuo-Kuang Airport Bus, which operates 24/7 and takes you directly to Taipei Main Station for just NT$133 per person.

Kuo-Kuang Bus to Taipei

This is a convenient and budget-friendly option, especially if you arrive late at night or prefer a direct ride without transfers. Both MRT and bus are clean, safe, and foreigner-friendly, with English signs.

Visit my guide on How to Travel from Manila to Taipei to learn more.


Things To Do Upon Arrival at Taoyuan Airport Before Going to Taipei

Once you land at Taoyuan International Airport, take a few important steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your Taiwan adventure:

Go Through Immigration and Baggage Claim
  • Be ready with your Philippine passport, return ticket, and hotel booking. Immigration officers may ask a few questions about your trip.

Try Your Luck at Lucky Land
  • Find the Lucky Land booth at the arrival hall, where tourists can try winning NT$5,000 worth of e-vouchers. You can use it on either accommodation or purchases at selected stores all over the country. 

Buy or Claim Your EasyCard
  • The EasyCard is your all-in-one transportation card for MRT, buses, YouBike, and even convenience stores. You can purchase it at the Airport MRT station or 7-Eleven/FamilyMart.

Get a Local SIM Card or Pocket Wi-Fi
  • Stay connected by purchasing a local SIM card with unlimited data or renting a pocket Wi-Fi. There are telecom counters right after customs—popular providers include Chunghwa, FarEasTone, and Taiwan Mobile. You can order eSIMs from Airalo or Klook.

Withdraw or Exchange Money
  • Although Taiwan is becoming more digital, cash is still king in night markets and small stores. You can withdraw TWD from airport ATMs using international debit/credit cards or exchange currency at money changers inside the arrival hall.

How Much is 1 New Taiwan Dollar (NT$)?
  • As of writing, the exchange rates are approximately:

    • 1 New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) = 0.0333 US Dollar (USD)
    • 1 New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) = 1.8545 Philippine Peso (PHP)



Compare Air Fares

A quick and easy way to do this is to use flight search engines A.K.A airfare comparison sites. Get started by following the steps below:

Step 1: Visit the best flight search engines listed below (click the links to open a new tab).

Step 2: Enter your destinations and travel dates to compare airfares.

Step 3: Go back to this page and select another flight search engine.

Step 4: Repeat steps #2 & #3 until you visit all sites listed.

Step 5: Review the airfare results to find out which airline/site offers the cheapest prices. Take note of all the airlines listed. Use the “Filter” feature to see a list of airlines that fly to your destination.


Taiwan Visa-Free Entry for Filipinos (As of 2025)

One of the biggest advantages for Filipino travelers is the visa-free entry to Taiwan. As of 2025, Philippine passport holders are allowed to stay in Taiwan for up to 14 days without a visa. This policy, which has been renewed several times in recent years, has significantly boosted tourism between the two countries.


To be eligible, travelers must present a valid Philippine passport (with at least 6 months validity), a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation (like a hotel booking), and occasionally, proof of financial capacity or travel itinerary.

It's always a good practice to visit the official website of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines before your trip to double-check for any recent changes to the visa-free policy. Immigration officers at Taiwan’s entry points are generally courteous but may ask a few questions about your travel plans, so it’s helpful to have your hotel booking and flight details readily accessible.


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What to Pack for Taiwan

Packing for Taiwan requires a bit of planning, especially considering that the country has four distinct seasons. For most of the year, lightweight clothing is fine, but you should always bring a jacket or sweater because temperatures can drop, especially during spring and fall. Taiwan weather can be unpredictable—a sunny morning can quickly turn into a rainy afternoon, so packing a compact umbrella or raincoat is essential.

Us boarding for our flight to TPE

A good pair of walking shoes is a must, especially since you will be walking a lot while exploring night markets, tourist spots, and natural parks. Bring a reusable water bottle because Taiwan is very eco-conscious and has many public water refill stations. Don’t forget your power bank, phone charger, and a universal adapter since Taiwan uses Type A and B power sockets.


Best Time to Visit Taiwan

Taiwan is a year-round destination, but some seasons are more favorable depending on the kind of experience you want. Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit due to the mild temperatures and the chance to see cherry blossoms in full bloom. Parks and mountains turn vibrant with colors, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Fall (September to November) is another great season. The weather is cool and comfortable, perfect for city exploration and countryside tours. Rain is less frequent, and the humidity levels are low.

Taipei on a cloudy and rainy day

Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with occasional typhoons, so it’s best to pack light clothes and always check the weather forecast. Winter (December to February) is chilly but rarely drops below 10°C in Taipei. However, if you go to the mountains, you may even experience snow.

Festivals such as the Lantern Festival (February) and Mid-Autumn Festival (September) offer cultural immersion and beautiful night views. Always consider these events when planning your trip, as they can add a unique touch to your travel experience.



How to Get Around Taiwan

Getting around Taiwan is easy thanks to its efficient, modern, and foreigner-friendly transportation system. In Taipei, the MRT is your best friend. It connects all major attractions and districts, is extremely clean and punctual, and has English signage everywhere. Buy an EasyCard at any MRT station or convenience store; it works on buses, MRT, trains, and even ferries.

My EasyCard I ordered from Klook app

For intercity travel, Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR) connects Taipei to the southern city of Kaohsiung in just under two hours. It’s fast, clean, and scenic. Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) trains serve smaller towns and coastal regions not covered by the HSR.

Buses are a budget-friendly option and are available in both cities and provinces. For convenience, use the Bus+ app, Google Maps, or Apple Maps, which provide real-time updates. Taxis and Uber are widely available in Taipei, but make sure to have your destination written in Chinese characters if your driver doesn’t speak English.

Rainbow Bridge over Keelung River | Photo from Travel Taipei

For more adventurous or longer stays, consider renting a scooter or even a bicycle through Taiwan's YouBike sharing program.


Where to Stay in Taiwan

Choosing where to stay in Taiwan depends on your travel style and planned itinerary. Taipei, the capital city, is the most popular base for travelers. The city has a wide range of accommodations from luxury hotels and business inns to budget hostels and stylish Airbnb apartments.

Ximending Shopping Area

In Taipei, Ximending is perfect for first-time visitors. It's a youthful, vibrant area with countless food stalls, shopping spots, and easy MRT access. Zhongzheng is more central and historical, ideal for those interested in museums and government landmarks. Xinyi District is modern and upscale, home to Taipei 101 and high-end malls. Daan offers a quieter, greener atmosphere with parks and cozy cafes.

Hotel Riverview Taipei

Popular hotel choices include Amba Taipei Ximending, Hotel Papa Whale, CityInn Hotel Plus, and various Airbnb options near MRT stations. Booking accommodations early, especially during weekends or festivals, ensures better rates and more choices.



Must-Visit Attractions and Day Trips from Taipei

Taipei itself is home to several must-see tourist attractions. Start with the iconic Taipei 101—once the tallest building in the world, it remains a symbol of Taiwan's modernity and offers a jaw-dropping panoramic view from the observation deck. Just below it is a luxurious shopping mall and Din Tai Fung's flagship branch where you can taste world-famous xiao long bao (soup dumplings).

Taipei 101 at night

Nearby is Elephant Mountain, a short but steep hike that rewards you with some of the best views of the Taipei skyline, especially during sunset. In the city center, explore Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, the National Palace Museum, and the sprawling Daan Forest Park. Don’t miss the changing of the guards at CKS Memorial for a bit of tradition and ceremony.

Daan Forest Park

From Taipei, you can easily plan day trips to Yehliu Geopark, famous for its rock formations including the Queen’s Head, or Jiufen, an old mining town that inspired the setting of Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.

Yehliu Geopark

You can also head to Shifen to release sky lanterns or take a more nature-centric trip to Wulai, known for its waterfalls, riverside hot springs, and indigenous culture.

Wulai Old Street

These day trips are accessible via public transportation such as local trains, buses, and the MRT. If you're traveling with a group or want more convenience, booking a private or group tour via Klook or KKDay is also highly recommended.

Wulai


More Taiwan Tourist Spots

  • Taichung: Rainbow Village, Gaomei Wetlands

  • Tainan: Historic temples and ancient fortresses

  • Kaohsiung: Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Center

  • Hualien: Taroko Gorge

  • Nantou: Sun Moon Lake, Qingjing Farm

  • Alishan: Alishan Forest Railway and sunrise views

  • Taitung: East Rift Valley and Pacific coastline


Food and Night Market Guide

Taiwan is a haven for foodies. Its street food culture is vibrant and affordable, and night markets are at the heart of the local experience.

Shilin Night Market

The most famous one is Shilin Night Market in Taipei, where you can try oversized fried chicken, stinky tofu, bubble tea, oyster omelets, and grilled squid. Raohe Night Market is another must-visit, smaller but packed with amazing food including pepper buns baked in a clay oven.

Me trying Taiwan Chicken

In Ximending, you'll find trendy snacks like flaming beef cubes, rainbow cheese toast, and Taiwanese fried milk. Don’t forget to try the original bubble tea at Chun Shui Tang or Hanlin Tea Room.

For breakfast, seek out local chains like Fu Hang Soy Milk, where long lines prove just how good traditional Taiwanese breakfast can be.

Dining in Taiwan is generally affordable. A filling meal at a night market can cost you around TWD 100-200 (PHP 180-360), and convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart also offer surprisingly good bento boxes and snacks.



Sample 5-Day Taiwan Itinerary for Filipinos

Here's a well-balanced sample itinerary based on personal experience and Filipino travel habits, including food trips, cultural stops, nature sightseeing, and a bit of shopping.

Taipei 101

Day 1: Arrival and Taipei City Exploration


Arrival at Taoyuan Airport → take Airport MRT or bus to Taipei

Check in at your hotel in Ximending

Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Explore Ximending Night Market and try street food: fried chicken, flame-grilled beef cubes, bubble tea

Optional: Watch a local movie or street performances

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Day 2: Northern Taiwan Day Trip (Jiufen & Shifen)


Take a train to Ruifang Station → transfer to Jiufen Old Street

Visit the iconic tea houses, try taro balls and fish balls

Head to Shifen Waterfall and release a sky lantern at Shifen Old Street

Return to Taipei in the evening

Night Market stop: Raohe Street Night Market

Sky lantern release at Shifen Old Street

Day 3: Taipei Landmarks and Culture


Morning hike to Elephant Mountain for a panoramic city view

Explore Taipei 101 Observatory Deck and food court at Taipei 101 Mall

Afternoon visit to the National Palace Museum

Enjoy dinner at Din Tai Fung (original branch or Taipei 101 branch)

Walk around Daan Park or shop at nearby malls in Xinyi

Me at Taipei 101 89F observation deck

Day 4: Nature and Relaxation in Wulai


Take MRT + bus to Wulai (hot springs town)

Explore Wulai Waterfall, ride the mini-train

Soak in a hot spring bath (many budget options or riverside free dips)

Return to Taipei and have a light dinner near your hotel

Optional: Late night stroll along Tamsui Riverside Park or visit a cat café

Wulai Waterfall

Day 5: Last-minute Shopping and Departure


Quick breakfast at Fu Hang Soy Milk (or a convenience store bento)

Do last-minute shopping at Carrefour or Ximending

Head to Taoyuan Airport via Airport MRT or bus

Departure back to Manila

Pro tip: Always leave 3 to 4 hours buffer time before your return flight, especially if using public transport to the airport.

Taipei Metro

Budget Breakdown

Here’s a sample budget breakdown for your 5-day Taiwan trip. This estimate is ideal for budget to mid-range travelers who want comfort but also value-for-money experiences:


Sample 5-Day Taiwan Trip Budget (Per Person)


✈️ Roundtrip Airfare:
  • ₱4,000 – ₱8,000
  • Promo fare from Cebu Pacific / AirAsia (book 2-3 months in advance)

🏨 Accommodation (4 nights):
  • ₱4,500 – ₱8,000
  • Budget hotel or 2–3 star Airbnb (₱1,100–₂,000 per night)

🍽️ Food & Drinks:
  • ₱3,000 – ₱4,500
  • ₱600–₱900 per day (street food, night markets, cafes, 7-Eleven meals)

🚇 Transportation:
  • ₱1,200 – ₱1,800
  • EasyCard top-up, Airport MRT, local buses, possible TRA trips

🏞️ Entrance Fees/Tours:
  • ₱800 – ₱1,500
  • Taipei 101 Observatory, Yehliu, hot springs, or Jiufen/Shifen day tours

📱 SIM Card / Wi-Fi:
  • ₱400 – ₱800
  • 5-day unlimited data SIM or pocket Wi-Fi rental

🛍️ Souvenirs & Extras:
  • ₱1,000 – ₱2,000
  • Local snacks, souvenirs, personal shopping

✅ Total Estimated Budget:
  • ₱14,900 – ₱26,600 for 5 days in Taiwan per person.

Tip: Always bring a small emergency fund (₱2,000–₱5,000) in case of unexpected expenses, especially if you plan to splurge on activities, branded shopping, or upgrade accommodations.

A-Mei Tea House in Jiufen | Photo by Where and Wander

Tips for Your Taiwan Adventure


Stay connected: Consider buying a local SIM card or renting a pocket Wi-Fi at the airport.

Learn a few basic Mandarin words: Simple phrases like "Ni hao" (hello), "Xie xie" (thank you), and "Zhe ge duō shǎo qián?" (how much is this?) go a long way.

Keep change and coins: Small shops and bus fares often require exact amounts.

Respect local customs: Taiwanese people are polite, orderly, and environmentally conscious—return the favor.

Bring a reusable bag: Plastic bags are not free in stores.

Always have your EasyCard: It’s your key to hassle-free transportation and small purchases.

Take your time: Taiwan is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, with time to explore side streets, hidden temples, and local eats.

Whether you're visiting Taiwan for the first time or returning for more, this fascinating country will always have something new to offer. With the right planning and an open heart, your Taiwan adventure is sure to be unforgettable.

Wulai

Is There a Philippine Embassy in Taiwan?

While the Philippines and Taiwan do not have formal diplomatic relations due to the Philippines' One-China Policy, the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) serves as the Philippines' representative office in Taiwan.

MECO functions as a de facto embassy, performing consular services and protecting the interests of Filipinos in Taiwan. It handles matters such as:

  • Issuance and renewal of passports
  • Visa applications for Taiwanese nationals visiting the Philippines
  • Assistance to Filipino workers and residents
  • Promotion of trade, investment, and cultural exchanges

MECO has its main office in Taipei and also maintains extension offices in Kaohsiung and Taichung to better serve the Filipino community across Taiwan. See the List of MECO Offices to learn more.

Its counterpart in the Philippines is the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), located in Makati City.



Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Taiwan

Taiwan is more than just a travel destination—it’s a complete experience. From modern convenience to cultural depth, peaceful landscapes to bustling markets, this East Asian gem is an underrated favorite for travelers. The short travel time, visa-free entry, and friendly locals make it accessible. But what makes Taiwan truly special is its unique balance between old-world traditions and futuristic cities.

This is me during my visit in May 2025

Whether you're a food lover, a nature explorer, a cultural seeker, or just someone looking for a memorable barkada or family trip, Taiwan has something for you. So prepare your EasyCard, pack your umbrella and appetite, and let Taiwan surprise you with its warm hospitality and vibrant culture.


WHERE TO NEXT?


The Ultimate Taiwan Travel Guide: Itinerary, Tips, and Must-See Attractions


Taipei, the bustling capital city of Taiwan, lies roughly 1,180 kilometers north of Manila, making it one of the closest international destinations for Filipino travelers.

A direct flight from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes—shorter than most domestic flights to Davao or Cebu!

Us boarding for our flight to TPE

Whether you’re a first-time international traveler or a seasoned adventurer looking for something new, Taipei offers an easy, fun, and culture-rich escape from the Philippines.

RELATED: A Guide to NAIA Terminal 3 Amenities, Departure and Arrival Protocols



Why Visit Taipei if You’re a Filipino?

There are plenty of reasons why Taipei is an ideal destination for Filipinos—especially if you’re traveling on a budget or exploring East Asia for the first time: 

Me in Taipei

Visa-Free Entry: As of writing, Filipino passport holders can enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 14 days until July 31, 2025. That’s more time to explore without worrying about the cost and paperwork of visa applications.

Short and affordable flights: Airlines such as Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia frequently offer seat sales, making round-trip tickets accessible for most travelers. 

Great food and shopping: Taiwanese street food, bubble tea, and trendy shopping streets like Ximending and Shilin Night Market are heaven for foodies and shopaholics. 

Modern yet cultural: The city blends modern efficiency with deep cultural roots—expect fast trains and WiFi alongside temples and tea houses. 

Clean, safe, and commuter-friendly: Taipei’s mass transit system (MRT) is organized, foreigner-friendly, and very safe even late at night.

Walking at night in Ximending

Check out my Wulai DIY Day Tour Guide ✅

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Before Going to Taipei: What Filipino Travelers Need to Prepare 

Filipino tourists flying abroad—especially for the first time—must comply with specific requirements to pass immigration checks and ensure a smooth travel experience. 


Basic Travel Requirements


I made sure to prepare the following before our flight:

  • Valid Philippine Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay) 
  • Confirmed return ticket to the Philippines 
  • Hotel booking confirmation for the entire stay 
  • Detailed travel itinerary 


Supporting Documents You May Need


Since I wasn’t employed at the time, I didn’t have a COE (Certificate of Employment) or ITR (Income Tax Return). However, if you’re employed in the Philippines, bringing these documents helps prove financial capacity and ties to the country. 

To be safe, I also prepared:





Online Travel Requirements Before Flying


You’ll also need to complete a few online forms before your flight. These forms are usually processed 2–3 days before departure:

Taiwan Arrival Card – Must be filled out before arriving in Taiwan.

Philippines eTravel – Required for both departure and arrival in the Philippines.

Lucky Land Promo Registration – A tourism initiative from Taiwan that lets you win NT$5,000 e-vouchers as a tourist.

Sample of Taiwan Online Arrival Card


Important Tips for the Philippine Immigration Interview


Once you’re at the airport, the biggest hurdle for many Filipino travelers is the Immigration Interview. Based on experience, it wasn’t as intimidating as I thought, but being prepared helped a lot. 

Immigration

What You Should Know:

  • Memorize your passport number, expiration date, and flight details 
  • Be ready to explain your purpose of travel (leisure or tourism) 
  • Be clear about who you’re traveling with (solo or group) 
  • Know the number of days you’ll be abroad
  • Stay calm and answer confidently but honestly 

In my case, the Immigration Officer was straightforward, asked about the trip, and after confirming my documents, I was cleared in less than five minutes.


Compare Air Fares

A quick and easy way to do this is to use flight search engines A.K.A airfare comparison sites. Get started by following the steps below:

Step 1: Visit the best flight search engines listed below (click the links to open a new tab).

Step 2: Enter your destinations and travel dates to compare airfares.

Step 3: Go back to this page and select another flight search engine.

Step 4: Repeat steps #2 & #3 until you visit all sites listed.

Step 5: Review the airfare results to find out which airline/site offers the cheapest prices. Take note of all the airlines listed. Use the “Filter” feature to see a list of airlines that fly to your destination.


Our Manila to Taipei Travel Experience



Booking and Pre-Flight Prep


We booked a Cebu Pacific flight from NAIA Terminal 3 to Taoyuan International Airport. It was scheduled for a Wednesday midnight, which was perfect for travelers like us who wanted to maximize our first day in Taipei. 

Us with our friend, Gelo

I was traveling with my wife and a couple of friends, so we made sure to arrive at the airport 3 to 4 hours before our scheduled departure. At that hour, NAIA Terminal 3 was already buzzing with passengers and airport staff.

Every entry you should show your plane ticket

The moment we got off the taxi, airport personnel approached us asking for our flight information. Thankfully, I had a digital copy of our ticket ready on my phone.

RELATED: NAIA New Terminal Assignments


Check-In Process


Since we were all traveling light with no checked baggage, we were guided to the Documents Check counter instead of the regular check-in lines. There, we presented our passports, had our documents reviewed, and were promptly given our boarding passes. 

Cebu Pacific Document Check counter

From there, we headed to the Immigration area, where each of us was interviewed separately. My interview was simple: the officer asked about our flight and the purpose of travel.

This is the moment!

He wasn’t intimidating—more like doing a routine check—and I was relieved to get cleared quickly.




Security Check & Boarding Gate


After immigration, we passed through a strict security screening—even shoes had to be removed!

Took off shoes at the security check

All gadgets were placed in trays. Once cleared, we walked toward our boarding gate: Gate 105. Terminal 3’s long alley felt endless, but the good news was there were many open shops, souvenir stores, and restaurants, even at 10 PM. 

Stores inside Terminal 3 departure

We had a quick dinner at Kenny Rogers, though the prices were noticeably higher than regular branches outside the airport.

Going to Gate 105

Along the way, we saw walkalators, charging ports, restrooms, and free WiFi—definitely a more pleasant pre-departure experience than I expected. 

I spotted a kids playground at the departure hall in T3

In-Flight Experience


We finally boarded a few minutes before midnight. Cebu Pacific’s flight was on time, and it was a short and uneventful journey. In just 1 hour and 30 minutes, we touched down at Taoyuan International Airport Terminal 1 around 1:00 AM. 

Goodbye Manila


Airline Promo Fares

If you are looking for cheap flights in the Philippines, see airlines listed below or view all promo fares:


Arrival in Taipei: What Happens After Landing 



Airport Immigration & Facilities


Upon arrival, the airport felt almost deserted—quiet and eerily clean. Most shops were closed at that hour, with only vending machines operating.

Arrival hall at Taoyuan Airport T1

We proceeded to the Immigration area, where we simply presented our passports. There was barely any conversation; they scanned our documents and let us through smoothly. 

Taiwan’s e-Gates were particularly impressive. You just scan your passport, take a quick selfie, and that’s it. No need to line up if you’re eligible for automated entry. 

Baggage carousel area

We walked past the baggage claim area and waited for our friends who took a bit longer at immigration.

Making withdrawals from Bank of Taiwan ATM

We then looked for an ATM machine, and I found a Bank of Taiwan ATM near the South Meeting Point, where I was able to withdraw cash using my SeaBank card.

We opted to withdraw NT$ 10,000 for the 3-day trip in Taiwan

Visit my Taoyuan International Airport ATM Locator and Currency Exchange Guide to know more.


Trying Our Luck at Lucky Land


We also spotted the Lucky Land booth, where tourists can try winning NT$5,000 worth of e-vouchers. Out of all of us, only one friend got lucky, but it was a fun experience either way. 

Taiwan Lucky Land Booth

Our friend won NT$ 5,000 Lucky Land e-voucher


How We Got to Taipei City at 2AM 

By the time we were ready to leave the airport, it was already past 2AM. The Airport MRT wasn’t running yet, so our only options were taxi/Uber or bus. Wanting to save money, we opted for the Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport Bus heading to Taipei Main Station. 

Transfer signage from TPE first level

READ MORE: How to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei, Taichung & More (by Train, Bus & Taxi)


Where to Catch the Bus


We went to the basement level, where there’s a 7-Eleven (yes, it was open!) and ticketing counters.

A 7-Eleven store at Taoyuan Airport basement

An elderly man was manning the Kuo-Kuang counter, and he sold us tickets for NT$133 per person.

Kuo-Kuang Bus Ticket to Taipei

Luckily, there was a bus ready to leave, so we didn’t have to wait long.

Kuo-Kuang Bus to Taipei

The bus was spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned. There's a restroom inside like the one in Solid North luxury bus to Baguio. There's free Wi-Fi, too!

Inside Kuo-Kuang Bus

In about an hour, we arrived at Taipei Main Station. 


Taxi to Ximending: Final Leg to Our Hotel

Instead of Taipei Main Station, we were dropped off Taipei Bus Station which is connected to Taipei Main Station

Taipei Bus Station

From here, we hailed a taxi to our hotel in Ximending, which was just about 6 minutes away.

Us catching a taxi ride in front of Taipei Bus Station

The fare was NT$200 for the three of us, but we later realized an Uber would have cost only NT$100. Still, it was early morning and we were tired, so we were just glad to finally get to our hotel. 

Finally arrived at our hotel

We stayed here for three days, and while the accommodation and service were pleasant, I wouldn’t recommend this hotel if you’re looking for a more convenient location near Ximending. You might want to check out my list of 10 Best Hotels to Book in Ximending, Taipei.


3-Day Itinerary in Taipei for First-Time Filipino Travelers 

This sample itinerary is perfect for those visiting Taipei for the first time and want to experience a mix of culture, food, and modern attractions. 

Taipei City from Taipei 101 89F

Day 1: Culture + Night Market Adventure


Morning: 

Afternoon:
  • Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
  • Explore the National Theater and Concert Hall
  • Stroll around 228 Peace Memorial Park

Evening:
  • Head to Shilin Night Market – Taiwan’s biggest and most famous
  • Try iconic street foods: stinky tofu, large fried chicken, bubble tea 
  • Shop for souvenirs and cute finds

Shilin Night Market

Day 2: Nature, Views & Shopping


Morning:
  • Ride the MRT to Taipei Zoo Station
  • Take the Maokong Gondola for panoramic mountain views
  • Enjoy a tea break at a Maokong teahouse

Afternoon:

Evening:

Taipei 101 Observatory

Day 3: Day Trip + Food Trip


Morning: 
  • Take a train or bus to Jiufen Old Street – a magical mountain village that inspired Spirited Away
  • Sample taro balls, fish balls, peanut ice cream roll

Afternoon:

Evening: 
  • Final food trip at Raohe Night Market
  • Head back to the hotel, pack, and prepare for departure

A-Mei Tea House in Jiufen | Photo by Where and Wander

Estimated Budget for a 3-Day Taipei Trip (Per Person) 



Tip: Always check exchange rates. As of writing, ₱1 = NT$0.56 (or NT$1 = ₱1.78)


SIM Card or eSIM for Taipei


Option 1: Physical SIM Card
  • Purchase at Taoyuan Airport or online in advance (Klook, KKDay) 
  • Common providers: Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile 
  • Cost: Around NT$300–NT$500 for 3–5 days of unlimited data

Option 2: eSIM
  • Ideal for newer iPhones or Android devices with eSIM capability 
  • Buy online and activate via QR code before you arrive 
  • No need to swap SIMs! 
  • Recommended: Airalo, Klook eSIM, or Holafly
  • Cost: Similar to physical SIMs, around NT$300–NT$500 

Tip: Airport WiFi is free and fast, so you can download and activate your eSIM right after landing if needed. 


EasyCard: Your Best Travel Buddy in Taipei

The EasyCard is a contactless card used for: 

  • MRT and buses 
  • Maokong Gondola 
  • Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) 
  • Some vending machines and attractions 

Where to Buy: 

  • MRT stations, airport kiosks, or convenience stores 
  • Cost: NT$100 (non-refundable) + load amount



How Much to Load:
 
  • Load NT$400–NT$500 for 3 days(you can refund the remaining balance minus a small handling fee) 

How to Use:

  • Tap in and out when riding the MRT or bus 
  • Tap at counters when shopping

EasyCard

Final Tips for Filipinos Traveling to Taipei


Prepare both digital and printed copies of all travel documents.

Arrive early at the airport—especially if it’s your first international trip.

Have Taiwanese Dollars (NT$) ready, or withdraw from ATMs at the airport.

Don’t forget to register online for eTravel and Taiwan Arrival Card.

Taipei is walkable and safe, so bring comfy shoes, a loaded EasyCard, and a working SIM/eSIM 

Me chilling on a street bench

Conclusion

With visa-free entry, affordable flights, and endless things to explore, Taipei is a fantastic travel destination for Filipinos looking for a short international trip.

Our journey from Manila to Taipei was smooth, fun, and memorable—and yours can be too. Whether you’re after culture, food, or just a different vibe, Taiwan welcomes you with open arms.

Visit my list of Frequently Asked Questions in Taiwan (FAQs) to learn more.


TAIWAN TRAVEL GUIDE: How to Travel from Manila to Taipei (For First Timers)

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