Job Discussion Forums

OzBurn · Joined: 03 May 2004 Posts: 199

I am thinking about trying Taiwan starting late this summer. However, after looking at the Lonely Planet book on Taiwan, I am concerned about the prospect of burning through a lot of cash while I look at various locations. Under consideration are Taipei and Taitung as well as some other places. I think I'll be happier in a smaller place. The "budget" hotels in the LP book seem to run as high as $100 US. Can this be right? I'm not picky when I'm traveling -- I just want something clean with ample hot water and a comfortable mattress. Hostels are okay, although I'm not wild about them. Can't you find a decent hotel for $20-25 US?

Also, any ideas about teaching prospects in Taitung and other smaller cities? One guy I talked to said that the money is actually better outside of Taipei and the expenses are lower.

Thanks for any help you might be able to give.

TaoyuanSteve · Joined: 05 Feb 2003 Posts: 1028 Location: Taoyuan

DirtGuy · Joined: 28 Dec 2004 Posts: 529

I stayed in two hotels close to the train station in TP and both were quite reasonable. The first one cost me 1,000 NT per night and the second one was 750 NT per night. I actually liked the 2nd one better and plan to stay there again soon. Neither one was anything approaching luxurious but they were clean and well kept up. No prostitutes running around or anything like that. 5 minute walk to the train station.

The main thing I insist on is to be placed on whatever side of the building is quieter. Notice I said "quieter" and not "quiet." These terms are relative in a place like TP. And make sure you get instructed in how to use the A/C unit so you can at least turn on the fan. White noise such as this helps mask all sorts of unwanted sounds. Foam earplugs are also a good investment.

Contact me and I can give you directions if you like.

Dirt Guy

OzBurn · Joined: 03 May 2004 Posts: 199

Thanks for the info! I'll be finishing up here in a month or two and will no doubt be pestering you further as departure looms.

By the way, how much does very well paid indeed amount to these days?

Thanks again.

OzBurn

twinkletoes · Joined: 05 Jan 2005 Posts: 76

I suggest going to some of the other forums in my "so you have a few questions" thread and posting your questions there. The posters here are very knowledgeable, but you may as well increase your pool of people who can give you good information, especially since you're asking about small specific towns.

dangerousapple · Joined: 18 Apr 2006 Posts: 292

Most people concentrate on Northern Taiwan in their job search, but southern Taiwan is a huge market also (and growing). Pay is comparable to Taipei, with a lower cost of living. Not as much western stuff to do though...