Job Discussion Forums

marinacolleenmackay · Joined: 14 Mar 2008 Posts: 7

...with some information! My boyfriend and I are moving to Taiwan this July, and we have a lot of questions!

We are moving to the east coast to a place called Chingshui. We were wondering if anyone has been there before? From my understanding it is a rural community, and that sounds about right for us. However, what access will we have to grocery/corner stores, restaurants, and other amenities? We are okay with being out of the city and living next to the ocean. We am just wondering what day to day life could be like.
We also need a simple yes or no answer to this question: can we use our Canadian electronics in Taiwanese outlets? (ie. hair dryer, mini stereo) From what we have read, it is possible, but we want to make sure.
What kind of clothing did everyone bring with them, and what things are easy to get? We want to come prepared, but not overloaded with unnecessary items!
The internet... I have read conflicting posts! Does anyone know what is available to those in a rural community?

There are so many more questions, but it's hard to remember them all right now! Thanks to anyone who can help us with any of this!

(ps- anyone who hates living in Taiwan, and is going to be negative, need not reply!)

blackmagicABC · Joined: 03 Mar 2008 Posts: 68 Location: Taipei

If there is a telephone you have internet access. If there wasn't a telephone then how do you know about the place?
Taiwan probably has one of the highest number of people per capita with internet access in the world. trust me you can find it anywhere.
They also seem to have (non proven fact) the highest number of seven 11's.
If there are 3000 people in an area then President Chain store (or whatever they are called) will open a convenience store. As for restaurants, in the way you are used to it maybe no but will there be a place where you can point and purchase food? Hey this wouldn't be Taiwan if there wasn't. If you live here long enough you will probably prefer those places above normal restaurants.
If you buy a suitable adaptor you can use any electronic equipment in any country.
If you learn some Chinese while you are here you will have a ball.
If you get stuck PM me and I will gladly help you out.

marinacolleenmackay · Joined: 14 Mar 2008 Posts: 7

Thanks so much!
I figured we could get internet. I wasn't too worried.
Also, I am aware that you can buy suitable adaptors, but it reads that we have the same plugs. I was wondering if that was necessary for all electronics or if an adaptor was only needed for something like a computer cord.
When I say restaurants I just meant somewhere to grab a bite. Both my boyfriend and I are very aware that we are going to a different country. We know that it's know going to be at all like home, and that is why we are excited!
We are also interested in learning Mandarin while we are there, and I am sure if we are interested then it won't be a problem!
Thanks for your help!

Anyone out there heard of Chingshui?

773 · Joined: 29 May 2005 Posts: 213

I have never heard of Chingshui. If no one else on this board has either, you can try www.forumosa.com. It is a very active Taiwan board and I am sure someone on there will know!

Yes, the plug sockets and voltage are identical to the US and Canada, so you won't need adapters.

SanChong · Joined: 22 Nov 2005 Posts: 335

If it's the Chingshui I'm thinking of (and I'm pretty sure it must be!) it's north of Taichung. I'd say about 40 minutes or so via car or bus. It's really pretty rural; don't expect to have a lot of other foreigners in the town.
If it's what you are looking for, that should be fine though! Just be prepared for it, because I think feelings of isolation can sometimes take some people by surprise.

As for electronics, groceries, etc: You should have no problem at all, I'm sure there must be a Welcome mart (the supermarket chain in Taiwan) in Chingshui.

In general, don't stress about forgetting things. You really can find anything you need in Taiwan. It may take just a little longer to find, but it's there.

It's great to have some more positive people on the board. Remember to keep posting when you arrive in Taiwan!

blackmagicABC · Joined: 03 Mar 2008 Posts: 68 Location: Taipei

http://www.chinshui.gov.tw/english/index.htm

I know the spelling appears different but it is the same place. Nice area but not my cup of tea. I like the big city.
Sorry if my post sounded abrupt, I was in a hurry. Canadian and Taiwanese sockets andvoltage are the same but should you travel in Asia it is always better to buy an adaptor.
I also just realized I never answered your first question. The link should give you some info.

marinacolleenmackay · Joined: 14 Mar 2008 Posts: 7

Hey everyone!

Thanks again. It's great having a resource like this!

I am glad to know that someone has heard of Chingshui! We're totally ok with rural! We do have each other, and a dog we are inheriting from a friend who is leaving Taiwan and heading back to Canada. We really want to save some money and living away from the big cities may aid in this! (I know that Taiwan doesn't pay as well as Korea and we won't save as much there, but we don't care! We would rather live in Taiwan.)

BJ · Joined: 03 Dec 2003 Posts: 173

With the bad winter, you might want to bring a sweater just in case. If you are small in stature clothing is very cheap here. If large in stature, (over 40" waist, exceptionally tall or large footed etc, then I suggest bring more clothing/footware.
Most palces have seven 11's and erating paces here are on every street. Perhaps have your friend do a recon trip and check it out.

The rest has been covered well by BM, San, 733 I think.