Blog Archives

Bishan Campground and Bishan Temple 碧山露營場及碧山巖

8/18/2025

Bishan Campground (aka Bishan Camping Area) in Neihu District of Taipei City is the only free campground run by Taipei City (although it has an extension campground in Beitou). Near the campground is Bishan Temple, which has one of the best views of Taipei. Besides camping and temple worship, the area is also a popular hiking spot, and there are multiple tourist farms and tea shops to explore.

Planning your trip to Taipei?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

Best time to visit: March-May, and October - November when the temperatures are nice and there is not as much rain
How to get there: Taiwan High Speed Railway and Inter-City Bus
Best places to stay: Yuanshan Grand Hotel or Fu Chang Hotel
Book tours and activities in Taipei on Klook
Stay connected with a local SIM
Rent a car to explore distant sights

How to apply for a camping spot:
You can apply using this online form (sorry it's in Chinese):
https://gisweb.gov.taipei/TPCamp/Default.aspx
You must apply at least 7 days in advance, but no more than 30 days in advance.
You must log in using Taipei Tong App (臺北通), use a card reader for your NHI Card, or use a Taiwan cell phone.
You can check the status of the application online as well.

Price:
Free!

Utilities:

Free showers
Free electricity (one or two outlets)
Free parking
Bring your own tent, sleeping gear, and food.

Hours:
Camping time starts at 2 PM and ends at 1 PM the next day.
You can only stay for two nights at a time.

Tours and Activities:
You can book a ticket to the Neihu Strawberry Garden on KKday here.
You can look for more activities on Klook here or KKday here.

How to get there:
By Bus: You can take a bus to about 1 KM away from the campsite, but then you have to walk with all of that gear. If that's not what you want then you should take a taxi or your own vehicle. You can also book a Taipei Sightseeing: Hop On, Hop Off Open Top Bus on TripAdvisor here.
By Scooter/Car: From East Neihu, drive up Bishan Raod (碧山路) until you see the campground. It's hard to miss.
Looking for scooter rental in Taipei? You can search on Klook here or KKday here to search for options. You can also check out our scooter rental guide here.
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a Sunset Riverside Bike Ride and Historical Tour, 4 Hour Cycling in Taipei, Ultimate 8-Hour Cycling City Tour, or Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience on TripAdvisor here.
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here.

Map:
Please see below:

1 Comment

Taoyuan Night Market 桃園觀光夜市

8/3/2025

0 Comments

Taoyuan Tourist Night Market is a large night market in the center of downtown Taoyuan. Popular foods here include lamb soup, squid soup, fried chicken, and more. Even though it is a tourist night market, you will usually only find locals here. It is definitely worth a stop on your next trip to Taoyuan.

Planning your trip to Taoyuan?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

Best time to visit: Summer when it is warm and less windy
How to get there: Taiwan Railway and Inter-City Bus
Best places to stay: Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport or Fullon Hotel Taoyuan
Book tours and activities in Taoyuan on Klook
Stay connected with a local SIM
Rent a car to explore distant sights

Brief Historical Background:
Originally Taoyuan Night Market started near Jingfu Temple and branched out onto Zhongshan Road and was known as Zhongzheng Road Night Market. However because the night market obstructed important traffic routes, the night market was relocated twice before in 1988 it was moved to its current location on Beipu Road and Zhengkeng 2nd Street.
The night market is approximately 3 km long and has over 200 stalls. Most of the stalls sell local snacks, but there are also many clothing stores and children's gaming areas.
Popular foods here include Dingbiancuo, fried chicken, squid soup, oyster omelet, shaved ice, lamb soup, taro soup, rice cakes, and more.
You can also check out the commercial district on Zhongshan Road near the night market.

Hours:
5:30 PM to 12 midnight every day

Price:
Free

Where to stay:
Looking for a hotel in Taoyuan? We recommend the Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport which has great service and is conveniently located right next to Taoyuan Airport, the MRT, and HSR station (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here).
We also recommend the Fullon Hotel Taoyuan which also has great service and is located in downtown Taoyuan City (you can book on Agoda here or Booking.com here).
Looking for a hotel? We recommend booking through Booking.com here, which provides the best quality selection of accommodation in Taiwan.
Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

Activities in Taoyuan:
Ice Skating, Rock Climbing, Mountain Climbing, Cycling, High Ropes, Ziplining, Archery, Vietnamese BBQ, Batting Cages, Glamping, Van Camping, Photo Shoot, Turkish Mosaic DIY, Thai Massage, Painting, Baking, Go Karting, Imax Theater, Japanese Style Buffet, Tourist Factory Experience, peach and fruit picking, Ring-making DIY, handmade popsicle DIY, and more on on Tripadvisor here, Klook here, or KKday here.

How to get there:
By Car: Taoyuan Confucius Temple is behind Taoyuan Senior High School on Houtoushan. There is limited paid parking next to the temple.
If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here.
By Scooter: Taoyuan Confucius Temple is behind Taoyuan Senior High School on Houtoushan. There is limited paid parking next to the temple.
Looking for scooter rental in Taoyuan? Search Klook here or KKday here to look for options.
By Bus: The temple is within walking distance of Taoyuan TRA Station. You can book tickets to travel to Taoyuan via inter-city bus on Klook h ere. Book tickets via the normal train (TRA) on Klook here.
By Bicycle: Cycling is the best way to enjoy Taiwan's landscapes if you have the time and energy. Looking for bicycle rentals in Taiwan? You can use Taiwan's many Youbike sharing stations, or search for rentals on KKday here, and search for tours on Klook here. You can also check out our Taiwan cycling guide here. You can also book a cycling tour on TripAdvisor here.
For more information, check out our Taiwan transportation guide here.

Map:
Check out the map below:

0 Comments

Secure Your Health in Thailand: Long-Term Coverage Insights

8/2/2025

0 Comments

Living in Thailand as an expat or foreigner can be a thrilling experience, but it's crucial to prioritize your well-being. Understanding the local healthcare landscape is vital to making informed decisions about your health.

Thailand's healthcare system offers high-quality medical facilities and services. Still, navigating the complexities of insurance can be overwhelming. Choosing the right plan for long-term health coverage in Thailand is crucial to stay protected from unexpected medical costs.

This article aims to provide valuable insights into the importance of health coverage in Thailand, helping you make informed decisions about your health and financial security.

Understanding Thailand's Healthcare Landscape

Understanding the intricacies of Thailand's healthcare landscape is crucial for foreigners who are considering living in or visiting Thailand. The country's healthcare system is multifaceted, comprising both public and private healthcare providers.

Public vs. Private Healthcare Systems

Thailand's public healthcare system is well-developed, with a network of hospitals and clinics across the country. The public system is generally affordable, with low costs for consultations and treatments. However, the quality of care can vary, and some public facilities may not meet the standards that foreigners are accustomed to.

In contrast, Thailand's private healthcare system offers high-quality medical care, with modern facilities and English-speaking staff. Private hospitals are popular among foreigners and expatriates, who often prefer the personalized service and shorter waiting times.

Healthcare Standards for Foreigners

Foreigners in Thailand have access to a range of healthcare services, from routine check-ups to complex medical procedures. Many private hospitals in Thailand are accredited by international organizations, such as the Joint Commission International (JCI), ensuring that they meet global standards for patient care.

Many medical professionals in Thailand have received training abroad, ensuring a high level of expertise.
Private hospitals often have international patient departments that cater specifically to foreigners, providing assistance with language and cultural differences.
The quality of care in private hospitals is generally high, with modern equipment and facilities.

Common Medical Costs Without Insurance

Without insurance, medical costs in Thailand can vary widely, depending on the type of treatment required. Routine consultations and minor procedures are generally affordable, while more complex treatments, such as surgeries, can be costly.

For example, a consultation with a specialist can cost between 1,000 to 2,000 THB (approximately $30-$60 USD), while a minor surgical procedure might cost between 50,000 to 100,000 THB ($1,500-$3,000 USD).

Long-Term Health Coverage in Thailand: Options and Requirements

Navigating long-term health coverage in Thailand requires an understanding of the available insurance options and their requirements. For expatriates and locals alike, having the right health insurance is crucial for accessing quality healthcare.

Thai Private Insurance Plans

Thai private insurance plans offer a range of benefits tailored to the needs of both locals and foreigners. These plans can provide comprehensive coverage, including outpatient services, hospital stays, and even dental care. When selecting a Thai private insurance plan, it's essential to review the policy's coverage limits, deductibles, and any exclusions.

Some insurance providers in Thailand offer plans specifically designed for expatriates, taking into account their unique needs and often providing coverage in multiple languages.

International Health Insurance Options

International health insurance options provide global coverage, making them ideal for individuals who travel frequently or have family members residing in different countries. These plans often come with a higher premium but offer the advantage of worldwide coverage, including Thailand.

When choosing an international health insurance plan, consider factors such as the insurer's global reputation, the network of hospitals and healthcare providers, and the level of customer support.

Mandatory Coverage Requirements for Visa Holders

Certain visa holders in Thailand are required to have health insurance that meets specific minimum coverage requirements. For example, retirees on a retirement visa or "Smart Visa" holders may need to show proof of health insurance as part of their visa application.

It's crucial to check the specific requirements for your visa category and ensure that your health insurance plan complies with these regulations to avoid any issues with your visa status.

Emergency and Evacuation Coverage

Emergency and evacuation coverage is a vital component of a comprehensive health insurance plan, especially for those living in remote areas or with serious medical conditions. This coverage ensures that in the event of a medical emergency, you can be transported to a suitable medical facility, either within Thailand or to another country if necessary.

Review your insurance policy to understand what is covered under emergency and evacuation services, including the procedures for initiating an evacuation and any associated costs.

Maximizing Your Health Security in Thailand

To maximize health security in Thailand, it's essential to understand the available health insurance options and choose a plan that suits your needs. Thailand health insurance plans vary, offering different levels of coverage, including outpatient services, hospital stays, and emergency evacuations.

When selecting a health coverage plan, consider factors such as pre-existing condition coverage, deductible amounts, and the network of hospitals and healthcare providers. Health coverage for foreigners in Thailand should also include provisions for emergency medical evacuations, ensuring access to quality medical care when needed.

By carefully evaluating your health security needs and choosing the right Thailand health insurance plan, you can enjoy peace of mind while living or traveling in Thailand. Stay informed, and take control of your health security to make the most of your experience in this beautiful country.

0 Comments

Planning your trip to Taiwan?

Here are some top travel tips for you:

Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn when it is not too hot or cold and less rainy
How to get there: Plane tickets via Trip.com
Best places to stay can be found on Agoda
Book tours and activities in Taiwan on Klook
Stay connected with a local SIM
Rent a car to explore distant sights

Looking for a hotel? Find out where to stay in our Taiwan hotels guide or search for the best hotel deals in Taiwan here.

If you are looking for car rentals, you can also search Qeeq here, Klook here, or KKday here. You can also check out our car rental guide here.
You can also check out our scooter rental guide here.

Blog Posts

Bishan Campground and Bishan Temple 碧山露營場及碧山巖

Taoyuan Night Market 桃園觀光夜市

Secure Your Health in Thailand: Long-Term Coverage Insights

Author 作家

Categories
類目

Archives 檔案

Blog Posts

Bishan Campground and Bishan Temple 碧山露營場及碧山巖

Taoyuan Night Market 桃園觀光夜市

Secure Your Health in Thailand: Long-Term Coverage Insights

Author 作家

Categories​類目

Archives 檔案

Categories
類目