How to Use a Cell Phone in Taiwan

The tiny island of Taiwan rests off of the southeast coast of China. More and more people are beginning to recognize Taiwan as a vacation spot. While you're hiking to the Shifen Waterfall and sunbathing on the beach in Kenting, you want to make sure that you are able to use your cell phone in the case of an emergency. Using a cell phone in Taiwan is easy if you follow the correct procedures.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plug adapter
• List of important phone numbers
• Transformer

1. Ensure that your cell phone charger has the correct plug for Taiwan. Taiwan uses the same plugs as the United States, so unless your charger was purchased in another country, you should not need a plug adapter. If your charger has a different plug type, purchase plug adaptors "A" and "B" from an electronics store before you leave home so that you can charge your cell phone while in Taiwan.

2. Prepare for voltage differences. Use a transformer that can handle 110 volts, which is the voltage used in Taiwan, when charging your cell phone. Your cell phone will likely fry if you do not use the correct transformer.

3. Call your cell phone provider to make sure that they offer phone coverage in Taiwan. Ask to be upgraded to international roaming.

4. Consider renting a cell phone or SIM card to use with your personal cell phone if your cellular company does not offer coverage in Taiwan.

5. Find out how to dial locally within Taiwan. If you are dialing a place in Taiwan with the same city code as which you are calling, just dial the number. If the number has a different city code, dial the city code, plus the phone number.

6. Understand how to call the United States from Taiwan. First dial "002" (this is the international prefix to dial outside of Taiwan). Then dial "1" (this is the international code used to dial to the U.S.). Follow that by the area code and phone number.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to charge your cell phone each night using the correct plug adapter and transformer.

[taiwanenglish]

on 6/15/2009 Hi!

Cell phones can also be purchased in Taiwan with a visa at the right location. Chargeable cards are available. I've posted up a guide to help answer questions about Taiwan for foreigners coming to travel.

www.taiwanenglish.com/guide/

Best,
J