Hello to you, my future Taiwanese! If you’re here, it means the idea of doing an internship in Taiwan has crossed your mind. This blog will surely help you make your decision—whether it’s a yes or no, you’ll learn more about this amazing country and Asian culture. First, let’s start with a quick introduction to Taiwan with key information you need to know before heading off for your internship.
If you’ve ever heard of the Republic of China, then you’ve already heard of Taiwan. This country is located in East Asia and is an island situated 180 kilometers from China. In terms of population, Taiwan has over 23 million inhabitants, making it a densely populated place. Its capital is Taipei, a city filled with towering skyscrapers. Culturally, Taiwan is largely influenced by Chinese and Japanese traditions, as well as indigenous heritage.
Throughout this blog, we will explore why doing an internship in a startup in Taiwan is an excellent idea, both professionally and personally. Taiwan is home to many startups for several reasons. First, the country has made significant technological advancements, particularly in electronics and semiconductors. These innovations allow businesses to grow rapidly and offer cutting-edge services. Secondly, the Taiwanese government actively promotes entrepreneurship and innovation. It has launched initiatives like the Asia Silicon Valley Development Plan, which aims to transform Taiwan into an innovation hub and attract significant investments. This project is fueled by massive subsidies, not only for infrastructure but also for businesses, with substantial tax credits that encourage the establishment of many emerging companies. Taiwan also benefits from a strategic location for startup development. Among the fastest-growing sectors, medical technology and artificial intelligence stand out as key areas of expansion.
The work culture in Taiwan
Taiwan has a work culture that is very different from that of France or other European countries. It is deeply rooted in traditional values, emphasizing respect for hierarchy, the importance of teamwork, and loyalty. Decisions are mostly made by managers or executives, and employees are expected to follow instructions precisely without questioning them. Compared to France, we have to admit—we tend to be a bit more stubborn on this point, haha. The work culture in Taiwan also values equality and diversity. Being an Asian country, Taiwan places great importance on punctuality and adherence to work schedules. So, here’s a little tip: on your first day, make sure to arrive exactly on time—being late can be seen as a serious sign of disrespect. And between us, it would be a shame to get fired from your internship before even starting! One thing that might be surprising is that, like in many countries, women tend to have fewer leadership roles and responsibilities compared to Western nations.
What You Can Do in Taiwan During Your Stay
Taiwan is full of activities, especially in the capital, Taipei. For example, you’ll be able to visit the largest and most famous night market in Taiwan. You’ll find plenty of food trucks and games, attracting both locals and tourists. This market is called Shilin Night Market. Raohe Street Night Market is also well-known for its food stalls and different music performances. If you want to taste Taiwanese and Asian varieties, Liuhe Night Market is the place to go.
Taiwan is a country with a rich culture and many cultural sites that you can explore. The Longshan Temple is a beautiful Buddhist temple, renowned for its architecture. I also recommend visiting the National Palace Museum during your time in Taiwan, located in Taipei, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and Chinese artworks. I’m not sure if you know about the city of Tamsui, but it’s a must-see in Taiwan. The most popular monument there is Fort San Domingo, which overlooks the Tamsui River and, most importantly, offers a stunning view of the city’s landscape.
Taipei is also the perfect place for your future hikes, and I’m going to recommend three of them: first, Elephant Mountain, where you can enjoy an unbeatable view of the capital. Don’t worry, this hike is quite short (though your hiking shoes will definitely come in handy). Next, Taroko National Park is the ultimate hike for your Instagram stories. You can check online, the viewpoint is stunning with its impressive gorges. Finally, to wrap up, let’s head around or on Sun Moon Lake, a picturesque lake where a variety of activities are available, such as boat cruises, kayaking, running, and cycling around it. After a busy or stressful day at work, you can unwind at Taiwan’s famous hot springs. Among them is Beitou Hot Springs in Taipei, a public but also private thermal station. Wulai Hot Springs is also famous for its hot springs, located in New Taipei. There, make sure to take your camera and prepare to capture the most beautiful photos you’ve ever taken.
The cuisine in Taiwan, what you absolutely must not miss
Xiaolongbao are an absolute must when you’re in Taiwan! These are small dumplings (kind of like pasta balls) filled with juicy pork and broth. The dough is so thin that you can almost see through it, yet strong enough to hold the broth inside. To enjoy them properly, pick them up carefully with chopsticks, place them on a spoon, gently pierce them to sip the broth, and then savor this 100% Taiwanese delicacy. Din Tai Fung in Taipei is the perfect place to discover these little treasures
Beef noodle soup is the most comforting dish. It consists of beef chunks simmered in a rich and spicy broth, served with fresh noodles. Each bowl is a perfect blend of deep flavors and comforting textures. Head over to Yong Kang Beef Noodle in Taipei, where their soup is renowned for being one of the best. It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and will make you fall in love with the cuisine.
You can’t visit Taiwan without trying or re-trying Bubble Tea, the iconic drink that was born here. I’m sure you can guess, it wasn’t created on TikTok or Instagram. It’s a sweet beverage made with tea, often mixed with milk and topped with tapioca pearls. These chewy pearls add a fun texture and make every sip special. Chen San Ding in Taipei is famous for its caramel and fresh milk Bubble Tea. Believe me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a global phenomenon.
The cost of living in Taiwan
In Taiwan, life won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Rent is reasonable, especially if you’re not set on living in Taipei, where prices can be a bit higher. But don’t worry, even there, you’ll find some affordable gems. Speaking of gems, the food is a real delight and priced very reasonably. Whether you prefer eating at small street restaurants or in fancier establishments, you’ll always find something delicious without breaking the bank. And when it comes to getting around, public transportation is efficient and very cheap. So, there’s no need to crack open your piggy bank to explore this fascinating island. Taiwan offers a good balance between quality of life and cost of living, attracting a diverse community of residents and travelers seeking a relaxed life without stressing over finances.
And that’s the end of this blog about your potential internship experience in a startup in Taiwan. I hope it has helped you with your decision-making. If you still have questions, we’ve probably answered them here. If you have any questions, whether about Taiwan or any other countries offered by International Horizons, don’t hesitate to contact us. A member of the team will be happy to assist you and will get back to you within 48 hours after your registration! In the meantime, test your English level to better prepare. You can also learn more about the coolest cities in Taiwan.