TRAVEL INFORMATION
Travel Insurance
ARMA requires that all attendees have travel insurance and a copy must be sent through as soon as you have been confirmed and have paid in full. Before you buy travel insurance, we recommend you check what cover it provides to ensure you are covered for the full cost of the tour + international flights.
Flights
Arrival into Tawain is to be arranged at your own convenience. Taiwan welcomes travellers from around the globe with easy access, efficient immigration procedures, and excellent transport connections. Most international flights land at Taiwan’s main gateway, Taoyuan International Airport, which offers a variety of services including customs and baggage claim assistance. Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for visa-free entry or an e-visa, making your arrival even more convenient. Taiwan also provides strong health and safety protocols, ensuring that all visitors feel comfortable and secure as they explore this vibrant and dynamic island.
What you will need to enter Taiwan
For up-to-date visa requirements and immigration guidelines, visit Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (https://www.boca.gov.tw/) to learn about entry requirements, including any travel advisories or health regulations.
Language
The official language is Mandarin Chinese. However, many people in major cities also understand English, especially in tourist areas, though it’s helpful to know basic Mandarin phrases.
Electricity
Taiwan uses 110V with Type A and Type B plugs, the same as the U.S. If your devices have a different plug type, be sure to bring an adaptor.
Weather
From late August to early September, Taiwan experiences hot and humid weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 28°C to 34°C (82°F to 93°F), high humidity, and a chance of heavy rain or typhoons. It's advisable to pack light, breathable clothing and prepare for possible rain or storm disruptions.
Currency
The currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD), often symbolized as NT$. It's common to round up to the nearest dollar when paying small amounts, particularly in cash. However, tipping is not expected in Taiwan.
ATMs are widely available throughout Taiwan, and most accept international credit and debit cards (such as Visa, Mastercard, and Cirrus). Be aware that some ATMs charge a fee for international cards, and your bank may also charge a foreign transaction fee. 7-Eleven stores often have ATMs that accept international cards.
Health and Safety
Taiwan is considered a safe destination with excellent healthcare. Tap water is generally safe to drink, though bottled water is commonly consumed. Always check current travel advisories for any health concerns or requirements, especially if COVID-19 restrictions apply.
Time Zone
Taiwan follows Taipei Standard Time (TST), which is UTC +8. Taiwan does not observe daylight saving time.
Flights
Arrival to South Korea is to be arranged at your own convenience. South Korea offers excellent transport connections, with most international flights landing at Incheon International Airport (ICN), one of the busiest and most efficient airports in the world. Incheon provides a variety of services, including customs and baggage claim assistance, and is well-connected to major cities. Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for visa-free entry or an e-visa, making your arrival even more convenient. South Korea also has strong health and safety protocols to ensure a comfortable and secure visit.
What You Will Need to Enter South Korea
For up-to-date visa requirements and immigration guidelines, visit the South Korea Ministry of Foreign Affairs (https://www.mofa.go.kr/eng/index.do) to learn about entry requirements, including any travel advisories or health regulations.
Language
The official language in South Korea is Korean. While Korean is the primary language, many people, particularly in major cities like Seoul, understand English, especially in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Korean phrases can be very helpful for a more seamless experience.
Electricity
South Korea uses 220V with Type C and Type F plugs (the same as most of Europe). If your devices use a different plug type, you will need to bring an adaptor. The frequency is 60Hz.
Weather
From late August to early September, South Korea experiences hot and humid weather with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The humidity can be quite high, and there is a chance of heavy rain due to the tail end of the monsoon season (especially in early August). Typhoons may occasionally affect the region, bringing strong winds and rain. It's recommended to pack light, breathable clothing and prepare for possible rain.
Currency
The currency in South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW). It's common to use cash for small purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities. Tipping is not customary in South Korea, and service charges are usually included in bills.
ATMs are widely available, and most accept international credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.). Some ATMs may charge a fee for international cards, so be mindful of transaction fees. 7-Eleven stores often have ATMs that accept international cards.
Health and Safety
South Korea is known for being a safe destination with excellent healthcare facilities. Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available. South Korea has strong health and safety measures in place, and it's advisable to check any travel advisories, especially regarding COVID-19 regulations, before your trip.
Time Zone
South Korea follows Korea Standard Time (KST), which is UTC +9. South Korea does not observe daylight saving time.
Flights
We will travel together to Japan. However, you will need to ensure you have completed all relevant documentation to ensure you are eligible to enter the country. Japan offers excellent transport connections, with most international flights landing at Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) or Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX). These airports are efficient and well-connected, offering a variety of services, including customs and baggage claim assistance. Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for visa-free entry or an e-visa, making your arrival even more convenient. Japan also has strong health and safety protocols to ensure a comfortable and secure visit.
What You Will Need to Enter Japan
For up-to-date visa requirements and immigration guidelines, visit the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html) to learn about entry requirements, including any travel advisories or health regulations.
Language
The official language in Japan is Japanese. While Japanese is the primary language, many people, particularly in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, understand English, especially in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Japanese phrases, such as greetings and thank you, can be helpful for a smoother experience.
Electricity
Japan uses 100V with Type A and Type B plugs (the same as North America). If your devices use a different plug type, you will need to bring an adaptor. The frequency is 50Hz in the eastern regions (e.g., Tokyo) and 60Hz in the western regions (e.g., Osaka).
Weather
From late August to early September, Japan experiences hot and humid weather, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Humidity is high, especially in the southern and central regions. There is also a chance of heavy rain due to the tail end of the monsoon season, and typhoons may occasionally affect Japan during this period, bringing strong winds and rain. It is recommended to pack light, breathable clothing and prepare for possible rain.
Currency
The currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). While credit cards are accepted in many places, especially in major cities, it's still common to use cash for small purchases. Tipping is not customary in Japan, and service charges are typically included in bills.
ATMs are widely available, and most accept international credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.). Some ATMs may charge a fee for international cards, so be mindful of transaction fees. 7-Eleven stores and Japan Post Bank ATMs are amongst the most accessible and international-card-friendly.
Health & Safety
Time Zone
Japan follows Japan Standard Time (JST), which is UTC +9. Japan does not observe daylight saving time.
