City Profile: Taichung, Taiwan

How long have you lived there?

9 months

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

There are a number of bars (Pubs) in either Taipei, Taichung or Kaosiung where foreigners and Taiwanese young locals hang out. Otherwise, you can try enrolling in a University to study Chinese; there are opportunities to meet others in such an environment.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Anyone trying out living here in Taiwan will certainly be aware of how important making money is to the Taiwanese. They tend to revolve their lives around their work. The society is also Family centered. Relationship is important for a Taiwanese.

In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

The Taiwanese are beginning to accept the foreigners as part of their life; they can be very accomodating especially to foreigners.

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Most locals have their own small businesses. You will find a lot of local versions of mom and pop eateries with family members doing the cooking, serving and the cleaning. Many work in offices during the day and do odd jobs at night.

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Make friends. Keep yourself busy doing what you intend to do in Taiwan. If English is your first language, you might want to teach. There's good money in teaching kids or adults in language centers called bushibans or in one on ones. Enjoy the difference in culture.