Sunday, September 13, 2009

Friendly Taiwanese

I feel that Taiwanese is very friendly. The service staff always put on a smile, and always ready to provide you with information you requested. They don't appear to be impatient if you ask more questions. That is something our Singapore service staff must learn.

Here are some of my experiences in Taipei:

Incident #1 - Lost in the City
While I was travelling alone, I liked to walk around, so that I could see more, rather than taking public transport. I was quite confused with the naming of streets in Taipei. For some main roads, they are long and any minor road branching from the main road bear the same name with a number. This was confusing because the names of the minor roads were not in the city map. I am a frequent traveller, and I was a GIS person, so reading a map was never a problem for me until I was in Taipei. But don't worry, people in Taipei were helpful. Just asked any pedestrian or shopkeepers or anyone, they were willing to give you the directions. Some even took the trouble to walk with you for a short stretch of road, to guide you. Isn't that sweet? I felt so happy when I was treated that way!
Try asking a Singaporean for direction along Orchard Road.

Incident #2 - In the MRT Station
Some major MRT stations were huge, and there were many platforms going to different destinations. I could figure it out myself if I wanted to, but it would take time. Just asked the staff who were doing "traffic" control, she would be very helpful in giving you the information you required. Nice!

Incident #3 - In the bus
I was surprised that the bus driver said "Thank You" for passenger! Amazing, right?

Incident #4 - Query about EasyCard (悠遊卡)
Using the EasyCard is the most convenient way to travel around Taipei city. You can use it for MRT and buses, without the hassle of preparing the exact fare, and what's more, there is a 20% discount!
When I enquired about the various options available for tourist at the customer service counter, the staff was so patient in explaining the different options and advised me on what option was more suitable for me in terms of cost savings. Nice right?

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