Taiwan’s major airports, ports, and railways are all operating normally in major cities, according to the Taiwan Tourism Administration, which noted transit capabilities may vary by region, especially in the eastern mountainous area.
The railway in Hualien suffered “sustained significant damage,” says Ivy Yang, a Taipei-based travel consultant for My Taiwan Tour. Yang suggests travelers steer away from Hualien at this time due to dangerous road conditions and the numerous landslides on the coastline and in Taroko Gorge. Most hotels in Hualien will allow fee-free cancellations in light of the events, she says, with Silk Place Taroko being closed for several days. Otherwise, travel on Taiwan’s west coast remains safe, according to Yang, but those looking to travel around the island might have trouble between Hualien and Yilan.
A spokesperson for the tourism bureau’s New York office says the Taiwanese government is “actively arranging alternative options of transportation” in affected areas, reminding travelers “to stay informed about conditions in their specific destinations and adjust their plans accordingly.”
What to do if you have a future trip planned
For those with upcoming trips, the Taiwan Tourism Administration suggests keeping travel plans flexible while monitoring the situation and following the relevant advisories from authorities. “We believe most travel plans are expected to proceed smoothly,” the spokesperson for the administration says. “Travelers with plans to visit the eastern region of Taiwan are advised to remain vigilant and stay informed about the latest developments.”
Tour operator Intrepid Travel has canceled two upcoming Taiwan departures that were scheduled to start both this week and next week “to allow time for further safety assessments and to avoid the immediate risk of aftershocks,” the company’s president of the Americas Matt Berna tells Traveler. “Damage looks extensive in Hualien, but we are currently unaware of the full extent.” The company is working on rerouting its itinerary around Hualien for upcoming tours.
One of the biggest concerns is the potential of future aftershocks—some of which could be bigger than the original earthquake, according to Josh Dozor, a former Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) official and the current general manager of Medical and Security Assistance at the global risk mitigation company International SOS.
“If you do not need to travel, it is best to stay put,” Dozor says, advising those with travel plans to Hualien County to postpone their trip until at least April 5.
“It’s important to note that Taiwan is an island that experiences earthquakes on a relatively frequent basis,” he says. “The locals are typically equipped with the knowledge and experience of handling earthquakes, which may be why it seems people are continuing life as usual. However, for travelers who are inexperienced in these types of natural disasters, it’s important to remain vigilant and be prepared.”
How to help Taiwan’s earthquake victims
When it comes to supporting Earthquake victims, Taiwan “kindly request[s] friends from around the globe to stay updated with the latest developments and keep us in your thoughts and prayers,” the tourism association spokesperson says.
However, those who would like to offer monetary support to Taiwan’s earthquake victims can consider donating to the following nongovernmental organizations.
Taiwan Foundation for Disaster Relief
Per a Facebook post from Taiwan’s National Fire Agency Thursday morning, a disaster relief foundation that accepts public donations has been set up through the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Donations can be transferred using the bank details here or via this site and will be accepted for one month through May 3.
Taiwan’s Red Cross Society
Just hours after the earthquake struck, the local Red Cross posted on X that their Hualien relief team and military units are “rapidly mobilizing to minimize the impact and provide assistance to those affected.” Donations can be made to the organization here.
Peace Winds America’s Taiwan Disaster Preparedness Initiative
The Washington, DC based NGO Peace Winds America currently has a Taiwan Disaster Preparedness Initiative to “strengthen Taiwan’s domestic disaster preparedness, response, and ‘whole of society’ coordination,” among other goals. Learn more about the program and how to donate here.
