Although it may not seem like there is a lack of foreigners in Taiwan when visiting clubs/pubs, overall, the percentage of foreigners is very small and you will find that many of the most popular clubs waive the often pricey cover charges for foreigners on the weekends or at least severely discount them in order to raise the so-called 'marquee value' of the place.

    There are basically two kinds of KTV's in Taiwan, the family kind and the de facto 'brothel' type. KTV's, for those who don't know, are Karaoke bars where you can go and sing and drink with friends, or perhaps find a 'girlfriend' for the night if you are so inclined.

    Bars abound in Taiwan but most Taiwanese are very family oriented and don't frequent bars regularly, or they are working so much they don't have time/money to go even if they want to (at least not to the places which are popular with Expats...) However, the younger generation is embracing the pub scene and more bars are opening every day. However, it is not uncommon to be tutoring a 40-something housewife in your adult classes who admits she has never been to a bar in her life...

    Although the 'Triads' or Chinese Mafia don't frequent the foreign bars/clubs, if you venture into clubs which don't have a large percentage of foreigners, be prepared to swallow your pride and don't step on any toes. More than one drunken foreigner has been too pushy with a Taiwanese gal and has been found unconcious in the gutter with his arms broken...Just remember where you are and respect others and you'll never have a problem. Drugs are illegal in Taiwan and those caught selling face the death penalty, although it is difficult to recall any case where a foreigner has been treated this badly. The rave scene is thriving in Taiwan however and 'e', coke and other hard drugs (in addition to pot) are readily available and can be seen out in the open in some bars/clubs.