Taiwan: Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations likely islandwide Sept. 21; transport disruptions likely Sept. 18-22

Event

Millions of people in Taiwan will celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival Sept. 21, with the government having designated Sept. 18-21 as public holidays. Business disruptions are likely during the holiday periods, as is an increase in petty crime especially at transport hubs and tourist attractions.

Significant transport disruptions are likely islandwide through Sept. 22, as residents travel to various celebrations. Severe delays are possible during this period, especially on expressways, including Freeway 5 (Chiang Wei-Shui Memorial Freeway), Freeway 3 (Formosa Freeway), and Freeway 1 (Yat-sen Freeway). A number of restrictions will be in place along these thoroughfares during the holiday period to ease traffic congestion. Authorities have increased capacity for rail and air passengers during the holiday, but increased demand and overbooking on these services could lead to some transport delays.

Advice

Reconfirm all rail, bus, and airline reservations if traveling during the holiday period. Airports will likely be very crowded; arrive much earlier than usual due to volume delays at check-in counters and security checkpoints. Heavy traffic is likely on main highways; drive defensively and consider minimizing unnecessary trips on the days before and after the public observance of the holidays. Anticipate possible delivery delays; consider alternative transport for time-sensitive shipments. Take extra precautions to secure money and valuables. Plan for high demand for hotels and taxis in tourist areas, as well as potential price gouging.