Monthly Breakdown for Digital Nomads, Solo Travellers, and Hybrid Workers

I have been to Kaohsiung before but that was when I was still a student travelling with my family (which, if you’re from an Asian household, you know means zero freedom). I’ve also explored Taiwan solo and with friends, but mostly in Taipei. So this time, returning to Kaohsiung after all these years, I felt genuinely excited.

I still remember the quad bike rides on Cijin Island, the mango shaved ice, and the relaxed coastal energy. This time, I’m back as a solo traveller, seeing the city through fresh eyes.

💰 Expenses Breakdown

🛏️ Accommodation: SGD1,600
→ A cosy unit a few minutes from a light rail station with a lovely harbour view and a nearby park.
🍽️ Food: ~SGD40/day
→ I’m no longer working full-time, so I try to be mindful with spending. Lots of casual meals, snacks, and market food.
🚇 Transport: SGD150
→ Aside from a private airport transfer, most travel was by MRT or LRT.
💄 Grooming: SGD200
→ Occasional shopping, restocks of beauty products, and simple self-care splurges.

Total: ~SGD3,190 (excluding activities)

📌 On a tighter budget, you could live off ~SGD2,000/month if you stick to hostels, local eats, and minimal transport. But honestly? If food brings you joy — just let go and enjoy it. This city rewards good appetites.

🏡 Where to Stay in Kaohsiung

In major Taiwanese cities, proximity to metro lines makes life easy. My advice? Choose based on the apartment’s comfort, surrounding parks (I love running), and if there’s a coastal view, even better!

🏠 Airbnb, Hotel, or Something Else?

✅ Hotels: Great for shorter trips. Higher cost but comes with safer check-in and on-site support.
✅ Airbnb: Go for listings with strong reviews, especially ones mentioning solo travellers or secure buildings.

📌 For short stays, central areas are always convenient — but well-equipped units (with washing machine, good layout, or solid lighting) may be harder to find. I ended up picking a quieter neighbourhood with good access to transit and a better view.

🍽️ Food and Dining in Kaohsiung (SGD40/day)

Taiwan = night markets. But honestly? I still prefer Taipei’s variety. Kaohsiung’s are good, but smaller-scale. Still worth visiting though!

Must-tries:
✔️ Sweet potato balls
✔️ Oyster omelettes
✔️ Fried chicken cutlets

🚕 Transport Costs (SGD150 for the Month)

Aside from a private airport transfer, most travel was by MRT or LRT. While there is a monthly pass for locals, it’s sadly not available to foreigners.
Your best bet? Grab an iPASS or EasyCard and top up as you go — both work seamlessly across public transport. Airport transfers can be pre-booked for comfort.

Skip the monthly pass — just tap in with a prepaid card and you’re good.

Taiwan Transport: EasyCard

📶 Internet and Workspaces (SGD25)

✔️ WiFi is fast and reliable. Local SIMs are easy to find.
✔️ For travellers, Taiwan tourist SIMs are great value.

📌 I used my SIMBA plan (SGD25) from Singapore, which includes 80GB of APAC roaming — and it worked perfectly in Taiwan.

🎟️ Where I Spent My Time in Kaohsiung

✔️ Cultural Sites: Don’t miss the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas.

✔️ Cijin Island: Take the ferry, rent a bike (or walk), and treat yourself to mango shaved ice.

✔️ Night Markets: Still very much alive. Bring cash. Revolut works well here with no ATM fees, but cash is king. (I use card when I can to get credit card rebates though!)
✔️ Pier-2 Art Centre: A cool, creative space with art installations, indie shops, and weekend pop-ups — perfect for a slow afternoon wander.

🌟 Final Thoughts: Was SGD3,190 Worth It?

✔️ For comfort, harbour views, and easy living? Yes.
✔️ Budget travellers could do it at SGD2,000/month with local eats and shared stays.
✔️ It’s a slower city, but beautifully coastal and more affordable than Taipei.

🙋‍♀️ Who This City is For

• Solo travellers seeking slower city life with ocean vibes
• Food lovers curious about southern Taiwan’s flavours
• Remote workers who want a base without chaos