Meanwhile, many networking companies provide various Internet services to satisfy the demand from domestic businesspeople and firms. In addition to the vast range of government postal services available in Taiwan, visitors should also be aware that most of the leading international courier services have set up operations on the island in the last few years. They offer delivery to and from most countries around the world. More detailed information concerning these firms can be obtained by consulting the telephone directory or one of the many privately published business directories available on the island. For those who plan to stay in Taiwan on a long-term basis, a wide selection of apartments and houses is available.
Rental costs vary considerably, depending on location and size.
Typically, rents in Taipei and environs are far higher than those in other parts of the island. Landlords frequently require deposits of up to two-months' rent, and tenants are usually responsible for utilities. As in many other tropical and sub-tropical areas, tap water in Taiwan should be boiled before drinking. Hotels and restaurants do provide drinking water, and bottled mineral water is widely available. Visitors should also take special care to wash all fruits and vegetables before eating and avoid eating in any of the island's countless street stalls, at least during the first few weeks of their stay.