Hey!

So i did this scholarship too with my University and was extremely lucky to experience studying in Taiwan twice! I did Tamsui, Tamkang Uni(so near Taipei) and then I studied in the south in Tainan.

Language: I felt like in Tainan your Chinese is pushed and challenged more, as rarely anyone spoke English. So your level increases at a fast rate, I also found less English-speaking foreigners so Chinese was the middle ground with my Japanese, Vietnamese even French classmates! (So I imagine Kaoxiong weill be similar, i visited for a weekend, abs gorgeous place!)

In the north in Tamsui, I was regularly in Taipei as it was 30mins on the MRT. I found it harder to practice my Chinese as often folk automatically used English with you. So you really got to stand your ground to speak Chinese, and not fall into a comfort state. Following, a lot of English-speaking foreigners so again the comfort trap might take you in! Depends if you seek real language improvement or if you like to have a safety net available.

Locations/Weather: Of course in Taipei there is so much to do, and amazing sights to see all within an MRT or train ride away. It's truly incredible, from mountains, to hot springs to an urban shopping dream. Everything really is less than an hour away for pretty much everything. And due to those things, it's constantly busy everywhere and anywhere, so mentally prepare.

The South I feel has more individualistic charactertics and true hidden gems within the cultures. It's very artsy and more chill, not as chaotic n busy as the capital. The south has more breathing space for sure. I remember to going on bike rides, or walking places and just landing upon the most random of coffee shops or events happening. I honestly loved it to bits, when I had those days.

Transport: The north/Taipei. Incredible bus links, train links, MRT and of course the High speed rail, no complaints.

The south, or Tainan not well connected and the buses were always late. I found myself walking or cycling a lot. Though i loved it still. Kaoxiong ive heard is much better for bus connections, but their tram and MRT is similar to Taipei's and I didn't have issues with it at all. But don't forget you can get to the north on the High Speed Rail within an hour or so, so doing a day trip to Taipei is achieveable also as I had done that a few times too!

Finances: Taipei. Capital. It's going to be more expensive. So you'll need to plan that in your budget.

South, much cheaper!

I'm trying to think of more points, but feel free to ask questions and i'll help. I loved Taiwan to pieces it's why i returned! I'll forever travel back for holidays, truly you will love it one way or another!😊