Compared with many other Asian destinations, English isn't widely spoken. Actually Taiwanese are often very shy to try the English they do know.

But Taiwan is not overrun with foreign tourists, so you are more likely to bump into ordinary people who are not out to make money off you. It really is hassle free and rather civilised. If you get on a bus and get lost, often someone will rustle up some English and help you find the way to go - concern overriding the shyness! I have the impression that people are quite touched that people should bother to visit Taiwan (not many do, except mainlanders and Japanese). So they do come over as being friendly and this starts at the airport on arrival.

If you get stuck, you're guaranteed to find English speakers in Starbucks. Starbucks seem to have the knack of choosing staff that are really keen to use English. Sadly for them they don't get much chance - hence you're greeted with enthusiasm (as well as decent aircon).