TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A woman from Hong Kong became Taiwan’s 2 millionth tourist on Wednesday (May 24) and won a lucky draw for a travel allowance of NT$5,000 (US$162) for foreign tourists.
Taiwan is seeking to rebuild its tourism industry after the epidemic. On March 25, it announced that the number of tourists in 2023 will exceed one million. After Taiwan opened its borders to independent tourists from Hong Kong and Macau on Feb. 20, the number of tourists from the two special administrative regions increased rapidly, the tourism bureau said in a press release.
In April, tourists from the two places reached 101,800, making them the largest source of foreign tourists for the month. Of the 1.62 million tourists who visited Taiwan from January to April, the largest number came from Hong Kong, followed by South Korea and Japan.
On Wednesday, Chen Qiling, a Hong Kong citizen, became the second millionth tourist this year. Zeng Xianwen, Director of Tourist Service Center of Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport personally presented OhBear mascot doll and gift bag to Mr. Chen.
The staff of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau took a group photo with Ms. Chen and her family. (Photo from the Tourist Office)
Chen said that this is her third visit to Taiwan and the first time she has taken her family on a trip since the outbreak. She was pleasantly surprised and said: “Not only did I get a NT$5,000 consumption subsidy for this trip, but I was also lucky to be the 2 millionth tourist!”
Chen is expected to stay in Taiwan for six days, and mainly plans to travel around northern Taiwan, going to Beitou District of Taipei City, Taipei Zoo and other places. She said she couldn’t wait to take her children to enjoy “Taiwan’s delicious food and beautiful scenery”.
On May 1, the Tourism Bureau launched the “Taiwan Blessed Land” subsidy plan. Within three years from May 1, 2023 to June 30, 2025, a reward of NT$5,000 will be issued to 500,000 foreign tourists drawn by lottery. In order to promote the development of Taiwan’s tourism industry, 250,000 winners will be awarded 5,000 yuan this year, and by 2024, the award will be awarded to 150,000 travelers, and 100,000 winners will be awarded in 2025.
For more information on how to register for the sweepstakes, please read this article or visit the promotion’s FAQ section.
