That’s why Taiwan met its target of attracting 7.7 million visitors this year earlier than expected on Dec. 21, and for the first time, saw visitor numbers exceed 8 million in a single year. This is further evidence that Taiwan’s tourism quality has been raised and it’s reaching new milestones.  

Aya received two business class tickets each from China Airline and EVA Airline for roundtrip travel between a destination in Asia and Taiwan. She also received vouchers for a free stay in a double room at the Howard Plaza Hotel, Grand Formosa Regent Taipei, Grand Hotel, and Fullon Hotels & Resorts, as well as free tickets to an amusement park. 

 

She also won a complimentary photo shoot as well as three-day free travel vouchers for the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle, High Speed Rail, and bicycle rentals, as well as souvenirs consisting of Taiwan’s high-tech telecommunications devices and local specialty products from Taiwan’s international spotlight locations. 

 

Altogether, she received 80 types of gifts, worth a total of NT$500,000 (US$16,666). These “Made In Taiwan” gifts showcase Taiwan’s diversity, uniqueness and culture. They not only are a display of Taiwan’s warm hospitality but also its high tech nature, creative designs, agricultural specialties, cultural creativity and many other facets. 

Taiwan recorded 7.3 million foreign visitors in 2012 and had projected 7.7 million for 2013, a target that was attained on December 21. The majority of foreign visitors to Taiwan this year have been from other Asian countries, according to the Tourism Bureau. Taiwan’s growing travel market generated an estimated NT$374.2 billion in foreign exchange over the past year, compared with NT$348.4 billion in 2012, the Tourism Bureau said.

Bureau officials commented that they will launch more customized and in-depth tour options in the future to improve the quality of travel in Taiwan.