Taiwan, one of Asia’s economic miracles and a world leader in ICT and related industries, exports millions of products and services to every corner of the globe annually. The label ‘Made in Taiwan’ has become synonymous with quality high-end goods as unprecedented economic growth has transformed the island nation into a global innovation centre, a regional economic and trade hub, and an operations centre for overseas-based businesses. While it is increasingly viewed as a modern hi-tech economy, Taiwan also has much to offer the tourist: natural beauty, modern cities, delicious food, vibrant art and cultural scenes.

There are eight hugely diverse but equally idyllic national parks in Taiwan, all boasting breathtaking world-famous scenery. The island also supports tens of thousands of animal and plant species, making it one of the richest biological treasure troves anywhere in the world.

Taiwan’s tourism industry embraced ecotourism and embarked on an ambitious plan to become a ‘green jewel’ for Asia. The Taiwan Tourism Bureau has introduced the concept of the ‘Eco-bag’ which helps visitors to meet the goal of carbon reduction and energy saving. Our national parks were given natural heritage status protection and today Taiwan boasts one of the world’s highest recycling rates, an efficient waste management system and a wide range of wildlife refuges and national parksthat help to attract millions of nature tourists annually. Whether exploring vibrant Taipei or observing the thousands of migratory birds that make the west coast of Taiwan their temporary home each year, Taiwan offers travellers a unique and unparalleled eco-experience.

Many tourists are naturally drawn to the capital, Taipei. As Taiwan’s biggest and most energetic city, Taipei has transformed itself into a modern international metropolis in recent years. It also boasts the wonderful National Palace Museum which exhibits a large collection of Asian art including bronzes, jades, paintings, porcelains, lacquer ware, textiles and religious artifacts.

Beyond the nation’s capital, there are many other equally beautiful places to visit in Taiwan. Tainan, the historical city in the southern part of the country is very popular and contains many must-see sites. Kaohsiung, the second biggest city, is also one you cannot miss. It has been praised by CNN for its diverse offer of cultural, artistic, gastronomic and trendy hotspots.  Penghu, off the west coast, is known as the ‘small Hawaii’ of Taiwan because of its beautiful beaches.

Home to many ethnic groups and traditions, Taiwan has an abundance of different international, regional and local cuisines – new and unexpected tastes await your senses. There are very few places in the world today where you can find more authentic Chinese food as well as an extensive array of international dishes.

Although great food, scenery and hospitality are what often attract tourists to Taiwan, medical tourism, cycling vacations, cultural and creative industry tourism are also worthy of exploration.

The number of foreign visitors has increased annually by 1 million since 2008. In 2013, the total number of travelers who had visited Taiwan reached a record-high 8 million. This figure shows the attraction of Taiwan. Taiwan hopes that there will be 9 million visitors in 2014.

On behalf of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau, The Taipei Representative Office in the EU and Belgium will participate in the Brussels International Holiday Fair from February 6 to February 10, 2014. Following last year’s success, Taiwan  will once again organize a calligraphy demonstration for the duration of the Fair. Visitors to the Taiwan booth can have their names inked in Chinese calligraphy for free to take home as a souvenir. Visitors will also be given the opportunity to sample Taiwan’s traditional high mountain tea while witnessing a tea-ceremony, and the award winning Kavalan Whisky from Taiwan.

 

BRUSSELS HOLIDAY FAIR – HEYSEL EXHIBITION CENTER from febr. 6th to febr 10th

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