By Wu Junying and Li Xinyi | Compiled and Reported
Last year’s TLC Travel & Living Channel show "Fun Taiwan," which won the Golden Bell Award for Best Travel Program, has once again partnered with the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications this year to produce its first-ever competition-based reality show, "Fun Taiwan Challenge." The production budget for this new series is three times higher than previous editions. Unlike the original format, which starred Janet as the sole host, this time 15 travel enthusiasts from 8 different countries have been selected from 3,000 foreign applicants to compete for a NT$1 million prize in Taiwan. After filming commenced on July 18, the first contestant will be eliminated, with the final winner taking home the entire prize money.
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15 challengers will battle for a single NT$1 million grand prize that only one can win. (Photo provided by XianQing PR)
Hosted by Janet, the "iron-lady host," "Fun Taiwan Challenge" will test contestants' physical strength, intelligence, endurance, and teamwork through various challenges, with elimination rounds taking place during the show. The trials are cleverly integrated with many uniquely Taiwanese elements, ensuring that contestants gain a deep understanding of the beautiful island and experience authentic Taiwanese culture. Filming officially began on July 18, covering locations all over Taiwan — from mountains to seas. The show is set to premiere on TLC Travel & Living Channel in Taiwan this October, followed by broadcasts in 34 Asian countries, reaching an audience of over 134 million viewers.
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Contestants at the press conference had to pass a calligraphy test as their first challenge. (Photo provided by XianQing PR)
Most of these 15 contestants have never been to Taiwan before. The cast includes the handsome American Tully, taekwondo expert David, former comedian Calvin known for his humor, Belgian beauty model Claire, and fiery Estonian beauty Julia, among others. These contestants, with diverse backgrounds and personalities, are set to create exciting dynamics in "Fun Taiwan Challenge." The show also invites all Taiwanese people to come up with questions to test these international participants. For more details, please visit the official event website.