Taiwan's tourist arrivals hit a new record as the 9 millionth visitor arrives at Taoyuan Airport this afternoon

Reported by You Tzu-ju / Compiled by staff

Following the milestone of 8 million international visitors to Taiwan last year (2013), Taiwan’s tourism industry has once again set a new record this year (2014). At 3:45 p.m. on the 2nd, the 9 millionth visitor to Taiwan, Mr. Law Tik-pui from Hong Kong, arrived at Taoyuan Airport on an EVA Air BR868 flight. Deputy Director-General Chang Hsi-tsung of the Tourism Bureau under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications presented a lion dance performance and bouquet on-site to express Taiwan’s warm welcome to tourists, and invited him to attend the official welcoming press conference tomorrow.


▲ The 9 millionth visitor to Taiwan arrives. (Photo / Provided by the Tourism Bureau)

Mr. Law was traveling to Taiwan on a free independent travel itinerary with his two children. It was their first time visiting Taiwan. His son mentioned that they had heard from friends how fun it is to travel in Taiwan, so this time he and his sister specially purchased a flight-and-hotel package and brought Mr. Law to experience it. They were surprised to discover upon entering customs that their father was the 9 millionth visitor, and were thrilled to learn that he was the 9 millionth international visitor to enter Taiwan. He expressed excitement about the trip and hopes to explore various places and enjoy Taiwan’s famous snacks.

The Tourism Bureau has prepared a special “Nine Lucky Gifts of Fortune” full of Taiwanese characteristics for the lucky 9 millionth visitor tomorrow (December 3, 2014). The “Nine Lucky Gifts of Fortune” plays on the homophone of the Chinese character for “long-lasting” (久), symbolizing longevity and completeness. It also incorporates the Tourism Bureau’s six major tourism themes — “Gourmet, Shopping, Culture, Romance, Green Lifestyle, and Ecology” — along with nine creatively worded auspicious phrases starting with the Chinese character “hundred” (百). In addition to bestowing an honorable and generous gift upon the 9 millionth international visitor, the gesture also celebrates the enduring popularity of Taiwan’s tourism.