The key points to keep in mind while planning ahead are to develop and test measures locally and alter them where required, to ensure that the opening of global tourism ushers in a season of renewed hope and healing rather than a second wave of the virus. A strong second wave in any country of the world has the potential for a regional or global setback.

The past months have been the toughest, for Taiwan and the whole world. Taiwan’s virus control measures and relative economic stability during this pandemic have been widely praised by international organisations. In spite of recording cases as early as December itself, Taiwan has been on top of the situation throughout. Statistics updated end-May 2020 have less than 500 cases in Taiwan, and zero domestic cases for a continuous period of over 1 month. The situation in Taiwan gives us hope! Current Travel restrictions to and from Taiwan are in place only till  30th June 2020 with reviews to be conducted as appropriate and depending on the global situation. Whilst implementing a structured and phased approach to opening up for both domestic and international tourism, the importance lies in training and sensitizing organisers (hotels, operators, restaurants, attractions) as well as ensuring systems are in place to say ‘namaste’ to Indians in Q3 and Q4 of the year. 

Keeping this in mind, a three-phase opening plan has been mapped out to ensure a smooth outcome, once travel embargoes are lifted. 

Three-Phase Plan

The initial phase has been implemented as of May 20. Focusing on a pandemic prevention tourism plan, various tourism-related guidelines have been established including quick action plans in case of an outbreak. To encourage tourists to ‘travel with confidence’,   training courses and support courses are being provided to all those in the travel and tourism industry. 

In the second phase, an estimated NT$2 billion (US$33 million) is budgeted for tourism re-introduction. As part of the training, upto 300,000 participants from the tourism sector will partake in local FAM tours to be eligible for additional relief subsidies. Various sightseeing routes will be planned by connecting  local specialty outlets, homestays, attractions, shopping and more, to be promoted when the full travel plan officially resumes. These tours allow them a familiarisation of measures implemented, and the processes they must follow, thereafter.

Thereafter, the aim is to usher in the third phase, where Taiwan will excitedly await for international tourists to arrive, having created, implemented and succsessfully tested the measures adopted at the domestic level. Once travel embargoes are lifted, the likelihood remains of early ties with other countries who have a strong control over the situation, but this is an ever-evolving situation. 

The key points to keep in mind while planning ahead are to develop and test measures locally and alter them where required, to ensure that the opening of global tourism ushers in a season of renewed hope and healing rather than a second wave of the virus. A strong second wave in any country of the world has the potential for a regional or global setback.

Think Global, Act Local

As part of the three-phase approach which will lead to the effective resumption of tourism with a focus on the last two quarters of the year, Taiwan will Think Global, Act Local to ensure a smooth transition into the post-Covid phase. The National Tourism Administration will carry out a warm-up with national tourism in the country, so as to prepare for the global tourists once travel embargoes are lifted and flights resume. Local measures involve working with local authorities, hotels, tour companies and all those related to tourism within Taiwan to ensure implementation of relevant health guidelines, social distancing and contact tracing measures, and training to ensure diligent pursuing of health measures. 

Simultaneously, specific themes and destinations are being developed into wholesome itineraries, to encourage travellers to think about holidays that please the senses. Many countries of the world, including India, have faced strict stay-at-home measures and most important for them are getaways that make room for moving on from this terrible phase and for prioritising families and personal values over consumerism. All these efforts are being carried out keeping in focus on motivation - a plan for a ‘Holiday for Healing’!

Holiday for Healing: Heal amidst the Mountains

At the start of the year, Taiwan had announced 2020 to be the year of the mountains, with over 270 high ranges to offer for exploration, family time and relaxation. Little did we know going ahead, that these mountains would now be our offering to the world for a place to undertake a ‘Holiday for Healing’. The vast number of mountain ranges, and each with diverse offerings allow room for decongesting of typical attractions, and offer a place where the natural beauty and experience makes room for inner healing. 

Holiday for Healing will also encompass other enriching and rejuvenating holidays which emphasize quality time being spent together by families, friends such as nature parks and trails, hot springs, beaches and, by the time international tourists arrive, autumn hues. 

We, in Taiwan, believe that hope creates healing, and true healing lies in soaking in the natural beauty that a country has to offer. Strongly recommended itineraries would include experiences around the Alishan National Scenic Area, located in Chaiya County in southern Taiwan. - a mountain resort and nature reserve where wilderness, waterfalls, tea plantations and more promise to make you draft out a new journal of holiday experiences. For those who still seek energy and adventure, close to Taipei city is the Yangminshan National Park, famous for its floral blossoms, hot springs and a dormant volcano - the Seven Star Mountain surrounded by stunning rock formations. As you land in Taiwan with summer turning to autumn, we promise to welcome you with a carpet of flowers and a view to amaze.

Till then, stay home, stay safe, start planning… Taiwan is waiting for you!