Travel is no longer just about where you go; it’s about how a place makes you feel.

I’m sure you have heard about Taiwanese hospitality. It is all about generosity and warm-hearted proactivity.

My job not only broadens my horizons but helps create meaningful connections, and that’s exactly what happened when I first met Sandy and Vivian from Taiwan Tourism Administration’s office in Los Angeles. I remember how welcoming it felt from the very first moment. We had a productive meeting exploring the best media strategy and wrapped up by getting to know each other better over coffee and delicious Taiwanese sweets.

Shortly after, Vivian and Sandy invited me to attend a Taiwan Tourism workshop titled Taiwan, Always Open to You. I was enthusiastic to learn more about Taiwan and meet travel industry leaders.

The workshop started off with a hands-on Taiwanese tea tasting and an informative presentation about Taiwan, followed by numerous networking sessions and even a Taiwanese opera performance. Once I arrived, I immediately immersed myself into the culture and took a few pictures in traditional Taiwanese Opera attire.

After taking few photos, I enjoyed conversations with travel partners that were selectively invited by Taiwan Tourism Administration. It was inspiring to see passion for travel and hear great feedback on Taiwan. STARLUX Airlines, China Airlines and EVA Air were main event sponsors, and I enjoyed learning more about their innovative products and offerings. Overall, the venue was filled with fun and great energy.

Ming Chu, a well-known influencer, did a wonderful job hosting the event. Effortlessly holding the audience’s attention while looking spectacular is a true skill. An informative presentation covered all possible reasons to visit Taiwan, whether you plan to swim with sea turtles in Xiaoliuqiu or attend the lantern festival in Miaoli, everyone will find something.

Welcome speech by key Mr. Jason Ma, Director General, Taiwan Mission in Los Angeles, and Ms. Vivian Lin, Director, Taiwan Tourism Administration.

Taiwan has never been as accessible as it is now, with direct flights from Los Angeles (LAX); San Francisco (SFO); Seattle (SEA); Houston (IAH); New York (JFK); Chicago (ORD); Guam (GUM); Dallas (DFW); Ontario (ONT); Phoenix (PHX); and Washington, D.C.

It was interesting to learn about great initiatives for senior travel from Taiwan Golden Years Tours, an official Taiwan Tourism brand. It offers three signature themes, such as train journeys to explore rich history, eco-wellness countryside programs or alpine tribes-themed itineraries made to explore mountain villages.

Throughout the year, Taiwan presents you with vibrant events such as music festivals, cherry blossom season, whale-watching possibilities and more. A few other wonderful initiatives attract first-time visitors. Upon arrival, one can get a card with complimentary tour inclusions. Other enticements included extra incentives for returning visitors and MICE rewards. Taiwan welcomes more than 320,000-plus business event delegates and 700-plus events per year.

The Taiwanese Opera performance was spectacular and added a special touch to the luncheon. I skipped dessert but enjoyed celebrating the lucky winners of the day who left the event with round-trip tickets and a daily itinerary to explore Taiwan. .

— Liza Miroshnichenko, account executive