TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As travel restrictions ease and borders reopen, the cost of hotel rooms in Taiwan has significantly increased. The average room cost for a night in Nantou County is now over NT＄10,000.
Compared to the pre-pandemic year of 2019, 2022 witnessed a significant increase in average hotel room prices, with Hualien County experiencing the highest surge at 91%.
According to data from the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), the average hotel room price per night in Taiwan is NT＄4,195.
According to experts, the reason for the price increase could be that the hotel rates have yet to be adjusted after the pandemic.
A staff member at a local travel agency Chien Wei-ting explained, "Prior to borders reopening, locals could only indulge in domestic travel."
"Hotel businesses then observed that even with the high pricing, the bookings are still full," he said, adding that the pricing system was extended to today, leading them to refuse to lower prices as they remain fully booked.
However, in the long run, this trend could prove detrimental as Taiwanese residents are increasingly inclined towards trips abroad.
Hotel business owners estimate that approximately 5 million travelers will choose to go abroad this year, significantly impacting the domestic travel market.
Predictions from industry experts indicate a projected 20% drop in business compared to last year.
"Some would say if they have to spend the same amount of money, why not do it abroad?" Chien said.
He explained that boutique hotel rooms range between NT＄3,000 and NT＄4,000 a night in Taiwan but the same price in countries such as Thailand, where you could book a 5-star resort.
Despite the existing challenges, domestic travel trips remain a preferred choice for families with elderly members or young children.
In response to the current situation, travel agencies in Taiwan are actively promoting more attractive packages.
These packages include shuttle buses to local hotspots and discounted amusement park passes to boost domestic tourism and attract local and international travelers.
