travel 結果共240筆

The Travel Agent Association of R.O.C., Taiwan, has urged aviation unions to give a one-month notice before going on strike to mitigate social repercussions. They warned that another strike could have a devastating impact on the aviation industry. This call comes as EVA Air pilots, in collaboration with the Taoyuan Union of Pilots (TUP), have secured the right to strike. The planned strike is set for the Lunar New Year period, which is a peak travel period. The pilots aim to safeguard their rights, but the Travel Agent Association emphasized that such action would significantly affect consumers and travel agencies. They criticized past unplanned strikes by China Airlines’ cabin crew, pilots, and EVA Air’s cabin crew for disregarding consumer rights. The association emphasized the adoption of international pre-strike notice processes to allow sufficient time for negotiations and consensus-building, benefiting both consumers and labor.

T’way Air has resumed operations on its Incheon-to-Taichung route, with the maiden flight carrying 189 passengers. Taichung City’s Tourism and Travel Bureau held a welcoming event for the inaugural flight and believes that reopening the route will deepen tourism exchanges between Taichung and Korea. Director Chen Mei-hsiu cited Taichung’s mild climate, convenient location, rich tourist resources, and food culture as attractions for Korean visitors. The Incheon-Taichung route, operating a Boeing 737-800, will have seven weekly flights, with daily round-trip service in winter. T’way Air is the third Korean airline operating the route, following Korean Air and Asiana Airlines. In 2023, the number of tourists traveling from Korea to Taiwan reached 470,000, ranking third after Japan.

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) expressed regret for misunderstandings during a liaison meeting with the Taiwan High Speed Rail Labor Union. The union is dissatisfied with the 2.3-month year-end bonuses and demands at least four months. THSR announced salary adjustments and the distribution of year-end bonuses. The union warns of a possible strike if their demands are not met, including improved travel-related work conditions and fair distribution of bonuses.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Agriculture is recruiting four dog handlers for its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency. The positions offer a starting salary of NT＄37,769 per month, plus an additional NT＄7,700 allowance for outstations. Handlers must have at least one year of related experience and be available for shifts and business travel. They also need a good understanding of dogs, an outgoing personality, and the ability to work independently. The positions are divided among Taipei Songshan Airport, Taoyuan International Airport, and Kinmen Shuitou Pier, with potential relocation to Kaohsiung Airport or Taichung Airport.

The Taiwan Railway Corporation (formerly, the TRA) plans to increase train schedules from Feb. 6-15 to meet Lunar New Year travel demand. This will include adding 234 train runs across all lines, resulting in a 6% capacity increase. Compared to the 2023 Lunar New Year holiday, an average of 7,994 seats per day will be added, increasing the seat-kilometer capacity by 791,645.

A group of 65 Taiwanese tourists stranded in Japan due to the Ishikawa 7.6 magnitude earthquake safely returned to Taiwan on Starlux Airlines. The earthquake forced the closure of Niigata Airport, causing a two-day delay for the group. Taiwanese passengers described the trembling sensation from the Japan quake as much scarier than the earthquakes they experienced in Taiwan. Despite the lack of severe damage, the tour leader led the tourists to pray for safety at a shrine in the Niigata area during the New Year period. The travel agency greeted the returning tourists at the airport with consolation meal boxes, considering their safe return a stroke of luck amidst the unfortunate situation.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has reported that 547 Taiwanese people are currently stranded in Japan following a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture. All Taiwanese tour group members have been confirmed safe. Tourists from four travel agencies, including Colatour, Lion Travel, Richmond Tours, and Star Travel, were affected by the disaster. Additionally, 20 individual travelers are stuck at Niigata Airport due to its closure. The earthquake has resulted in at least six fatalities, dozens of injuries, and severe damage, including house fires, collapses, road fractures, and airport closures. More than 30,000 homes in Ishikawa and 1,100 homes in Niigata are without power, with disruption to water supplies. Taiwan’s Ministry of the Interior is preparing an international rescue team to dispatch to Japan, and the Japanese government has been informed of Taiwan’s readiness to help. MOFA advises Taiwanese citizens to contact the consulate in Osaka for assistance.

Taiwan has been identified as one of the key search terms by international travelers on Airbnb’s platform, according to the company’s 2024 tourism trends report. Taiwan’s search growth rate was second globally, just behind Japan. Airbnb expects 2024 to be the year when international travelers embark on world tours. From the first quarter to the third quarter of 2024, search volume on Airbnb increased significantly in 10 countries and regions, with Japan topping the list. Other than Taiwan and Japan, countries and regions such as Albania, Singapore, Finland, the United Arab Emirates, Curaçao, Aruba, Thailand, and Guatemala also saw a rise in interest from Airbnb users.

EVA Air, a Taiwanese airline, has announced a record six-month year-end bonus, the highest since its establishment. The bonus will also be distributed to its subsidiaries, including airport services, sky kitchens, and aviation technologies. In addition, EVA Air plans to adjust salaries for employees in 2024, with ground and cabin crew members seeing an average adjustment of NT$5,000 and pilots receiving adjustments ranging from NT$11,000 to NT$20,000 based on their position. However, this announcement comes amidst potential strike action by EVA Air pilots, leading to concerns that the wage increase announcements are an attempt to pacify them. The Taoyuan Flight Attendants’ Union has emphasized the importance of fair distribution of year-end bonuses and salary increases regardless of the proposed pilot action. Rival airlines Starlux and China Airlines have also announced their year-end bonuses, with Starlux providing a one-month bonus and an approved salary increase of NT$2,000, and China Airlines reportedly planning to distribute a three-month bonus (although the union is demanding five months’ worth). In the marine transportation industry, YangMing Marine Transport Corporation has scaled down its year-end bonus from 13 months last year to two months this year due to a downturn in the shipping industry. The shipping corporations’ lower year-end bonuses are attributed to the ＂revenge-travel boom＂ post-pandemic. Other industries with high year-end bonuses include finance, semiconductor, and construction, with 1.83, 1.38, and 1.23 months respectively.

Starting Jan. 1, 2024, taxis from the Taipei Songshan Airport will charge a $50 stay service fee, aligning with fees at Taoyuan and Kaohsiung airports. This decision, made following evaluations by the taxi fare review committees of Taipei and New Taipei cities, aims to address rigorous competition and rising operational costs in the industry. Passengers traveling through the airport, also known as Taipei International Airport, should take note of the new transportation cost changes, especially during peak travel periods such as New Year’s Day, the Lunar New Year, and the 228 holidays. The airport authorities have urged scheduled taxi operators to provide quality service and inform passengers about the fee change through verbal explanations and in-vehicle signs. Additionally, the airport offers free parking for the first 30 minutes, providing some relief for those being dropped off by family members.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has stated that Taiwanese citizens are allowed to enter Cuba with a passport valid for more than six months and a Cuban Tourist Card, according to Central News Agency (CNA). However, MOFA has urged the public to suspend travel to Cuba or check the official Cuban government website or airlines before departure due to unclear information. This response comes after a Taiwanese-Canadian and his family were denied entry into Cuba because ＂China doesn’t recognize Taiwan as a country.＂ The family’s passports were confiscated, and they were sent back to Canada after ten hours at the airport. MOFA has instructed the Taiwanese representative office in Bogota, Colombia, to investigate the issue and protect the travel rights of Taiwanese citizens.

Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) Presidential candidate, announced at a rally in Pingtung his plans to construct a Taiwan High-Speed Rail line and two expressways in the area. Lai aims to balance Taiwan’s national development projects and bring more support and assistance to Pingtung, transforming it into a ＂beautiful new homeland.＂ His promises include extending the high-speed rail to Chaozhou Township, reducing travel time from Taipei to less than two hours. Lai also intends to attract high-tech industries, introduce agricultural technology, and enhance the export competitiveness of local farm produce. Additionally, he plans to uplift tourism service quality in Pingtung, transforming Kenting into a destination similar to Bali and developing Dapeng Bay into a Hawaii-like getaway. Lai emphasized Pingtung’s importance in the implementation of the New Southbound Policy, highlighting its potential contribution to Taiwan’s development in collaboration with other southern counties and cities. He credited his past contributions to Pingtung’s development, such as the Pingtung Veterans General Hospital, to the efforts of former Pingtung County Commissioner Pan Men-an, current commissioner Chou Chun-mi, and legislators. Lai seeks local residents’ support to make Pingtung glorious again.

The Taoyuan Airport MRT has reached a significant milestone, with the announcement that the 150 millionth passenger will receive a free yearlong TPass, valued at NT＄14,400. Since its launch over five months ago, the 1200 TPass has been widely used in the Greater Taipei Area and Taoyuan, with a record daily ridership of 106,000 passengers in November. The lucky 150 millionth rider and five accompanying passengers will enjoy unlimited travel in northern Taiwan. To accommodate the increasing number of passengers, Taoyuan Metro Co. has upgraded turnstile equipment and will introduce additional commuter and express trains. These improvements demonstrate Taoyuan Metro Co.’s commitment to enhancing the travel experience for its users.

The Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications in Taiwan have announced a new ＂Subsidiary Tourism＂ program aimed at boosting business travel. Foreign business travelers will be eligible for a subsidy of up to NT＄2,000 starting next year. The program has a budget of NT＄10 million and aims to support foreign business visitors to Taiwan. Stocks of related hotels have surged in response to this policy push, with analysts predicting positive growth for the tourism industry. The reduction in extended public holidays next year is expected to favor domestic tourism momentum and improve hotel occupancy rates. Overall, businesses and investors anticipate a robust year ahead for the hotel industry in Taiwan.

Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) accuses the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) of manipulating and inducing Taiwanese grassroots through hospitable receptions, while distorting the goodwill of cross-strait exchanges. The MAC’s statement was in response to the claim by China’s Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) that ＂the momentum of cross-strait exchanges is unstoppable.＂ The MAC harshly criticizes the CCP for creating artificial obstacles to cross-strait exchanges, fabricating charges, unlawfully detaining people, and practicing autocratic rule. The controversy revolves around allegations that 41 village chiefs from Taipei accepted travel to China at preferential prices and then returned to Taiwan to promote specific candidates. The TAO spokeswoman did not address whether the TAO provided funding for the travels, but claimed that frustrations among Taiwanese citizens have been fueled by the policies of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government. This exchange reflects the ongoing tension in cross-strait relations, with Taiwan expressing concern over the CCP’s influence operations and China promoting closer ties.

The Chiayi City Government has announced a subsidy program for pregnant women using taxi services, in an effort to create a more pregnancy-friendly environment and counteract the city’s declining birthrate. Starting from New Year’s Day, the subsidies for expectant mothers’ taxi rides will increase from NT＄2,800 to NT＄4,500, with a maximum subsidy per ride rising from NT＄100 to NT＄150. The program now includes travel for any medical visits, as long as the rides are with designated fleets to and from medical institutions. The validity of the transportation tickets has also been extended to include the first three months following the infant’s birth. The policy is targeted at Chiayi locals and former immigrant mothers whose spouses are registered residents of Chiayi. Additionally, Chiayi has introduced plans to provide emotional support, parenting guidance, legal counseling, and financial aid to pregnant women under 20.

The VisaGuide World Passport Index has revealed the most powerful passports in the world for December, with Taiwan ranked 70th overall. Spain tops the list, followed by Germany in third place, and the United States in 40th place. The ranking is based on the Destination Significance Score (DSS), which considers various factors. The Spanish passport allows visa-free entry to 43 countries and visa-free access to an additional 106 countries. Singapore holds the second spot and is considered the strongest passport in Asia, granting its citizens visa-free entry to 156 destinations. In comparison, the Taiwanese passport allows visa-free entry to 100 countries and regions, placing it lower than some other countries. China ranks 117th, offering its citizens visa-free access to 46 countries.

The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) has announced the addition of extra trains from Dec. 29 to Jan. 1, 2024, in anticipation of the New Year’s holiday rush. Travelers can book the additional train services through various channels, including the TRA website, e訂通 app, convenience stores, and telephone reservation systems. A total of 18 extra train services will be deployed, with six additional services on the Eastern Line, including one northbound and one southbound train operating on the cross-island route. The South-Link Line will see an increase of four Puyuma Express and Tzu-Chiang trains, while six more EMU900 commuter express trains will be added to the Western Line. Additionally, 24 overnight train services will be added across different regions to cater to New Year’s Eve celebrations. Travelers can check timings and schedule details on the official TRA website and e訂通 app.

Due to strong winds, ferry services between Xiamen and Kinmen were suspended on December 16. The Kinmen County Harbor Bureau forecasts that services may resume around noon, depending on wind conditions. Gale-force winds reaching level eight were recorded earlier that day, leading to the temporary halt. Officials warn that the windy weather could continue to disrupt ferry schedules, and advise passengers to stay informed and make alternative travel arrangements.

The story discusses the response of Changhua County Chief Wang Hui-mei to rumors that village chiefs from Changhua County were treated to trips to China. Wang questioned the nation’s confidence in itself and challenged the notion that hospitality could sway one’s allegiance. Reports of possible Chinese intervention in the electoral process, including invitations to village chiefs for travel to the mainland, have emerged ahead of the 2024 presidential and vice-presidential elections. The Changhua District Prosecutors Office has detained a suspect allegedly organizing these trips and has summoned 22 individuals for questioning. Wang interpreted the scrutiny her county is under as a ＂swing county＂ and expressed trust in the wisdom of the village chiefs to handle the situation.

Discover America Committee in Taiwan President Brenda Tang revealed that the U.S. travel market from Taiwan has rebounded to 84% of pre-pandemic levels, according to data from the Tourism Administration. Taiwanese travelers heading to the United States surged by 185% from January to October this year, reaching 396,913, as reported by the National Travel and Tourism Office. Flights to the U.S. during the peak summer season had load factors of over 90%, while the off-peak months of September and October maintained load factors of at least 85%. China Airlines and EVA Airways have nearly returned to pre-pandemic flight levels, and Starlux Airlines is set to launch its San Francisco route. United Airlines plans to double its Taipei to San Francisco flights, and Delta Air Lines is preparing to commence a Taipei to Seattle route. Tour package prices to the U.S. for the first quarter of next year and the Lunar New Year peak season are expected to increase by no more than 25%, offering travelers some price assurance amid growing demand.

The Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) will add 81 train services from Jan. 12 to 15 next year to accommodate travelers returning home for the presidential and legislative elections. The additional train services will cover all types of trains and aim to strengthen transportation capacity during the election period. Starting Friday at midnight, presidential and legislative election train tickets will be available for booking online, at convenience stores, and via telephone reservation system. The TRA estimates a 5.2 percent average daily increase in capacity during this period, with the west line seeing a 2.4 percent rise, the east line 12.6 percent, and the south-link line 4.7%. This will result in approximately 39,000 extra seats each day compared to regular days. Compared to the election year of 2020, the overall number of seats will increase by 8.89 percent and total seat kilometers by 9.76 percent in 2024, according to the TRA.

Taipei 101 announces its New Year’s Eve fireworks show for 2024, featuring a 300-second spectacle with 16,000 fireworks. For the first time, the event will incorporate Japanese color fireworks, adding to the visual array. The theme for this year’s show is ＂Colorful World,＂ symbolizing Taiwan’s vibrant society and hopeful future. The iconic skyscraper will forgo its giant display screen and T-pad light net, as well as the 60-second countdown animation and lead-in video from the previous year. The collaboration with Japanese pyrotechnic manufacturers highlights the friendly relations between Taiwan and Japan, with Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan expecting tourist numbers to reach 6 million by mid-December. The international exposure from the fireworks is expected to significantly boost Taiwan’s visibility on the global travel map. Taipei 101’s Facebook page is also hosting a message-collection campaign, offering participants a chance to become part of the event’s narrative.

The Tourist Administration of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) organized a two-day event at the Toronto Eaton Centre in Canada, showcasing Taiwan’s attractions. The event featured various activities, including VR experiences, calligraphy bookmark crafting, pinball games, indigenous beadwork, and oil-paper umbrella painting workshops. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Toronto reported a significant increase in Canadian visitors to Taiwan, with a 1366.17 percent rise compared to the previous year. However, the number of visitors has not yet returned to pre-COVID-19 levels. In an effort to boost tourism, Taiwan has waived visa requirements for Canadians, positioning itself as an ideal winter getaway. Taiwan’s picturesque mountains, coastlines, and diverse urban and small-town landscapes make it a perfect destination for leisurely exploration.

Taiwanese writer Lo Sen has been missing in China since November last year and is suspected to be detained by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated that neither Lo Sen nor his family have sought assistance from any Taiwanese authorities, including the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF). Lo Sen, known for his adult novels, was recently reported to have been sentenced to 12 years on charges of profiting from privately publishing pornography. The MAC highlighted the CCP’s intensified internal security management, which has resulted in disruptions and restrictions on personal freedom for Taiwanese citizens and foreign enterprises in China. The MAC urged Taiwanese citizens to register with the ＂Mainland Travel Dynamic Registration＂ system before traveling to China to facilitate assistance in emergencies. The SEF has received reports of Taiwanese citizens being interrogated upon entry into China, with various reasons for the scrutiny, including the possession of religious-related books, posing challenges to cross-strait exchanges.