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  Huatung Launches '1+1 Happiness Package' — Spend in Guangfu Township for a Chance to Win an iPhone!

  After enduring earthquakes and typhoons, Huatung is slowly recovering and once again revealing its gentle beauty. To thank the public for their support and care after the disasters, the East Rift Valley National Scenic Area Administration has partnered with the “East of Taiwan Tourism Circle” to launch two campaigns: “Huatung Shovel of Happiness! 1+1 Accommodation Package” and the “Thank You! Monthly Giveaway”.The 1+1 Happiness Package offers a special two-night combination—either across two different hotels or two homestays—allowing travelers to plan freely and enjoy Huatung with ease. From November 1 to February 28 next year, a two-night stay for two at participating hotels is priced at NT$4,999, while the homestay package costs NT$3,800. UNI Air is also offering a special “Shovel Reward Fare”, with round-trip tickets for two between Taipei and Hualien priced at only NT$3,399—a great deal. In the event of typhoons or transportation disruptions, the second-night stay may be postponed within three months.Huatung launches a new accommodation package, offering travelers a chance to win an iPhone when they make purchases. (Photo / Courtesy of the Tourism Administration, Ministry of Transportation and Communications)Meanwhile, the “Thank You! Monthly Giveaway” campaign is just as exciting. Spend NT$500 at participating stores and register your receipt to enter the draw; spend NT$1,000 to receive double the chances. Prizes include accommodation vouchers, 3C gadgets, and exclusive Huatung gift sets every month.A special highlight: Purchases made in Guangfu Township qualify for additional bonus draws, offering chances to win an iPhone 17 or TaiSugar hotel vouchers. At the end of the campaign, a Toyota Yaris Cross and gold bean prizes will be given away as the grand finale.With the refreshing autumn and winter seasons approaching, it’s the perfect time to visit Huatung and experience the warmth of its people between the mountains and the sea.

  2025-11-15 09:05
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  Japan’s New Tax-Refund System Starts 2026: In-Store Instant Refunds End

  Travelers shopping in Japan should take note! Starting November 1, 2026, Japan will officially implement a new tax-free system. The current “instant in-store tax refund” will be abolished and replaced with a “pay tax first, refund upon departure” model. Shoppers will pay tax-inclusive prices and claim the refund at the airport before leaving Japan.Why the change? To prevent reselling and tax evasionJapan’s Ministry of Finance stated that the old tax-free system was often abused, including cases where goods were not taken out of the country or purchased on behalf of others. Between 2022 and 2024, over 19 million people used the tax-free program, and over 90% of buyers with extremely large purchases—exceeding hundreds of millions of yen—were never audited. To curb abuses, the government is shifting to a departure-based refund system and eliminating product classifications and packaging rules, making the system simpler and more transparent.What’s changing? Tax first, refund laterUnder the new system, travelers must pay the full tax-included price. At departure, customs officers will verify whether the purchased goods are being taken out of Japan. Refunds are issued only after verification; otherwise, the transaction is treated as a regular taxable purchase. Restrictions such as sealed “non-breakable bags” and rules for cosmetics or food as “consumables” will also be removed, making the buying of luxury goods, cosmetics, snacks, and daily items more flexible.Where to get the refund? At the airport onlyAll refunds must be completed at the airport. Travelers must complete customs verification within 90 days of purchase; otherwise, refunds are forfeited. Purchases exceeding 1 million yen require additional details such as brand, model, and serial number. The classification of tax-free stores will be simplified and overall procedures accelerated.Integration with Visit Japan Web—fully automated refundsThe new refund system will be integrated with Visit Japan Web. Travelers can use airport kiosks to scan their passports, and the system will automatically verify eligibility—no need to queue for manual processing. If goods are not taken out of Japan, refunds will not be issued. Refund amounts will be returned to the original credit card or designated bank account; details for cash refunds are pending official announcement.Reminder: Keep tax-free purchases with youTravelers may be randomly inspected and must present tax-free items. High-spending customers are more likely to be checked, while average tourists are less likely. Unlike the EU’s cash refund model, Japan uses a “store processed refund” that is centralized and transparent, though it may take longer to receive funds.(To prevent resellers and tax evasion / News illustration via Pexels)

  2025-11-15 09:05
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  • 台灣國旗
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  Prostate cancer common in men — don't ignore abnormal symptoms!

  Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among Taiwanese men, ranking third in incidence and sixth in mortality. The Health Promotion Administration reminds men that symptoms such as abnormal urination, frequent nighttime urination, weak urine flow, or unexplained bone pain should not be ignored. Early medical consultation is crucial for timely detection and treatment.According to the latest statistics, more than 9,000 Taiwanese men were diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2022, and around 1,900 died from it in 2024. The disease mainly affects middle-aged and elderly men, with the average age of diagnosis around 70. Risk factors include aging, family history, hormonal changes, high-fat or high–red-meat diets, and environmental influences. Men with a father or brother who had prostate cancer have over double the risk.Experts point out that the “PSA test” (Prostate-Specific Antigen) can provide an initial assessment of prostate health; however, studies worldwide have not confirmed that routine screening reduces mortality. Overreliance on PSA may result in overdiagnosis and overtreatment, causing side effects such as urinary incontinence, sexual dysfunction, or psychological stress. Therefore, whether to undergo screening should be decided after assessing one’s personal risk and consulting with a physician.The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that men aged 55–69 discuss screening thoroughly with their doctors, considering personal health, family history, and lifestyle. Screening is not recommended for men aged 70 and above. Doctors emphasize that early-stage prostate cancer often has no obvious symptoms, but once it spreads, it may lead to back pain, bone pain, blood in urine, or weight loss; therefore, symptoms should never be ignored.The Health Promotion Administration encourages prevention through lifestyle changes—quit smoking, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, reduce high-fat diets, and increase intake of lycopene-rich foods and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage.Men experiencing difficulty urinating, frequent urination, urgency, increased nighttime urination, or unusual bone pain should seek medical evaluation promptly. Early detection, proper treatment, and healthy habits are essential to protecting men's health and reducing the risk of prostate cancer.(Abnormal urination symptoms / News illustration by Canva)

  2025-11-15 09:05