The Tourism Bureau, MOTC invited renowned British journalist Janice Turner to visit Taiwan with editor Ben Preston in February of this year. They toured Taiwan's most well-known tourist destinations. She wrote a lengthy post on her adventures in Taiwan after arriving back in the UK, explaining what she had seen, heard, and experienced.
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During Turner's visit to Taiwan, she stayed at The Lalu at Sun Moon Lake.Photo reproduced from The Lalu website
“This island, which has been affected by both Chinese and Japanese cultures, is intriguing and well worth seeing. It has hot springs, temples, and the explosive might of Asia's developing economy.” This is how Turner characterizes Taiwan.
She and editor Preston traveled to Taiwan during her tour in order to fully grasp Taiwan's human history as well as to view the many architectural styles and geographic aspects of the island's northern, central, southern, and eastern regions. She thinks Taiwan is a combination of Chinese and Japanese culture, with a distinct, incredibly efficient, and amiable side. In contrast to earlier years, "Made in Taiwan” now refers to 92% of the world's high-end chips.
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Turner visited Taiwan and felt the incredible friendliness of Taiwan.Photo reproduced form The Times, Janice Turner column
Turner spent more time observing local traditions than the average tourist would, instead focusing on the flowers. What particularly intrigued her about Taiwan's old folk beliefs was that people would do rituals like "fortune poems" and " divination blocks," as well as send sacrifices to the gods in order to pray for health or enhance riches. Additionally, Yuelao, who is in charge of love, can be found by those looking for it.
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Turner visits traditional markets in Taiwan.Photo provided by Taipei Representative Office in the U.K.
Turner was particularly struck by how welcoming the Taiwanese were. According to her, Taiwanese people are recognized for being kind, eager to engage with visitors, and helpful. She ended her vacation to Taiwan by saying, "At this time, there is no place more charming than Taiwan."
