Taiwan’s First Post‑Quarantine Tourist Arrival: Black Bears, Smiles, and a New Chapter
On Thursday, October 13, Taiwan finally lifted its mandatory quarantine rule, letting the world back in good style. At the bustling Taoyuan International Airport, outside Taipei, the first group of travelers rolled off a flight from Bangkok, clutching plush black bears that the Tourism Bureau had handed out like remember‑me‑bags.
What’s Still on the Menu?
It’s not all free‑flight bliss. Visitors still need to watch for symptoms for seven days after landing and carry out a quick rapid test. Think of it as a “health check‑in” rather than a full lockdown.
Photos, Media, and a Heartfelt Huddle
The tourists posed for selfies amid a sea of cameras and delighted officials. Tourism Bureau director‑general Chang Shi‑chung greeted them, proclaiming, “This is our chance to revive cross‑border tourism and light up the economy again.”
Airlines Are Back in Business
China Airlines and EVA Air, Taiwan’s two main carriers, have been flapping wings again. They’re restoring routes that shrank during the pandemic and planning fresh flights to destinations like Da Nang in Vietnam.
From Isolation to Freedom
While Taiwan had almost seven million domestic Covid‑19 cases since early 2022, the government stuck to its “back to normal” motto, citing high vaccination rates. Taiwanese citizens and foreign residents could travel out and in without bans, only needing to stay at home or in hotels for up to two weeks if they caught a case.
Why the Island Was a Hot Spot Before COVID
Before the pandemic, Taiwan drew visitors from Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia, drawn by its mouth‑watering cuisine and natural wonders. The hopeful return of tourists signals a fresh start—one where travelers get to savor tai-woo and taste wasabi side by side.
So, grab your black bear, tune in, and let Taiwan welcome you back with open arms—because life is about to get a little bit brighter, a lot more fun, and, yes, a bit more bears.
