Taiwan: As travel restrictions continue to ease around the world, the desire to explore and travel has led to a surge in demand for travel opportunities. However, rising airfares have become a major concern, especially for long-haul journeys. To attract more tourists to its shores, Taiwan has come up with a unique plan to offer cash incentives to visitors.

Taiwan plans to offer cash rewards of NT$5,000 (approximately $165) to 500,000 individual tourists as a sweetener for visiting the island. Additionally, allowances of up to NT$20,000 ($658) will be provided to 90,000 tour groups. The cash rewards will be delivered digitally and can be used by tourists to cover their expenses in Taiwan, including accommodation.

Transport Minister Wang Kuo-tsai announced the plan on Wednesday and stated that it is aimed at boosting Taiwan’s tourism industry, which has suffered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The move is expected to attract more visitors to Taiwan and boost the island’s economy.

However, for Indian passport holders who wish to travel to Taiwan, they need to apply for a visa in advance, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC). Applicants will need to show their intent to stay, itinerary, round-trip flight tickets, hotel bookings, bank statements, and even an invitation letter in case of a visitor visa.

Alternatively, Indian passport holders are eligible to apply for an e-visa if they travel with an approved tourist group. This usually pertains to individuals attending events or activities organized by Taiwanese government agencies or certain NGOs. Additionally, Indian passport holders with valid permanent resident cards or visas from either Canada, Australia, South Korea, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Schengen nations, the US, or the UK can also apply for e-Visa to Taiwan.

For those planning a visit to Taiwan, there are several must-visit places in the country, including Yushan National Park, home to the tallest mountain in the country and one of the best places to experience nature. The National Palace Museum, which has one of the largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, offers a glimpse into imperial China’s past. Taroko National Park, with its stunning natural beauty and Eternal Spring Shrine waterfall, is also worth a visit. And for a relaxing weekend getaway, the Sun Moon Lake, with its beautiful forests, park, and exhibits of old weapons and handicrafts, is the perfect place to unwind. Visitors can take a ferry ride or cable car ride for a better view of the lake and surrounding scenery.