The Penghu Islands are a good choice for people who want to connect with nature and get away from city crowds. From now until the end of June, Taiwan’s Tourism Bureau is promoting island-hopping trips for visitors to enjoy birdwatching and the rugged beauty of volcanic islands.
As the ship rocks beneath their feet, tourists grab onto their smartphones instead of railings. They’re trying to photograph terns bobbing and weaving all around the vessel.
With a constellation of small islands and little human interference, the Penghu or Pescadores archipelago is a haven for birds. Birds and bird watchers alike flock here during the migration season. Many Taiwanese chose to vacation at this domestic destination during the COVID-19 pandemic.
From the end of April to June, Taiwan’s Tourism Bureau is promoting island-hopping trips for bird enthusiasts. Those will take visitors to some of the archipelago’s less-frequented islands for a chance to see up to six rare species of tern.
Hung Chih-kuang From the Penghu Scenic Administration says this program is unlike those from commercial operators. Visitors can admire both the birds and the area’s natural beauty.
The tours have attracted many bloggers, including some from overseas.
Ishii Mikiko from Japan says terns aren’t common there and she’s happy to see them in Penghu.
So if life’s got you down, the beauty of Taiwan’s outlying islands is sure to tern that frown upside down.
Tomasz Koper, RTI News