At the opening of ITB Berlin, the largest travel trade show, German Parliamentarian Jian Omar attended Taiwan’s Happy Hour event, praising Taiwan as a rising star for Europeans. Omar highlighted Taiwan’s diverse natural beauty and progressive spirit, calling it a country that touches travelers' hearts.
This year, Taiwan's exhibition booth showcased a railway travel theme with an immersive train compartment design that allowed international tourism operators to enjoy mountain and ocean scenery through "windows." The Tourism Administration reported a 17% increase in European visitors to Taiwan in 2024 compared to 2023, with German tourists specifically rising by 20%. The Alishan Forest Railway, with its 112-year history, has been fully restored for tourism after previously being impacted by typhoons and landslides.
In addition to its stunning natural landscapes, Taiwan's cultural characteristics are also a significant attraction. Omar, who left authoritarian Syria for Germany 20 years ago, sees Taiwan as a beacon of freedom and human rights in Asia.
The Taiwan Happy Hour concluded with performances by indigenous singers, creating a warm atmosphere where international tourism professionals enjoyed bubble tea and Alishan coffee while sharing their enthusiasm for traveling to Taiwan.