Despite the Taiwan authorities maintaining bans on group tours, residents of Taiwan are jetting off to the Chinese mainland in droves this October holiday season. With back-to-back short breaks this month, many are extending vacations to explore the mainland’s cultural gems and modern marvels. ✨
Airports Packed, Suitcases Ready
At Taoyuan International Airport, check-in lines snaked through terminals as travelers geared up for trips. Over 1.5 million Taiwan residents visited the mainland in the first half of 2024 alone, per island transport data—proof that wanderlust trumps political hurdles. 🧳
From Ancient Temples to Tech Hubs
Taiwan visitors are diving into everything from Beijing’s historic museums to Shenzhen’s neon-lit skyscrapers. Foodies hit Chengdu’s spicy night markets, while nature lovers trekked Zhangjiajie’s Avatar-like peaks. 🍜🏞️ One Taipei traveler, Hsu, raved about her Shanghai-Suzhou-Hangzhou trip: "It’s all so seamless—paying with WeChat feels like magic!" 💫
Tech Makes Travel a Breeze
Mainland policies like visa-free entry for permit holders and mobile payment integration (think Alipay + Taiwan bank cards) are smoothing the way. As one tourist put it: "A few taps, and you’re good to go!" 📱
Beyond Coastal Hotspots
Industry insiders note a shift: travelers are now venturing inland for deeper cultural immersion. Fujian’s coast? So 2023. This year, it’s all about hidden Hunan villages and Sichuan tea plantations. 🌱
