© Good Travel Guide, December 2020 by Jaspal Channa
As of today, most people are not allowed or choose not to travel outside of their country. Covid has had a huge negative impact on destinations that rely on foreign tourists, however, there are also opportunities to promote and grow domestic travellers.
Many of the destinations in the Sustainable Top 100 list are often more popular with domestic tourists. For example, even though Taiwan is not open for international tourism right now, it has remained open following stringent and transparent rules, meaning Covid-19 numbers are low with no reported deaths. There are no domestic restrictions as long as you follow public health advice.
Beautiful landscapes, modern cities and traditional customs makes this a place that needs to be on your bucket list. Enjoy safe travels in Taiwan!
Taiwan’s tourism during COVID-19
Having learnt from SARS in 2003, Taiwan’s response to Covid-19 was swift without having to implement a national lockdown, reporting only 619 cases and 7 deaths (Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of China (Taiwan) 23/11/2010).
Hotels, shops and restaurants remain open, but they still need to provide self assessment documentation to the tourism bureau regularly. A strong dedicated public national health agency with most citizens following public health recommendations, has meant that it’s always been safe to travel within Taiwan.
North East and Yilan Coast
Due to strong border controls, there are low numbers of tourists from neighbouring countries so it is perfect to enjoy the Yilan coast and be at one with the beauty of the coastal landscape. Less than 2 hours from Taipei by train, it’s an easy day trip from the city. You can rent a bike and travel along the dedicated coastal bike routes. Cycling Taiwan gives great information on rentals and routes across Taiwan.
You could also stay a few nights at one of the hotels and guesthouses that are working hard at maintaining environmental practices, Toucheng Leisure Farm. The objective is to obtain a clean environment, a healthy and friendly agriculture, a good practice of recycling resources in order to meet the goal of earth’s sustainability. An organic farm and winery which also boasts a ‘muslim friendly’ restaurant.
But it’s not the only one, Taiwan and the Yilan coast take sustainability seriously and are currently planning to promote more hotels and restaurants that support the environment and value sustainable practices.
This is one of the reasons Taiwan and the Yilan Coast remains part of the Sustainable Top 100 destinations. Great transportation, food, culture, natural beauty and above all safe, it’s not to be overlooked.
Read further about a green holiday in North East and Yilan Coast.
