Taipei:Organizers of the Taiwan International Travel Fair (ITF) are aiming to attract over 400,000 visitors this year, as an increasing number of younger travelers seek unique experiences rather than just bargain deals, According to event's chairwoman.
According to Focus Taiwan, Taiwan Visitors Association Chairwoman Chien Yu-yen highlighted a rise in early-bird ticket sales by more than 10 percent compared to the previous year, when attendance surpassed 360,000. The fair, marking its 40th anniversary, is scheduled to take place from November 6 to 9 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, Hall 1, featuring over 550 exhibitors from 123 countries and cities.
Chien noted that while the fair was traditionally known for its value-for-money deals, the trend is shifting towards higher-priced, distinctive trips that travelers wish to experience at least once in their lifetime. Polar expeditions, aurora-viewing trips, and European itineraries are among the popular offerings, with a baseball tour priced at NT$490,000 (US$15,033) per person selling out quickly.
Travel agencies are responding to this shift by offering more premium packages, with pilgrimage routes in Spain and aurora tours particularly appealing to younger customers, while older travelers show a preference for cruises. Chien also mentioned that booth allocations for the Japan Pavilion, the Philippines, and travel agencies have reached new highs, despite similar overall booth counts to last year. Private sector participation has increased, while government presence has decreased due to budget cuts.
Airlines and travel agencies have started promoting their offerings in advance of the exhibition, with some companies not participating in the ITF also holding online sales to meet demand. Chien added that despite higher airfares and overseas conflicts, Taiwanese consumers remain enthusiastic about travel, although they are adjusting their destinations to avoid troubled areas. The fair will offer a range of domestic and international travel products, including rail journeys, cruises, and themed itineraries.
Source Focus Taiwan
