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On June 13, Taiwan's Tourism Bureau held an unveiling ceremony for the Taiwan Tourism Information Center (TTIC) in Seattle, aiming to enhance Taiwan's presence and marketing capabilities in North America.

The ceremony was hosted by Director Tsen Kuo-Ching of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Seattle, with attendees including Tsen's deputy from the Tourism Bureau, Huang Yi-Cheng, Secretary-General Chung Yi-Ning of the Taiwan Tourism Association, as well as representatives from offices in San Francisco and Los Angeles as well as local major travel operators. This event symbolizes a significant step forward in promoting Taiwan's tourism brand in North America.

With increasing connectivity, Taiwan now has nearly 190 direct flights every week to major North American cities. Seattle has seen remarkable growth in this regard, becoming a vital hub connecting Taiwan to the Northwestern United States. Several airlines, including EVA Air, China Airlines, StarLux, and Delta Airlines, are actively contributing to make Seattle a key player in the North American market.

Huang Yi-Cheng from the Tourism Bureau noted, “In the past year, the number of flights between Taiwan and the U.S. has quadrupled, significantly improving the accessibility and willingness of American travelers to visit Taiwan.” Director Tsen highlighted that the establishment of TTIC signifies a new stage in Taiwan's cultural exchanges with the Northwestern United States, aiming to deepen connections through tourism and create more opportunities for bilateral interactions. He also expressed gratitude to the Tourism Bureau for facilitating this initiative.

Following the unveiling ceremony, the Tourism Bureau also held a “Seattle Taiwan Tourism Promotion Event”, inviting local travel industry leaders, media, and opinion leaders. Through business talks and presentations, the aim is to strengthen product packaging and distribution collaboration while encouraging U.S. operators to promote Taiwan tourism actively, expanding Taiwan's international exposure and visibility.

The newly established TTIC is conveniently located at Two Union Square, adjacent to several light rail stations, making it easier for travelers interested in visiting Taiwan to inquire for information and strengthen ties with the local tourism industry. Looking ahead, TTIC plans to integrate diverse activities with local resources, including the “Two Days Taiwan Immersive Festival” in August, which will create an immersive night market experience, a “Hey Hey Taipei” airport transit promotional art installation in September, a limited-time Taiwan travel promotion with Expedia in October and next March, participation in the Denver Marathon in May to reinforce outdoor tourism, as well as showcasing Taiwan’s diversity and inclusivity by participating in Seattle Pride in June.

In addition, the Tourism Bureau is planning multiple media familiarization trips (FAM trips) to enhance reporting exposure and brand recall by connecting local media and KOL resources, thereby promoting a sustainable growth and mutually beneficial development for Taiwan's tourism in the North American market.

(Photo provided by the Tourism Bureau)