The 2024 Taiwan International Balloon Festival has officially takes flight at Luye Highland in Taitung. Running until August 19, the festival promises visitors 45 days of endless surprises and excitement. According to the 2023 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), Taiwan ranks third among non-OIC destinations, following Singapore and the United Kingdom. Taipei has also received the “Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Tourism Destination City Award” for the first time.
Abe Chou, Director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration Kuala Lumpur Office, said, “We are delighted to invite our Muslim friends from Malaysia to the 2024 Taiwan International Balloon Festival. As a Muslim-friendly travel destination, Taiwan boasts magnificent natural landscapes like mountains, oceans, and forests. Whether it’s the balloon ride, mountain biking, or leisurely strolls through ancient streets, adventurous and romantic journeys in Taiwan will undoubtedly leave Muslim travellers with unforgettable memories and unique emotions.”
Take Flight at the Taiwan International Balloon Festival
From July 6 to August 19, the 45-day tethered balloon ride experience and thematic balloon displays will be spectacularly staged at the Luye Highland, Taitung. This year, the festival collaborates with HELLO KITTY’s 50th Birthday Celebration, featuring 12 Night Glow Concerts and eight showcases of 500-drone performances that promise awe-inspiring experiences this summer.
Up to 21 uniquely shaped thematic balloons will be showcased this year, including the highly anticipated Hello Kitty balloon that debuted in 2021. A collaboration between Taitung County Government and Sanrio Co., Ltd., the Hello Kitty Balloon stands at approximately 32 meters tall, dressed in traditional Bunun attire in blue. On its left ear, it has a bow adorned with Bunun tribal totems, showcasing a harmonious fusion of international icons and local culture.
Moreover, the OhBear balloon will also appear at this year’s festival. The OhBear mascot has been officially appointed as the Taiwan Tourism Administration Office’s “Chief of Super Mission” since 2014. Its balloon incorporates elements of the Formosan black bear and Indigenous culture. It carries an Amis love bag and wears an orange cape printed with “Taiwan,” showcasing Taiwanese characteristics and shouldering the key duty of promoting international exchange.
Last but not least, the world’s only Matsu-themed balloon is the highlight of this year’s festival. As the sixth thematic hot air balloon of the festival, it stands at approximately 26 meters tall and 20.6 meters in diameter, is jointly produced by the Taitung County Government and the century-old Taitung Tianhou Temple.
Muslim-Friendly Accommodations, Facilities, and Services
Taiwan has consistently performed well in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) over the years. Major transportation hubs and attractions, such as international airports, Taipei Main Station, Kaohsiung Station, Hualien Station, and Taichung High-Speed Rail Station, all have Muslim prayer rooms, providing convenience for Muslim travellers to perform religious activities.
Furthermore, 13 national scenic areas and highway service areas across Taiwan are also equipped with Muslim prayer rooms, further demonstrating Taiwan’s inclusiveness towards Muslim travellers. Taiwan is recognised as one of the safest travel destinations in Asia, with low crime rates and an efficient healthcare system providing a secure travel environment for visitors. Additionally, the southern and eastern regions have numerous Muslim-certified or friendly hotels and restaurants, ensuring a worry-free travel experience for Muslim travellers. Flight information from Malaysia to Taiwan is also very convenient, with travellers advised to enter via Taipei or Kaohsiung and use the local convenient transportation system to travel to the southern and eastern regions.
For more information, please contact the Taiwan Tourism Administration Kuala Lumpur Office at +603-20706789 or email tourism@taiwan.net.my