At the 2025 Calgary Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show held from March 29 to 30, the Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) showcased the dynamic spirit of adventure that Taiwan offers, captivating the hearts and minds of Canadian travel enthusiasts. The dazzling displays highlighted Taiwan’s breathtaking outdoor experiences, from world-class cycling and hiking trails to rich cultural interactions, establishing the island as a premier destination for adventure seekers.
Sylvia Lee, the director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration San Francisco Office, which oversees the Western Canadian market, emphasized the strong bond Canadians have with nature and active travel. The TTA booth was a vibrant hub featuring the renowned Cycling Route No. 1 and ten must-visit cycling locations that define Taiwan’s enchanting landscapes.
“Taiwan’s stunning geography and vibrant ecology make it a dream come true for outdoor explorers,” Lee stated. “Cycling through Taiwan’s charming towns allows travelers to fully experience the island’s culture, hospitality, and natural beauty.” This perspective resonates well with those yearning for an immersive travel experience.
Things to Do in Taiwan
The Taiwan booth became a crowd favorite, attracting curious adventurers eager to learn more about the island’s offerings. Airline and travel partners such as China Airlines, One Dream Travel, and I & J Travel were present to provide crucial information, exclusive travel deals, and itinerary suggestions. Visitors relished interactive displays and were treated to limited-edition Year of the Snake lantern giveaways, capturing the essence of Taiwan’s famous Lantern Festival. They even got a sneak peek of the upcoming 2026 edition of the festival, taking place in Chiayi County—a must-see highlight for culture enthusiasts.
Another hit at the event was Taiwan’s exceptional birdwatching sites. Given that birdwatching is a cherished activity among outdoor lovers, the show prominently featured brochures detailing premier birdwatching locations. Compounding this excitement, TTA introduced the inaugural World Bird Fair, set to occur in Taichung from September 19 to 23, 2025. Attendees were encouraged to explore more details at the 2025WorldBirdFair.com.
Visitor Growth from North America
Taiwan’s growing allure to North American travelers was evident at the show. In 2024, the island welcomed 763,000 visitors from the region—a remarkable 23% increase compared to 2023, essentially surpassing pre-pandemic levels. As Taiwan’s second-largest market in the Americas, Canadian travelers have consistently been drawn to its safe and seamless travel experience, diverse attractions, and warm hospitality.
Engaging with Albertan travelers at pivotal expos like the Calgary Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show allows the Taiwan Tourism Administration to effectively strengthen Taiwan’s tourism brand and cultivate partnerships with local industry players. Not stopping there, travelers planning a southern adventure in Taiwan can take advantage of a buy-one-get-one-free deal on high-speed rail tickets south of Taichung, available through KKDay and Klook. Additional offers for rail, metro, and shuttle bus tickets that venture beyond Taipei can be accessed through the Taiwan Pass app (twpass.tw).
For travelers with layovers between 7 and 24 hours in Taiwan, the country even offers free half-day tours, a unique way to explore the vibrant locales without spending extra time. More information can be found at halfdaytour.taiwan.net.tw.
Through its compelling presence at the Calgary Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show, Taiwan has firmly reestablished itself as an essential destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike—capturing the imaginations of Alberta’s travel community and inspiring them to discover the abundant natural beauty, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences that await in Taiwan.