Taiwan was well represented at the World Holiday Show in Dublin (RDS) on 22-24 January 2016 with a lively exhibition showcasing Taiwan’s unique cultural heritage and outstanding natural beauty. His Excellency Representative Simon Tu welcomed Senator Cáit Keane as guest of honour at the opening ceremony, which was also attended by the Director of the Arts Council, Mr. Seán MacCárthaigh.
Dressed in traditional aboriginal costumes, a friendly team of volunteers from Ireland’s Taiwanese community greeted thousands of visitors to the exhibit. Supported by the staff of the Taipei Representative Office, they ran an engaging programme of fun, games, and cultural displays over the course of the busy weekend, including diabolo performances and personalised calligraphy. With a variety of traditional prizes on offer to all participants, the Taiwan Quiz was a particular hit and met with an enthusiastic reception both from prospective tourists and members of the travel industry.
The team also offered information about newly available package tours to Taiwan. A mutual visa waiver agreement between Ireland and Taiwan has made it easier than ever before to travel between the two countries for both business and pleasure, with the number of Irish visitors growing every year. On top of this, the Working Holiday Visa Programme allows young Irish and Taiwanese to spend up to a year in Taiwan or Ireland, travelling, working, and learning about a new culture. Several Working Holiday students were amongst the volunteers at the Taiwan stand, and they were delighted to help foster friendship between the two countries.
Photo Caption 1: Senator Cáit Keane and Representative Simon Tu with colleagues and volunteers at the opening of the Taiwan exhibit.
Photo Caption 2: Representative Tu and Mr Seán MacCárthaigh, Director of Public Affairs at the Arts Council.
Photo Caption 3: Ms Evan Furlong sharing her calligraphy skills with visitors.
Photo Caption 4: Mr. Frank Lu spinning the Taiwanese diabolo.
