The General Association of Chinese Culture (GACC) and the

Tourism Bureau are establishing a world record by inviting people to

spend one night free of charge in the Presidential Office as part of

the "Spend A Night @ Taiwan's Presidential Office Building"

event. A press conference was held on August 12 to announce the

event, its official website and how to register, in addition to releasing

an international promotional video.

 

Presidential Office Spokesperson Xavier Chang noted that since

taking office, President Tsai Ing-wen has promoted several events

designed to increase the public’s access to the Presidential Office.

While In the past, many visitors’ first impression of Taiwan was its great

cuisine,  this event seeks to give visitors a new impression—one of democracy, freedom and

openness—being the only country in the world to invite

people spend a night in its Presidential Office.

 

Tourism Bureau Deputy Director Chan Shi-chung stated that this

is a rare opportunity for international tourists, as President Tsai Ing-wen will lead them to experience the

beauty and wonder of Taiwan firsthand. He also said he hopes

by doing so, Taiwan can continue to remain the friendliest tourist

destination in the world.

 

The event encourages those who are interested to register and submit a video introducing himself as soon as possible.

There will be three judges to evaluate applicants’ submissions  and their thoughts on how they will promote their unforgettable  experience of this unique event.

Judges are Mr. Chan Wei-hsiung from Tourism Bureau, Taiwan Visitors

Association, travel writer Rifat and

renowned travel blogger Alston Hsu.

 

One of the judges, Rifat said that he finds the event to be both moving and a source

of pride, because the Presidential Office is an historical building

that he is quite fond of.  Moreover, having lived in Taiwan for 13 years as a son-in-law of Taiwan himself, he found

Taiwan extremely welcoming of people from different ethnicities and religions, which is why foreign friends find

this country so safe and enjoyable. Though not a large one, Taiwan is home to a rich cultural heritage.

 

Rifat continued to express his hope that they will be able to select to stay in the Presidential Office creative,

influential, opinionated people regardless of age, but with the ability to increase Taiwan’s international

exposure.

 

Due to security considerations for the Presidential Office, it is requested visitors

spending the night will observe security

rules. The first group of guests are expected to arrive in October,

and  the current plan is to accomodate 10 groups of visitors.  The

event is limited to foreign nationals who do not hold a Republic of

China passport. As the event will run for a limited time only, for those

interested should register as soon as possible.  Deadline is the end of August.

After evaluation, winners will be named on

the official website from mid to late September.

International travelers interested in this once in a lifetime opportunity should

visit the official event website at http://www.nightattaiwan.tw