Looking for an international trip with a bonus for your budget? Well, here's a country that will pay you to go on holiday there. In a bid to attract foreign visitors, Taiwan's Lucky Land campaign offers tourists the chance to win a NT$5,000 (new Taiwan dollars, about R3,000) travel stipend through a lucky draw system.
Eligible travellers — those holding foreign (non-Taiwanese) passports and visiting Taiwan for between three and 90 days — can register for the lucky draw one to seven days before arriving in the country. Upon landing at designated airports, they scan a QR code to see if they’ve won. Winners can choose between a pre-loaded card that can be used for shopping and transport or hotel discount vouchers, both valid for up to 90 days.
The e-ticket cards come in various forms, including EasyCard, iPASS and icash2.0, each with specific usage limits per transaction and per day. Accommodation vouchers are issued in five NT$1,000 denominations, usable once each at approved establishments. Prizes must be claimed on the day of arrival.
Launched in May 2023, the initiative plans to distribute 500,000 prizes over three years, with 250,000 winners in the first year; 150,000 in 2024; and 100,000 this year, helping visitors to explore Taiwan while supporting local businesses.
Even without the cash incentive, Taiwan has much to offer as a tourist destination. From the busy streets of Taipei to the serene landscapes of Taroko National Park, the island offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
One of its biggest draws is its night markets, where visitors can indulge in local delicacies such as bubble tea, beef noodle soup and stinky tofu.
Taiwan also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with landmarks such as the National Palace Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese imperial artefacts. Temples such as Longshan in Taipei and the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas in Kaohsiung showcase the country’s spiritual traditions.
Beyond the cities, Taiwan offers breathtaking natural beauty. The Alishan Scenic Area is famous for its misty mountain views and ancient forests, while Sun Moon Lake offers tranquil waters surrounded by lush greenery. The island’s hot springs, particularly in Beitou and Wulai, provide a relaxing escape.
The Lucky Land campaign is running until June 30 but another bonus for South Africans: you can visit visa-free for up to 90 days.
Get more details about the Lucky Land Programme at the official website.
