Building Taiwan's Tourism Brand Across the Pacific Northwest

To continue expanding Taiwan's visitor market in the U.S. Pacific Northwest and inland regions, the Taiwan Tourism Administration established the Taiwan Tourism Information Center in Seattle (TTIC) in June 2025. Since its opening, TTIC has actively used Seattle as its regional hub to connect with travel advisors, airlines, media, content creators, and local community partners throughout the Greater Seattle area. These efforts have strengthened Taiwan's tourism brand across the Pacific Northwest while advancing Taiwan–U.S. tourism cooperation to a new level.

On July 9, 2026, the Taiwan Tourism Administration's San Francisco Office hosted "Taiwan Tourism in Seattle | The Next Chapter and Industry Forum & Networking Reception," bringing together representatives from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Seattle, Taiwan's three major airlines—China Airlines, EVA Airways, and STARLUX Airlines—Taiwan destination management companies including Edison Tours, Lion Travel, and MyTaiwanTour, as well as travel advisors, industry partners, content creators, and travel media from across the Greater Seattle region. The event celebrated TTIC's accomplishments during its first year while unveiling marketing initiatives and strategic plans for the coming year, reaffirming Taiwan's long-term commitment to the Pacific Northwest market.

In her opening remarks, Director General May-Ping Lin of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Seattle thanked industry partners for their continued support in promoting Taiwan throughout the region. She highlighted the close collaboration between TECO Seattle and TTIC on numerous high-profile events, including the National Day Reception, the Portland Rose Festival, and the Seattle Pride Parade. These initiatives have increased Taiwan's visibility among American audiences while showcasing Taiwan's open, democratic, and inclusive society through its culture, cuisine, festivals, and welcoming spirit.

Over the past year, TTIC has served as the foundation for a variety of promotional campaigns, including the So Taiwan Easy Festival, Seattle light rail advertising, destination seminars, community cultural events, and travel trade shows, introducing Taiwan's culture, cuisine, natural scenery, and travel experiences to audiences across the Greater Seattle area. The Taiwan Tourism Administration also expanded its outreach beyond the Pacific Northwest by sponsoring the Denver Colfax Marathon 5K, introducing travelers from the Rocky Mountain region to Taiwan's outdoor recreation, mountain and coastal landscapes, and sports tourism opportunities. Participation in the Seattle Pride Parade further reinforced Taiwan's international reputation as an inclusive, welcoming, and diverse travel destination.

In addition to consumer marketing, the Taiwan Tourism Administration has actively invited travel journalists, food and lifestyle writers, and digital content creators to experience Taiwan firsthand. Their authentic stories have highlighted Taiwan's strengths in sustainable tourism, LGBTQ+ friendly travel, solo female travel, senior-friendly travel, and immersive cultural experiences. During the event, invited journalists and creators shared their personal experiences in Taiwan, giving local travel professionals valuable insights into how Taiwan meets the expectations of North American travelers seeking safety, cultural authenticity, exceptional cuisine, and welcoming hospitality.

Travel journalist Emily Molina shared that what impressed her most was Taiwan's exceptional sense of safety for women travelers and the genuine warmth of its people, which completely eased any concerns she had before her trip. She added that Taiwan offers so many unique experiences that she looks forward to returning. Travel writer Nancy Mueller spoke about Taiwan's unforgettable cuisine and hospitality, noting that learning about the cultural phenomenon of Taiwan's famous "Green Kuai Kuai" snacks became one of the most unexpected and memorable moments of her journey. Content creator Erika Daima reflected on experiencing Taiwan Pride during her visit, describing the open, inclusive, carnival-like atmosphere as one of the most unforgettable highlights of her trip and a powerful reflection of Taiwan's diverse and welcoming society.

The networking session featured lively discussions among travel professionals, Taiwan Tourism Administration representatives, and Taiwan tourism partners on topics including travel safety, accessibility and senior-friendly tourism, barrier-free travel, product development, media partnerships, and airline collaboration. Guests also enjoyed classic Taiwanese favorites—including bubble tea, Taiwanese fried chicken, and cold noodles—prepared by local Taiwanese businesses, offering attendees an authentic taste of Taiwan's vibrant food culture.

As TTIC enters its second year, the Taiwan Tourism Administration will continue strengthening partnerships with airlines, travel advisors, media, content creators, and community organizations. Through in-person events, digital marketing, destination storytelling, product development, and industry collaboration, the goal is to move Taiwan beyond simply being a destination travelers recognize to becoming one they actively choose when planning their next trip to Asia.

"Over the past year, we have built more than just an office—we have created a platform that connects Taiwan with communities throughout the Pacific Northwest," said Sylvia Lee, Director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration's San Francisco Office. "Looking ahead, we look forward to working with even more partners to share Taiwan's hospitality, culture, cuisine, natural beauty, and welcoming travel experiences, inspiring more travelers to discover Taiwan from Seattle, experience Taiwan firsthand, and ultimately fall in love with Taiwan."

About the Taiwan Tourism Administration San Francisco Office

The Taiwan Tourism Administration San Francisco Office is responsible for promoting Taiwan tourism and providing travel information throughout Northern California, the Northwestern United States, and Western Canada. Working closely with local travel industry partners and distribution channels, the office organizes promotional campaigns, media collaborations, and destination marketing initiatives to increase Taiwan's visibility and encourage travel to Taiwan while providing travelers and industry partners with the latest travel information and consultation services.

For more information about traveling to Taiwan, please visit the Taiwan Tourism Administration's official website: eng.taiwan.net.tw