Taiwan, Palau launch coronavirus journey bubble

TAIPEI, Taiwan — Taiwan and the very small Pacific island nation of Palau released a coronavirus vacation bubble Thursday to boost tourism, in recognition of their success in stamping out the pandemic locally.

Travellers ought to acquire a polymerase chain response check for the virus before staying authorized to board their flights but will not be expected to undertake quarantine.

Taiwanese Health and fitness Minister Chen Shih-chung stated the bubble was built achievable due to the fact “both sides have controlled the epidemic nicely.” Palau President Surangel Whipps is in Taipei for the inaugural flight, wrapping up a 5-day check out to Taiwan.

Palau is just one of only 15 international locations that retain official diplomatic relations with Taiwan, which China claims as its territory with no ideal diplomatic recognition. China has banned its citizens from visiting Palau.

In accordance to the Tourism Bureau, there are 96 travellers on board the very first vacationer flight for a 4-working day tour in Palau.

Amongst the passengers, Taiwanese vacation blogger Shih Song-han referred to as the vacation a “rare option.”

“It has been a whole year without the need of traveling. It will be entire new experience for each individual passenger. I also want to demonstrate my admirers on how open global journey is,” Shih mentioned.

Vacationer Josephine Lin mentioned she “felt really protected for the duration of this modern earlier interval.”

“The predicament is the same in Palau. This is why I imagine this place (Palau) is protected, and I would like to go to it,” Lin stated.