Source: Taiwan Today
Date: December 21, 2015

Taiwan welcomed its 10 millionth international visitor for the year Dec. 20 at

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, marking a milestone development in the country’s tourism industry.

Christopher Manuele, a 34-year-old software engineer who touched down with his Taiwan-American wife in tow, was greeted with a lion dance and other festivities as he entered the airport’s arrival hall.

“This is really a big surprise,” Manuele said, adding that he is deeply grateful for such privileged treatment. The California native plans to travel around Taiwan with his wife and visit her grandmother in Kaohsiung City during a two-week stay.

In a promotional ceremony held later the same day in Taipei City, President Ma Ying-jeou presented Manuele with 100 gifts worth NT$1 million (US$30,196). These comprised artworks, bicycles, consumer electronics and luxurious vacation packages, as well as an assortment souvenirs provided by local governments.     [FULL  STORY]