Through the “Youth Trekker’s Wanted” campaign, the National Youth Commission (NYC) has over the past three years awarded travel funds to nearly 50 youths from around the world to help them achieve their travel dreams in Taiwan. NYC is again welcoming international youth to Taiwan for the 4th “Youth Trekker’s Wanted Campaign”. Applications must be submitted by December 11th, 2011. We encourage all international youths aged 18~30 (between Jan 1st, 1981 ~ Dec 31, 1993) who love to travel and share their travel experiences to submit a Taiwan itinerary for consideration. Submitted itineraries must be 10 days or longer and center on a theme chosen by the applicant. Once completed, itineraries must be uploaded to the activity’s official website. We will award the best 20 entrants with US$2,000 ~ US$3,000, good toward making your Taiwan dream trip come true!

3rd Youth Trekkers Wanted campaign finalist Caterina Gabriella Pavese of Italy designed her Taiwan trek around the theme “Embracing Taiwan’s Soul – Experiencing Religious Culture.” Her first stop out of Taipei was Dharma Drum Mountain, a peaceful monastery along the North Coast and a short one-hour bus ride from Taipei’s bustle. An elderly docent gave her a grand tour. Amid the serenity of Dharma Drum, Caterina truly felt the oneness shared by all human souls.

Apart from centers of Buddhist and Taoist faiths, Caterina also paid a visit to Taipei’s Longgang Mosque. The mutual respect that all faiths share for one another was another pleasant surprise. Tolerance allows all in Taiwan – resident and visitor alike – the freedom to seek spiritual comfort on their own terms. Lugang and its fusion of traditional and modern temples was a particularly memorable stop for Caterina. She described the town as a “living museum,” where one couldn’t turn a corner without uncovering a reminder of the town’s proud past. Caterina always found friendly people willing to guide her around and discuss Taiwan’s religious beliefs, helping deepen her understanding and appreciation of the island’s spiritual side. Caterina warmly recommends Taiwan as a destination sure to be appreciated by fellow Europeans. She hopes others will follow her example and touch Taiwan’s “beautiful soul.”

Rich culture … Lovely scenery … Friendly people. Would you like a grand tour of Taiwan? Enjoy your Taiwan holiday in your own creative way!

Please visit our official activity website: http://youthtravel.tw/youthtrekker for more details.
Caterina in front of a temple