TAIPEI (Taiwan News) —  The number of tourists visiting the Czech Republic saw a significant increase in Q1, with Taiwanese visitors leading the growth at 75%.

According to the Czech media outlet Financni a Ekonomicke Informace, hotels, inns, and other accommodations across the Central European country hosted 4.1 million tourists, with nearly 53% being domestic tourists and 47% being international visitors, per CNA.

The increase has also led to higher hotel occupancy rates, reported CNA. In Q1, hotel occupancy rates grew, especially in luxury hotels, which saw an increase of nearly one-third.

Taiwanese tourists topped the growth chart with a 75% increase, reaching 37,000 visits, per RTI. This surge is mainly because of the direct flights launched between Taipei and Prague in July last year.

China Airlines operates two direct flights per week from Taipei to Prague, making Prague the sixth European city with direct flights from airline, alongside cities like Frankfurt and Amsterdam.

“We anticipate significant interest in this route from Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam,” China Airlines President Kao Shing-hwang (高星潢) said. “This will enhance Taiwan’s position as a transit hub, facilitating more Asian travelers to and from the Czech Republic.”

Prague Deputy Mayor for Tourism and Culture Jiri Pospisil said, “I am pleased that we are developing sustainable tourism, strategically targeting high-quality customers, and improving the service provided.” 

“Our efforts are reflected in the data, showing a changing composition of tourists in Prague who are willing to spend money in the city,” he added.