The first cross-Straits charter flight from China Southern Airline carrying tour groups from Chinese mainland lands at Taiwan Taoyuan airport at 8:00 am on July 4, 2008. [Photo: cnsphoto]

The first groups of mainland tourists to Taiwan have arrived on the newly opened charter flights. With an exciting trip still ahead, some of these travelers are already impressed by the reception of the local service sector, including that offered by banking institutions.

Let's follow our reporter Zhao Lixia to find more.

The arrival of the first groups of 760 Chinese mainland tourists in Taiwan on July 4th signifies the realization of the long-held dream by mainland travelers to visit the treasure island.

Qiao Fang, a manager from China Travel International (CTI), leads one of the travel groups.

"We received a very warm welcome at the airport the moment we landed. Local travel service personnel led us to exchange currency at a branch office of Shanghai Bank, where a small reception ceremony was awaiting us. They also kindly prepared some snacks for us. They gave us the most favorable rate and even cancelled the processing fees."

Among the travelers, 353 are from Beijing, while another 400 are from four other mainland cities, namely Shanghai, Nanjing, Xiamen and Guangzhou. They had much to say when asked about their feelings of being the first ones to travel to Taiwan from mainland on the charter flights.

Miss Xiao is one of the tourists.

"Taiwan has just opened up to mainland tourists, so we are very eager to join the first travel tour. I think for me it's a precious chance to join the group."

She added that she was also very impressed by the service provided by Shanghai Bank, when they were exchanging currencies there.

Although detailed travel plan is still unknown, Qiao Fang says a deep exploration of local scenic spots will definitely be included. Tourists will visit the widely known tourist attractions such as the A-li Mountain and the Sun Moon Lake.

Prices for 8-to-10-day Taiwan packages range from 8,000 to 11,000 yuan, or about 1,160 to 1,600 U.S. Dollars. Mainland tourists are required to hold the L visa to travel to the island.

For CRI Webcast, I'm Zhao Lixia.