On 29-30 March, Crowne Plaza Vientiane, a five-star hotel in the capital, will host Wedding Fair 2025: Your Forever Starts From Here.
The two-day fair will showcase a variety of wedding ideas tailored to individual preferences and offer couples expert guidance in planning their special day.
The event will also bring together leading wedding suppliers and service providers, allowing attendees to explore a range of options, from venue selection and décor to menu planning and photography.
Each booth will feature special promotions, making it an ideal opportunity for couples looking for exclusive deals.
An Asian couple holding hands (photo credit: besphotographer)
Visitors will have the chance to consult with experienced wedding professionals who can provide personalized recommendations to bring their dream wedding to life. The fair will also feature a selection of curated wedding packages designed to suit different styles and preferences.
In addition to discovering exclusive services and packages, attendees will have the opportunity to win special gifts, including stays at IHG Hotels.
Those interested in participating in the event can register by contacting +856 20 97133986 or following Crowne Plaza Vientiane’s official page at https://web.facebook.com/crowneplazavientiane
On March 20, the Lao Red Cross (LRC), in collaboration with the Swiss Red Cross (SRC), inaugurated a new Blood Transfusion Center in Salavanh Province
The ceremony was co-presided by LRC President Khamlavanh Chanthalvanh, Somchai Ounchit, Provincial Party Standing Committee Member and Deputy Governor of Salavanh Province, and SRC Country Representative Binita Poudel. Distinguished attendees included representatives from the LRC Headquarters, SRC in Laos, National Blood Transfusion Institute (NBTI), Salavanh Provincial Red Cross Branch, Blood Transfusion Center (BTC), and various provincial offices and organizations.
The construction of the Blood Transfusion Center was made possible through the support of the Swiss Red Cross, with a total investment of LAK 1,721,001,000 (approximately USD 79,473). This significant contribution aims to enhance blood transfusion services in Salavanh Province, improving healthcare access and ensuring the availability of safe blood for those in need.
Khamlavanh Chanthalavanh, President of the Lao Red Cross, expressed gratitude to the Swiss Red Cross for their steadfast support, saying, “This new facility stands as a testament to our shared commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and ensuring the availability of safe blood for all.”
He further highlighted the significance of the Swiss Red Cross’s contribution, noting that their ongoing partnership has been instrumental in advancing the Lao Red Cross’s mission to improve national blood transfusion services.
Somchai Ounchit, Deputy Governor of Salavanh Province, highlighted thel role of the newly established Salavanh Provincial Blood Transfusion Center in enhancing the province’s healthcare infrastructure.
He remarked, “The establishment of this center marks a significant milestone in our efforts to provide timely and safe blood transfusions to those in need.” He further emphasized that the center’s operations align with the Lao Red Cross’s mission to improve national blood transfusion services, ensuring the availability of safe blood for all citizens.
Binita Poudel, Country Representative of the Swiss Red Cross, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to supporting Laos, stating, “Our collaboration with the Lao Red Cross reflects our shared vision of strengthening healthcare services and ensuring that every citizen has access to essential medical resources.” She emphasized that this partnership aims to enhance community well-being and resilience through improved healthcare infrastructure and services.
Chanthala Souksakhone, Director of the National Blood Transfusion Institute, stresses the role of the newly inaugurated Salavanh Provincial Blood Transfusion Center in addressing the nation’s increasing blood demand, stating, “With rising demand and medical needs, this center will play a crucial role in meeting the nation’s blood transfusion requirements.”
He outlined the national goal to collect 120,000 blood bags annually by 2030, with Salavanh Province’s targets set at 2,100 units in 2025, 2,300 in 2026, 2,800 in 2027, and reaching 4,500 by 2030.
Souksakhone expressed confidence that, under the leadership of provincial authorities and with the support of the Salavanh Provincial Red Cross Branch and blood transfusion center staff, the Salavanh Provincial Blood Transfusion Center will significantly contribute to achieving these objectives.
Davanh Phuangchampa, Acting Director of the Salavanh Provincial Red Cross Branch, accepted stewardship of the newly inaugurated Salavanh Provincial Blood Transfusion Center on behalf of the provincial Red Cross.
He expressed, “We are honored to take stewardship of this facility, which will undoubtedly save countless lives and strengthen our community’s health infrastructure.” Representing the eight districts of Salavanh Province, Phuangchampa emphasized the center’s significance in enhancing local healthcare services and ensuring timely access to safe blood transfusions for all residents.
The inauguration and handover of the Salavanh Provincial Blood Transfusion Center represent a significant advancement in enhancing blood donation and transfusion services within Salavanh Province.
This development is poised to substantially bolster the region’s healthcare infrastructure, ensuring timely access to safe blood transfusions and thereby improving the overall health and well-being of local communities.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Salavanh-Opens-New-Blood-Transfusion-Center-with-Swiss-Support.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-04-08 08:15:002025-03-24 08:16:36Salavanh Opens New Blood Transfusion Center with Swiss Support
On 15 March, Nam Theun 2 Power Company Limited (NTPC) celebrated its 15th anniversary with the Nam Theun 2 Golf Classic, held at the Lao Country Club in Vientiane.
The event brought together over 100 enthusiastic golfers for an amateur tournament, conducted under the rules of the Lao National Golf Federation.
The tournament saw attendance from Phoxay Sayasone, Minister of Energy and Mines, and Vanxay Phongsavanh, Governor of Khamouanne Province, where the majority of NTPC’s facilities are located.
“We are delighted to celebrate this significant milestone with our partners, stakeholders, and friends,” said Marc-Antoine Rupp, CEO of NTPC. “The Nam Theun 2 Golf Classic not only highlights our commitment to fostering cooperation but also showcases the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines NTPC.”
“I greatly appreciate the hard work of Nam Theun 2, which has produced countless successes, particularly in contributing to the socio-economic development of the country. The Nam Theun 2 Project is highly regarded by the Lao government. It is widely recognized as a cornerstone, a source of strength, and a symbol of Laos’ reputation and capability.” remarked Phoxay Sayasone, Minister of Energy and Mines at the opening.
The event featured a day of competitive golf, followed by an awards ceremony recognizing the top performers. Participants enjoyed the scenic beauty and challenging course of the Lao Country Club, making the tournament a memorable experience for all.
As one of Laos’ largest hydropower projects, Nam Theun 2 is a joint investment between Electricité de France (EDF) with a 40 percent stake, Electricity Generating Company of Thailand (EGCO) holding 35 percent, and the Lao government, represented by Lao Holding State Enterprise (LHSE), with 25 percent . The 1,080 MW hydropower facility, located in Khammouane province, is set to operate under a 25-year concession from 2010 to 2035.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_8582.jpg12801920Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-04-07 08:13:002025-03-24 08:14:52Nam Theun 2 Marks 15 Years with Golf Classic in Vientiane
On 21 March, as the world celebrates International Forest Day, Laos stands out as one of Southeast Asia’s most natural landscapes. The country usually greets visitors with a vast green cover.
Fun fact: Laos has the highest percentage of forest area in the region, according to the Global Resource Information Database.
However, rapid economic changes and industrial deforestation present serious challenges, the National Assembly said.
The International Day of Forests is observed globally to raise awareness about the importance of trees and their role in supporting human life. The day has been celebrated annually since a UN General Assembly resolution in 2012.
Almost a decade later, in 2021, as part of the global movement toward sustainability, Laos set a target to restore its forest cover to 70 percent of the country by 2025, up from 62 percent in the previous five-year plan.
According to data from the Lao Statistics Bureau, Laos has seen significant changes in its forest cover over the years.
In 1950, forests covered 70 percent of the country’s land area, which is equivalent to 16.6 million hectares. By 2019, the forest area had decreased to 13.2 million hectares, indicating a gradual decline in forest cover.
This trend continued into 2022, when the forest area further decreased to 13.1 million hectares. Despite the reduction, forests remain a crucial part of Laos’ environmental landscape.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/WEB-6-e1743139103165-1.webp261500Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-04-04 08:11:002025-03-28 20:26:47International Day of Forests: Laos Tops Region in Forest Coverage
On 17 March, Salavanh Province officially recognized That Kadaothuek as a local national cultural heritage site.
Located in Na Khok village, Khongsedon district, That Kadaothuek is an ancient stupa dating back to the 17th century. While the details of its construction, including its builder and purpose, remain unknown, experts believe iIt was built alongside its rival That Hongthong, another stupa with similar features just 111 meters away.
That Kadaothuek features a rectangular base measuring 5.2 by 5.2 meters, with a height of approximately 4.4 meters.
According to website InsideLao, the recognition comes from the stupa’s popularity among both local and foreign visitors. While its origins and legends remain a mystery, some believe it was built as a place of worship, others claim it was meant to safeguard hidden treasures.
As the officials reviewed the monument’s registration process and historical background, authorities conducted detailed surveys to define the site’s boundaries, ensuring proper documentation and long-term protection.
The designated heritage area spans 72,063 square meters.
To further safeguard its integrity, the site has been divided into two distinct zones. The 27,720-square-meter Conservation Zone will focus on preserving the temple, while the Development Zone will allow for cultural and historical enhancements.
Additionally, a permanent land title has been issued to secure the site’s future and prevent encroachment.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Salavanh-Recognizes-That-Kadaothuek-as-Cultural-Heritage-Site.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-04-03 08:07:002025-03-24 08:09:30Salavanh Recognizes That Kadaothuek as Cultural Heritage Site
In celebration of International Women’s Day on 8 March, Sofitel Luang Prabang hosted the “HERitage: A Celebration of Lao Women in Handicraft exhibition,” where visitors can now purchase local handicrafts as souvenirs, supporting the work of Lao artisans.
The exhibition will be open until 31 March and marks the official launch of La Boutique. This initiative offers a retail selection of locally sourced products while supporting local craftsmanship.
For generations, Lao women have preserved the country’s rich traditions, especially in handicrafts such as weaving. These skills, passed down over time, not only aim to keep the culture alive but also contribute significantly to the local economy.
Today, these traditions continue to thrive, with modern adaptations blending seamlessly with the original styles.
The recent event in Luang Prabang was opened by Andrew Gianfranco, the new General Manager of Sofitel Luang Prabang and 3 Nagas – MGallery.
“We contributed by supporting local artisans and businesses through partnerships and procurement, offering educational programs and cultural experiences to guests, and also promoting responsible tourism practices that respect and preserve the city’s traditions,” Gianfranco said.
The exhibition featured intricate textiles, handmade jewelry, and other artisan crafts, showing off the skills and cultural contributions of Lao women artisans, including Viengkham Nanthavongdouangsy (Khang), Boutsaya Viengviseth (Boutsaya Craft), Touk Maicome (Maicome), Vanida Phimphachanh (Saneha Jewellery), and Sui Thammamonty & Petra Racz (P.S. Collective).
“We will create a tour for tourists so they can learn about Lao culture, and also partner with local artisans, historians, and cultural institutions to offer more valuable experiences for them such as the opening of our La Boutique,” Gianfranco added. “It’s not just a shop; it’s a way for guests to take a piece of the local culture home with them.”
Sofitel Luang Prabang, a historic hotel originally a French governor’s residence, is located in the Old Town area by the Mekong River.
On 12 March, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants announced the extended 51-100 list ahead of the live awards ceremony. Lao makes its mark with Doi Ka Noi, which is ranked 86 on the extended list, making it the first Lao restaurant to be featured in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Chef Ponpailin ‘Noi’ Kaewduangdee
Helmed by chef Ponpailin ‘Noi’ Kaewduangdee, the restaurant offers an evolving menu of regional Lao cuisine inspired by the chef’s childhood in a rural, off-grid farming community.
Ponpailin ‘Noi’ Kaewduangdee was born in 1980 in Pon Paeng village in central Laos. The second iteration of her restaurant, Doi Ka Noi, opened in 2016 and serves a small weekly changing menu of around ten dishes on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only.
The focus is on regional, seasonal Lao cuisine, which includes dishes from the country’s ethnic groups. Many recipes and ingredients are seldom found elsewhere. Ingredients are bought in the local morning market, grown in the restaurant’s organic garden, or foraged.
Noi is the first and currently only Lao member of the global food movement, Slow Food, and the restaurant is the first in Laos to appear on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants extended list.
Southern-style Mekong fish soup with paddy herb and pineappleStir-friend weaver ant eggs with egg, chilli and garlic
The 2025 list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants will be revealed at the awards ceremony held on 25 March in Seoul, in collaboration with host destination partner Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA), and the Seoul Metropolitan Government.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/WEB-2-e1743139466650.webp261500Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-04-01 09:46:002025-03-28 20:32:52Lao Restaurant Debuts on Asia’s 50 Best Extended List for First Time in History
The internet and social media landscape in Laos experienced significant growth in 2025, driven by faster internet speeds and increasing mobile phone adoption.
According to the State of Digital in Laos 2025 report, the country has 4.97 million internet users this year, with an internet penetration rate of 63.6 percent of the total population. However, 2.85 million people remained offline at the start of the year.
Mobile cellular connectivity also saw a substantial rise, with 6.78 million mobile connections, equivalent to 86.7 percent of the population. Broadband networks, including 3G, 4G, and 5G, accounted for 95.1 percent of these connections. As a result, internet speeds in Laos improved significantly, with fixed broadband averaging 34.62 Mbps, a 17.8 percent increase from the previous year.
The surge in internet access also fueled social media growth, with 4.25 million active users, representing 54.3 percent of the population. Nearly all users accessed social media via mobile devices, with the majority falling within the 25 to 34 age group.
In terms of mobile web traffic, Android devices continued to dominate with a 68.7 percent market share, although this marked a slight decline from the previous year. Meanwhile, Apple iOS devices gained traction, increasing to 31.14 percent of total web traffic.
These digital advancements in Laos reflect broader global trends. Worldwide, internet users reached 5.56 billion in 2025, covering 67.9 percent of the global population, while social media users surpassed 5.24 billion.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Internet-Connection-to-all-aroun-the-world.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-03-31 09:44:202025-03-17 09:46:11Digital Growth in Laos with Internet Faster by 17.8 percent in Early 2025
Inspired by his father, 28-year-old Anoukit ‘Mon’ Kithsavath first picked up a camera as a child.
He recalls how his father was always seen with a camera in hand and watching him capture moments through the lens ignited Mon’s passion for visual storytelling.
From that moment, he knew photography would be his lifelong career.
“I remember just being drawn to the way he handled the camera,” Mon recalled. “It wasn’t just about snapping photos; it was about capturing a feeling, a moment that would otherwise be lost.”
This early connection to photography sparked a passion that would eventually lead him to international recognition.
Back in February, Mon received a Highly Commended Award in London. It wasn’t the top prize, but it’s a big nod to the quality of his work. This milestone puts the Lao photographer further on the global stage.
For the past five years, Mon has primarily focused on street photography, though he remains uncertain whether to consider it his specialty.
“I’m not sure if I specialize in this genre or not, but I enjoy doing it,” he said.
Street photograph by Anoukit ‘Mon’ Kithsavath that won the award.
His work often explores the connection between the city, its artwork, and its people, reflecting a sense of solitude despite the bustling environment of the city center.
“There’s something raw and real about street art,” he explained. “It’s always changing, just like the city itself. I love the challenge of finding the right angle, the right light, and capturing it before it’s gone. Before I create my masterpiece, I sit in the same spot for hours, watching and waiting for the right moment.”
Mon’s ability to find beauty in the unexpected has earned him recognition, proving that inspiration can arise from even the simplest beginnings—like a father’s camera.
Beyond his father, Mon draws inspiration from popular photographers, particularly Henri Cartier-Bresson, the French photojournalist often regarded as the father of street photography.
“His work has inspired me so much,” Mon shared. “The way he captures fleeting moments with such precision and emotion is truly amazing.”
Another major influence on Mon’s work is Alan Schaller, a London-based photographer known for his striking black-and-white imagery.
“Alan Schaller is my idol,” Mon said. “He only shoots in black and white, and his style is incredibly creative. The way he plays with contrast, blending subjects and light so seamlessly, amazes me.”
No Pain No Gain
Mon shared that staying motivated to hit the streets isn’t always easy. At times, he found himself photographing the same subjects repeatedly, which led to a loss of interest and a temptation to stay home instead.
The biggest challenge in street photography, he explained, lies in its unpredictability.
“You never know what you’re going to capture that day,” he said.
There were days when he took hundreds of shots, only to find that none were usable.
“You need to be in the right place at the right time,” he said. “But you also have to know what kind of photo you want. Otherwise, you’re just relying on luck—and I don’t like leaving things to chance. I prefer to chase the shot I envision.”
Like any creative pursuit, Mon’s journey has not been without obstacles. There were times when he felt bored, exhausted, and even considered giving up. But during these moments of doubt, he reminded himself why he started.
“I told myself that if I love this, I can’t just walk away from it.”
His perseverance eventually paid off when he received the Highly Commended Award at the Photography Foundation Awards. While it wasn’t the top prize, he saw it as a major milestone, filling him with both pride and motivation.
“This award means so much to me. It proves that my hard work is paying off, and it pushes me to keep improving,” he said, adding that his ultimate goal is to win an even bigger prize one day.
Looking ahead, Mon is working on his first photo book collection and dreams of hosting his own photography exhibition.
Lessons from Experience: Advice for Aspiring Photographers
Mon believes that every great photographer has to start somewhere, and he offers some advice for those looking to follow in his footsteps.
For beginners, he suggests starting with the expert mode on a mobile phone. By doing so, they can familiarize themselves with essential camera functions like aperture, ISO, and shutter speed.
“Mastering these basics will give you a strong foundation to build on,” he explains.
As photographers progress, Mon encourages them to embrace more challenges. He advises experimenting with different styles, lighting, and compositions, while also exploring manual settings on a real camera. Beyond technical skill, Mon emphasizes the importance of seeking feedback from others, studying the work of renowned photographers, and stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
“The more you practice, the better you’ll become,” he said.
Thinking about his own journey, Mon said that before entering competitions, he would spend time reviewing his work and consulting with family, friends, and photo experts. Once he felt his work was the best it could be, he knew he was ready to compete on a global stage.
From his own experience, Mon believes that for advanced photographers, the biggest challenge is not skill, but fear.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Anoukit-Mon-Kithsavath-Lao-Photographer.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-03-28 09:41:362025-03-17 09:43:38Success Through a Lens: Lao Photographer Earns Prestigious Award in London
In September 2024, Typhoon Yagi swept across Laos, primarily affecting the northern regions. The storm caused widespread devastation, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The northern provinces bore the brunt of the typhoon, experiencing severe flooding that inundated homes, schools, temples, hospitals, and farms.
Following the disaster, Laos received support from both the Lao government and the international community which provided assistance for infrastructure rebuilding.
Japan, among others, pledged its help in restoring critical infrastructure, including the provision of equipment for bridge repairs.
To strengthen post-typhoon recovery efforts, Japanese Ambassador Koizumi Tsutomu and Lao Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Phongsavanh Sisoulath signed the “Exchange of Notes on Economic and Social Development Plan (Bridge Repair Equipment)” on 6 March at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Vientiane.
The Government of Japan is providing JPY 1.7 billion (approximately USD 11 million or LAK 2.5 trillion) in grant assistance to enhance Laos’ disaster relief capabilities.
This support includes essential construction and disaster prevention equipment, such as steel bridge girders, rough terrain cranes, super long front crawler excavators, and emergency shelters.
Japan has long contributed to Laos’ sustainable economic growth by developing high-quality road infrastructure, including the Second Mekong International Bridge, Pakse Bridge, Route No. 9, and Route No. 1 in Vientiane Capital. Strengthening these key logistics routes will not only improve safety and convenience for residents but also boost economic, industrial, and trade development, aligning with Laos’ policy of transforming from land-locked to land-linked.
The partnership between Japan and Laos continues to deepen, with both countries recently elevating their relationship to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”
