Luang Prabang Province is calling for the Lao government to extend visa waivers for Chinese tourists, aiming to boost tourism and enhance visitor experiences ahead of a potential new “Visit Laos Year,” with the launch date yet to be decided.
Soudaphone Khomthavong, an official from the Luang Prabang Provincial Information, Culture, and Tourism Department, raised these proposals during a cabinet meeting on 5 February.
The official recommended that the government consider extending visa waivers for Chinese tour groups and other countries without exemptions, citing the large number of Chinese tourists who visited Laos last year.
In 2024, Luang Prabang recorded a total of 438,355 Chinese tourists, making them the largest group of visitors that year, surpassing those from Thailand and South Korea.
Additionally, Soudaphone suggested reviewing lessons learned from the 2024 Visit Laos Year campaign to improve future initiatives and better accommodate a potential increase in tourist arrivals.
Soudaphone also emphasized the need for government funding at the local level to support tourism promotion activities. She stressed that with better resources, future tourism campaigns could achieve greater success.
To improve the visitor experience, Luang Prabang plans to upgrade infrastructure and facilities at tourist sites. This includes improving access roads, enhancing equipment and services at popular attractions, and providing better training for tourism personnel. The province also intends to raise the quality of transportation services for visitors.
However, challenges remain from the 2024 Visit Laos Year campaign. Soudaphone highlighted that key access roads to popular destinations, such as Tad Kuang Si Waterfall and the route from Luang Prabang city to the Laos-China railway station, are still in poor condition and require urgent repairs. Upgrading these roads is essential for unlocking the province’s tourism potential.
While no specific timeline for these improvements was mentioned, officials remain committed to making Luang Prabang a more accessible and enjoyable destination for tourists in the future.
Last year, the government announced free visas for Chinese citizens booking through credit agencies. The policy also included visitors from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, allowing them to stay in Laos for up to 15 days. This initiative was part of the Visit Laos Year 2024 campaign and aimed to attract more tourists from these regions.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/luang-prabang-with-laos-tours.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-02-20 08:06:272025-02-13 08:08:46Luang Prabang Seeks Visa Waiver Extension for More Chinese Tourists
On 30 January, the British Embassy in Laos held its inaugural Climate, Energy, Nature, and Environment event at the residence of British Ambassador Mel Barlow. The gathering brought together key partners to exchange insights and foster collaboration aimed at ensuring a sustainable future.
During the event, embassy representatives outlined the United Kingdom (UK)’s plans to support Laos in areas such as climate finance, clean technology, equitable energy transition, climate adaptation, resilience, sustainable finance, urban planning, and green transport.
The event also highlighted opportunities in the green transition, with the UK’s new Industrial Strategy identifying clean energy as a key driver of economic growth.
More than 100 participants attended the event, including UK experts and representatives from various Lao government ministries, such as the Ministry of Energy and Mines, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and Ministry of Public Works and Transport.
Delegations from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Planning and Investment, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, Ministry of Finance, and the Bank of Laos also took part, alongside local businesses, UK private sector experts, and members of the international diplomatic and development community.
This event was part of a series marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the UK and Laos. The UK, the first major economy to enshrine a net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050 into law, continues to take concrete steps toward this goal.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Laos-United-Kingdom-Strengthen-Green-Ties-at-Climate-Forum.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-02-19 08:04:412025-02-13 08:06:18Laos, United Kingdom Strengthen Green Ties at Climate Event
On 9 February, Amari Vientiane officially welcomed its first guests with a grand opening ceremony attended by Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and other government officials.
The event highlighted the hotel’s promise to set a new standard for luxury hospitality in Laos, offering guests a taste of its upscale facilities, attentive service, and curated dining and entertainment experiences.
“With Amari Vientiane, we are setting a new benchmark for hospitality in Laos,” said Hua Seng Aloun, Chairman of Tang Chareon Group, the hotel’s major investor. “Our vision is to offer a seamless blend of contemporary comfort and heartfelt service, ensuring that every guest experience is memorable.”
Pheutsapha Phoummasak, Chairman of Asia Investment, Development, and Construction Group, added, “With its strategic location and comprehensive facilities, I am confident that Amari Vientiane will become a central hub and key driver in elevating and expanding tourism in Laos.”
Representative from ONYX Hospitality Group said, “Amari Vientiane represents a significant step in ONYX Hospitality Group’s strategic growth across Southeast Asia. As we continue to expand, our focus remains on delivering world-class hospitality while embracing the unique heritage and charm of each destination.”
Located in the heart of Vientiane, just 15 minutes from Wattay International Airport, Amari Vientiane combines city-center convenience with peaceful riverfront views. The hotel’s 248 rooms and suites offer either panoramic cityscapes or serene Mekong River vistas. Each room is equipped with modern technology, high-speed internet, and locally inspired design elements to ensure a comfortable and seamless stay for both business and leisure travelers.
For relaxation, guests can enjoy a rooftop infinity pool, a fitness center, and a tranquil spa. Club Nava, the executive lounge, provides a more personalized and exclusive experience for discerning travelers.
Dining at Amari Vientiane is a highlight, with the signature Amaya Food Gallery offering global cuisine infused with regional flavors in a vibrant setting. MaiTree Café serves artisanal coffee and fresh pastries in a casual atmosphere, while Aqua Pool Bar offers refreshing beverages and light bites by the pool. Stellar Rooftop Bar is the perfect spot for evening cocktails and gourmet dishes with panoramic views of the Mekong River.
The hotel’s event facilities include a grand ballroom with a capacity of up to 600 guests, ideal for conferences, weddings, and gala events. Three versatile meeting rooms, a VIP room for high-profile gatherings, and a fully equipped boardroom cater to a range of business and social needs. All event spaces are supported by modern audiovisual technology, high-speed internet, and premium catering services to ensure a seamless experience for organizers and attendees.
With online bookings now open for stays from 1 March, Amari Vientiane is offering special promotions to mark its debut. The hotel is expected to play a key role in boosting tourism in Vientiane by providing a new level of luxury hospitality.
To learn more about Amari Vientiane and explore exclusive opening offers, visit the website or follow the official Facebook page for the latest updates.
Luang Prabang Seeks Visa Waiver Extension for More Chinese Tourists
Luang Prabang Province is calling for the Lao government to extend visa waivers for Chinese tourists, aiming to boost tourism and enhance visitor experiences ahead of a potential new “Visit Laos Year,” with the launch date yet to be decided.
Soudaphone Khomthavong, an official from the Luang Prabang Provincial Information, Culture, and Tourism Department, raised these proposals during a cabinet meeting on 5 February.
The official recommended that the government consider extending visa waivers for Chinese tour groups and other countries without exemptions, citing the large number of Chinese tourists who visited Laos last year.
In 2024, Luang Prabang recorded a total of 438,355 Chinese tourists, making them the largest group of visitors that year, surpassing those from Thailand and South Korea.
Additionally, Soudaphone suggested reviewing lessons learned from the 2024 Visit Laos Year campaign to improve future initiatives and better accommodate a potential increase in tourist arrivals.
Soudaphone also emphasized the need for government funding at the local level to support tourism promotion activities. She stressed that with better resources, future tourism campaigns could achieve greater success.
To improve the visitor experience, Luang Prabang plans to upgrade infrastructure and facilities at tourist sites. This includes improving access roads, enhancing equipment and services at popular attractions, and providing better training for tourism personnel. The province also intends to raise the quality of transportation services for visitors.
However, challenges remain from the 2024 Visit Laos Year campaign. Soudaphone highlighted that key access roads to popular destinations, such as Tad Kuang Si Waterfall and the route from Luang Prabang city to the Laos-China railway station, are still in poor condition and require urgent repairs. Upgrading these roads is essential for unlocking the province’s tourism potential.
While no specific timeline for these improvements was mentioned, officials remain committed to making Luang Prabang a more accessible and enjoyable destination for tourists in the future.
Last year, the government announced free visas for Chinese citizens booking through credit agencies. The policy also included visitors from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, allowing them to stay in Laos for up to 15 days. This initiative was part of the Visit Laos Year 2024 campaign and aimed to attract more tourists from these regions.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/02/11/luang-prabang-seeks-visa-waiver-extension-for-more-chinese-tourists/
Laos, United Kingdom Strengthen Green Ties at Climate Event
On 30 January, the British Embassy in Laos held its inaugural Climate, Energy, Nature, and Environment event at the residence of British Ambassador Mel Barlow. The gathering brought together key partners to exchange insights and foster collaboration aimed at ensuring a sustainable future.
During the event, embassy representatives outlined the United Kingdom (UK)’s plans to support Laos in areas such as climate finance, clean technology, equitable energy transition, climate adaptation, resilience, sustainable finance, urban planning, and green transport.
The event also highlighted opportunities in the green transition, with the UK’s new Industrial Strategy identifying clean energy as a key driver of economic growth.
More than 100 participants attended the event, including UK experts and representatives from various Lao government ministries, such as the Ministry of Energy and Mines, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and Ministry of Public Works and Transport.
Delegations from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Planning and Investment, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, Ministry of Finance, and the Bank of Laos also took part, alongside local businesses, UK private sector experts, and members of the international diplomatic and development community.
This event was part of a series marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the UK and Laos. The UK, the first major economy to enshrine a net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050 into law, continues to take concrete steps toward this goal.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/02/11/laos-united-kingdom-strengthen-green-ties-at-climate-event/
Amari Vientiane Celebrates Grand Opening
On 9 February, Amari Vientiane officially welcomed its first guests with a grand opening ceremony attended by Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and other government officials.
The event highlighted the hotel’s promise to set a new standard for luxury hospitality in Laos, offering guests a taste of its upscale facilities, attentive service, and curated dining and entertainment experiences.
“With Amari Vientiane, we are setting a new benchmark for hospitality in Laos,” said Hua Seng Aloun, Chairman of Tang Chareon Group, the hotel’s major investor. “Our vision is to offer a seamless blend of contemporary comfort and heartfelt service, ensuring that every guest experience is memorable.”
Pheutsapha Phoummasak, Chairman of Asia Investment, Development, and Construction Group, added, “With its strategic location and comprehensive facilities, I am confident that Amari Vientiane will become a central hub and key driver in elevating and expanding tourism in Laos.”
Representative from ONYX Hospitality Group said, “Amari Vientiane represents a significant step in ONYX Hospitality Group’s strategic growth across Southeast Asia. As we continue to expand, our focus remains on delivering world-class hospitality while embracing the unique heritage and charm of each destination.”
Located in the heart of Vientiane, just 15 minutes from Wattay International Airport, Amari Vientiane combines city-center convenience with peaceful riverfront views. The hotel’s 248 rooms and suites offer either panoramic cityscapes or serene Mekong River vistas. Each room is equipped with modern technology, high-speed internet, and locally inspired design elements to ensure a comfortable and seamless stay for both business and leisure travelers.
For relaxation, guests can enjoy a rooftop infinity pool, a fitness center, and a tranquil spa. Club Nava, the executive lounge, provides a more personalized and exclusive experience for discerning travelers.
Dining at Amari Vientiane is a highlight, with the signature Amaya Food Gallery offering global cuisine infused with regional flavors in a vibrant setting. MaiTree Café serves artisanal coffee and fresh pastries in a casual atmosphere, while Aqua Pool Bar offers refreshing beverages and light bites by the pool. Stellar Rooftop Bar is the perfect spot for evening cocktails and gourmet dishes with panoramic views of the Mekong River.
The hotel’s event facilities include a grand ballroom with a capacity of up to 600 guests, ideal for conferences, weddings, and gala events. Three versatile meeting rooms, a VIP room for high-profile gatherings, and a fully equipped boardroom cater to a range of business and social needs. All event spaces are supported by modern audiovisual technology, high-speed internet, and premium catering services to ensure a seamless experience for organizers and attendees.
With online bookings now open for stays from 1 March, Amari Vientiane is offering special promotions to mark its debut. The hotel is expected to play a key role in boosting tourism in Vientiane by providing a new level of luxury hospitality.
To learn more about Amari Vientiane and explore exclusive opening offers, visit the website or follow the official Facebook page for the latest updates.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/02/10/amari-vientiane-celebrates-grand-opening/