As 2025 kicks off, Khammouane Province is setting its sights on boosting tourism and drawing in more visitors this year.
The province is ready to become a top spot for both local and international travelers, according to Somsackda Keomany, Deputy Head of the Provincial Information, Culture, and Tourism Department.
In 2024, Khammouane welcomed over 800,000 tourists, generating LAK 1,000 billion (USD 46 million) in revenue.
This year, local authorities are rolling out a range of new initiatives to improve the visitor experience and make travel more seamless for everyone. With this goal in mind, the province aims to build on this success and further establish itself as a top travel destination in Laos.
This approach not only aims to enhance the visitor experience but also focuses on sustainability and responsible tourism practices, state media reported.
The province is now offering a wider range of activities, including zip-lining, rock climbing, camping, kayaking, homestays, and hiking. In the past, Khammouane hosted events like boxing, football, and cycling competitions involving participants from Laos and Thailand.
Other tourist attractions also include environmentally friendly experiences that connect with the local communities.
Kong Lor Cave
But the province is also home to significant historical and natural sites such as That Sikhottabong, Buddha Cave (Tham Pa Fa), and Paseuam Cave. Other popular destinations include Khoun Kong Leng Blue Lagoon, Xe Bang Fai River Cave, and Tat Sieng Lue Waterfall, a newly developed eco-tourism site.
Among the most visited attractions is The Rock Viewpoint, which has quickly become a favorite for both domestic and international tourists since its opening in late 2019.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/KHAMMOUANE-WP.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-02-12 11:14:222025-02-03 11:15:45Khammouane Sets Sights on Tourism Boom in 2025 with New Attractions, Eco-Friendly Initiatives
The Lao Child and Youth Development Association (LaoCYDA) has been officially established in Laos.
With the approval by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and all key ministries, this step marks a significant milestone toward advancing child rights, child protection, and youth empowerment across the country.
As a locally-led civil society organization, LaoCYDA is now fully eligible to implement development programs nationwide, partnering with key government ministries, donors, and international stakeholders to create a lasting impact for children and youth.
“We are honored to have received official approval and support from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and all key ministries involved in national development. This empowers LaoCYDA to operate nationwide, advancing our mission to protect and uplift the children and youth of Laos,” stated Somkiao Kingsada, Board Chair of LaoCYDA.
LaoCYDA will work in close collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Lao Youth Union, and Lao Women’s Union to ensure that its programs align with Laos’ National Youth and Adolescent Development Strategy and the country’s Sustainable Development Goals.
The organization is committed to strengthening child rights and child protection frameworks across the country, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment. LaoCYDA’s key focus areas include education, health, climate action, youth empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods, working to equip children and youth with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.
In Laos, efforts are focused on ensuring the safety, well-being, and rights of every child. Key priorities include improving access to quality education, especially in remote areas, and promoting mental, sexual, and emotional health for youth. Programs engage young people in addressing climate change and developing leadership, job readiness, and life skills through community-based initiatives. Support is also provided to foster sustainable livelihoods through agricultural innovation and climate-resilient practices.
LaoCYDA also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnership. As a newly formed organization, it looks forward to working hand-in-hand with government ministries, donors, United Nations agencies, international NGOs, local communities, and all development partners to create transformative and impactful programs for the children and youth of Laos.
LaoCYDA extends special thanks to the Lao Civil Society Organization Secretariat and its leadership for their generous support and provision of office space during this crucial period of establishment. This support enables LaoCYDA to hit the ground running and contribute to national and community development efforts.
“We are ready to collaborate and partner with all stakeholders to build a brighter future for Lao children and youth. With our official approval and nationwide eligibility, LaoCYDA is inspired and motivated to make a significant impact in 2025 and beyond,” said Vilasai Thammavong, Founder and Director of LaoCYDA.
For partnership inquiries or more information, please contact LaoCYDA through our social media platforms or via email at laocyda.info@gmail.com
Tanu has been singing his whole life. Born and raised in Vientiane, this popular Lao singer-songwriter started performing as a child and never stopped. From school competitions to late-night gigs, music has always been a part of his life.
Now, after years of honing his craft, he’s become one of the most recognizable voices in Laos’s indie music scene.
“I never expected to come this far—to be well-known or make a living from music,” said the 27-year-old artist.
Genuine passion can sometimes lead to success beyond one’s imagination, or at least, it is what Tanu has proven.
“I started singing when I was in sixth grade and always participated in school competitions,” Tanu recalls. “By the time I was in tenth grade, I had already begun performing as a night singer, and I’ve continued ever since.”
His soaring popularity has granted him a stage at the National Cultural Hall on 15 February, where “The Song Beyond Borders” is set to take place, celebrating 70 years of Laos-Japan diplomatic relations
There, the young artist would share the stage with “Krage”, a Japanese hip hop singer, in a night of musical exchange.
For Tanu, this moment is not just about performing but it’s a milestone in a journey that began when he was just a schoolboy with a dream.
Music has always been a part of his life. From competing in school events to singing in bars at night, Tanu’s voice became his identity. But as he grew as a performer, he felt the urge to create something of his own. That’s when he started writing his own songs.
Not Just One Sound
Today, after years of practice, Tanu enjoys experimenting with different styles. In his early years, he focused on creating songs that would appeal to a wide audience. But as he grew as an artist, his approach shifted.
“My music style isn’t fixed—I experiment with different genres,” he said.
His earlier songs, for instance Tear and Pure, were composed with listeners in mind. But in recent years, he has focused on making music that reflects his personal taste, even if it’s less commercially successful. Now, he hopes to find a balance between both approaches.
A Rainy Breakthrough
While Tanu’s first composition, Only Tears Remain, was released in 2019, it was “ Fon“ (Rain), which was released in 2022 that truly put him on the map.
“One of my most well-known songs is ຝົນ (Fon). I was really happy to see it become popular,” he shares.
Originally, Rain was supposed to be his third release, but delays—including a key collaborator being out of the country—pushed it back. Looking back, he believes that waiting allowed the song to reach its full potential.
A Milestone: His latest Solo Concert
Tanu’s solo concert in November 2024 was a defining moment in his career. Unlike his previous performances as an invited artist to perform with other artists, but this time he was involved in every aspect of the production.
“My solo concert in November 2024 was a huge challenge. We had to manage everything ourselves—from designing the event concept to organizing the entire show.”
From conceptualizing the event to securing sponsors, every detail required careful planning. He and his team wanted to create something fresh for the audience—something rarely seen in Laos’ music industry.
The overwhelming response to the concert proved that Lao audiences are eager to support local artists when presented with something authentic and meaningful.
However, breaking into the Lao music industry comes with its own challenges, especially when local artists compete with the influence of foreign music.
“The music industry in our country is very small,” Tanu admitted.
“There’s a belief that Lao people overlook local artists, so we wanted to see how they would respond to our concert. The turnout was overwhelming, proving that there is strong support for Lao musicians.”
Advice for Aspiring Artists
For those hoping to enter the music industry, Tanu emphasizes the importance of enjoying the process.
“It doesn’t hurt to try. Many people set high expectations for their work, but it’s also important to enjoy the small moments along the way,” he advised.
“Music should be fun. If you truly love making music, it will reward you in unexpected ways”.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Tanu’s Music
Though music has been a major part of his life, Tanu is considering stepping away from the industry in the near future.
“In the next five years, I plan to step back from the music industry in Laos,” he revealed.
While he still enjoys performing, he admits that the demands of the industry can be exhausting.
“But I will probably continue performing at night venues since that’s my main source of income. In five years ahead, I don’t have any definite plans, I may work behind the artist’s performance or production rather than doing it by myself,” he added.
Despite the uncertainties ahead, one thing remains clear, music will always be part of Tanu’s life. Whether he’s on stage, writing behind the scenes, or simply playing for himself. His journey with music isn’t over.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Tanu1.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-02-10 11:09:412025-02-03 11:11:14Tanu Vannasin: From School Competitions to Laos’ National Music Stage
Khammouane Sets Sights on Tourism Boom in 2025 with New Attractions, Eco-Friendly Initiatives
As 2025 kicks off, Khammouane Province is setting its sights on boosting tourism and drawing in more visitors this year.
The province is ready to become a top spot for both local and international travelers, according to Somsackda Keomany, Deputy Head of the Provincial Information, Culture, and Tourism Department.
In 2024, Khammouane welcomed over 800,000 tourists, generating LAK 1,000 billion (USD 46 million) in revenue.
This year, local authorities are rolling out a range of new initiatives to improve the visitor experience and make travel more seamless for everyone. With this goal in mind, the province aims to build on this success and further establish itself as a top travel destination in Laos.
This approach not only aims to enhance the visitor experience but also focuses on sustainability and responsible tourism practices, state media reported.
The province is now offering a wider range of activities, including zip-lining, rock climbing, camping, kayaking, homestays, and hiking. In the past, Khammouane hosted events like boxing, football, and cycling competitions involving participants from Laos and Thailand.
Other tourist attractions also include environmentally friendly experiences that connect with the local communities.
But the province is also home to significant historical and natural sites such as That Sikhottabong, Buddha Cave (Tham Pa Fa), and Paseuam Cave. Other popular destinations include Khoun Kong Leng Blue Lagoon, Xe Bang Fai River Cave, and Tat Sieng Lue Waterfall, a newly developed eco-tourism site.
Among the most visited attractions is The Rock Viewpoint, which has quickly become a favorite for both domestic and international tourists since its opening in late 2019.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/01/30/khammouane-sets-sights-on-tourism-boom-in-2025-with-new-attractions-eco-friendly-initiatives/
Lao Child, Youth Development Association Officially Approved to Drive Child Rights, Child Protection, Youth Empowerment Programs Nationwide
The Lao Child and Youth Development Association (LaoCYDA) has been officially established in Laos.
With the approval by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and all key ministries, this step marks a significant milestone toward advancing child rights, child protection, and youth empowerment across the country.
As a locally-led civil society organization, LaoCYDA is now fully eligible to implement development programs nationwide, partnering with key government ministries, donors, and international stakeholders to create a lasting impact for children and youth.
“We are honored to have received official approval and support from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and all key ministries involved in national development. This empowers LaoCYDA to operate nationwide, advancing our mission to protect and uplift the children and youth of Laos,” stated Somkiao Kingsada, Board Chair of LaoCYDA.
LaoCYDA will work in close collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Lao Youth Union, and Lao Women’s Union to ensure that its programs align with Laos’ National Youth and Adolescent Development Strategy and the country’s Sustainable Development Goals.
The organization is committed to strengthening child rights and child protection frameworks across the country, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment. LaoCYDA’s key focus areas include education, health, climate action, youth empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods, working to equip children and youth with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.
In Laos, efforts are focused on ensuring the safety, well-being, and rights of every child. Key priorities include improving access to quality education, especially in remote areas, and promoting mental, sexual, and emotional health for youth. Programs engage young people in addressing climate change and developing leadership, job readiness, and life skills through community-based initiatives. Support is also provided to foster sustainable livelihoods through agricultural innovation and climate-resilient practices.
LaoCYDA also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnership. As a newly formed organization, it looks forward to working hand-in-hand with government ministries, donors, United Nations agencies, international NGOs, local communities, and all development partners to create transformative and impactful programs for the children and youth of Laos.
LaoCYDA extends special thanks to the Lao Civil Society Organization Secretariat and its leadership for their generous support and provision of office space during this crucial period of establishment. This support enables LaoCYDA to hit the ground running and contribute to national and community development efforts.
“We are ready to collaborate and partner with all stakeholders to build a brighter future for Lao children and youth. With our official approval and nationwide eligibility, LaoCYDA is inspired and motivated to make a significant impact in 2025 and beyond,” said Vilasai Thammavong, Founder and Director of LaoCYDA.
For partnership inquiries or more information, please contact LaoCYDA through our social media platforms or via email at laocyda.info@gmail.com
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/01/30/lao-child-youth-development-association-officially-approved-to-drive-child-rights-child-protection-youth-empowerment-programs-nationwide/
Tanu Vannasin: From School Competitions to Laos’ National Music Stage
Tanu has been singing his whole life. Born and raised in Vientiane, this popular Lao singer-songwriter started performing as a child and never stopped. From school competitions to late-night gigs, music has always been a part of his life.
Now, after years of honing his craft, he’s become one of the most recognizable voices in Laos’s indie music scene.
“I never expected to come this far—to be well-known or make a living from music,” said the 27-year-old artist.
Genuine passion can sometimes lead to success beyond one’s imagination, or at least, it is what Tanu has proven.
“I started singing when I was in sixth grade and always participated in school competitions,” Tanu recalls. “By the time I was in tenth grade, I had already begun performing as a night singer, and I’ve continued ever since.”
His soaring popularity has granted him a stage at the National Cultural Hall on 15 February, where “The Song Beyond Borders” is set to take place, celebrating 70 years of Laos-Japan diplomatic relations
There, the young artist would share the stage with “Krage”, a Japanese hip hop singer, in a night of musical exchange.
For Tanu, this moment is not just about performing but it’s a milestone in a journey that began when he was just a schoolboy with a dream.
Music has always been a part of his life. From competing in school events to singing in bars at night, Tanu’s voice became his identity. But as he grew as a performer, he felt the urge to create something of his own. That’s when he started writing his own songs.
Not Just One Sound
Today, after years of practice, Tanu enjoys experimenting with different styles. In his early years, he focused on creating songs that would appeal to a wide audience. But as he grew as an artist, his approach shifted.
“My music style isn’t fixed—I experiment with different genres,” he said.
His earlier songs, for instance Tear and Pure, were composed with listeners in mind. But in recent years, he has focused on making music that reflects his personal taste, even if it’s less commercially successful. Now, he hopes to find a balance between both approaches.
A Rainy Breakthrough
While Tanu’s first composition, Only Tears Remain, was released in 2019, it was “ Fon“ (Rain), which was released in 2022 that truly put him on the map.
“One of my most well-known songs is ຝົນ (Fon). I was really happy to see it become popular,” he shares.
Originally, Rain was supposed to be his third release, but delays—including a key collaborator being out of the country—pushed it back. Looking back, he believes that waiting allowed the song to reach its full potential.
A Milestone: His latest Solo Concert
Tanu’s solo concert in November 2024 was a defining moment in his career. Unlike his previous performances as an invited artist to perform with other artists, but this time he was involved in every aspect of the production.
“My solo concert in November 2024 was a huge challenge. We had to manage everything ourselves—from designing the event concept to organizing the entire show.”
From conceptualizing the event to securing sponsors, every detail required careful planning. He and his team wanted to create something fresh for the audience—something rarely seen in Laos’ music industry.
The overwhelming response to the concert proved that Lao audiences are eager to support local artists when presented with something authentic and meaningful.
However, breaking into the Lao music industry comes with its own challenges, especially when local artists compete with the influence of foreign music.
“The music industry in our country is very small,” Tanu admitted.
“There’s a belief that Lao people overlook local artists, so we wanted to see how they would respond to our concert. The turnout was overwhelming, proving that there is strong support for Lao musicians.”
Advice for Aspiring Artists
For those hoping to enter the music industry, Tanu emphasizes the importance of enjoying the process.
“It doesn’t hurt to try. Many people set high expectations for their work, but it’s also important to enjoy the small moments along the way,” he advised.
“Music should be fun. If you truly love making music, it will reward you in unexpected ways”.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Tanu’s Music
Though music has been a major part of his life, Tanu is considering stepping away from the industry in the near future.
“In the next five years, I plan to step back from the music industry in Laos,” he revealed.
While he still enjoys performing, he admits that the demands of the industry can be exhausting.
“But I will probably continue performing at night venues since that’s my main source of income. In five years ahead, I don’t have any definite plans, I may work behind the artist’s performance or production rather than doing it by myself,” he added.
Despite the uncertainties ahead, one thing remains clear, music will always be part of Tanu’s life. Whether he’s on stage, writing behind the scenes, or simply playing for himself. His journey with music isn’t over.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/01/30/tanu-vannasin-from-school-competitions-to-laos-national-music-stage/