How to pay in Laos: Unlocking the Convenience of LAO QR Payments with LOCA PAY and Your Credit Card

Laos, a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant markets, has long been a destination for travelers seeking unique experiences. Amidst the enchanting beauty of Laos, managing payments efficiently and securely is essential, especially for tourists who often face challenges with credit card acceptance. Many tourists have found themselves in a predicament where their credit cards are not widely accepted in Laos, causing inconvenience during their journeys. Additionally, carrying cash can be problematic, as exchanging currency can be a cumbersome process, and tourists may find themselves unable to convert their remaining cash back to their home currency. It’s in this landscape of challenges that LOCA PAY steps in, offering a seamless payment solution that not only revolutionizes the way you pay in the heart of Laos but also addresses these common pain points, ensuring a worry-free and enjoyable experience for tourists exploring Laos.

1. Unlocking the Power of LAO QR with LOCA PAY!

In Laos, LAO QR has emerged as the official national standard for QR payments, trusted by more than 15 banks across the country. LOCA PAY integrates effortlessly with this network, allowing you to connect your credit card and enjoy the simplicity of LAO QR payments.

The LAO QR Advantage: When you opt for LOCA PAY, you gain access to the LAO QR network, a symbol of trust, convenience, and nationwide acceptance. It’s a passport to hassle-free transactions and payments.

Multiple Banks, One Solution: With LOCA PAY, there’s no need to juggle multiple payment apps or worry about compatibility. LOCA PAY bridges the gap, ensuring that you can pay seamlessly at all banks connected to the LAO QR network.

Join the payment revolution in Laos. Download the LOCA PAY app today and unlock the future of payments! 🚀

2. Scan, Pay, and Shop All Over Laos with Your Credit Card and LOCA PAY!

Experience seamless payments and endless shopping options with LOCA PAY!

Just Scan and Pay: No more hassles or delays. With LOCA PAY, you can scan any Lao QR Code from any bank in Laos and complete your payments effortlessly. It’s that simple!

The Widest Merchant Network: With your credit card linked to LOCA PAY, you gain access to the largest merchant network in Laos. Shop wherever you go and enjoy the true essence of this beautiful country.

Ready to get started? Sign up for LOCA PAY today and unlock a world of convenience and choice. Shopping in Laos has never been this easy! 💼💳

3. The Perfect Travel Companion for Your Journey in Laos

Are you planning a trip to Laos? Discover the ultimate payment solution with LOCA PAY!

The Perfect Travel Companion: When planning a trip to Laos, look no further for a seamless payment method. LOCA PAY lets you pay with your credit card through Lao QR codes, making your journey hassle-free and enjoyable.

Leave Cash Worries Behind: No need to carry bundles of cash or stress about currency exchange rates. LOCA PAY ensures your payments are smooth, secure, and worry-free.

From Street Food to Fine Dining: Lao QR codes are accepted everywhere in Laos! With LOCA PAY, you can savor street food delights or indulge in fancy dinners—all with a simple scan.

Make your trip unforgettable with LOCA PAY as your trusted payment partner. Download our app today and embrace the convenience of Lao QR payments! 📱✨

4. Get Rewarded with LOCA PAY: Earn Points for Every Purchase!

Shopping and dining in Laos just got more rewarding with LOCA PAY’s Loyalty Program!

Earn as You Spend: For every 10,000 LAK spent through LOCA PAY, you’ll earn 1 valuable point. It’s that simple! Your everyday purchases become a gateway to exciting rewards.

Redeem for Free Food and Beverages: Your points aren’t just numbers; they’re your ticket to free treats! Redeem your hard-earned points for delicious food and beverages as a token of our appreciation.

The More You Use, The More You Earn: With LOCA PAY, there’s no limit to your rewards. Keep using our payment system, and watch those points stack up for even more delightful experiences!

It’s our way of saying THANK YOU for choosing LOCA PAY for your payments in Laos. Start earning today and savor the rewards of your loyalty! 🙌

In conclusion, LOCA PAY is your gateway to a new era of payments in Laos. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler exploring this beautiful country, LOCA PAY simplifies payments, ensures security, and rewards your loyalty. Join the growing community of LOCA PAY users and experience the convenience, simplicity, and rewards that come with it. Download the LOCA PAY app now and unlock a world of possibilities in Laos! 🇱🇦💳🌟

Go Green and Get Around Like a Local with LOCA

Go Green and Get Around Like a Local is the concept of LOCA Taxi that willing to help the tourist to be comfortable in travelling or getting around in each areas in Laos like our own local people and the passengers do not have to be worry with the environment, due to the cars that drivers used are reducing the petrol and decreasing produce the pollution

LOCA is first established in 2018 as a first taxi online platform in Laos, Loca is also Laos’s largest EV fleet! As the only licensed Laos-based ride-sharing service. LOCA is a taxi online application which can serve you 24 hours with convenient, sustainable, and environmentally-friendly transportation.

We have drivers and staffs who works 24/7 to help you and serve you, you don’t have to worry in any problem during the trip. Moreover, when you get accident during the trip you will be under cover by the first-class insurance package with extreme cost 500.000.000 LAK.

We have the transparent pricing and also strict driver and car selection process to ensure that the passengers will get the best experience in traveling in Lao, and the passengers no need to be worried about the pollution, because one of our goals in service is reducing carbon emissions for a greener future.

Let’s try this experience with LOCA by getting the app here: https://www.loca.la/download

Tourist Information Center Inaugurated in Vientiane Capital

The Vientiane Capital Tourist Information Center and Exhibition Room of Handicraft and Odop (traditional products from rural areas), situated in Nongbone village, Saysetha District, Vientiane Capital, officially opened its doors on 17 November.

This collaborative venture between Vientiane’s Tourism Department and Kittiphong Group’s Landmark Travel Sole Co., Ltd. aims to offer tourists convenient access to comprehensive information on tourism and related services in Vientiane Capital and across Laos.

The center will serve as a comprehensive travel resource, providing advice, information on tourist attractions, recommendations for hotels and restaurants, and a platform for coordinating tours with multilingual guides and travel agencies.

“Our information services are entirely free of charge and accessible to all, including [both] international and domestic tourists from other provinces visiting Vientiane,” said Mina Songkone, an information officer under the Vientiane Capital Information, Culture, and Tourism Department.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director of the Vientiane Capital Information, Culture, and Tourism Department, Vilayvone Chanthalaty, underscored that the information center will play an important role in gearing towards ensuring thorough preparation for the upcoming Visit Laos Year 2024, ASEAN Summits, and other significant meetings scheduled for the upcoming year.

Beyond travel information, the center features exhibition rooms showcasing Lao handicrafts and Odop(One District, One Product), providing visitors with the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs.

source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/11/21/tourist-information-center-inaugurated-in-vientiane-capital/

Laos, South Korea Build Cultural Bridge Through Art, Music

In an event held on 3 November, the National College of Arts, the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism (MOI) of the Lao PDR, and the Asian Cultural Exchange Association of the Republic of Korea came together to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at fostering cooperation and cultural exchange between the two nations, especially through collaborative efforts in the performing arts.

A highlight of the collaboration is the establishment of the “Lao Youth Orchestra,” with active support from the Korean side. The Republic of Korea has pledged to provide assistance in the form of training, equipment, musical instruments, and performance experts to ensure the success and growth of the orchestra. Moreover, both parties will collaborate on recording and producing programs featuring the Lao Youth Orchestra, which will be broadcast on television channels in both countries.

The MOU was co-signed by Viengphone Soukkhavong, the director of the National College of Arts, and Ko Do-on, the president of the Asian Cultural Exchange Association.

Ko Do-on expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This cooperation is the first and very important step in joining hands in the field of music art. After the signing, the two sides will engage in detailed discussions to ensure the successful implementation of the joint plan.” She further explained that the South Korean side would be responsible for the project’s implementation budget, while the Lao side would facilitate the necessary documentation and seek approval for the participation of experts and technicians from Korea.

The collaborative effort signifies a shared commitment to promoting cultural exchange and artistic development between Laos and the Republic of Korea. The signing of the MOU opens the door to a new chapter in bilateral relations, where the universal language of music becomes a bridge connecting the two nations.

source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/11/06/laos-south-korea-build-cultural-bridge-through-art-music/

Laos-Vietnam Railway Project Officially Approved

A new railway project between Laos and Vietnam is ready to kick off. The train will establish a direct link between the countries and aim to become a primary source of economic and infrastructure development in the region.

The project is part of the Vientiane-Vung Ang railway development plan for 2021–2030, with a vision towards 2050. It is a joint venture between Vietnam’s Deo Ca Group JSC and Petroleum Trading Lao Public Company (PTL) that will be developed under the form of a public-private partnership, Vietnam Plus reported. 

Covering a length of 103 kilometers from Vung Ang-Tan Ap-Mu Gia, the first section of the railway is estimated to cost nearly VND 27.5 trillion (approximately USD 1.12 billion). 

According to Vietnamese media sources, the joint venture must conduct a pre-feasibility study and submit a report on their findings in accordance with national and regional laws and planning schemes before starting work on the project.

Chanthone Sitthixay, President of PTL, stated at the signing of a joint venture in late February that the railway has the potential to greatly benefit the economies and societies of both Laos and Vietnam, as well as to strengthen the already close ties between the two countries.

The project is expected to be operational in early 2027.

As part of the Vientiane-Vung Ang railway, this project will play a vital role in connecting Laos to regional maritime trade, enhancing economic ties with Vietnam, and targeting markets in China, South Korea, and Japan.

The Vientiane-Vung Ang railway, a 554.7-kilometer project, will also be built under a public-private partnership for a total investment of VND 149.55 trillion (USD 6.3 billion).

Once completed, the line will connect Vientiane Capital to Thakhaek district in Khammouane province, then continue to the Vietnamese border and on to Vung Ang seaport in Vietnam’s central coast of Ha Tinh province.

source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/10/20/laos-vietnam-railway-project-officially-approved/

Laos Becomes Top Destination for Dispersed Tourism as Authentic Alternative to Overpopular Neighbors

In the heart of Southeast Asia, Laos quietly emerges as a tranquil alternative to bustling tourism destinations that often steal the spotlight. 

As travelers seek a more authentic travel experience, the new concept of “dispersed tourism” is growing more and more popular across the region. 

This new trend involves traveling to less popular sites, particularly in rural areas, where the beauty of nature becomes the main selling point. In southern Laos, for instance, the archipelago of Four Thousand Islands, nestled in the Mekong River, lures visitors with its relaxed ambiance, breathtaking landscapes, and cascading waterfalls. 

Moving north, the Nam Ou River winds its way through the mountains of Luang Prabang Province, meandering past picturesque traditional villages and offering a captivating view of the natural wonders. By further venturing into the heart of northern Laos, unconventional tourists can discover the mesmerizing tapestry of mountain vistas, lush forests, and the timeless charm of traditional villages in Phongsaly Province.

Dispersed tourism is gaining momentum in the region, and has quickly turned Laos into a hidden gem for curious tourists, as emphasized by an American tourism expert based in Laos, Jason Rolan.

Laos holds a unique charm that distinguishes it from its busy neighbors, such as Thailand and Vietnam. This laid-back environment demands patience and an open mind as it creates an opportunity for travelers to fully immerse themselves in a different culture and pace of life.

American tourism expert Jason Rolan, who has been in Laos for nearly two decades, echoes this sentiment. He emphasized Laos’ distinction as a hidden gem and a salve for the fast-paced world. 

“Dispersed tourism allows travelers to access cultural experiences and genuinely interact with people in a way that isn’t possible in areas of mass tourism,” said Rolan. “It offers the opportunity to go beyond the surface and truly appreciate the authenticity and beauty of this place. However, it’s absolutely essential for travelers to approach dispersed tourism with respect for local traditions and ecosystems to help ensure its sustainability.”

Speaking with The Laotian Times, Rolan also highlighted the importance of one positive travel experience that can snowball into beneficial results for both travelers and local communities.

“Laos has a great deal of natural beauty, authentic culture, a tranquil pace of life, and unique cuisine. On top of that, there has been a push in the tourism industry to shift toward more sustainable practices, which will help preserve all of these things for the future,” added Rolan

As dispersal tourism gains popularity, more travelers are seeking meaningful experiences in off-the-beaten-track destinations. Willem Niemeijer, CEO of YAANA Ventures, a Venture capital company in Nonthaburi, Thailand, noted that while he was a “trendsetter” in this approach, it took a couple of decades for the concept to gain wider recognition. The increasing demand, environmental awareness, lower investment costs, and improved infrastructure, such as the high-speed railway in Laos, are driving this trend.

“Infrastructure is key to tourism development,” said Niemeijer, explaining what he thinks are the key factors that contributed to the rise of dispersed tourism in Laos over the past two decades.

“As Laos improved its [land] access by building bridges over the Mekong to replace bucolic ferries and dirt roads became sealed, areas became fertile for tourism pioneers. The newly built train will be another paradigm shift for the industry. “

Niemeijer emphasized that dispersed tourism not only benefits local communities but also helps reduce disparities. 

“I see a bright future for Laos as infrastructure improves and expands. With the right economic incentives and solid regulations. Large parts of Laos can benefit from tourism as a sustainable form of income while preserving its unique culture and natural resources. “

source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/10/18/laos-becomes-top-destination-for-dispersed-tourism-as-authentic-alternative-to-overpopular-neighbors/

Khammouane, Phongsaly Provinces Prepare for Visit Laos Year 2024

Tourism departments in Khammouane and Phongsaly provinces in central and north of Laos are gearing up for the upcoming Visit Laos Year 2024, with a focus on promoting their unique natural and cultural attractions.

The head of Khammouane Province’s information, culture, and tourism department, Xaysomboun Souvandala, announced that the province has 13 activities planned to promote tourism in six districts, KPL reported.

Xaysomboun revealed that the province has mobilized funds, collected photos from tourist sites, created online advertisements, and prepared skills training courses for hospitality service staff throughout the province. The central authority has also worked closely with staff at international checkpoints such as the Third Mekong Friendship Bridge and Naphao to ensure effective cross-border mechanisms for tourists. 

The tourism authorities have also inspected all hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants to ensure that they meet the required standards for welcoming a high number of visitors, he explained.

Khammouane Province currently counts 209 tourist sites, 145 of which are natural sites, while the others are cultural and historical. However, only 87 of the 209 venues are open to the public.

Phongsaly, the northernmost province, or the “land of green tea and morning mists”, is also preparing to welcome more than 128,000 tourists next year, foreseeing to generate more than LAK 345 billion in revenue.

Somtouy Phommavongxay, head of the province’s information, culture, and tourism department in Phongsaly, said that provincial authorities will organize an ethnic food and tea festival. The province, on the border with China and Vietnam, is renowned for producing organically grown green tea, which has received worldwide recognition for its high quality and superb taste. The tea leaves are picked from trees that are up to 400 years old.

“Provincial authorities are preparing visitor facilities and improving infrastructure and standards at places of accommodation and restaurants in preparation for an influx of tourists next year,” Somtouy told the Phongsaly News Outlet.

Phongsaly is also known for its trekking tours to remote mountainous villages. The highest mountain in the province, Pha That Phou Far is one of the most popular tourist attractions.

According to Tourism Laos, Phongsaly is home to 28 ethnic groups, including the Khmu, Phounoy, Akha, Tai Lue, and Hor. Each group has its own unique culture, traditions, dress style, and language.

While local authorities are reading their provinces for a new influx of tourists, Vientiane Capital is also expediting preparations to welcome more foreign visitors during Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship and Visit Laos Year 2024.

Laos is almost ready for Visit Laos Year 2024, a nationwide campaign to promote tourism and attract more visitors to the country. The goal is to draw at least 4.6 million foreign and Lao tourists, generating revenue of USD 712 million.

The promotion campaign will officially launch in late November.

source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/10/11/khammouane-phongsaly-provinces-prepare-for-visit-laos-year-2024/

Lao PM Urges Boten SEZ to Improve Infrastructure and Attract More Tourists

Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has met with operators of the Boten Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in northern Laos’ Luang Namtha province to discuss tourism-related preparations for Laos’ chairmanship of ASEAN and Visit Laos Year 2024.

PM Sonexay visited Boten last week where he inspected the management of the Boten International Checkpoint between China and Laos and learned about the zone’s overall development.

The Lao leader said that the zone, which covers three land border crossings between Luang Namtha Province, Laos, and Yunnan Province, China, is a key part of the rapidly growing economic cooperation between the two countries, according to Lao Security News.

While monitoring existing facilities, PM Sonexay stressed that the zone should improve its infrastructure, including tourism-related activities, to attract more tourists.

He specifically mentioned the need for improved facilities at the border crossing, such as an immigration building and booths, a section for the entry of trucks and privately owned cars, a goods checkpoint, and immigration facilities for passengers on the Laos-China Railway.

The number of Chinese tourists visiting Laos has been growing steadily since the start of the year, due to the Lao government’s prioritization of boosting the tourism sector and the Laos-China Railway, which has become a vital piece of tourism infrastructure.

Lao authorities estimate that around 368,000 Chinese travelers will visit Laos in 2023, a 21 percent increase from last year.

Additionally, the Visit Laos Year 2024 tourism promotion campaign is expected to be launched in November, with the goal of attracting at least 4.6 million foreign and Lao tourists in 2024.

source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/28/lao-pm-urges-boten-sez-to-improve-infrastructure-and-attract-more-tourists/

Luang Prabang Tourism Booms as Province Welcomes Over 779,000 Visitors Until September

Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcomed 779,811 tourists in the first nine months of 2023, an increase of 121.49 percent, or 427,738 visitors, compared to the same period last year, with domestic tourists accounting for 177,596 of the total figures.

Mrs. Soudaphone Khomthavong, Director of Luang Prabang’s Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism, said that the province is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and foreign visitors, offering a variety of natural, historical, and cultural attractions.

Ms. Soudaphone highlighted some popular tourist destinations in Luang Prabang, such as Kuang Si Falls, Wat Xieng Thong, Mount Phousi, temples, museums, Tham Ting Cave, and Green Jungle Park which have seen a surge in the number of visitors this year. In addition to its tourist attractions, she said that the province also offers unique cultural experiences, such as traditional clothing, food, and local lifestyle which are of interest to people visiting the province.

Soudaphone revealed that Luang Prabang has 228 tourist attractions, including 111 natural attractions, 78 cultural attractions, and 39 historical attractions.

“The province also offers a variety of facilities, including 97 hotels and resorts, 400 guesthouses, 311 restaurants, 97 travel companies, 19 entertainment stores, 36 massage and spa shops, and 553 national tour guides,” she said.

Mrs. Soudaphone added that the provincial authorities are currently preparing for the upcoming Visit Laos Year 2024, anticipating an even higher number of visitors compared to this year.

“In preparation for Visit Laos Year 2024, the provincial authorities are increasing advertising and promotion of tourism through various media, improving tourism resources, and creating favorable conditions to attract more foreign tourists,” she said.

The province expects to attract over a million visitors by the end of 2023 and close to three million visitors by 2024, with its outstanding natural, historical, and cultural attractions seeing footfalls from even more domestic and foreign tourists.

Earlier, the province recorded tourist arrivals of over 437,000 visitors in the first five months of 2023, with over 396,000 of them being international tourists.

source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/09/29/luang-prabang-tourism-booms-in-2023-welcomes-over-779000-visitors-in-first-9-months/

Southern Laos at its best

Southern provinces showcase tourist drawcards
Four southern provinces in cooperation with local businesses are staging a programme of events to promote tourism and attract more visitors from around Laos and other countries.

The promotional activities are taking place on February 16-17 in Xekong province.

Head of the Xekong provincial Information, Culture and Tourism Department, Mr Bouxay Xaysasane, told the Vientiane Times that the activities comprise sports contests between the provinces of Attapeu, Champassak, Xekong and Saravan, and market fairs to sell agricultural produce and handicrafts from the four provinces.

Provincial authorities are also organising a food festival selling food items made by local ethnic groups and producers accredited to the One District, One Product scheme, which is taking place from February 14-18.

Following a meeting, representatives from Attapeu, Champassak, Xekong and Saravan provinces visited popular tourist attractions and local villages.

The events mark the first time these provinces have combined forces to actively shared lessons learned in the development of tourism.

The aim is to strengthen provincial connectivity and draw more tourists to the southern provinces and the plateau region, using the area’s scenic splendours as the main drawcard.

Attapeu takes pride in its waterfalls, especially Tad Xepha, Tad Samongphak, Tad Xeponglay and Tad Phapong, and Nong Fa Lake, which is famous for its deep blue water.

Saravan province boasts scenic wonders such as Loc, Mayhia, Soung, Saen and Kaengkou waterfalls, as well as Phouphasouk Park with its waterfalls, nine caves and Pha Taem Phou Lahit hill.

Visitors to Champassak can make good use of adventure activities such as trekking and zip-lining, as well as enjoy organic produce from the Bolaven Plateau, including coffee.

Xekong province is famed for the Nokkhao, Faek and Huakhon waterfalls, and for its local food including cucumber salad and products made from Indian gooseberries.
By Vientiane Times Reporters
(Latest Update February 17, 2023)

source: https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-612