The app, catering to tourists without a bank account in Laos, was officially launched in late January by BCEL’s Managing Director, Ms. Saysamone Chanthachack, alongside key officials and stakeholders.
Designed with foreign visitors in mind, EZyKip, facilitates cash withdrawals from over 400 BCEL ATMs nationwide with a 0% fee through QR scans, mitigating the risks associated with carrying physical cash. Users can easily exchange and transfer remaining balances back to their bank cards, ensuring a secure and hassle-free payment ecosystem throughout their travel in Laos.
Additionally, the app enables payments at BCEL’s OnePay agencies and Lao QR member stores, boasting lower fees compared to traditional card readers.
BCEL has ambitious plans to expand EZyKip’s functionality to include various card top-ups such as UnionPay, Visa, Mastercard, JCB, AMEX, Alipay, and WeChat Pay. This initiative aligns with Laos’ hosting of the ASEAN Tourism Forum and its chairmanship of the bloc throughout 2024, aiming to enhance the overall experience of foreign tourists and simplify financial transactions during their visit to Laos.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/422564862_10159853533808030_8526799349017715417_n.jpg825843Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-02-16 03:25:002024-02-07 11:27:04BCEL Launches New Payment App for Tourists During Visit Laos Year 2024
Approved at the 27th ASEAN Tourism Forum in Vientiane from 25-26 January, the scheme focuses on enhancing land connectivity to spur economic growth across the countries. Thai Tourism Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakitkosol emphasized the project’s goal of promoting seamless travel across borders, acknowledging that the integration of border traffic rules and infrastructure details would be discussed in upcoming meetings.
As part of the initiative to enhance cross-border travel convenience, neighboring countries such as Thailand have already submitted two overland routes from Thailand to Vietnam, one crossing through Laos and the other crossing through Cambodia.
The initiative was pushed forward by Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who brought to the diplomatic table the “Seamless ASEAN” vision during the World Economic Forum on 17 January, envisioning Southeast Asian nations as one tourist destination.
The plan aims for a comprehensive agreement, similar to Europe’s Schengen Agreement, enabling free movement for investors and tourists across the region.
The Thai prime minister expressed optimism about achieving seamless tourism across Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam within six months, emphasizing the proximity to the goal. Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh also supported the initiative, emphasizing the potential for a unified tourist destination.
The one tourism destination proposal originated from discussions between Thai and Vietnamese leaders in December 2023 at a summit in Tokyo.
Commencing 15 March, Savannakhet-Bangkok flights will operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The new link between Laos and Thailand will be shortly followed by a new Vientiane-Phnom Penh route, starting 19 March with three flights a week on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Flights will also transition between Laos and Vietnam, with the Vientiane-Danang route beginning flights from 4 April, operating two flights a week.
The airline already has codeshare agreements with Thai Airways and Vietnam Airlines to extend service across key routes including Vientiane-Bangkok, Vientiane-Hanoi, Vientiane-Phnom Penh, Luang Prabang-Hanoi, and Luang Prabang-Siem Reap.
Beyond its regional partnerships, Laos sets its sights on broader tourism expansion, eyeing markets like Russia. On October 29, 2023, Ural Airlines, headquartered in Russia, declared the relaunch of flights from Vladivostok to Vientiane Capital, with the journey spanning approximately six hours and 20 minutes.
In a bid to enhance connectivity further, talks have surfaced regarding a potential route linking Luang Prabang, Laos, and Bali, Indonesia. During discussions held on 25 January between Lao Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism and Indonesian counterpart Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, the proposed direct link aims to draw European and Australian tourists to Laos via Bali, while Indonesia stands to gain from increased Chinese tourist traffic in Laos.
As Laos continues to promote its Visit Laos 2024 tourism campaign to attract international and regional tourists, new initiatives and flight routes continue to increase to facilitate convenience.
In 2023, LOCA PAY established its reputation as a trusted payment service, and serving over 200,000 tourists with its convenient, secure, and user-friendly platform.
LOCA PAY, an extension of LOCA’s successful ride-hailing service launched in 2022, is revolutionizing how tourists handle financial transactions in Laos.
This system allows visitors to effortlessly link their credit cards and pay to the widely accepted LAO QR network, facilitating seamless payments at various merchants across the nation with 15 major banks supported. The strategic integration of LOCA PAY with LOCA’s transportation services ensures a smooth, efficient, and enjoyable travel experience for tourists in Laos.
The introduction of LOCA PAY is a response to the growing need for more advanced and secure payment methods in the burgeoning tourism sector of Laos. With limited credit card acceptance and the inconvenience of carrying cash, LOCA PAY addresses these challenges head-on, offering an all-in-one solution for tourists’ payment and transportation needs. LOCA PAY works with all major credit cards such as VISA, Master Card, JCB, AMEX, and UNION PAY.
LOCA Pay. (Photo: LOCA)
It is important to note that LOCA PAY is not another e-wallet; there’s no need for a traditional top-up. This innovative system allows for a ‘pay as you go’ approach, simplifying the process for tourists. By simply linking a credit card to the app, users can start their journey immediately. This feature is a game-changer, offering a hassle-free experience and eliminating the need for tourists to preload funds, which is often a limitation of other payment services.
As Laos steps into the global spotlight in 2024, LOCA PAY is not just a payment system; it’s a symbol of the country’s commitment to technological advancement and enhancing the overall visitor experience. With its user-friendly interface, extensive merchant network, and robust security features, LOCA PAY is set to become an indispensable tool for tourists exploring the rich cultural and natural landscapes of Laos.
As the excitement builds for the “Visit Laos Year 2024,” LOCA PAY stands ready to ensure that every visitor’s journey through this beautiful country is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. With its proven track record and innovative approach, LOCA PAY is set to play a pivotal role in boosting Laos’s tourism industry and elevating the country’s status on the international stage.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/1-lc.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-02-13 04:19:002024-02-07 11:20:46LOCA PAY Set to Transform Tourist Payments for Visit Laos Year 2024
Luxury hotels and resorts in Laos, particularly in Luang Prabang Province, are raising concerns over tens of thousands of dollars in unpaid debts by Focus Asia, a prominent destination management company. Despite years of collaboration and trust-building, the company has allegedly failed to honor financial commitments made to its hospitality partners in Laos.
Sources suggest that the company currently owes upwards of USD 40,000 to more than 20 different hotels in Luang Prabang, including notable establishments such as Le Bel Air (USD 11,264), Villa Malay Boutique (USD 5,399), The Luang Say Lodge and Vat Phou Cruises (USD 12,652), and The Grand Luang Prabang (USD 3,810).
Established in 2009, Focus Asia solidified credit lines with various luxury hotels in Luang Prabang, allowing the company to manage expenses for tour groups visiting the area. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck Laos in early 2020, forcing the closure of tourist hotspots and halting international travel, the hospitality industry faced unprecedented challenges. As borders shut down and tourism ground to a halt, Focus Asia, like many other operators, sought to postpone payments to its hotel and restaurant partners.
“At this time, Focus Asia will need to delay paying any invoices from previous tours for the time being. However, our business is still alive. We are not closing any of our offices, and our operation will continue as usual. We have several projects in the pipeline, and once the business returns, Focus Asia and our sister companies shall be ready. As soon as the situation improves, we start again with our payments as usual,” read a letter titled Focus Asia Group – Letter to Suppliers ALL Countries, signed by Executive Board Member Marc Seiver on 19 March 2020.
However, despite the resumption of activities, Focus Asia allegedly failed to pay.
We have all been badly affected by Covid crisis and are inclined to support each other by offering payment flexibility to our partners, as long as we maintain transparent communication, which in this case they failed to do,” Baptiste Cabarry, General Manager of Villa Malay Boutique in Luang Prabang, told The Laotian Times.
Reports indicate that despite financial constraints, Focus Asia continued its marketing endeavors and even launched new ventures during the pandemic, neglecting overdue payments to local businesses.
“Focus Asia has never answered any of our emails or phone calls, either from the Lao branch or their head office in Vietnam. We knew however they were receiving clients as we contacted them on an alternative email account and pretended to be guests in search of a tour organizer (in this case, we have received their answer),” Cabarry explained.
“Despite these financial challenges, Focus Asia continued their marketing efforts and even developed new brands during the pandemic, indicating that they were utilizing funds – which rightfully belonged to others – for promotional activities,” said Thatsanyvanh Luanglath, another hotel owner and operator in Champasack and Oudomxay Province.
Efforts by hotel owners and operators to reach out to Focus Asia have reportedly gone unanswered, with communication abruptly ceasing. The situation exacerbated when Focus Asia terminated its operations on 25 November, 2021, only to be succeeded by Travel Indochina Lao Co., Ltd, a new enterprise operated by Mark Seiver, established on 5 July, 2022.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/The-grand-LPB.jpg6271031Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-02-12 08:17:002024-02-07 11:18:46Tour Operator Focus Asia Under Fire for Unpaid Debts to Luxury Hotels in Laos
Under the umbrella of the ASEAN National Tourism Organization, the bloc has established seven tourism criteria aimed at standardizing tourism services. These criteria are crucial in elevating the quality of tourism products and services while fostering responsible management practices among tourism businesses and stakeholders across the region.
Recognizing adherence to these benchmarks, awards are bestowed upon facilities in the region that meet ASEAN’s criteria for excellence in tourism services.
Five hotels in Laos won the ASEAN Green Hotel Standard award, including Amantaka Hotel in Luang Prabang province, the Pullman Luang Prabang, Belmond la Residence Phou Vao in Luang Prabang, the Crowne Plaza Vientiane, and Le Grand Pakbeng Resort in Oudomxay province. The awards are given to hotels dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism practices in the region.
Vientiane Capital, and Kaysone Phomvihane City in Savannakhet Province also received the ASEAN Clean City Tourist Standard award, which is aimed at encouraging major urban tourist destinations to improve the quality of tourism in their cities, increase their marketing competitiveness but also improve the situation of local residents and their livelihood by alleviating poverty.
Notably, Laos also received five ASEAN Event Venue Standard, Conference Hall awards, one Exhibition Venue award, five Festival Venue awards and two ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award 2 awards, namely Kua Lao restaurant in Vientiane Capital and the Tad Yeuang restaurant in Champasack province.
This year’s ASEAN Tourism Forum, from 22-27 January, focused on sustainability, with the bloc’s members committing to prioritize environmentally responsible practices in tourism.
Tourism projection for the region revealed a year-on-year increase of 153.09 percent in international arrivals for the region, signaling a strong trajectory for post-pandemic recovery.
The agreement to further commit to enhancing energy trade came as Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone met with Cambodia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Keo Rattanak, during his visit to the country on 13 January.
Laos currently supplies energy to Cambodia via a 115-kilovolt transmission line between Champasack Province, in Laos, and Stung Treng Province, in Cambodia. With the implementation of the new 500-kilovolt line, the transfer of energy is expected to become more efficient.
At present, Cambodia imports around 445 MW of electricity from Laos, with the aim of reaching 6,000 MW by 2030. The country currently imports 25 percent of its electricity from Laos, Vietnam and Thailand.
The push for further electricity trade between the two nations emerges as Laos positions itself to become the “battery of Southeast Asia,” while Cambodia enhances efforts to meet electricity demand as the economy rapidly expands.
As of 2022, Laos has 94 power plants, including 81 hydroelectric dams, with a total installed capacity of more than 11,600 MW. By 2039, the country expects to generate an additional 5,559 MW of electricity, with 77.59 percent of the capacity coming from hydropower.
Although Laos relies heavily on electricity from hydropower dams, the country is also integrating other forms of renewable energy.
On 9 November 2023, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone officially inaugurated the Monsoon Wind Power Project in Sekong Province. Upon completion, the project will be the largest wind farm in SEA and will have a capacity of 600 MW.
The initiative, which is to be implemented in mountainous areas of Dak Cheung district, consists of 133 turbines, which will be spread over 1,000 hectares of concession land in Sekong Province. The project is set to be completed by December 2025.
The newly inaugurated Bokeo International Airport, situated in the Tonpheung district of Bokeo province, spans a 300-hectare site near the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone.
The ceremony to commemorate the airport’s opening saw participation from several high-ranked government officials, notably Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone who cut a ribbon to launch the airport officially.
Lane Xang Airways International offers frequent flight service between Vientiane and Bokeo for an estimated USD 200 each way. It is expected that the airport will expand its services to include international flights in the future.
Lao Airlines also planned to launch daily domestic flights on this route on 6 February for only LAK 1,700,000 each way. However, Lao Airlines disclosed that the Vientiane-Bokeo route and its counterpart would be halted “until further notice” without explanation for the sudden cancellation, leaving passengers and the public bewildered.
This unexpected move triggered speculation among the public as the airport was built by the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (which also owns Lane Xang Airways International), and social media users speculated about the true reasons behind this decision. While some wondered whether the abrupt cancellations were influenced by the Special Economic Zone, others speculated that the airport might be anticipating the arrival of Chinese airlines.
Bokeo International Airport’s terminal can accommodate 600 people and is anticipated to handle 1.5 to 2 million passengers each year when fully operational. The airport’s construction, initially set for completion in 2022, faced delays due to the global Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite the setback, Bokeo International Airport holds significant potential for economic growth and improved connectivity in the region.
The move comes as the railway operator aims to accommodate the expected increase in tourists this year, aligning with the launch of the Visit Laos 2024 tourism campaign.
The Laos-China Railway (LCR) has become an integral part of transportation within the country, helping Laos transition from land-locked to “land-linked.”
Since its inauguration in late 2021, the Laos-China Railway (LCR) has played a pivotal role in transforming Laos from a land-locked nation to a “land-linked” one. Over the past year, the railway has witnessed substantial growth, carrying over 3.1 million passengers, with an average daily ridership of 4,889 passengers and a peak ridership of 10,917 people.
In response to the increased demand for rail travel, the LCR has proactively taken steps to enhance its services. The railway saw a remarkable 103.7 percent increase in passenger traffic in 2023, with over 1.75 million passengers traveling from January to September.
To improve efficiency and accommodate the growing demand, the company introduced a new electric multiple-unit (EMU) train and launched an app for Android and IOS for ticket purchasing.
Beyond domestic transport within Laos, the LCR has successfully connected Vientiane Capital, Laos, to Kunming, the capital of southwest China’s Yunnan province, in April last year.
In late 2023, the rail operator also launched the route between Vientiane Capital and Beijing, the capital of China. The round trip between Vientiane and Beijing now takes up to 15 days, and covers an approximate distance of 3,660 km.
In addition to facilitating passenger travel, the Laos-China Railway has become a key player in the transportation of goods between neighboring countries. Notably, the railway has contributed to a surge in fruit exports from Thailand to China, reducing transit times to less than 15 hours compared to the previous two-day journey by road.
Thailand’s Tourism Authority has also incorporated the LCR into its 2024 strategic direction, which aims to prioritize overland travel via the Laos-China Railway to enhance connectivity and boost tourism between Laos, China, and Thailand.
As part of the Visit Laos Year 2024 campaign, the Lao government aims to attract over 2.7 million international tourists throughout the year, with a targeted revenue generation of USD 401 million.
CARUSO CREATIONS VIENTIANE A visit to the Caruso workshop in Vientiane is a plunge into a wonderful world. Designers and craftsmen will show you the different stages of production of the most authentic Laotian know-how, silversmiths, sculptors, turners at the service of absolute beauty. The tour ends in the showroom, where the entire Caruso universe is represented: ebony vases, jewelry, carpets and the finest silks find their place in a traditional contemporary setting. Take advantage of Caruso’s chauffeur service to get to the workshop. Address: Nongbouathong Neua, Homp 14, Unit 49, Vientiane
CARUSO CREATIONS LUANG PRABANG An international icon of Lao design for almost three decades, Caruso is the very essence of creativity. From marvelous ebony objects, often edged with pure silver, to the finest silk, you’ll find the country’s finest craftsmanship in this elegant boutique. Each piece has been reinterpreted with a modern touch using traditional forms. It’s impossible to leave the boutique without falling in love with an object. The master craftsmen’s workshop is open to the public. Daily worldwide shipments. Address: 60 Sakkarine Road, Ban Vat Sene, Luang Prabang
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Caruso-Creations-Vientiane-4-1-scaled-1.webp17072560Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2024-01-16 11:17:252025-03-28 23:41:19Caruso Creations in Vientiane Capital & Luang Prabang Province
BCEL Launches New Payment App for Tourists During Visit Laos Year 2024
The app, catering to tourists without a bank account in Laos, was officially launched in late January by BCEL’s Managing Director, Ms. Saysamone Chanthachack, alongside key officials and stakeholders.
Designed with foreign visitors in mind, EZyKip, facilitates cash withdrawals from over 400 BCEL ATMs nationwide with a 0% fee through QR scans, mitigating the risks associated with carrying physical cash. Users can easily exchange and transfer remaining balances back to their bank cards, ensuring a secure and hassle-free payment ecosystem throughout their travel in Laos.
Additionally, the app enables payments at BCEL’s OnePay agencies and Lao QR member stores, boasting lower fees compared to traditional card readers.
BCEL has ambitious plans to expand EZyKip’s functionality to include various card top-ups such as UnionPay, Visa, Mastercard, JCB, AMEX, Alipay, and WeChat Pay. This initiative aligns with Laos’ hosting of the ASEAN Tourism Forum and its chairmanship of the bloc throughout 2024, aiming to enhance the overall experience of foreign tourists and simplify financial transactions during their visit to Laos.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/02/02/bcel-launches-new-payment-app-for-tourists-during-visit-laos-year-2024/
‘ASEAN Drive Tourism Initiative’ Gets Nod from Five Nations
Approved at the 27th ASEAN Tourism Forum in Vientiane from 25-26 January, the scheme focuses on enhancing land connectivity to spur economic growth across the countries.
Thai Tourism Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakitkosol emphasized the project’s goal of promoting seamless travel across borders, acknowledging that the integration of border traffic rules and infrastructure details would be discussed in upcoming meetings.
As part of the initiative to enhance cross-border travel convenience, neighboring countries such as Thailand have already submitted two overland routes from Thailand to Vietnam, one crossing through Laos and the other crossing through Cambodia.
The initiative was pushed forward by Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who brought to the diplomatic table the “Seamless ASEAN” vision during the World Economic Forum on 17 January, envisioning Southeast Asian nations as one tourist destination.
The plan aims for a comprehensive agreement, similar to Europe’s Schengen Agreement, enabling free movement for investors and tourists across the region.
The Thai prime minister expressed optimism about achieving seamless tourism across Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam within six months, emphasizing the proximity to the goal. Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh also supported the initiative, emphasizing the potential for a unified tourist destination.
The one tourism destination proposal originated from discussions between Thai and Vietnamese leaders in December 2023 at a summit in Tokyo.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/02/01/asean-drive-tourism-initiative-gets-nod-from-five-nations/
Lao Airlines Introduces New Regional Routes
Commencing 15 March, Savannakhet-Bangkok flights will operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The new link between Laos and Thailand will be shortly followed by a new Vientiane-Phnom Penh route, starting 19 March with three flights a week on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Flights will also transition between Laos and Vietnam, with the Vientiane-Danang route beginning flights from 4 April, operating two flights a week.
The airline already has codeshare agreements with Thai Airways and Vietnam Airlines to extend service across key routes including Vientiane-Bangkok, Vientiane-Hanoi, Vientiane-Phnom Penh, Luang Prabang-Hanoi, and Luang Prabang-Siem Reap.
Beyond its regional partnerships, Laos sets its sights on broader tourism expansion, eyeing markets like Russia. On October 29, 2023, Ural Airlines, headquartered in Russia, declared the relaunch of flights from Vladivostok to Vientiane Capital, with the journey spanning approximately six hours and 20 minutes.
In a bid to enhance connectivity further, talks have surfaced regarding a potential route linking Luang Prabang, Laos, and Bali, Indonesia. During discussions held on 25 January between Lao Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism and Indonesian counterpart Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, the proposed direct link aims to draw European and Australian tourists to Laos via Bali, while Indonesia stands to gain from increased Chinese tourist traffic in Laos.
As Laos continues to promote its Visit Laos 2024 tourism campaign to attract international and regional tourists, new initiatives and flight routes continue to increase to facilitate convenience.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/01/31/lao-airlines-introduces-new-regional-routes/
LOCA PAY Set to Transform Tourist Payments for Visit Laos Year 2024
In 2023, LOCA PAY established its reputation as a trusted payment service, and serving over 200,000 tourists with its convenient, secure, and user-friendly platform.
LOCA PAY, an extension of LOCA’s successful ride-hailing service launched in 2022, is revolutionizing how tourists handle financial transactions in Laos.
This system allows visitors to effortlessly link their credit cards and pay to the widely accepted LAO QR network, facilitating seamless payments at various merchants across the nation with 15 major banks supported. The strategic integration of LOCA PAY with LOCA’s transportation services ensures a smooth, efficient, and enjoyable travel experience for tourists in Laos.
The introduction of LOCA PAY is a response to the growing need for more advanced and secure payment methods in the burgeoning tourism sector of Laos. With limited credit card acceptance and the inconvenience of carrying cash, LOCA PAY addresses these challenges head-on, offering an all-in-one solution for tourists’ payment and transportation needs. LOCA PAY works with all major credit cards such as VISA, Master Card, JCB, AMEX, and UNION PAY.
It is important to note that LOCA PAY is not another e-wallet; there’s no need for a traditional top-up. This innovative system allows for a ‘pay as you go’ approach, simplifying the process for tourists. By simply linking a credit card to the app, users can start their journey immediately. This feature is a game-changer, offering a hassle-free experience and eliminating the need for tourists to preload funds, which is often a limitation of other payment services.
As Laos steps into the global spotlight in 2024, LOCA PAY is not just a payment system; it’s a symbol of the country’s commitment to technological advancement and enhancing the overall visitor experience. With its user-friendly interface, extensive merchant network, and robust security features, LOCA PAY is set to become an indispensable tool for tourists exploring the rich cultural and natural landscapes of Laos.
As the excitement builds for the “Visit Laos Year 2024,” LOCA PAY stands ready to ensure that every visitor’s journey through this beautiful country is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. With its proven track record and innovative approach, LOCA PAY is set to play a pivotal role in boosting Laos’s tourism industry and elevating the country’s status on the international stage.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/01/26/loca-pay-set-to-transform-tourist-payments-for-visit-laos-year-2024/
Tour Operator Focus Asia Under Fire for Unpaid Debts to Luxury Hotels in Laos
Luxury hotels and resorts in Laos, particularly in Luang Prabang Province, are raising concerns over tens of thousands of dollars in unpaid debts by Focus Asia, a prominent destination management company. Despite years of collaboration and trust-building, the company has allegedly failed to honor financial commitments made to its hospitality partners in Laos.
Sources suggest that the company currently owes upwards of USD 40,000 to more than 20 different hotels in Luang Prabang, including notable establishments such as Le Bel Air (USD 11,264), Villa Malay Boutique (USD 5,399), The Luang Say Lodge and Vat Phou Cruises (USD 12,652), and The Grand Luang Prabang (USD 3,810).
Established in 2009, Focus Asia solidified credit lines with various luxury hotels in Luang Prabang, allowing the company to manage expenses for tour groups visiting the area. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck Laos in early 2020, forcing the closure of tourist hotspots and halting international travel, the hospitality industry faced unprecedented challenges. As borders shut down and tourism ground to a halt, Focus Asia, like many other operators, sought to postpone payments to its hotel and restaurant partners.
“At this time, Focus Asia will need to delay paying any invoices from previous tours for the time being. However, our business is still alive. We are not closing any of our offices, and our operation will continue as usual. We have several projects in the pipeline, and once the business returns, Focus Asia and our sister companies shall be ready. As soon as the situation improves, we start again with our payments as usual,” read a letter titled Focus Asia Group – Letter to Suppliers ALL Countries, signed by Executive Board Member Marc Seiver on 19 March 2020.
However, despite the resumption of activities, Focus Asia allegedly failed to pay.
We have all been badly affected by Covid crisis and are inclined to support each other by offering payment flexibility to our partners, as long as we maintain transparent communication, which in this case they failed to do,” Baptiste Cabarry, General Manager of Villa Malay Boutique in Luang Prabang, told The Laotian Times.
Reports indicate that despite financial constraints, Focus Asia continued its marketing endeavors and even launched new ventures during the pandemic, neglecting overdue payments to local businesses.
“Focus Asia has never answered any of our emails or phone calls, either from the Lao branch or their head office in Vietnam. We knew however they were receiving clients as we contacted them on an alternative email account and pretended to be guests in search of a tour organizer (in this case, we have received their answer),” Cabarry explained.
“Despite these financial challenges, Focus Asia continued their marketing efforts and even developed new brands during the pandemic, indicating that they were utilizing funds – which rightfully belonged to others – for promotional activities,” said Thatsanyvanh Luanglath, another hotel owner and operator in Champasack and Oudomxay Province.
Efforts by hotel owners and operators to reach out to Focus Asia have reportedly gone unanswered, with communication abruptly ceasing. The situation exacerbated when Focus Asia terminated its operations on 25 November, 2021, only to be succeeded by Travel Indochina Lao Co., Ltd, a new enterprise operated by Mark Seiver, established on 5 July, 2022.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/01/26/tour-operator-focus-asia-under-fire-for-unpaid-debts-to-luxury-hotels-in-laos/
Laos Receives Accolades at ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards Ceremony
Under the umbrella of the ASEAN National Tourism Organization, the bloc has established seven tourism criteria aimed at standardizing tourism services. These criteria are crucial in elevating the quality of tourism products and services while fostering responsible management practices among tourism businesses and stakeholders across the region.
Recognizing adherence to these benchmarks, awards are bestowed upon facilities in the region that meet ASEAN’s criteria for excellence in tourism services.
Five hotels in Laos won the ASEAN Green Hotel Standard award, including Amantaka Hotel in Luang Prabang province, the Pullman Luang Prabang, Belmond la Residence Phou Vao in Luang Prabang, the Crowne Plaza Vientiane, and Le Grand Pakbeng Resort in Oudomxay province. The awards are given to hotels dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism practices in the region.
Vientiane Capital, and Kaysone Phomvihane City in Savannakhet Province also received the ASEAN Clean City Tourist Standard award, which is aimed at encouraging major urban tourist destinations to improve the quality of tourism in their cities, increase their marketing competitiveness but also improve the situation of local residents and their livelihood by alleviating poverty.
Notably, Laos also received five ASEAN Event Venue Standard, Conference Hall awards, one Exhibition Venue award, five Festival Venue awards and two ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award 2 awards, namely Kua Lao restaurant in Vientiane Capital and the Tad Yeuang restaurant in Champasack province.
This year’s ASEAN Tourism Forum, from 22-27 January, focused on sustainability, with the bloc’s members committing to prioritize environmentally responsible practices in tourism.
Tourism projection for the region revealed a year-on-year increase of 153.09 percent in international arrivals for the region, signaling a strong trajectory for post-pandemic recovery.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/01/30/laos-receives-accolades-at-asean-tourism-standards-awards-ceremony/
‘Battery of Southeast Asia’ Plans Move Forward as Laos Enhances Trade Capacity With Cambodia
The agreement to further commit to enhancing energy trade came as Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone met with Cambodia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Keo Rattanak, during his visit to the country on 13 January.
Laos currently supplies energy to Cambodia via a 115-kilovolt transmission line between Champasack Province, in Laos, and Stung Treng Province, in Cambodia. With the implementation of the new 500-kilovolt line, the transfer of energy is expected to become more efficient.
At present, Cambodia imports around 445 MW of electricity from Laos, with the aim of reaching 6,000 MW by 2030. The country currently imports 25 percent of its electricity from Laos, Vietnam and Thailand.
The push for further electricity trade between the two nations emerges as Laos positions itself to become the “battery of Southeast Asia,” while Cambodia enhances efforts to meet electricity demand as the economy rapidly expands.
As of 2022, Laos has 94 power plants, including 81 hydroelectric dams, with a total installed capacity of more than 11,600 MW. By 2039, the country expects to generate an additional 5,559 MW of electricity, with 77.59 percent of the capacity coming from hydropower.
Although Laos relies heavily on electricity from hydropower dams, the country is also integrating other forms of renewable energy.
On 9 November 2023, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone officially inaugurated the Monsoon Wind Power Project in Sekong Province. Upon completion, the project will be the largest wind farm in SEA and will have a capacity of 600 MW.
The initiative, which is to be implemented in mountainous areas of Dak Cheung district, consists of 133 turbines, which will be spread over 1,000 hectares of concession land in Sekong Province. The project is set to be completed by December 2025.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/01/19/battery-of-southeast-asia-plans-move-forward-as-laos-enhances-trade-capacity-with-cambodia/
Bokeo International Airport Launch Overshadowed by Sudden Flight Cancellations
The newly inaugurated Bokeo International Airport, situated in the Tonpheung district of Bokeo province, spans a 300-hectare site near the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone.
The ceremony to commemorate the airport’s opening saw participation from several high-ranked government officials, notably Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone who cut a ribbon to launch the airport officially.
Lane Xang Airways International offers frequent flight service between Vientiane and Bokeo for an estimated USD 200 each way. It is expected that the airport will expand its services to include international flights in the future.
Lao Airlines also planned to launch daily domestic flights on this route on 6 February for only LAK 1,700,000 each way. However, Lao Airlines disclosed that the Vientiane-Bokeo route and its counterpart would be halted “until further notice” without explanation for the sudden cancellation, leaving passengers and the public bewildered.
This unexpected move triggered speculation among the public as the airport was built by the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (which also owns Lane Xang Airways International), and social media users speculated about the true reasons behind this decision. While some wondered whether the abrupt cancellations were influenced by the Special Economic Zone, others speculated that the airport might be anticipating the arrival of Chinese airlines.
Bokeo International Airport’s terminal can accommodate 600 people and is anticipated to handle 1.5 to 2 million passengers each year when fully operational. The airport’s construction, initially set for completion in 2022, faced delays due to the global Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite the setback, Bokeo International Airport holds significant potential for economic growth and improved connectivity in the region.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/02/05/bokeo-international-airport-launch-overshadowed-by-sudden-flight-cancellations/
Laos-China Railway Boosts Daily Trips in Preparation of Tourism Surge
The move comes as the railway operator aims to accommodate the expected increase in tourists this year, aligning with the launch of the Visit Laos 2024 tourism campaign.
The Laos-China Railway (LCR) has become an integral part of transportation within the country, helping Laos transition from land-locked to “land-linked.”
Since its inauguration in late 2021, the Laos-China Railway (LCR) has played a pivotal role in transforming Laos from a land-locked nation to a “land-linked” one. Over the past year, the railway has witnessed substantial growth, carrying over 3.1 million passengers, with an average daily ridership of 4,889 passengers and a peak ridership of 10,917 people.
In response to the increased demand for rail travel, the LCR has proactively taken steps to enhance its services. The railway saw a remarkable 103.7 percent increase in passenger traffic in 2023, with over 1.75 million passengers traveling from January to September.
To improve efficiency and accommodate the growing demand, the company introduced a new electric multiple-unit (EMU) train and launched an app for Android and IOS for ticket purchasing.
Beyond domestic transport within Laos, the LCR has successfully connected Vientiane Capital, Laos, to Kunming, the capital of southwest China’s Yunnan province, in April last year.
In late 2023, the rail operator also launched the route between Vientiane Capital and Beijing, the capital of China. The round trip between Vientiane and Beijing now takes up to 15 days, and covers an approximate distance of 3,660 km.
In addition to facilitating passenger travel, the Laos-China Railway has become a key player in the transportation of goods between neighboring countries. Notably, the railway has contributed to a surge in fruit exports from Thailand to China, reducing transit times to less than 15 hours compared to the previous two-day journey by road.
Thailand’s Tourism Authority has also incorporated the LCR into its 2024 strategic direction, which aims to prioritize overland travel via the Laos-China Railway to enhance connectivity and boost tourism between Laos, China, and Thailand.
As part of the Visit Laos Year 2024 campaign, the Lao government aims to attract over 2.7 million international tourists throughout the year, with a targeted revenue generation of USD 401 million.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/01/23/laos-china-railway-boosts-daily-trips-in-preparation-of-tourism-surge/
Caruso Creations in Vientiane Capital & Luang Prabang Province
CARUSO CREATIONS VIENTIANE
A visit to the Caruso workshop in Vientiane is a plunge into a wonderful world. Designers and craftsmen will show you the different stages of production of the most authentic Laotian know-how, silversmiths, sculptors, turners at the service of absolute beauty. The tour ends in the showroom, where the entire Caruso universe is represented: ebony vases, jewelry, carpets and the finest silks find their place in a traditional contemporary setting. Take advantage of Caruso’s chauffeur service to get to the workshop.
Address: Nongbouathong Neua, Homp 14, Unit 49, Vientiane
CARUSO CREATIONS LUANG PRABANG
An international icon of Lao design for almost three decades, Caruso is the very essence of creativity. From marvelous ebony objects, often edged with pure silver, to the finest silk, you’ll find the country’s finest craftsmanship in this elegant boutique. Each piece has been reinterpreted with a modern touch using traditional forms. It’s impossible to leave the boutique without falling in love with an object. The master craftsmen’s workshop is open to the public. Daily worldwide shipments.
Address: 60 Sakkarine Road, Ban Vat Sene, Luang Prabang