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
VietJet to Start Direct Flights Between Laos and Vietnam
VietJet, a low-cost airline from Vietnam, is planning to launch direct flights between Laos and Vietnam in the near future.
While the airline has not made an official announcement yet, a recent post on AeroLaos, Laos’ leading aviation-focused Facebook page, suggests that this move is in the works.
VietJet operates A320 and A321 aircraft, capable of carrying 180 to 230 passengers to various international destinations, including China, Taiwan, Singapore, and other Asian countries. The airline currently operates up to 400 flights daily.
Although the specific route has not been disclosed, a source close to VietJet says the initial flight route will be between Vientiane Capital, Laos, and Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi in Vietnam, as they are renowned as top travel destinations in Asia.
The flight route is set to start by the fourth quarter of this year, or the start of next year, and is to be followed by flights between Laos and Da Nang and Phu Quoc in Vietnam.
Notably, Laos received more than 398,000 visitors from Vietnam in the first half of 2023, which suggests that VietJet’s decision to offer affordable air travel between the two countries is likely to be well-received. This move also aligns with the airline’s strategy to tap into Laos’ growing ambition to develop its tourism industry.
Mr. Ounthuang Khaophan, the Deputy Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, has declared 2024 as the “Year of Tourism” for Laos, with the goal of attracting over 2.7 million visitors in the coming year. To achieve this, the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism is working in collaboration with central and local authorities to plan a diverse range of activities at both regional and national levels.
As the Lao tourism industry gradually recovers from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, international airlines are actively seeking opportunities to enter this emerging market. For instance, Thai Airways resumed direct flights between Vientiane Capital, Laos, and Bangkok, Thailand, on August 15, following the route’s cancellation in December 2021. The airline replaced the previously operated Thai Smile Airways route with larger A320 aircraft from Thai Airways.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/08/25/vietjet-to-start-direct-flights-between-laos-and-vietnam/
Laos Sets Ambitious Target to Attract Over 2.7 Million Tourists in 2024
Laos is gearing up for Visit Laos Year 2024, projecting to welcome more than 2.7 million tourists to stimulate post-pandemic economic growth.
Deputy Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Mr. Ounthuang Khaophan, said on Monday that the Lao government has given tourism a pivotal role in its socio-economic development strategy. Hence 2024 has been declared as the “Year of Tourism” in Laos, symbolizing a robust commitment to revitalize the industry post-Covid-19.
To accomplish this ambitious goal, the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism is collaborating with central and local authorities to conceptualize a diverse range of activities, that will be held at both regional and national levels.
Notable among the 14 national events are the Vat Phou Champasack Festival, Elephant Festival, Sikhottabong Festival, and That Luang Festival. Additionally, the Lao New Year Festival and other events will be key attractions designed to engage tourists.
In tandem with these festivities, the Ministry has also made considerable efforts to enhance existing tourist attractions and create new ones.
People’s participation has been pivotal in this endeavor, and it’s notable that several locations, including Khon-Dondet village in Champasack province, Vang Vieng district, and Keooudom district in Vientiane province, have seen an 80 percent completion of the improvement plan of existing tourist destinations that are poised to welcome more international visitors in the coming year.
To guarantee a memorable time for tourists in the country, the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism organized the 28th National Tour Guide Training for 89 guides from all corners of Laos this month, to help align their skills with the rising demands of the tourism sector.
According to the Tourism Development Department of Laos, Laos saw a total of 1,674,436 visitors exploring the country from January to June. Notably, the ASEAN countries emerged as the leading contributors to this increase, accounting for a majority of foreign tourists.
source: https://laotiantimes.com/2023/08/23/laos-sets-ambitious-target-to-attract-over-2-7-million-tourists-in-2024/
Hotel Chains moving into Lao PDR
There has been an increase in the number of international hotel chains moving into Lao PDR (Laos) in recent years due to the country’s growing tourism industry. However, I do not have the most up-to-date information on the number of international hotel chains currently operating in Laos.
As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, some of the major international hotel chains that have a presence in Laos include the Accor Group, which operates the Sofitel, Pullman, and Novotel brands in the country, and the Marriott International Group, which operates the Marriott and Sheraton brands in Laos. Other international hotel chains with a presence in Laos include the Best Western, InterContinental, and Crowne Plaza brands.
It is worth noting that the hospitality industry can be dynamic and subject to change. Therefore, there may be new international hotel chains that have entered the market since my knowledge cutoff date.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-hotel-chains-moving-lao-pdr
Salavan 10 Things to see and DO
Sure! Here are the 10 best things to do in Salavan, Lao PDR:
1. Explore Tad Lo Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located near the town of Tad Lo, where you can swim, relax and enjoy the beautiful nature.
2. Visit Ta Ong village: A traditional Hmong village where you can learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life.
3. Trekking in Dong Hua Sao National Park: One of the most beautiful national parks in Laos, which is home to many rare species of animals and plants.
4. Kayaking in the Xe Pian River: A scenic river that offers kayaking and rafting opportunities for adventure enthusiasts.
5. Discover the Konglor Cave: A limestone cave located in the Phou Hin Poun National Protected Area, with a length of 7.5km.
6. Visit the historic Wat Phou temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a 10th century Khmer temple, located in Champasak province.
7. Take a boat ride on the Mekong River: The Mekong River is one of the most beautiful and iconic rivers in Southeast Asia. You can take a boat ride and explore the river.
8. Visit the Salavan Provincial Museum: A museum where you can learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Salavan Province.
9. Taste the local cuisine: Lao cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, and Salavan is no exception. Try out some of the local dishes such as laap, khao soi, and mok pa.
10. Shop at the Salavan Night Market: A bustling market where you can find souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products. The market is especially lively on Saturday and Sunday nights.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-630
Patuxay a historic Landmark
Patuxay is a historic landmark located in the capital city of Laos, Vientiane. The name “Patuxay” means “Gate of Triumph” in Lao language. The monument was built between 1957 and 1968, using funds given by the United States government to construct an airport.
The architecture of Patuxay is reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France. The monument’s design combines traditional Lao architectural elements with French colonial style. The monument is made of concrete, decorated with Lao motifs and sculptures depicting mythical creatures from Lao Buddhist mythology.
Patuxay was built to commemorate the Lao people who had fought for their independence from France. The monument’s central tower is inscribed with the words “ສັນຕິພາບລາວ ” (Satanh Tisata Lao), which translates to “From the ashes rises the Lao nation”. This phrase symbolizes the rebirth and rise of the Lao people from the ruins of colonialism.
Initially, Patuxay was known as “Anousavali” (Memorial Monument). However, after the communist takeover of Laos in 1975, the monument was renamed “Patuxay” and it became a symbol of the government’s socialist ideology.
Today, Patuxay is a popular tourist attraction in Vientiane, where visitors can climb to the top of the monument to enjoy panoramic views of the city. The monument is also a important site for national ceremonies and events in Laos.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-635
Long lost Treasures of Lao PDR
Lao PDR, also known as Laos, is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia with a rich cultural and historical heritage. The country has a long and complex history, and there are many stories of buried treasures and lost artifacts that are said to be hidden throughout the country. Here are a few examples:
1. The Treasure of King Setthathirat: King Setthathirat ruled over Laos from 1548 to 1571 and is credited with many of the country’s greatest architectural and cultural achievements. Legend has it that the king hid a vast treasure trove of gold and precious jewels somewhere in Vientiane, the capital city. Despite numerous attempts to find the treasure, it has never been discovered.
2. The Lost City of Muang Sua: Muang Sua was an ancient city located in what is now the northern part of Laos. It was an important center of trade and culture for many centuries, but it was abandoned in the 7th century and eventually became lost to history. Rumors persist that the city was home to a great treasure, but no one has been able to locate it.
3. The Treasure of Khun Borom: Khun Borom was a legendary ruler of the Tai people who lived in what is now northern Laos in the 7th century. According to legend, he amassed a great fortune in gold and jewels and buried it somewhere in the mountains near the town of Luang Namtha. Treasure hunters have searched for the treasure for centuries, but it remains undiscovered.
4. The Buddha That Was Lost and Found: In 1931, a team of French archaeologists discovered a 1,500-year-old Buddha statue in the jungle near the town of Vang Vieng. The statue had been lost to history for centuries, and its discovery sparked a renewed interest in the archaeology of Laos. Today, the Buddha is considered one of the most important cultural artifacts in the country.
While these stories of buried treasures and lost artifacts are certainly intriguing, it’s important to note that most of them are likely just legends. In many cases, the stories have been passed down through generations and may have been embellished over time. Nevertheless, they are an important part of Laos’ cultural heritage and continue to capture the imagination of people around the world.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-639
Pakse and 10 things to do
Pakse is a charming city in southern Laos, known for its picturesque scenery, ancient temples, and natural wonders. Here are ten top things to do in Pakse:
1. Visit Wat Phu, an ancient Khmer temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Explore the Bolaven Plateau, a lush area known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and stunning scenery.
3. Take a boat tour of the Mekong River, which runs through Pakse and offers a unique perspective on the city and surrounding landscapes.
4. Visit the Champasak Provincial Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region.
5. Take a day trip to the Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands) region, where you can relax on white sand beaches, swim in waterfalls, and spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins.
6. Explore the Pakse night market, where you can sample local street food and shop for souvenirs.
7. Visit the That Dam, an ancient Buddhist stupa with a fascinating history and beautiful views of the surrounding area.
8. Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Lao dishes, such as laap and tam mak hoong.
9. Visit the nearby Tad Yuang and Tad Fane waterfalls, which are some of the most beautiful in Laos.
10. Take a cycling tour of the countryside, where you can explore small villages and see daily life in rural Laos.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-624
4000 Islands in Southern Lao PDR
Here are 10 best things to do in 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don) in Lao PDR:
1. Visit Khonephapheng waterfall: The largest waterfall in Southeast Asia by volume, with a width of 10,783 feet.
2. Go dolphin watching: Irrawaddy dolphins are a rare and endangered species that can be found in the Mekong River of 4000 Islands. You can take a boat tour to see them up close.
3. Visit Don Det Island: This tiny island is a backpacker’s paradise. You can rent a bike and explore the island’s beautiful scenery.
4. Walk on the sandbar of Don Khon Island: A beautiful and unique sandbar that appears only during the dry season, allowing you to walk to a nearby island.
5. Explore the ancient French railway on Don Khon Island: A historic railway that was built to bypass the Khonephapheng waterfall.
6. Kayaking through Si Phan Don Islands: Paddle through narrow channels and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Mekong River.
7. Relax in a hammock: You can find plenty of hammocks at the guesthouses on the islands, where you can relax, read a book, and enjoy the view.
8. Rent a motorbike to explore 4000 Islands: Rent a motorbike or scooter and explore the islands, visit some hidden waterfalls and relax by the riverside.
9. Try local Lao cuisine: The area is known for its river fish, sticky rice, and coconut-based curries, so be sure to try some of the local dishes at the riverside restaurants.
10. Take a sunset cruise: You can relax with a drink on a sunset cruise and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Mekong River at sunset.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-632
Plain of Jars
The Plain of Jars is a mysterious archaeological site located in the Xieng Khouang Province of Laos, also known as Lao PDR (People’s Democratic Republic). The site is characterized by a vast area of over 90 different sites where thousands of stone jars, ranging in size from one to three meters in height and weighing up to several tons, are scattered throughout the landscape. The jars are believed to date back to the Iron Age, between 500 BCE and 500 CE, although their exact purpose and origin remain a mystery.
Despite the site’s cultural and historical significance, the Plain of Jars has suffered significant damage from bombing during the Vietnam War and unregulated looting. However, efforts are being made to preserve and protect the site, including the establishment of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Today, visitors can explore some of the jar sites and learn about the history and cultural significance of this mysterious and intriguing
site.https://wearelao.com/destinations-northern-laos/xieng-khouang-beyond-plain-jars
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-610
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