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Price Freeze on Rice & Noodle Dishes: Government
Vientiane diners look set to get a good deal on popular Lao dishes. According to “Laopost”, The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MoIC) announced a new price control policy in Vientiane Capital on pho, kao piek, kao pat, and kao latna. The notice, dated 25 May, stated that the one-dish menus should not exceed 15,000 kip. If diners request larger than normal dishes or special items, they can negotiate prices with vendors. The new policy is part of the government’s efforts to curb inflation and ensure average citizens can afford food, while food vendors can still show a profit. Food vendors that need to alter their prices must seek approval from the Vientiane Department of Industry and Commerce, by detailing the costs of their ingredients and materials. The MOIC has asked the Vientiane Department of Industry and Commerce and the Vientiane Department of Information, Culture and Tourism and other relevant bodies to cooperate and ensure compliance among restaurant vendors. Source: Laopost, Mahason Magazine
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Laos Plans Major Tree Planting for Arbour Day
Laos is setting its tree-planting sites high for celebrating Arbour Day and International Children’s Day on 1 June, with a plan to sow saplings on 27,000 hectares in 2018. Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Dr Lien Thikeo said combining the two commemorative days would help create awareness among children about the important role forests play. During his 23 May press briefing in Vientiane, the minister outlined goals, plans and activities to increase forest cover and mark Arbour Day. The ministry aims to restore forest cover to 70 percent by 2020, while striving to rehabilitate 517,500 hectares of degraded forest. To help accomplish this, some 14 million saplings have been prepared for this year’s planting and three main activities are being organised to promote the initiative. From May 25-June 6, the ministry in collaboration with Vientiane authorities will hold a sapling fair at the That Luang esplanade, where trees, saplings and ornamental plants will be exhibited and sold to the public. The overall target of 70 percent forest cover equates to 16.5 million hectares. This includes 4.7 million hectares of conservation forest, 8.2 million hectares of protected forest, 3.1 million hectares where commercial logging is authorised, and 500,000 hectares of commercial tree plantations. To achieve this, entities including the private sector are being encouraged to plant commercial trees on 500,000 hectares and rehabilitate 6 million hectares of degraded natural forest. As a result of these ongoing efforts, forest cover increased to 60.4 percent in 2017 based on Lao forestry standards, Dr Lien said. Source: Souksakhone Vaenkeo, Vientiane Times.
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Mekong Kingdoms Launches Ultra-Exclusive River Cruiser
Mekong Kingdoms is proud to announce the maiden Mekong River voyage of Gypsy, an ultra-exclusive two-cabin river cruiser, between the ancient Laos capital of Luang Prabang and Thailand’sGolden Triangle, in May 2018. A private tailored three-night, four-day cruise from Luang Prabang to the Golden Triangle and a two-night, three-day cruise from the Golden Triangle to Luang Prabang for up to four passengers are on offer. For those who seek a superior cruise experience that can be as spirited, laid back or personalized as their heart and soul desire, Gypsy offers the most intimate journey where adventurous voyagers and armchair travelers alike can enjoy first class services – from plush contemporary surrounds to gourmet meals and bespoke experiences both on board and ashore. Meticulously designed to accommodate the modern-day lifestyle of the most discerning wanderlust souls, the 41-meter, two-cabin vessel epitomizes a fine balance between playful mingling and reflective solitude. With ample indoor and outdoor living spaces to comfortably accommodate families or small groups, Gypsy also features a communal mid-ship lounge, bar and dining area, as well as a separate veranda-style lounge with an al fresco panorama deck at the bow of the boat. For Bangkok-based design consultant Ms. Jiraparnn Tokeeree from TOUCHABLE, furniture and interior design is more approachable than the abstract concept of art – for her, art is all around us and she adapts aesthetics and artistic aspects into her designs in order to accentuate this notion. For the Gypsy interior design project she fashioned a harmonious social atmosphere of modern comfort design, juxtaposed with hints of the glamorized bygone era of romantic voyaging. Wood and thatch throughout blend seamlessly with the verdant surrounds of the mighty Mekong River’s shores through floor-to-ceiling windows and from open sun decks. The boat’s contemporary designed interiors feature tongue and groove wood paneled ceilings, floors and walls; etched wooden cupboards and closets; solid wood tables; dark woven leather seating; and oversized bamboo daybeds. Local handwoven ornaments adorn the spaces and freshly cut flowers create a naturally soothing ambience, while Thai silk and fabrics drape the furniture in bold colors and lustrous appeal. The well-appointed spacious sleeping cabins are fully air-conditioned and consist of a king bed and twin bed configurations, each with an en-suite shower and vanity. Intimate touches of bathrobes and slippers; crisp white bed linens; regular and feather pillows and a choice of exquisite bathroom amenities provide convenient functions with the comfort of home. A hair dryer, vanity and makeup mirror are provided, while a personal safe promises in-room safety. Cruising along the majestic mighty Mekong River from near the world renowned Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in Chiang Rai to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang conjures up images of old Indochina, of languorous days gone by, teeming with exhilarating river adventure, mystical temples and stunning untouched scenery. Voyagers will be captivated by the languid river lifestyle, soaking in nature’s wonders along the Mekong River Valley, marveling at encounters with fascinating local cultures as they stop at villages and attractions along the way. Daily shore excursions offer a mix of age old culture, local immersion and adrenaline-charged adventure and include guided jungle treks; mountain biking in Ban Houy Phalam; freshwater fishing; a traditional weaving workshop at Ban Baw; Laos whisky tasting; a visit to a little-known elephant camp in Pak Beng; and the Pak Ou caves – with its breathtaking limestone karst formations, these two caves have been gifted thousands of Buddha images, left by pilgrims over the centuries. Even while cruising the placid waters, guests can enjoy a range of wellness, cultural and fun diversions on board, including yoga; folk dancing; learning to speak the Laos language; weaving workshop; and cooking class. After an adventurous day of exploring Southeast Asia’s most beguiling waterway, the boat’s open decks offer a welcome respite to savor a decadent Champagne high tea while watching the world go by. As the sun sets, cocktails on the panorama deck are the order of the day before retreating to the dining area for an evening of fine dining and imbibing, courtesy of the on-board chef. Rates start from USD $5,450 for a three-night, four-day cruise from Luang Prabang, Laos, to the Golden Triangle, Thailand; and from USD $6,950 for a two-night, three-day cruise from the Golden Triangle to Luang Prabang. Rates are per boat for up to four guests and include all on board meals; welcome reception with canapés; soft beverages, water, beer, selected wines and coffee and tea; Wi-Fi; shore excursions, English guide, entrance fees and transfers; on board activities; return airport or hotel transfers; and gratuities. Children aged four years and under travel free.
