FAM Trip Launches Lao Hotel Alliance

  The Lao Hotel Alliance (LHA) launched its initiative with a FAM trip in northern Laos to showcase four member hotels and a cruise line, while establishing a label of excellence for mid-range luxury hospitality at selected locations. Some 45 global travel agents embarked on the excursion from 9-17 June. The LHA’s FAM trip kicks … Read more

BikingMan Laos, “The toughest race by far.”

  “Laos is the toughest BikingMan race by far,” said winner, Jason Black, who completed the 785-km circuit through the country’s northwest in 51:42. “The combination of heat, rain, mountains, the unknown…”    And the unexpected. Lao cycler, Thavone Phonasa, came in 3rd in 62:24 on his BikingMan debut. “That’s a big deal,” said BikingMan … Read more

Pullman Luang Prabang Hosts MICE Meeting Showcase

  Pullman Luang Prabang recently hosted its inaugural MICE Meeting Showcase 2019, inviting industry professionals and members of the media to discover how it can facilitate MICE experiences for all types of groups. The showcase was hosted on 23 May 2019, at the Nam Khong Ballroom, which at 368 square metres is the largest event … Read more

Ock Pop Tok Empowers Lao Teen Girls

  Women’s empowerment is a core value of Ock Pop Tok, and this year, the “Queens of Crafts” chose to partner with Lao Solidarity and their Lao Teen Girls Project. The Lao Teen Girls Project strives to teach young women in rural areas how to manage menstruation at school, at home, or while working in … Read more

Organic & Permaculture Experiences around Luang Prabang

  Luang Prabang is making great strides in merging meals made with locally produced, organic ingredients with farm and garden tours filled with activities for all ages and interests. “Organic & Permaculture Experiences around Luang Prabang” presents 12 distinct farms and gardens, each with insightful tours that often include hands-on activities. Visitors can plant, harvest, … Read more

Green Discovery Laos Climbs Higher in Khammouane

  Green Discovery Laos (GDL) is planning new adventure activities on Phou Phamarn Hill in Khounkham District, Khammouane Province.  GDL owner Inthy Deuansavanh told the Vientiane Times the site already has facilities such as a viewpoint, toilets, and an information centre. He now plans to install zip-lines, a canopy walkway through the trees, and arrange … Read more

We Are Lao Captures Kasi Checkpoint

  “We Are Lao is overseeing the Kasi Checkpoint for BikingMan.” The call came from We Are Lao’s Managing Director John Morris Williams. The Kasi Climb (Photo courtesy of Uncle Tom’s Trails) “I knew it,” was my response as John’s partner in We Are Lao. Normally, we discuss and decide, but our 30-year friendship means he … Read more

Where Did the Koreans Go?

  “S. Korea visitor numbers down 32 percent in Q1” blared a 6 May headline in the Vientiane Times. That’s a major plummet by anyone’s standards, and the government is struggling to uncover the reason behind its fourth largest market taking a major dive.   According to the article, an unnamed official was “unsure of … Read more

Luang Prabang Wildlife Sanctuary Update

  The Luang Prabang Wildlife Sanctuary spent the dry and hot season constructing Bear House 4, which is nearing completion, and will provide much-needed new homes for rescued bears. Bear House 4 In mid-May, they will hold their first major release of rehabilitated wildlife in Laos. View recent images from the Luang Prabang Wildlife Sanctuary … Read more

Lone Buffalo Marches Ahead

  Lone Buffalo, who provides free English tuition for young people in Xieng Khouang, is making great strides in the northeastern Lao province. In their May 2019 newsletter, Lone Buffalo spells out their achievements including: ·         Starting a girls development programme ·         Launching a student coffee company ·         Signing an MOU with provincial officials ·         … Read more