Where have all the tourists gone?

Bounlap Douangphoumy faced a trial by fire at the Laos Media Briefing during the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on 25 January, when international travel journalists grilled him over why tourist arrivals annually tumbled by 10% in 2016, and a repeat performance is expected when the 2017 tally comes in. Mr Douangphoumy, … Read more

GREEN SEASON PROMOTION

  Sanakeo Boutique Luang Prabang presents… GREEN SEASON PROMOTION Stay 3 nights for the price of 2     Great offer at a central location in Luang Prabang 10 minutes to all UNESCO sites in the center of town Receive a complimentary Sanakeo House Cocktail (1 per guest)   Valid from 01/05/18 to 01/10/18 Promo … Read more

Lao Handicrafts: Tourism or Industrial?

  “Visit Laos Year 2018” stands out on a banner stretching across a Vientiane road. The Lao script announces a handicraft show at ITECC from 2-11 February. It has all the hallmarks of an event in line with the ongoing tourism campaign. An art display by the National Institute of Fine Arts greets visitors at … Read more

Bussin’ Around Vientiane

The six-wheeled Goddess appeared as I was sinking into despair. The sun was setting on Setthathilath Road at the Wattay Airport entrance, and my wait for a sawng taew dimmed with the sky. No money-grubbing tuk-tuk in sight. I was about to surrender, hike to a departure terminal, and eat a hefty cab fare. Then … Read more

World Bank Eyes Lao Nature Tourism

  What interests visitors coming to Laos the most? Here’s a hint; you can’t avoid them. According to the government’s Tourism Development Department, nature and culture hold the top two slots. The World Bank came to Vientiane in December 2017, with nature-based tourism on its mind, and its eye on the country’s 20 National Protected … Read more

Cultural Sojourn at Sanakeo Luang Prabang

Immerse yourself in a 3-night Cultural Sojourn at Sanakeo Luang Prabang. This special package runs US$345 per person for a single traveller and US$495 for two sharing a twin room, and includes an experiential 4-day itinerary.  Day 1 Welcome to Luang Prabang and the Sanakeo Boutique Hotel, where our staff will present Lao culture. You’ll … Read more

On Luang Namtha’s Off Road

  “We’ve changed the plan,” Somsavath said after greeting me at Luang Namtha’s airport. I’ve known Somsavath, who runs Phou Iu Travel and works in the Provincial Tourism Office, for several years. His itinerary modifications always add more bang for your buck. “Where are you taking me?” As per the original strategy, we would head … Read more

SilkAir Announces Singapore-Laos Summer Schedule

SilkAir has announced its Singapore-Laos summer schedule for 2018, which aims to provide better connectivity for European travellers. “After several months of negotiations by SilkAir with Lao Airports Authority for a better slot schedule into Luang Prabang, I am glad to confirm that effective 26 March (through 25  October) our schedule from Singapore to Laos (has … Read more

Luang Prabang View Hotel Green Season Special Promotion

(This promotion valid from 1st April to 30th September 2018) The Package inclusive of: 3 Days 2 nights. – Free upgrade to Superior Room (Single/Double Occupied) – Round trip airport transfers – Welcome drink and cold towel on arrival – Welcome fruit platter and soft drinks minibar in room – Complementary soft drinks minibar in … Read more

Luang Prabang View Hotel Wins ASEAN MICE Award

  The Luang Prabang View Hotel landed the ASEAN MICE Award at the 21st ATF on 26 January in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The honour is presented to venues that comply with stringent ASEAN MICE standards. “It’s a great award to be given,” said Mr Sengmany Chaila, Luang Prabang View Executive Assistant Manager, who accepted the … Read more