blog

S Vang Vieng Boutique Hotel

Submitted 5 months 3 weeks ago by john58.

A new Hotel in VV with 120 rooms, ample meeting room spaces! place to book and relax while in VV

Rice planting season is upon us!

Submitted 5 months 3 weeks ago by john58.

Rice planting Season has begun in earnest in Laos from North to south!

Prominent Families of Lao PDR

Submitted 6 months 5 days ago by john58.

Lao PDR, or Laos, is a country in Southeast Asia with a rich history and culture.

Lao Skyway

Submitted 6 months 5 days ago by john58.

Lao Skyway is a relatively new domestic airline that has been operating in Laos since 2017.

Old Kings of Lao PDR

Submitted 6 months 1 week ago by john58.

Kings of Lao PDR, just a recap of who was when! Interesting history for sure!

lao PDR and MICE

Submitted 6 months 3 weeks ago by john58.

Lao PDR has become an increasingly popular destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events in recent years. Here are some reasons why:

Snakes of Lao PDR

Submitted 6 months 3 weeks ago by john58.

Some of the snakes of Lao PDR keep your distance!

Top Hotels In Lao PDR

Submitted 7 months 15 hours ago by john58.

Looking for a few good top hotels in Lao PDR read on below!

The food scene in Vientiane, the capital city of Lao PDR,

Submitted 7 months 1 week ago by john58.

A vibrant and diverse mix of traditional Lao cuisine and international flavors. Lao cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh herbs and spices, sticky rice, and a variety of meats and vegetables.

China Lao Railway

Submitted 7 months 1 week ago by john58.

The China-Laos railway is expected to have a positive impact on the tourism industry in Laos. though it's up to us to drive the inflow of Tourists.

It's difficult to predict exactly what will happen in the future, but I can provide some general information about the coffee culture in Laos and potential factors that could impact its revival in 2023.

A few questions to MICT & DCA

Submitted 7 months 2 weeks ago by john58.

A question to the MICT here in Lao PDR along with the Department of civil aviation?

AVIS Laos on Wearelao.com

Submitted 7 months 2 weeks ago by john58.

check out on certain pages on getting round on wearelao.com! look for the 5% Discount from AVIS

Tourism and location in Lao PDR

Submitted 7 months 2 weeks ago by john58.

Need some inspiration read on some of the places in Laos to add to your bucket list!

Lao Coffee culture at its best!

Submitted 7 months 3 weeks ago by john58.

Lao Coffee is being seen on the world market and making a good image! another good reason to Visit Laos explore the Southern provinces coffee regions.

Hotel Chains moving into Lao PDR

Submitted 7 months 3 weeks ago by john58.

International Hotel Chains moving into Lao PDR shows that as a last Frontier Laos will begin to be the place to Visit!

Laos a standalone Tourism destination??

Submitted 7 months 3 weeks ago by john58.

Invest in a budget above the infrastructure!

Secret Trails, secret caves in Lao PDR

Submitted 8 months 3 days ago by john58.

Secret trails 7 secret caves along with multi day trekking in Lao PDR! Plenty for those thrill adventure seekers!

Southern Laos at its best!

Submitted 8 months 4 days ago by john58.

Southern Laos has been neglected for a long time over Luang Prabang! well things change, and now the limelight is on the Southern Provinces

Plain of Jars

Submitted 8 months 5 days ago by john58.

Xieng Khouang Province, once a secret Airforce base! this province holds a lot of historical and Heritage Attractions

Vang Vieng Adventure Capital of Lao PDR

Submitted 8 months 6 days ago by john58.

Ever wonder why Vang Vieng is an adventure capital in Lao PDR! One thing is you need to put it on your bucket list! plenty of beer buckets as well!

Tourism in Lao PDR

Submitted 8 months 6 days ago by john58.

The final frontier of Lao PDR is calling for all adventure travelers to come and enjoy!

Made In Laos

Submitted 8 months 1 week ago by john58.

Want to be seen and in the lop at all times.! get your company on Made in Laos added to our listing page its free!

WAL are updating their Listing Pages

Submitted 8 months 1 week ago by john58.

Don't be last, be productive lets us support you!

PATA Set to Take Leading Role in Redefining Tourism in Turbulent Times

Submitted 9 months 1 week ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

This is a transformational moment that will define PATA for decades to come. In the words of the business guru Peter Drucker, “The greatest danger in times of turbulence is not the turbulence – it is to act with yesterday’s logic.”

Run For Children 2023

Submitted 9 months 2 weeks ago by john58.

Run for Children - Luang prabang Half Marathon 2023 A must participate. for those runners out there!

Major sporting Events / Races in Lao PDR 2023 / 2024

Submitted 9 months 3 weeks ago by john58.

Exciting Times and exciting Raes and Events in 2023 and into 2024!

Coffee Culture of Luang prabang

Submitted 9 months 4 weeks ago by john58.

Top 24 Coffee Spots in Luang Prabang in 2023 Explore the coffee scene with Tiger Trail!

Dough & Co

Submitted 10 months 1 day ago by john58.

Dough & Co! need to taste their sourdough Breads..

Kingfisher Eco Lodge

Submitted 10 months 18 hours ago by john58.

Charming By Nature! " The Emerald Triangle"

Luang Prabang Sabaidee Fest Promotes Sustainable Tourism

Submitted 1 year 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The seven-day Sabaidee Luang Prabang Fest opened on 6 October, to promote sustainable tourism and Lao tradition and culture, while stimulating post-Covid tourism to the UNESCO World Heritage City, supporting local MSMEs, and raising awareness in sustainable supply chains with a focus on “Made in Laos” products.

Nahm Dong: All-in-One Sustainable Park in Luang Prabang

Submitted 1 year 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sustainability and ecotourism are the names of the game at Nahm Dong Park that presents 18 hectares of nature with loads of activities for all or just relaxation about 10 km from the center of Luang Prabang.

Coffee Tourism Springs Back to Life in Southern Laos

Submitted 1 year 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Strong, full-bodied Bolaven Plateau coffee has been making its way into cappuccinos, lattes, frappes, and ice coffees around the world in recent years, and now global tourists are coming to experience the “Spring of Lao Coffee” in Champasak Province.

Laos’ Safe & Sustainable Star: Tad Yeuang Waterfall

Submitted 1 year 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Tad Yeuang Waterfall in Southern Laos won the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award in January 2022, and the falls and market at the entrance are already attracting foreign visitors – as well as community vendors – just 2.5 months after the country reopened.

Double Tap: Tad Fane Waterfalls Reopen in Southern Laos

Submitted 1 year 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Tad Fane, Southern Laos’ iconic twin waterfalls, has reopened its popular viewpoint and over-the-gorge zipline course to tourists, just a 40-minute drive from Pakse.

No Crowds Here…Vat Phou UNESCO Temple Complex in Southern Laos

Submitted 1 year 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

UNESCO World Heritage hawks can avoid the crowds at other landmark sites with a visit to 10th-century pre-Angkor Vat Phou temple complex in Southern Laos’ Champasak Province.

Hiking & Camping at the Best Viewpoint in Laos: Pha Daeng Peak

Submitted 1 year 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos has planted its national flag atop Nong Khiaw’s Pha Daeng Peak, arguably the country’s #1 viewpoint. The summit is known for its morning “Sea Fog” and recent addition of tent camping about three hours north of Luang Prabang.

Meet Luang Prabang’s Pottery Masters at Ban Chan

Submitted 1 year 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A look around Luang Prabang reveals loads of clay lamps, pots, planters, jars, vases, ashtrays, animal figurines, charcoal barbecue grills, and other earthenware products. You’ll see them in hotels, homes, and peoples’ gardens wherever you look. Do you want to see who makes them and how? Do you want to take a pottery class and learn from the masters? Head to “Pottery Village”, about 4 km from the Chompet Pier across the Mekong from the UNESCO World Heritage City.

Luxury Camp @ Green Jungle Park Opens in Luang Prabang

Submitted 1 year 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao Green Group has opened Luxury Camp @ Green Jungle Park to add an accommodation element to the 25-hectare natural adventure playground located about 15 km (45 minutes) from Luang Prabang Town.

Laos Phenomenal Cloud of Bats

Submitted 1 year 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

As dusk falls over Laos, an endless ribbon-like cloud of bats pours out of a cliffside cave at Pha Luang in Meuang Feuang.

Angnamtong View Opens Lakeside Resort in Laos

Submitted 1 year 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Angnamtong View Resort and Draft House Restaurant, about 90 minutes from Vientiane Capital in Meuang Feuang, held its soft opening in March 2022, and is already attracting guests to its villas, floating pavilions, and water sports on the Nam Tong Reservoir.

Sinxayaram Temple: Kingdom of Buddhism

Submitted 1 year 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sinxayaram Temple presents a “Kingdom of Buddhism” in Meuang Feuang that has been attracting the faithful from around Laos and northern Thailand for decades, and is now welcoming tourists.

Ban Lao Meuang Feuang: A Real Lao Accommodation Experience

Submitted 1 year 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

While many big name resorts struggle to seamlessly blend with nature, Ban Lao Meuang Feuang effortlessly delivers a real Lao accommodation experience.

Laos Goes All In on Reopening

Submitted 1 year 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos has turned back the clock to 2019, and is fully opening its borders to tourists on 9 May 2022, with “relaxed measures”, the Prime Minister’s Office has announced.

Laos Reopening to Foreign Tourists off to a Slow Start

Submitted 1 year 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

WeAreLao questioned local TAs and DMCs about the reopening process, and the eight respondents mentioned confusion and bureaucracy for stalling a smoother, more robust rollout, while their critique offered varying insights and opinions on how to improve.

Inthira Group Signs Sustainable Tourism Deal with Lao Development Bank

Submitted 2 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Inthira Group signed an agreement with the Lao Development Bank (LDB) on 18 October, to provide financing to the 20-year-old tourism and hospitality company for developing sustainable tourism products.

Born to be Wild: ECC Laos Welcomes Baby Elephant

Submitted 2 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Elephant Conservation Center (ECC) in Sayabouly, Laos has announced that Mae Khoun Noy gave birth to a calf in the ECC’s home at the Nam Tien forest on 4 October. ECC is also seeking support for the new addition, a gift of hope and a proof of perseverance and hard work for the conservation of this highly endangered species.

Covid Challenges Laos Coffee Culture and Tourism

Submitted 2 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luang Prabang-based Saffron Coffee has long been known as a profit-for-purpose enterprise supporting more than 85 villages in northern Laos. Tourism and its café have also entered its brew over the years with programs such as Exclusive Guided Tasting, Cherry to Cup tour, and From Mountain to Cup initiative. Like many in the country’s tourism and hospitality industry and its supply chain, Saffron has suffered under Covid. WeAreLao’s John Morris Williams recently interviewed Saffron Director Todd Moore to uncover the impact of the pandemic on the business.

Lao MICE Need Lead Time before They Return

Submitted 2 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

MICE and group travel will need more lead time before returning to Laos, according to Rob Hanson, General Manager at Nakarath Travel. We Are Lao’s John Morris Williams recently interviewed Mr Hanson, whose DMC specializes in bespoke travel, to discuss his view on what it will take to reopen Lao travel.

Are MICE and Groups the Route Back to Laos?

Submitted 2 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Are MICE and group travel the way back for Lao tourism once the borders reopen? We Are Lao’s John Morris Williams recently asked Laurent Granier, Co-founder & General Manager of Laos Mood, for his thoughts. Laos Mood is a MICE and group travel specialist with distinct and geographical markets.

The Gift of Hope!

Submitted 2 years 3 months ago by john.

~ THE GIFT OF HOPE ~ And the Chance to Revive Laos’ Wild Elephant Population A BABY ELEPHANT IS BORN IN LAOS!

Lao Thiao Lao Seeks Sustainable Tourism Growth in Vientiane Province

Submitted 2 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao Thiao Lao Survey Team traveled to Vientiane Province on 24-27 August, to identify sustainable tourism products, meet with provincial and district tourism officials, and consult with tourism site developers to ensure sustainable tourism growth in the increasingly popular destination.

Lao Thiao Lao Tackles “The Khammouane Loop”

Submitted 2 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Travel along on a four-day mission to identify products for tour programs in Khammouane for the ongoing Lao Thiao Lao (Lao Travel Lao) domestic tourism campaign.

Laos Tourism: Seminar, Stats, and Easing Restrictions

Submitted 2 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao travel trade sparked to life late last week, with a tourism and hospitality webinar, easing of restrictions after a rigid six-week Covid lockdown, and the publication of the “Statistical Report on Tourism in Laos 2020”.

Ethically Yours, Silver Naga Vang Vieng

Submitted 2 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“We use ‘Ethical’ a lot in our practices because I feel tourism is all about people,” said Rachel Dechaineux, owner of the riverside Silver Naga hotel in Vang Vieng.

Lao Tourism Will Not Die: Only Companies Die

Submitted 2 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

In spite of Covid-19’s effect on the worldwide travel industry, the Lao tourism and hospitality sector continues to look towards a brighter future. However, our global tourism partners and clients are uncertain of the situation in Laos, and what the plan is for reopening when international travel gets rolling.

The Road to Reopening Hotel Doors in Laos

Submitted 2 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Veteran hotelier and We Are Lao Managing Director John Morris Williams presents an easy to follow guide to reopening the Lao hospitality sector, with a focus tour agent’s and traveler’s needs.

Graduates of ‘China Ready’ Programme ready to support tourism businesses in Lao PDR

Submitted 2 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Four representatives from the Ministry of Information Culture and Tourism (MICT) have been awarded the ‘China Ready’ Certification Award by the China Outbound Tourism Research Institute (COTRI) after successfully completing the ‘China Ready’ training programme.

Luang Prabang Downloads

Submitted 2 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Scratch the surface of Luang Prabang and discover a side of the UNESCO city to experience what mainstream tourists overlook with these downloads.

“Let’s Travel” Expo Encore Keeps Promoting Lao Domestic Tourism

Submitted 2 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The second “Let’s Travel” expo, organized by Lao Airlines, EXO Travel Lao, and Vientiane Center will be held at the Vientiane Center on 19-21 February 2021, to promote domestic travel in Laos during the pandemic.

Engaged in Green: Crowne Plaza Vientiane

Submitted 2 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

How does IHG implement its strict Green Engage global guidelines in Laos? “It’s hard work to get to where we want to go,” said Crowne Plaza Vientiane General Manager Patria Puyat, “but it can be done.”

“Sustainable Tourism Laos: Showcase” to Soft-Launch Next Week

Submitted 2 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

WeAreLao announced it will soft-launch its “Sustainable Tourism Laos: Showcase” campaign on 8 February, to globally promote Lao businesses, and the destination, as safe and sustainable, and continually keep Laos on the worldwide tourism radar screen during the pandemic.

Luang Prabang Hotels: The Tough Keep Going

Submitted 2 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

An early January survey of 116 Luang Prabang hotels shows more than 25% remain open. Many suggest the domestic tourism market in the country of 7 million stands at just 150,000 people. Yet, Luang Prabang’s hotel open rate is an achievement considering the country remains closed to foreign tourists.

Centara Hotels & Resorts Lands in Laos

Submitted 2 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Centara Hotels & Resorts is jumping into Vang Vieng with fresh management contracts for two riverside hotels. The properties are expected to reopen in late 2021, after they complete their refurbishment programmes.

Luang Prabang Hotels Battle Covid Lockdown

Submitted 2 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao Derm COO and WeAreLao MD John Williams conducted a survey of 116 hotels in Luang Prabang to discover if they were open or closed.

Santa Delivers an Elephant to Laos

Submitted 2 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Our hopes for elephant conservation in Laos increase with the birth of a new boy on Xmas Day.

Lao Tourism Revenue: Please Check my Math

Submitted 2 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

In 2011, tourism development guru, Peter Semone, told the 3rd LANITH Symposium, “Today we will discuss how…to achieve one billion dollars in revenue by 2020.” His crystal ball appeared to be working, as 2019’s take was USD 934,710,409. A 2020 billion-dollar target looked doable.

Covid Can’t Catch We Are Lao in 2020

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Covid clobbered tourism and hospitality coffers in 2020. All sizes of businesses took big hits. Plenty shuttered their doors. Others toughed it out and found something to do. WeAreLao joined them.

WHO Questions Covid Vaccine as Travel Panacea

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The much-awaited vaccine has started the cellular battle against Covid. Tourists will soon be flooding to newly-opened destinations. One shot and I’m good, right? Wrong.

Laos Tourism 2019 Stats: What if?

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Suppose it is 1 Jan 2020, and we’re pouring over the Tourism Development Department’s “2019 Statistical Report on Tourism in Laos”. At a glance, Laos has plenty of reasons to smile. Arrivals jumped 14% to 4,791,065, revenue surged ahead 15.2% towards USD 1 billion, and Green Season is soaring. However, where visitors get their information seems muddled.

Video: Meet the Makers in Made in Lao Fair 2020 Ep 1

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Meet the makers in the Made in Lao Fair 2020. Loads of great people and products. All unscripted, and apologies for the poor YouTube production. My first try.

Holiday Tourists Flock to Vang Vieng on Long-Awaited Expressway

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao President Bounnhang Vorachit cut the ribbon to open the Vientiane-Vang Vieng Expressway on 20 December, unleashing hordes of domestic tourists on the 110-km speedway to the holiday retreat. Drivers heavy on the pedal report travel times of an hour, a far cry from the half-day scenic tour on Route 13.

We Are Lao Downloads Reach 50

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Fifty publications now line the shelves of WeAreLao.com/downloads, the site’s most popular page, Better yet, the library’s filtered search engine makes it fast and easy to find the right document.

Laos’ Rocky Road to Recovery

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

On 17 December, I interviewed private sector tourism leaders about when and how would the borders open for tourists, and what could hinder this? The very next day, the UNDP release “The Lao PDR Tourism Recovery Roadmap, December 2020”. Nice timing. The private sector meets the academics.

2019 Statistical Report on Tourism in Laos

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Tourism Development Department (TDD), Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism published the 2019 Statistical Report on Tourism in Laos. Download and have a look. Full analysis from WeAreLao to come after New Year.

Lao PDR Tourism Recovery Roadmap

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos now has a draft for a Tourism Recovery Roadmap.

Navigate the Covid-19 Maze with PATA’s Latest Guide and Resource Kits

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

PATA’s Crisis Communications Center has published two resources to help the travel trade navigate their way through the Covid-19 Pandemic maze. These are now available at Downloads | We Are Lao.

Cutting Edge Reports on Covid’s Impact on Travel and Asian SMEs

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Download and read these year-end reports on Covid-19’s impact on travel (Deloitte) and its effect on Asian SMEs (ADB). Some of the findings may not be what you expected, others predict a path ahead, and all are extremely insightful.

“Made in Laos” Fair to Battle Covid-19

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao economy, like those around the world, is hunting for reasonable ways to get the money machine rolling during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the upcoming Made in Laos 2020 fair looks like a logical move.

When will the Vang Vieng Expressway Open?

Submitted 2 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The on-again, off-again opening of the highly touted Vientiane-Vang Vieng expressway has a new (and third) official launch date…20 December...But will it happen?

Laos Going All In on Sustainable Tourism

Submitted 2 years 12 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos is shifting its emphasis on developing and promoting sustainable and green tourism to lure more visitors from 2021 to 2025, with ecotourism and agro-tourism leading the list of development and promotional objectives.

Skills for Tourism Project exceeds expectations for 2020 and sets goals for 2021

Submitted 2 years 12 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Skills for Tourism Project (LAO/029) Steering Committee convened in Vientiane Capital on 10 December to review achievements and progress made to date and to present its goals for the upcoming year.

Laos Uncovers 14 New Covid-19 Cases in One Day: Can this be Good News?

Submitted 3 years 5 days ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

On 23 November, The Lao National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control confirmed 14 new coronavirus cases, by far the country’s largest one-day tally, and bringing the total to 39. So how can this be good news for the Lao travel trade?

‘The Academy Training Hotel and Restaurant’ opens its doors in Vang Vieng

Submitted 3 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

During a ceremony on 2 November 2020, the Vientiane Province Technical College inaugurated a new tourism and hospitality practical training facility built at its Vang Vieng campus. The facility, named The Academy Training Hotel and Restaurant, will provide tourism and hospitality students and the teachers with a modern training environment to hone practical skills.

Handicraft Grants Boost Lao Artisans’ Skills

Submitted 3 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

As highlighted by the upcoming Lao Handicraft Festival in Vientiane, preserving and promoting local handicrafts and culture is more important than ever in the times of Covid-19. To contribute to those efforts, the Skills for Tourism Project (LAO/029), which is implemented by the Ministry of Education and Sports and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency, supported handicraft-related enterprises in providing training to artisans in their existing supply chain, also with the goal to increase producers’ income.

Going Local: Riverside Boutique Resort, Vang Vieng

Submitted 3 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sustainable experiences reach into themed rooms at the Riverside Boutique Resort, while General Manager Mathieu Thaeron cuts consumption by relying on common sense and a clued-in staff.

WeAreLao Keeps Linking

Submitted 3 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

WeAreLao.com expanded it “Helpful Links” page to include 13 provincial tourism websites and Facebook pages and relevant tourism sites to provide visitors with a fast path to updated and detailed information and contacts for the destination of their choice.

Lao Thiao Lao Campaign Launched to Boost Domestic Tourism

Submitted 3 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao Thiao Lao marketing campaign kicked off on 11 September at a launch event in Vientiane, showing how the public and private sector are coming together to boost domestic tourism against the backdrop of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Tourism and Hospitality Training Hits Top Gear

Submitted 3 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

In its ongoing efforts to support the Tourism and Hospitality sector impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Skills for Tourism Project (LAO/029) continues to roll out its tourism and hospitality training throughout Laos in 2020 with the aim of upskilling more than 1,400 people working in the sector through a variety of programmes.

Boten.com Boosts Info for “Beautiful Boten” in Laos

Submitted 3 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Boten was born in 2003, and suffered through a troubled childhood. Now, it is “finding itself”, and looks set to mature as a major Southeast Asia tourism and commercial hub.

“GT” Taps WeAreLao as its First Destination Partner

Submitted 3 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The "Good Tourism” (“GT”) Blog has selected WeAreLao as its first Destination Partner to present stories and insights into the best practices of the country’s tourism stakeholders.

30 Travel Statistics That Will Wake Up Your Wanderlust

Submitted 3 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Check out numbers that will interest travellers, small tourism and hospitality businesses, and even those who pour over travel trade publications. It’s a great 8-minute read.

A Green Way of Life: Luang Prabang View

Submitted 3 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Some may struggle with the costs of sustainable practices, but former Luang Prabang View Hotel General Manager John Williams sees going green as a way of life...while saving greenbacks along the way.

Thai Smile Puts Lao Flights on Hold

Submitted 3 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Thai Smile had recently announced it would reignite flights to Laos in July, but is now hitting the pause button until October.

Oudomxay Launches e-Busses

Submitted 3 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Oudomxay kicked off an electric bus service on 14 May to offer visitors an environmentally friendly way to get around.

Webinar Promotes MICE Offerings in Laos

Submitted 3 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Asian Trails Laos has launched a new webinar showcasing the beauty, travel opportunities and different ways to discover the destination beyond the usual attractions.

Covid 19 Good Practices: Accommodation & Food Retailers

Submitted 3 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao Ministry of Health with support from USAID has published a poster-like “Good Practices for Covid-19” for accommodation and food retailers. (Download)

ECC Publishes 2020-21 Program & Rates

Submitted 3 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The award-winning Elephant Conservation Center (ECC) in Sayabouly, Laos, has published its 2020-2021 tour programs and rates for its four itineraries lasting between two and seven days.

Communicate Trust during Covid

Submitted 3 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Covid-19 has rattled tourism and hospitality marketing. Safety and sanitation have pushed their way to the front of the pathway to purchase. Rooms, menus, attractions, and sustainability are now seeking cover under the umbrella of trust.

A Jumbo Cause: Helping Lao Elephants beyond Covid-19

Submitted 3 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Elephant Conservation Center (ECC) in Laos is currently seeking contributions to help keep both their conservation and educational work alive during the challenging pandemic.

THAI to Rekindle Lao Flights in July

Submitted 3 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

According to Routes, Thai Airways has announced it will launch a daily Bangkok-Vientiane flight starting 1 July, on board an Airbus A330-300.

ORLA Tours Heads Back to the Office in Laos

Submitted 3 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos locked down in late March, but this did not slow down ORLA Tours. They remained busy, with the team working from home.

Lao Hotels Ponder Post-Covid Landscape

Submitted 3 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Most agree the global hospitality landscape will forever change in the post-Covid era, and Lao hotels are no different. Even while the country remains in lockdown until 4 May, hoteliers are looking beyond today’s woes to when guests return.

Laos Mood Travel Peeks into Post-Covid Crystal Ball

Submitted 3 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

How will Covid-19 change Lao tourism? Laurent Granier, Co-founder & General Manager Laos Mood Travel raises interesting issues.

China Southern to Reopen Guangzhou – Vientiane Route

Submitted 3 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

According to routesonline.com, China Southern will begin operating a once weekly flight commencing 8 May on board a Boeing 737-800.

Crisis Communications during Covid-19

Submitted 3 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Did your tourism-related business have a crisis communications strategy in place, when the Covid-19 pandemic kicked in? Probably not. So what, how, and how often are you communicating with travel agents, FITs, clients, guests and the public during this ongoing situation?

Laos Locks Down

Submitted 3 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao government announced it is tightening the screws on the country’s Covid-19 regulations from 30 March-19 April in a bid to curtail the spread of the virus. There are now eight confirmed cases in Laos.

Crowne Plaza Takes Covid-19 Action

Submitted 3 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Crowne Plaza, Vientiane has taken even stronger measures than those already in place to protect guests and staff after an employee tested positive for Covid-19 on 24 March.

Covid-19 Creeps into Laos

Submitted 3 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Deputy Minister of Health Phouthone Meuangpak confirmed the first two Covid-19 cases in Laos at a press conference on 24 March at 14:00, after several Facebook posts began spreading the unconfirmed news earlier in the day.

Laos Boosts Battle against Covid-19

Submitted 3 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

On Sunday, 22 March, Laos shut down all overland border crossings with Thailand for tourists, the latest in a string of strict measures to keep the country free of Covid-19.

We Are Lao Opens Online Tourism Library

Submitted 3 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

WeAreLao.com has launched a “Downloads” menu page to provide the travel trade and tourists with a range of useful information they can use and save. The digital library also features a filtered search engine so site visitors can quickly find the information they seek.

“No” to Covid-19 Refunds…”Yes” to Vouchers

Submitted 3 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

We need to stop refunding final customers to avoid a very big crash: let us postpone without fees but not refund!

Bangkok Airways Suspends Lao Flights

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Bangkok Airways is slicing and canning several domestic and international routes, including Bangkok-Vientiane flights, due to a drop in demand, mainly caused by the Covid-19 outbreak.

Gaspard Bursts onto Luang Prabang’s French Dining Scene

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Gaspard Artisan Cuisine opened its doors in Luang Prabang late last year to present a menu featuring traditional French signature dishes with an “a la Française” service set in a UNESCO-classified two-storey Tai Lue-style teak house at the crossroads of the landmark Nam Phou Fountain and Mekong River.

Travelife Recognises Asian Trails Laos

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Travelife, the leading international sustainability certification for the travel sector, has recognized Asian Trails Laos as a Travelife Partner, along with five other Southeast Asian offices.

Celebrity TV Chef Boosts Lao Students’ Cooking Skills

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Celebrity Luxembourg TV Chef and cookbook author Anne Faber conducted a hands-on workshop for Lao ‘Kitchen Assistant’ students at Vientiane’s Pakpasak Technical College, to teach them the underlying skills of Western-style food preparation.

La Lune Hosts 2nd WINC Wine Event in Vientiane

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

La Lune hosted its second Vientiane Wine Inclusive (WINC) event, “A Taste of Bordeaux”, on 21 February, to present some 30 local wine enthusiasts with the chance to sample authentic red and white vintages paired with dishes inspired by the world’s most famous wine region.

Kiridara Makes TripZilla’s Top 15 Romantic Hotels in Asia

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Kiridara, a contemporary boutique hotel in Luang Prabang, has landed a spot as one of the dreamiest hotels in Asia, in TripZilla’s “15 Romantic Hotels in Asia Perfect for a Swoon-worthy couple’s trip”.

Clothing Swap with Green Step, EARTH Vientiane and the LDWDC

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Those who are in the capital of Laos and are keen to do their part in sustainability can keep a lookout for various events with a sustainable focus that will be taking place in Vientiane.

eGlobal Travel Media Endorses We Are Lao

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

We Are Lao is proud to announce the endorsement of eGlobal Travel Media, a leading online travel trade publication with more than 60,000 subscribers. We Are Lao will now be a major supplier of trade news and travel stories from Laos, with links to WeAreLao.com.

MICE Keep Nibbling on Laos

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

We Are Lao is releasing the second annual “MICE Guide to Laos” at ITB Berlin 2020 on 4-9 March, with eight additional hotels joining the charge to attract business events and incentive groups to “The Last Frontier”.

Tourism & Corona: The Way Ahead

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“What is the solution to the coronavirus and the Chinese tourism market, and is there something we can do to mitigate losses?” wonders Luang Prabang View General Manager John Morris Williams, who has some 30 years of experience in the tourism and hospitality business, before offering three simple suggestions.

Caving with the Khmu

Submitted 3 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Oudomxay Tourism Department is offering a 2-day/1-night homestay at a Khmu village along with a trek a Hmong village and Chom Ong, the longest known cave in Laos.

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Opens in Vientiane

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The SureStay Hotel Group celebrated the launch of the first SureStay® Hotel in Laos in early February, with a rooftop party to mark the Grand Opening of SureStay Hotel by Best Western Vientiane.

Laos Stays Corona-free, but Virus Shakes Travel Trade

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos, China’s southern neighbour, continues to fend off the coronavirus, with no reported cases, due largely to a quick government response. Meanwhile, the country’s tourism and hospitality sector is feeling the pinch from widespread global fears.

Free Falls on Champasak’s Mekong

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Visitors can now enter Champasak’s popular Khone Phapheng and Li Phi (Som Pha Mit) Waterfalls at no charge after axing Ying Sokxay Company’s lease on the two attractions.

Where Have Laos’ Elephants Gone?

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Here’s the latest on the dwindling numbers of pachyderms in the “Land of a Million Elephants”, and the effort the Elephant Conservation Center (ECC) has put into finding out why and what can be done.

2019 Lao Arrivals Soar 14.47%

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Tourists arrivals surpassed 4.7 million in 2019, a 14.47% leap over the previous, according to the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.

Lao Airlines Launches First Scheduled Danang Flights

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao Airlines will kick off three direct weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays between Vientiane and Danang commencing 29 March 2020, according to Airpost On-line Asian Aviation and Travel News.

Vang Vieng: A New/Free Bridge Over the River Song

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A new – and free – bridge crossing the Song River in Vang Vieng is now open, in response to complaints about the two-way toll for using the current, centrally located span to reach the area’s main attractions, while also alleviating peak-season traffic.

Accor commits to global elimination of single-use plastics by 2022

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Accor today (23 January 2020) announced its commitment to join the UN Global Tourism Plastics Initiative and to remove all single-use plastic items in guest experience from its hotels by the end of 2022.

The Little Bags from The Little House

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

In Laos, girls from rural areas often have to leave school before the age of 15, with few career prospects. Four girls are now learning sewing and life-skills at The Little House, a project run by Laos Solidarity through Luang Prabang Library Outreach Programme.

Laos Rakes in ASEAN Standards Awards at Annual Forum

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

More than a dozen Lao attractions and tourism business took home ASEAN Standards Awards from the ASEAN Together Forum 2020 held in Brunei from 12-16 January.

Victoria Xiengthong Becomes First Plastic-Free Hotel in Luang Prabang

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Victoria Xiengthong Palace has implemented the first Plastic- Free Program in a Luang Prabang hotel.

Do's & Don'ts in Laos

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Download Do's & Don'ts in Laos (Lao, English, Chinese)

LPQ Deaf&Mute Community Launch Handicraft Line

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Luang Prabang Deaf&Mute Community’s Special Education Handicraft School has produced a catalogue featuring products now available their shop.

Luang Prabang’s First Holistic Health Spa Center Opens

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The SayNam Holistic Health Spa Center opened on 10 January 2020 at Wat Hat Siew on the Mekong Road in Phakhom Village to provide health care through treatments, teachings and training sessions.

Vat Phou Festival Announces 2020 Dates

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

This year’s Vat Phou Festival will take place on 6-8 February 2020.

New Lao Website Paves the Way to ASEAN Tourism Standards

Submitted 3 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao travel industry has received a boost, with www.imct-training.gov.la recently going live and offering free downloadable training resources, in Lao language, to increase the use of ASEAN competency standards by tourism businesses, trainers and institutions.

Cruising to Help

Submitted 3 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Shompoo Cruise regularly navigates the Mekong between Luang Prabang and Houay Xay, and stops at Ban Tang Sa, a remote village the business supports. Recently Shompoo brought the village kids a surprise.

T'Way Air Adds Daegu, Korea – Vientiane Service

Submitted 3 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Korean low-cost carrier, T'way Air, launched a twice weekly flight between Daegu and Vientiane on 26 December.

Laos Gets “China Ready”

Submitted 3 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Institute of Mass Media, Culture and Tourism (IMCT) launched the China-Ready Training Program on 25-26 December 2019, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Vientiane to provide local tourism businesses with information on Chinese outbound tourism, how to better access this market, and ways to tailor products and services to better meet the needs of Chinese tourists.

Luxury Homestay Opens in Khmu/Hmong Village

Submitted 3 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The village home stay is built from clay bricks and provides a little bit of luxury where sensitive and culturally interested travellers can enjoy an ethnic interaction responsibility while staying in ecologically built accommodation that supports the community with ongoing income.

NamKhan Ecolodge Presents a Natural Lifestyle Stay…and Horse Riding!

Submitted 3 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

NamKhan Ecolodge is a natural eco-resort, respectful of its environment and local community. Get enchanted in our green sanctuary located along the Nam Khan River in Luang Prabang. Travellers can reconnect with nature, discover traditional Lao culture, and immerse themselves in tropical food, forests, eco-farming, and animal stable.

It’s Picking Time at Saffron Coffee…and Demand is High

Submitted 3 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

As the morning temperatures drop in Luang Prabang, Saffron Coffee Company’s farmers in over 85 villages across northern Laos are eagerly watching their coffee trees. They are looking for when the fruit turns the perfect crimson colour that signals it is ripe for harvest.

A Sustainable First for Laos

Submitted 4 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“At Nahm Dong Park, we have worked on sustainability from the very beginning, and we're the very first in Laos to produce natural plates and containers,” said Samuel Vedrines the park’s general manager.

The Rock Viewpoint at Phu Pha Marn :The Peak of the Thakhek Loop

Submitted 4 years 4 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Looking at the title, you must be wondering: Wait, what is this place? Well, with little to non-existent search results, it is indeed unlikely for one to know what this destination endows.

Fandee Island

Submitted 4 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Welcome to Fandee Island and stay in our nice, eco-friendly resort at Tad Lo in lovely and idyllic Salavan Province.

Sayabouly Guide

Submitted 4 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sayabouly Guide for downloading. A bit outdated but still of value.

Salavan Guide

Submitted 4 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Download brochure

Submitted 4 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The number of domestic and foreign tourists holidaying in Laos during the first nine months of this year increased compared to the same period last year, while visitor numbers from some countries that had slowed in recent years were also up.

The Government of Lao PDR and the UN join forces to promote SDGs

Submitted 4 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A call to Action was made during the celebration of World Food Day and the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Main Buddhist Holidays in Laos

Submitted 4 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Tourists will find a Buddhist holiday in Laos almost every month of the year, and Off Road Laos Adventures presents a solid lineup with descriptions for the faithful and curious.

Get Crafty with OPT: Traditional, Eco-friendly Kathong Class

Submitted 4 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Make your own kathong with an artisan guide and learn the symbolism and history of the Festival of Lights with Ock Pop Tok in Luang Prabang.

Sao Sinh Launches “Rent and Roam” Clothes in Luang Prabang

Submitted 4 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sao Sinh has launched a “Rent and Roam” clothing service for tourists, who want to experience Luang Prabang while wearing a traditional sinh, the tubular skirt worn by Lao women.

Second Lao Sustainable Tourism Solutions Expo Draws Huge Crowd

Submitted 4 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Hundreds of visitors flocked to the second Sustainable Tourism Solutions Expo (STSE) this past weekend, marking a new commitment to sustainability within the tourism and hospitality industries.

Second Sustainable Tourism Solutions Expo to be Held on 27-28 September 2019

Submitted 4 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

After last year’s well-received first event in Luang Prabang, the second Sustainable Tourism Solutions Expo (STSE) will take place this week in Vientiane on 27-28 September 2019 at the Crowne Plaza. The STSE is the region’s leading specialized fair for the tourism industry to celebrate, explore, and exhibit the latest trends, insights, and technology in sustainable tourism and hospitality practices.

Trail run returns to Vang Vieng

Submitted 4 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Vang Vieng will host the second Vang Vieng Trail Run on 9-10 November to strengthen the growing view of the area as an ecotourism destination.

SOFITEL LUANG PRABANG LAUNCHES FARM-TO-TABLE DINING CONCEPT AT GOVERNOR’S GRILL

Submitted 4 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sofitel Luang Prabang has partnered with acclaimed Food and Beverage consultants Avril Production to launch the latest farm-to-table-dining concept at its dining outlet Governor’s Grill to give guests an opportunity to explore the exotic taste of Laotian produce.

Pullman Luang Prabang Unveils Ambitious Onsite Organic Garden

Submitted 4 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The launch of the landmark resort’s latest onsite initiatives signals a new milestone in the resort’s sustainable integration

ORLA hits Luang Prabang’s side streets

Submitted 4 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

ORLA (Off Road Laos Adventures) is taking to Luang Prabang’s side streets in a day-long walking itinerary that hits the city’s highlights and hidden nooks and crannies.

The Vang Vieng Trail Run slated for November

Submitted 4 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Trail runners from around Laos and Thailand will “Find Your Challenge” at the Vang Vieng Trail Run on 9-10 November.

The Luang Prabang Deaf & Mute Centre opens “Coffee Place”

Submitted 4 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Luang Prabang Deaf & Mute Centre has added the “Coffee Place" at its home next to the bowling alley in Ban Phoumock.

Le Thatluang D’oR opens luxury boutique hotel in “Old Vientiane”

Submitted 4 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Le Thatluang D’oR has launched its palatial boutique hotel in the heart of historic “Old Vientiane”, the Lane Xang Kingdom’s last capital, to offer alternative luxury accommodation in an authentic, quiet neighbourhood.

Lao Airlines expands Silk Air codeshare from July 2019

Submitted 4 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao Airlines since July 2019 expanded codeshare partnership with Silk Air, covering the latter’s service beyond Singapore.

Savannakhet transforming Mekong Riverbank into a leisure spot

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Work has begun on transforming the 980-metre Mekong Riverfront in Savannakhet Capital Kaysone Phomvihane City to prevent flooding while creating a leisure environment and green space for locals and tourists.

Vientiane organic farmers, government confront problems

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Prime Minister visited organic farmers in Vientiane and found they face an uphill battle.

UNESCO-listed Plain of Jars announces tourism facilities upgrade

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Xieng Khouang plans to install more facilities at the newly UNESCO-listed Plain of Jars to prepare for an influx of tourists.

Newly discovered Phaka Cave opens in Vientiane

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Adventure seekers can now take boat to explore the recently discovered Phaka Cave in Vientiane’s Maed District, about 200 km north of the capital near Vang Vieng and the new tourist destination, Nam Feuang.

Avani+ Luang Prabang lands Smart Travel Asia Award

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Avani+ Luang Prabang ranked 22nd on the Top 25 Leisure Hotels list for the Smart Travel Asia Awards 2019.

QV announces details of new Japanese route

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Bounma Chanthavongsa, President of Lao Airlines, recently held a press conference at the Lao Embassy in Tokyo to release details of the upcoming regular direct weekly flights between Kumamoto and Vientiane/Luang Prabang.

Is Visit Laos-China Year Really a Success?

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Tourism officials claim Visit Laos-China Year 2019 is a success, according to the Vientiane Times, who proceeded to interview an “official in charge who asked not to be named.” However a deeper look at the numbers may raise some questions. Read on, and download the “2018 Statistical Report on Tourism in Laos"

Lao Airlines to launch Japanese service

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao Airlines plans to launch regular flights connecting Vientiane and Luang Prabang with Kumamoto in southwest Japan in November 2019, to propel Laos into a Mekong Region travel hub.

Southern Lao Jungle Kayaking

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Green Season in Laos turns streams into raging rivers and rapids, perfect for kayaking. And Green Discovery Laos (GDL), in their endless search for new adventures, has found a winner…the Houay Bang Lieng River that cuts through the jungle of Dong Hua Sao National Protected Area in Champassak.

TAEC Releases 2019-2020 Brochure

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC) has release its 2019-2020 brochure, “Highlighting the People & Culture of Laos.

Thavone: BikingMan Laos’ Wildcard

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A Lao village kid pedalled his way into the global ultracycling spotlight by capturing third place in BikingMan Laos in May 2019. Thavone Phonasa, the local wildcard, breezed past many of the world’s best, and he had never even heard of them.

The TAEC Boutique Makes a Big Move

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC) has relocated and redesigned its craft museum in Luang Prabang.

Bio Bamboo Launches New Products

Submitted 4 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luang Prabang Bio Bamboo has launched a creative new line of home and tourist products with the overall aim of reducing plastic waste while allowing patrons to discover organic, eco-friendly goods.

The Plain of Jars Inches Closer to UNESCO Listing

Submitted 4 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

After 20 years of waiting in line, the Plain of Jars will be officially inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site this year, according the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office.

It’s Official: The Plain of Jars Nails UNESCO Listing

Submitted 4 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

UNESCO has officially added the Plain of Jars in Xieng Khouang province to its list of World Heritage Sites, according to the Vientiane Times.

FAM Trip Launches Lao Hotel Alliance

Submitted 4 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

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.

BikingMan Laos, “The toughest race by far.”

Submitted 4 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“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…”

Pullman Luang Prabang Hosts MICE Meeting Showcase

Submitted 4 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

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.

Ock Pop Tok Empowers Lao Teen Girls

Submitted 4 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

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.

Organic & Permaculture Experiences around Luang Prabang

Submitted 4 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

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.

Green Discovery Laos Climbs Higher in Khammouane

Submitted 4 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Green Discovery Laos (GDL) is planning new adventure activities on Phou Phamarn Hill in Khounkham District, Khammouane Province.

We Are Lao Captures Kasi Checkpoint

Submitted 4 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

With BikingMan Laos world championship ultracycling race just one week away, We Are Lao announces it will oversee Checkpoint 2 at the top of the notorious Kasi Climb.

Where Did the Koreans Go?

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“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.

Luang Prabang Wildlife Sanctuary Update

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Luang Prabang Wildlife Sanctuary spent the dry and hot season constructing Bear House 4, which is nearing completion, and will provide a much-needed new home for rescued bears.

Lone Buffalo Marches Ahead

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lone Buffalo, who provides free English tuition for young people in Xieng Khouang, is making great strides in the northeastern Lao province.

Heritage Line Enters Laos’ Mekong Flotilla

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Heritage Line announced the launch of its latest luxury vessel, the Anouvong, along with a pair of Lao Mekong cruises to commence in 2020.

Saffron Coffee Directly Assists Growers

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Saffron Coffee is on the move all year long, from planting to harvesting to roasting and brewing. There’s no low season in Luang Prabang. The “busy-ness” of harvest (ripe cherry purchase) and the high tourist season (October to March) presents a hectic schedule of planting and cultivation.

“Made in Laos” Fair to Open but Raises Confusion

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) will hold the 6th Made in Lao Fair at Vientiane’s Lao-ITECC from May 10-19 for the country’s businesses to display their products to local and international buyers.

Q1 Arrivals Slip while Chinese/Vietnamese Numbers Soar

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Domestic and foreign arrivals to Las slid 0.5%, but remained more than 1 million, in the first three months of the year compared to the same period in 2018, while Chinese visitor numbers leaped 16%.

Soncco Stretches Winning Streak at BikingMan Corsica

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Peruvian legend Rodney Soncco has won his 6th BikingMan race, completing the 690-km Corsica course in 30h56m.

What China's Belt And Road Means For Elephants In Laos

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Read the transcript of an, interview with writer Ashley Westerman, on US radio station, Morning Edition, where she discusses what she learned at the Elephant Conservation Centre about the impact the Lao-China train will have on the country's declining elephant population.

The Women of BikingMan

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“BikingMan is one of the very few cycling competitions in which women and men are starting, racing, and finishing (as equals),” said Axel Carion, BikingMan founder and CEO.

Oudomxay Moves to Become Tourist Hotspot

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Oudomxay is marching ahead to place the province on tourists’ radar.

Lao Airlines Slices Service to Shanghai

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao Airlines has scaled back its direct service on the Vientiane – Shanghai route, from four to one day a week, but aims to increase the operation to three weekly flights on 19 May.

Horwath Examines Luang Prabang’s High-end Hotel Scene

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Horwath HTL - the global leader in hotel, tourism and leisure consulting – released “Luxury & Upper Upscale Hotel Market Overview Luang Prabang” in April 2019, which spotlights upcoming supply, delves into annual occupancy rates and ADR, and provides a peek into the future.

Popular ‘Amazing Race’ Comes to Laos

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Season 31 of ‘Amazing Race’ kicked off on 17 April, and the next stop is Laos, with close to 8 million US viewers expected to be glued to their TVs to see who gets bounced in the Land of a Million Elephants.

Back to the Wild for Lao Elephants

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“The soft release of elephants into the wild is a scientific experiment, and the first in Laos. I can’t wait to see what happens,” said ECC's Sebastien “Seb” Duffillot.

Development Partner’s Projects Bland and Banal: The UN

Submitted 4 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

"Rather than trying to promote projects that really would help,, they just come up with rather bland or banal projects because they're keen to make sure the money is spent.”

Luang Prabang Braces for Chinese Tourism Hordes

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The city is currently riding a wave of popularity with Chinese visitors, with some travelling in groups of hundreds of vehicles.

Italian Fashion House Max Mara Rips Off Lao Ethnic Group

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Multi-million dollar fashion brand Max Mara exploits the cultural designs and heritage of the Oma, an isolated ethnic minority group in northern Laos, without any acknowledgement or compensation

Ock Pop Tok Speaks at Heritage Conference

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Ock Pop Tok’s Veo spoke about role of using cultural heritage as a means of economic development in local communities at “Heritage Protection: The Asian Experience” held by the Siam Society in Bangkok.

The Key to Xebangfai River Cave

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

About 10 years ago, National Geographic led an expedition to little known, 7-km Xebangfai River Cave in eastern Khammouane Province’s “Hinterland” near Vietnam.

Asian Trails Laos Appoints New GM

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Asian Trails has announced the appointment of Ms Laetitia Law-Lai, a French national, as their new Laos General Manager starting 8 April 2019.

Le Grand Pakbeng Boosts Mekong Tourism

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“We need to eliminate the idea that Pakbeng is just an overnight stop on a Mekong cruise. This is not true. There is plenty to see and do. This is what guests are asking for,” said Ket Thipphachanh, Le Grand Pakbeng Resort owner and Visit Asia Travel Managing Director.

World Expeditions Raise AUD17,000 for Laos Wildlife Sanctuary

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A dedicated group of World Expeditions travellers helped raise $17,000 AUD for more than 500 rescued bears who live at Free the Bears sanctuaries in Vietnam and Laos.

AVANI+ Luang Prabang Wins Global Experience Award

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Bespoke marketing platform, twisht, presented AVANI+ Luang Prabang with a 2018 Global Experience Award for achieving a guest satisfaction rating above 80%.

Green World Tourism Project Inspects Khammouane

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Khammouane’s Hinboun District could get a major adventure tourism boost, as Lao company, Intra Crop, is currently conducting a feasibility study to develop the Green World project based at Khoun Kong Leng Lake.

A Cruise with a Cause

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“The aim is education more than cruising,” said Mr Thong, Managing Director of Luang Prabang-based Tanva Mekong Cruise. “And not just in Luang Prabang, but throughout Laos.

Ock Pop Tok Visits Xieng Khouang Weavers

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Ock Pop Tok recently visited a group in its Village Weaver Project at Ban Phienghong Village in Xieng Khouang Province.

American Uni Students Learn about Laos

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

An Arkansas University visiting architecture student from Laos, Nout Keomany Phengmeuang, gave students a presentation, “Laos, A Paradise of adventure”, to create awareness in the country’s culture and traditions, lifestyle, food, and attractions on 27 March as part of the Holcombe Global Series.

Meet BikingMan Laos’ Local Partners

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

BikingMan needs solid local partners when organising unassisted ultracycling races in the middle of nowhere. They hit pay dirt in Laos with four strong supporters, in different fields, immediately stepping up to help.

Sanctuary Spring Update

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

News keeps pouring in from Sanctuary Hotels & Resorts: Green Season deals, an addition to the Mekong Elephant Park, and sponsorship of BikingMan Laos ultracycling race.

Film Being Shot in Luang Prabang

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Cameras are rolling in Luang Prabang with the filming of "Charm Lao" (Beast) starring big-name Thai and Chinese actors.

New PG Flights Link Luang Prabang to Thai Beach

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

In January, We Are Lao reported Bangkok Airway’s launch of direct flights between Luang Prabang and Chiang Mai. In early March, the airline announced a new direct route from the northern Thai hub to the seaside resort, Krabi. PG already offers Bangkok-Luang Prabang flights that will kick off a Thai-Lao circuit that ends at the beach.

60 Ancient Buddha Images Discovered in Khammouane

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Local residents have found about 60 ancient Buddha images in Tham Phapheenoy Cave near Khamphalaeng Village in Khammouane province, which authorities estimate to be hundreds of years old.

Tourism is Linchpin in Laos' Green Growth Strategy

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao government is pointing to tourism as the key to driving the country’s commitment to the National Green Growth Strategy.

Lao Event Update: March 2019

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Na Kai Festival is being held in Nakai District, Khammouane on 29-30 March to promote sustainable community-based tourism in the province.

Laos Lowers Chinese Visa Fees

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos has lowered the visa fees for Chinese tourists from USD14 to USD10 to make it easier for them to travel to the country, Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Dr Bosengkham Vongdara said at a recent tourism promotion meeting in Shanghai.

BikingMan Laos Update

Submitted 4 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

With BikingMan Laos just a bit over two months to go, read the full race journal from BikingMan Oman to see what’s in store for the Lao world championship ultracycling race.

Tourism Students Get Eyeful in Vang Vieng

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao tourism and hospitality industry continues to struggle in luring secondary school students into the trade. Vientiane Pattana School International Teacher Nate South is starting to open their eyes.

We Are Lao Greets BikingMan at ITB

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

We Are Lao Managing Director John Morris Williams greeted BikingMan CEO Axel Carion at ITB Berlin, where they discussed the upcoming world championship BikingMan Laos round for unassisted ultracycling on 20-24 May.

Ma Té Sai Crafts Leaps into 2019

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Ma Té Sai, known for its innovative and useful crafts created by local women artisans, is forging ahead into 2019 with new colours, a new location, more Singapore events, and a tour to the Muang Sing Festival in November.

High-Speed Thai Train to Steam into Laos

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Thai government aims to complete the 608-km high-speed Thai-Sino high-speed railway project, linking Bangkok and Nong Khai, by 2023, so it can reach the Laos-China train from the Thai capital in just three hours.

Lao Food Expo Slated for March

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The first Lao International Food Expo (LIFE) will be held at Lao-ITECC on 15-19 March, to display a variety of local and regional food, organic vegetables, ODOP (One District, One Product) items, and agricultural equipment and machinery, while highlighting the potential of tea, coffee and rice.

Inthira Joins “No Plastic Straws” Movement

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Inthira Group is now part of the “No Plastic Straws” movement. The Lao hotel chain strongly encourages its customers to not use straws, as they are only used for five minutes, but take 400 years to dissolve.

Jungle Vine Bags with WEA

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

White Elephant Adventures (WEA) has been making efforts to reduce the amount of plastic bags used in the company, with the introduction of bags made from woven jungle vine.

Laos to Launch MICE Guide at ITB Berlin

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

We Are Lao is launching “The MICE Guide to Laos” at ITB Berlin 2019 to promote the country as “The Last Frontier” for business events and incentives in nature.

ECC Returns to Elephant Fest with Activities

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Elephant Conservation Centre (ECC) is returning to the 2019 Sayabouly Elephant Festival with activities aimed at action, education, and conservation.

Sayabouly Elephant Fest: What to do with Chinese Influx?

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sayabouly authorities are wondering how to accommodate the 500 or so Chinese visitors who will attend the elephant festival in the provincial capital this week and next.

Free the Bears Off to Roaring 2019 Start

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Free the Bears Lao team headed of on 18 February for a nine-hour drive to rescue two moon bears.

Vientiane Half Marathon Slated for 3 March

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The 4th annual Vientiane International Half Marathon will be held on 3 March 2019.

Minister Lists Tourism Complaints, Tells Government to Act

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Dr Bosengkham Vongdara unloaded a list of travel complaints on the government last week, and called for cooperation to address the barriers hampering Tourism growth.

Salavan Opens Secret Waterfall and Caves

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Southern Salavan Province has opened Phouphasouk Park with its dozen caves and 25-metre-high Nanglod Waterfall just 9 km from the provincial capital.

MoICT Publishes Trade Brochure

Submitted 4 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Download "DESTINATION LAOS: A briefing for travel agents & the tourism trade" published by the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.

Trash Idol Sets Luang Prabang Clean Up Dates

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Somsak Sengta and his Trash Idol team have announced a pair of dates for 2019’s Luang Prabang city-wide clean up.

France to Support Preservation of Laos’ Historical Structures

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A French aid organisation aims to help Laos protect heritage sites and infrastructure in Savannakhet and Champasak provinces, with discussions of a €6 million-project ongoing.

Sikhottabong Stupa Festival Date Announced

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The annual Sikhottabong Stupa Festival in Thakaek, Khammouane Province will be held on 19 February.

ECC Brings Honours Home to Laos from ATF

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Elephant Conservation Centre (ECC) nailed Laos’ slot on the 2019 Experience Mekong Collection (EMC) Showcase at January’s ASEAN Tourism Forum in Halong Bay, Vietnam, by taking top honours in the “Do” category.

Lao Airlines Focusses on Chinese Bookings

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao Airlines announced Chinese inbound passenger bookings could soar to more than 240,000 in 2019, a 42% jump over last year’s 170,500 flight reservations.

Plain of Jars Awaits July Decision on World Heritage Status

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao government remains optimistic that UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee will grant the Plain of Jars full listing status when it meets in July.

Sayabouly Elephant Festival Dates Announced

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The 2019 Sayabouly Elephant Festival will take place from 20-27 February, according to TourismLaos.com.

Kids to Compete in Luang Prabang Folk Fest Battle

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Luang Prabang Cultural Office is holding the second Luang Prabang Folk Song Festival on Saturday, 30 March, in which school children from each of the province’s districts compete in a traditional showdown at the Cultural Office’s grounds.

Lao Airlines Launches Direct Shanghai-Vientiane Flights

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao Airlines has launched a weekly Shanghai-Vientiane service aimed ate the expected influx of Chinese tourists and other passengers during Visit Laos-China Year 2019, according to a Vientiane Times report.

Bangkok Air to Launch Chiang Mai-Luang Prabang Service

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Bangkok Airways is planning to commence three weekly Chiang Mai-Luang Prabang flights on 2 April.

Festival & Event Update

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao festival and event schedules and details for February and March are starting to take shape.

View BikingMan Tutorials on Lao Bikepacking

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

BikingMan recently shared two new tutorial videos on the Lao round of the World Championship bikepacking race to share key advice on bike and gear setup to attempt to race across the Last Frontier of Southeast Asia.

ECC to Start Elephant Release Process

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Elephant Conservation Centre (ECC) in Sayabouly, Laos, announced they will start the process of releasing elephants into the wild this year.

Luang Prabang Holds Mega-Team Building Event

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

White Elephant Adventures organised an 81-person, three-day MICE event in Luang Prabang on 9-11 January, for the Southeast Asia division of the $10 billion dollar multinational Atlas Copco, which included what could be the UNESCO World Heritage city’s largest ever team building event.

Laos to Host BikingMan World Championship Race

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The world’s top ultracyclers will descend on Laos from 20-24 May, for Round 3 of the 2019 BikingMan World Championship being held on a 780-km paved-and-gravel jungle circuit over the country’s challenging north-eastern mountains.

Savannakhet to Host the Brou’s Kabongyay Festival

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Savannakhet will hold the Boun Kabongyay festival from 5-7 February, Ban Phonngam, Atsaphon District to join the Brou people, who were recently recognized by the government as Laos’ 50 ethnic group, in celebrating their culture and food.

2018 Arrivals Up, But Fall Far Short of Forecast

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Visitor arrivals jumped 8.2% in 2018 over the previous year to reach 4.1 million, but fell far short of the Government’s targeted 5 million for Visit Laos Year 2018.

Pullman Luang Prabang Celebrates Lao-Chinese Heritage with Lunar New Year Promo

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Over the centuries, Laos and China have created a deep historical connection and an inseparable cultural bond, and to celebrate the “Year of the Pig” in style, Pullman Luang Prabang is offering a series of enticing promotions and culinary occasions.

Lao Wood Furniture Fair in Full Swing

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The 5th Lao Wood Furniture Fair opened at Vientiane’s ITECC on 14 January to promote local manufacturers of timber, bamboo and rattan furniture, and handicraft products. The event runs through 20 January.

Pullman Luang Prabang Launches Sustainable Programme at ATF 2019

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Pullman Luang Prabang has embraced a raft of sustainable practices, both internally and through a collection of carefully selected local partners.

Konglor-Natan Cave Adds Eco-Activities

Submitted 4 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Konglor-Natan Ecotourism Association (AEKN) has added a slate of activities and services at the famed Konglor Cave area with the aim of attracting tour operators and boosting arrivals and revenue for the locals, who manage the site.

Popolo Cantina Opens “Destination Restaurant” in Luang Prabang

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Popolo Cantina and Sugar Cocktail Bar has officially opened in Luang Prabang’s old town to create a “destination restaurant” with two concepts in one building.

Northern Laos to Get "Smart & Eco City"

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao government plans to set up a smart and eco city in northwestern Oudomxay and adjoining Luang Namtha District.

Inthira Boosts Green Efforts in 2019

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Inthira Group of hotels and restaurants has declared 2019 as a year of sustainability and environmental conservation for the company.

Heh, Luang Prabang…Are You Happy?

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Planet Happiness aims to pull Luang Prabang into its orbit, and position the World Heritage city as a global happiness leader, but they need your help.

Mekong Tourism Launches "Mekong From Above" Campaign

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Mekong Tourism launches new visual storytelling campaign ‘Mekong From Above’ to showcase the best aerial photos and videos in the Southeast Asian Subregion.

SUMMIT DISCOVERY : A NEW TEAM TO FLY WITH

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Thanks to a new dedicated team, the joint-venture between Summit Tours and Green Discovery Laos, SUMMIT DISCOVERY, took a huge jump forward and is now more than ready to help you discover Laos from the sky!

Sanctuary Nam Ngum Beach Resort Hunts MICE

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Sanctuary Nam Ngum Beach Resort new conference room is ready to host executive meetings and inspiring themed events.

Brunei Film Screened in Laos' Pause Festival

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Bruneian filmmaker, Abdul Zainidi, recently attended the Pause Festival in Luang Prabang, Laos, and screened one of his best works, "Anggur in Pockland".

Ethnic Fashion Show at Parasol Blanc

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Parasol Blanc, one of the finest Boutique Hotels in Luang Prabang, is hosting an amazing and unique weekly Ethnic Fashion Show.

Hollywood Film Producers Teach Animation In Luang Prabang

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

From December 7 to 12, 2018, acclaimed American filmmakers were leading an animation workshop in Luang Prabang for artists and screenwriters from eight Southeast Asian countries.

New Species Discovered In Greater Mekong

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

(KPL) A bat that could be a member of a 1990s band *NSYNC, a gibbon with a Star Wars name and a toad straight from Middle Earth are among the 157 newly discovered species in the Greater Mekong region described by the world’s scientists in 2017.

Miss Laos wins National Costume

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Miss Laos On-anong Homsombath won the National Costume at the Miss Universe 2018 for her elaborate design inspired by the Kinnaree - half-bird, half-women.

Laos to Miss Out On Five-Million Tourists Target This Year

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos will close its “Visit Laos Year 2018” promotion well short of the five million tourist arrivals target, the Vientiane Times quoted officials.

Le Grand Pakbeng Opens in “Mekong Oasis”

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The 5-star Le Grand Pakbeng Resort officially opened last week at “Destination Pakbeng”, the standard overnight stop on the traditional 2-day Thailand-Luang Prabang Mekong cruise. However, the resort’s aim is more than to present top-notch accommodation at this “Mekong Oasis”.

ADB Visits Oudomxay Projects

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Asian Development Bank Country Director Yasushi Negishi visited Oudomxay in northern Laos to inspect the progress of development projects funded with ADB loans. These include the construction of an access road to Chom Ong Cave in Beng district.

It’s Official: 50 Ethnic Groups in Laos

Submitted 4 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

On 12 December, the ongoing session of the National Assembly approved the Brou as the country’s 50th official ethnic group.

Le Bel Air Resort Opens in Luang Prabang

Submitted 4 years 12 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Le Bel Air Resort Luang Prabang launched its premier 4-star property on 15 November, joining the high-end accommodation choices in the UNESCO Word Heritage Town.

Lanith Luang Prabang Holds a Certificate Ceremony

Submitted 4 years 12 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

On 7 December, a certificate ceremony was held for the 45 students who graduated from three training courses delivered by Lanith Luang Prabang in Food Production, Food and Beverage Services and Housekeeping.

It’s Picking Time for Lao Coffee Farmers

Submitted 4 years 12 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

An Arabica coffee farmer needs to be patient to be profitable. It takes a tree four years to start producing cherries. The window for harvesting is between November and January, but optimal picking time can be as tight as a week.

Saffron Coffee Launches Cherry to Cup Tour

Submitted 5 years 4 days ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

From Cherry to Cup, Saffron Coffee shows you the process to produce northern Laos best brew.

We Are Lao Heads to Southern Laos

Submitted 5 years 5 days ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

We Are Lao will be joining 13 bloggers and media members from eight countries on a 4-day familiarization trip to present Southern Laos’ top tourism experiences on the world stage.

Viengxay Marks the 50th Anniversary of National Day

Submitted 5 years 5 days ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Known as the stronghold of the nation’s revolutionary movement, Viengxay Cave City in Houaphanh Province celebrated the 50th National Day anniversary on Sunday, 2 December 2018.

Asia Foundation to Hold Ecotourism Workshop in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 6 days ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Asia Foundation will be implementing a 5-day workshop in the world heritage site of Luang Prabang, Laos from March 4-8th 2019.

Mekong Eden Farm to Open Luang Prabang Co-op

Submitted 5 years 1 week ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Mekong Eden Farm in Luang Prabang has announced it will open their Co-op in town on Saturday, 8 December, to sell fresh organic produce grown by small farms in the area and targeting local restaurants.

Chinese Arrivals to Laos Expected to Hit 1 Million in 2019

Submitted 5 years 1 week ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Chinese arrivals are expected to reach over 1million tourists in 2019, while the 2018 number will reach just over 4 million, less than the target.

Lao Elephant Conservation Reaches Crossroads

Submitted 5 years 1 week ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Elephant Conservation Centre (ECC) is moving to keep pachyderm management efforts from running amok.

AVANI+ Luang Prabang Wins World Luxury Award

Submitted 5 years 1 week ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

AVANI+ Luang Prabang scored the Luxury New Hotel title at the 12th World Luxury Awards 2018 on 10 November, at AYANA Resort & Spa in Bali.

Centara Marches into Laos

Submitted 5 years 1 week ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Centara Hotels & Resorts has confirmed four new properties in Laos under a partnership with Asia Investment, Development & Construction Laos (AIDC) as part of the Thai hotel group’s expansion strategy to double the properties its manages over the next five years.

The Grand Luang Prabang Wins World Luxury Award

Submitted 5 years 1 week ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Grand Luang Prabang wins the World Luxury Award for Luxury Wellness Retreat 2018.

Update from Free the Bears Laos

Submitted 5 years 1 week ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Free the Bear's Wildlife Sanctuary in Luang Prabang fast-paced progress to save animals.

Innovation Keeps Ma Té Sai Crafts on Top

Submitted 5 years 2 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Ma Té Sai is open for business in Singapore, decorating Luang Prabang hotels, and creating natural packaging dyed with buffalo urine.

SilkAir Says "Scoot" to Laos

Submitted 5 years 2 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

SilkAir is switching to Singapore Airlines' budget arm "Scoot" for its Lao flights commencing April 2019.

ONYX Announces Second Amari Property in Laos

Submitted 5 years 2 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

ONYX Hospitality Group announced a management agreement with Laos-based Asia Investment, Development & Construction Sole (AIDC) to develop a new-build Amari hotel in the centre of Vientiane.

Meet Laos only Wildlife Spotting Tours

Submitted 5 years 2 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“We differ from other nature tours in Laos, because we are one of the very few opportunities to observe wildlife in their habitat,” said Janina Bikova, as she opened her presentation on ecotourism activities at the Nam Et-Phou Louey (NEPL) National Protected Area.

Vat Phou UNESCO Restoration Continues

Submitted 5 years 2 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos and its partners will continue restoring and sustainably preserving many ruined structures at the Vat Phou UNESCO World Heritage site in Champasak, Laos.

Passa Paa Adds Activities to Its Hmong Textile Studio

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Passa Paa Boutique & Textile Studio in Luang Prabang recently added tourism activities to its collection that merges traditional Hmong motifs and methods with modern needs.

Inthira Hotels Wins “Best Tourism Company in ASEAN”

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Inthira Group took top honours at the 2018 ASEAN Business Awards in Singapore on 12 November, by bringing to Laos the ASEAN Best Tourism Company for the Priority Integration Sector.

ADB Grants Aim to Boost Lao Tourism

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the government of Laos have signed grant agreements worth $125.5 million in total for three projects in the tourism .

Runoff From Railway Pollutes Nam Song

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao-Chinese railway project has released polluted water from construction work into the Xong River in Vientiane province’s Vang Vieng district, one of the most popular destinations in the country for tourists, an local resident and an environmental official told RFA’s Lao Service.

Lanith Trains the Trainers

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality (LANITH) recently conducted an intensive 10-day Training-of-Trainers programme for 26 technical and vocational education and training teachers from the tourism and hospitality sector in Vientiane.

Vientiane Hosts 2rd Carlsberg Golf Classic

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Vientiane’s 18-hole Lakeview Golf Club hosted the 2nd Carlsberg Golf Classic with Xaying Tongyethor coming out on top of a field of some 100 amateur golfers on 10 November.

China Pushes Free-Trade Zone covering North-Western Laos to Thai Mekong Ports

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

China aims to strengthen commercial ties with Mekong region countries by installing a free-trade zone covering north-western Laos and northern Thai ports on the Mekong River.

Nippon TV ‘Fabricates’ Lao Festival

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A Japanese media watchdog has decided to demand that Nippon Television Network Corp. issue a report in response to allegations that it fabricated a Lao festival in a popular variety show broadcast in May.

Hundreds Rehearse for Viengxay’s 50th Anniversary Celebration

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Over 600 students have taken part in the final rehearsal for the grand opening ceremony of the celebration of Viengxay’s 50th Anniversary as the revolutionary stronghold of Lao people.

Craft & Culture Fest Slated for December

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Heaun Chan Heritage Centre in Luang Prabang will be holding a Craft & Culture Festival from 8-12 December.

"Refillution" Rolls into Vientiane

Submitted 5 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The “Refillution” marched into Vientiane on 8 November, to get the ball rolling on making the Lao capital an ASEAN Clean Tourist City within a year.

Myanmar-Laos Border Gates Receive International Status

Submitted 5 years 4 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Border crossings between Myanmar and Laos has been upgraded and given international status, according to Myanmar's Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population.

Lao Tourism Pins Hopes on Visit Laos-China Year 2019

Submitted 5 years 4 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

With tourism numbers still on shaky ground, Lao government officials are looking to the proposed Visit Laos-China Year 2019 to play a major role in boosting arrivals from the Mainland, as authorities keep the ongoing Visit Laos Year 2018 campaign alive.

Lao Airlines Launches Direct Luang Prabang-Shangsha Flights

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao Airlines has launched a direct flight connecting Luang Prabang with Shangsha in Hunan, China in a move to attract more tourists from the south central Chinese Province.

Officials, Businesses Debate Ways to Improve Tourism

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao government officials met with business operators on Friday to discuss developments and problems in the tourism industry as well as share ideas on ways to improve services during the remainder of Visit Laos Year 2018.

Lao Handicrafts: From Household Basics to International Markets

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

President of the Lao Handicraft Association Hansana Sisane pointed out that handmade products have been continually improving and gradually getting better known in international markets.

Lao Handicrafts Festival Draws Crowds

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao Handicraft Festival comes to a close after a crowd-filled nine-day run at ITECC Vientiane that kicked off on 27 October.

Michelin Chefs Do Lao Food in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

With a Michelin star already under their collective belt for Paste Bangkok, chefs Bee Satongun and Jason Bailey are now looking to make their mark in Laos.

Ma Té Sai Expands to Singapore

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Social enterprise Ma Té Sai is expanding into Singapore, bringing their range of fair trade Lao handicrafts to an international market.

Northern Lao Provinces Target Asean CBT Standards

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Tourism officials in three northern provinces learned the process for major tourism sites to meet ASEAN Community Based Tourism Standards.

Saffron Coffee Kicks Off Harvest Time with Exclusive Guided Tasting

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

It’s harvest time, and Saffron Coffee’s Espresso, Brew Bar, and Roastery on the Mekong in Luang Prabang is celebrating with the launch of “Exclusive Guided Tasting” led by Saffron Assistant Director Derek Smith.

Lao Railway Adds First 1,000-Meter Tunnel

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A Chinese engineering company has completed the first train tunnel longer than 1,000 meters along the Lao railway.

GDL Launches 1-Day Vang Vieng Challenge

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Green Discovery Laos is now offering a one-day version of its iconic Vang Vieng Challenge, which is less expensive and more challenging than the two-day excursion.

Lao Airlines Revises Surcharge

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao Airlines has issued an official letter stating that all their flight rates will increase by $5 effective from 11 November 2018, according to Focus Asia.

Sanctuary Lightens Up in October

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sanctuary Hotels and Resorts is celebrating Awk Phansa (end of Buddhist Lent) and the “Fire Boat Festival” on 24-25 October with activities in Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng.

BambooLao's Straws Win Top MIST Prize

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

BambooLao from Luang Prabang beat 111 entrants from across Southeast Asia to take top prize in the 2018 Mekong Innovative Startups in Tourism (MIST) Challenge.

l’Elephant’s Last Straw

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The l’Elephant Group of five restaurants is joining the push against plastic straws in Luang Prabang, by serving drinks without the tubes unless patrons request them.

Oudomxay Revs Up for Boat Racing Fest

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Nafang Village in Oudomxay Province is going all out for this year’s boat racing festival on 26-27 October, with a beauty contest, local food show, and art exhibition backing up the 30-boat competition held at the end of Buddhist Lent.

Viengxay Caravan to Celebrate Lao History through Tourism

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Vehicles from around the country are set to join a caravan heading to Houaphanh Province to celebrate the 50th anniversary Viengxay District, site of national liberation forces’ command centre, on 30 November.

Glamping a Hit in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Glamorous camping, or “Glamping”, is taking off in Luang Prabang, with Asian Trails Laos now offering a 3-night package in one of Rosewood Luang Prabang’s luxury tents.

MICE Regains Momentum as Laos Eyes the Market

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The reinvigorated MICE sector bodes well for Lao properties with business event facilities. Currently a group of Lao hotels and DMCs are banding together to promote MICE in the country.

ADB, Laos Sign Deals To Improve Tourism

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the government of the Lao PDR on Oct 16, 2018 signed grant agreements worth US$ 125.5 million in total for three projects in the tourism and urban sectors.

What is…We Are Lao?

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The hottest, fastest-growing, most effective marketing platform for Lao tourism. How do we do it? Download our presentation and see.

Record Rooftop Bear Rescue & Panda Palace in Laos

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Free the Bears saved a record breaking 11th bear in Laos for the year (10 Lao rescues in 2017) in a tricky rooftop rescue.

Fluting for Funding LEOT in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao Educational Opportunities Trust (LEOT) and friends of Music for Everyone School (MES) are teaming up for a fundraiser at Heuan Chan Heritage Centre in Luang Prabang on 4 November, with Eric Walter and his Native American wood flute taking centre stage at 19:00.

Khiri refreshes Laos tours

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Khiri Travel has introduced five new ‘Signature Experiences’ for travellers who want to go local in Laos.

Chinese Tourism Benefits Few in Laos, Sources Say

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Moves in Laos to promote Chinese tourism in the coming year will benefit mainly Chinese businesses already established in the impoverished Southeast Asian country, with ordinary Lao citizens less likely to cash in, Lao sources say.

Pakxong to Build Largest Buddha in ASEAN

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Pakxong District on the Bolaven Plateau in Champasak Province plans to build the largest Buddha image in ASEAN as a key icon to attract local and international tourists, according to the district governor.

Laos’ “South 2 North” Marathon Arrives in Capital

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Participants in the South 2 North marathon covering 1,569 km arrived in the Vientiane on Sunday afternoon for a good cause – improving health care at both ends of the country.

TAEC Opens Traditional Lao Wind Instruments Exhibition

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre (TAEC) in Luang Prabang has opened the “Voices of the Wind: Traditional Instruments in Laos” exhibition, after more than two years of extensive research and documentation in remote regions of northern Laos.

Luang Prabang View Completes Renovations

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luang Prabang View Hotel has completed renovations of its standard rooms to include new bathrooms, more electrical outlets, painting inside and out, and amenities found in other rooms.

Lao Handicrafts Fest Slated for Vientiane

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao Handicrafts Association (LHA) is holding the Lao Handicrafts Festival from 27 October -3 November at Lao-ITECC, with more than 200 exhibitors expected to display their wares.

Xieng Khouang Preps Plain of Jars for UNESCO Inspection

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Minister of Informational, Culture and Tourism Dr Bosengkham Vongdara spent two days discussing final preparations for a UNESCO inspection of the Plain of Jars to be held later this month by International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) experts.

Outspan Eyes Bolaven Coffee Plantation Expansion

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Outspan, one of the major world coffee producers and suppliers, is planning to expand its coffee plantations in the southern Laos Champasak Province as the demand for coffee consumption in the world shoots up, according to a company official.

Vang Vieng Adds New Cave Site

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

When it comes to Lao caves, Vang Vieng is king, with more than 15 distinct caves, and Vientiane Province is adding Tham Nang Oua to the list.

Luang Prabang to Stage October Celebration

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luang Prabang is staging a range of activities to celebrate Boun Ork Phansa (End of Buddhist Lent) and the Light Boats Festival from 23-26 October.

Luang Prabang Arrivals Soar 20% through August

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luang Prabang welcomed 540,542 tourists in the first eight months of 2018, up 20.25% over the same period in 2017. Of the total, 408,700 were foreign visitors, according to provincial official, Soulathip Norkhounphon.

The Villa Luang Prabang Hosts Artist Nithakong Somsanith for Boun Auk Phansaa

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Villa Luang Prabang is hosting artist Nithakong Somsanith, who will display his artwork and hold workshops from 22-25 October to celebrate Boun Auk Phansaa, the end of Buddhist Lent.

Elephant Friendly Mahout Training Workshop to be Held in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 1 month ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The EU Switch Asia Luang Prabang-Handle with Care project implemented by GIZ, Travelife for Tour Operators and Human Elephant Learning Programs Foundation (H-ELP) would like to invite you to participate in the “Elephant Friendly Mahout Training Workshop” at the Elephant Village sanctuary & resort in Luang Prabang from 14th until the 17th of October 2018.

Ancient Pottery Village Opens Tours in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Meet the Lamphet family, who launched Pottery House Lao Food Tours in Luang Prabang’s Chan Nua Village, a small community that has been throwing clay pots for 400 years.

Authentic Village Food and Life with the Lao Khmu

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

White Elephant Adventures in Luang Prabang recently hosted food-and-culture blogger, Mark Wiens, on a two-day visit to a Khmu community in Northern Laos.

Lao Organic Agriculture Grows

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos’ clean agriculture cultivation is expected to continue expanding to a total of nearly 8,000 hectares, up by six percent for the year, as demand growth for organic produce persists both domestically and internationally.

Luang Namtha’s Nam Ha among Asia’s Top Ten for Ecotourism

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Nam Ha National Protected Area of Luang Namtha province has recently been named as one of the top ten ecotourism destinations in Asia, according to the website tripstodiscover.com.

2,000 year-old Buddha Images Unearthed in Savannakhet

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Residents in Savannakhet, Laos recently uncovers hundreds of Buddha images and other ancient relics, estimated at up to 2,000 years old.

2018 is looking glum for Lao tourism

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao PDR’s tourism industry faces the prospect that the country will close its Visit Laos Year promotion with fewer tourists than recorded in 2017.

Champasak Cleans Up for ASEAN Tourist City Status

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Champasak District is aiming to achieve ASEAN Clean Tourist City certification by 2020.

Lao Tourism Eyes Coffee

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

More than 40 representatives from the state tourism sector, international organisations and tour operators attended a workshop on coffee-related tourism product development in Champasak Province.

The Vientiane Capital-Sayabouly Road Gets Set for Completion

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The final 124-km stretch of National Road 11 that runs along the Mekong, connecting Vientiane to Sayabouly and Thailand is set to begin at the end of this year, with the construction to be completed in three years.

Pullman Luang Prabang and Friends Without A Border Hosts Half Marathon Gala Dinner

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice of York will be attending and the proceeds will go to providing quality healthcare for children in Laos

Mekong Kingdoms Announces “Monsoon” Schedule

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luang Prabang-based Mekong Kingdoms has announced its October 2018-March 2019 schedule and rates for it day boat, “Monsoon”, the most premium way to experience the Mekong River with its high ceilings, large picture windows and modern décor.

Pakbeng Raises Stakes in Mekong River Tourism

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Mekong River tourism is turning its spotlight on “Destination Pakbeng” as the Lao port transforms from a remote overnight stop on the Thailand-Luang Prabang cruise route into a multi-day stay-over town.

Lanith Signs MOU with Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lanith Luang Prabang (Lao National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality) and the nation’s vocational college signed a memorandum of understanding with Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur Hotel on 11 September, to upgrade teachers’ and students’ ability, technical knowledge, skills, and attitude towards the hospitality sector.

Inthira Lands ASEAN Business Awards Laos

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Inthira Group has become the first Lao tourism business to win the ASEAN Business Awards Laos, and will present the hotel and restaurant company at the ASEAN Awards Gala Dinner on 12 November in Singapore.

Centara builds Lao portfolio

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Centara has inked a deal that will give it the management of three hotels in Laos by 2020.

Sustainable Tourism Solutions Displayed in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Sustainable Tourism Solutions Expo (STSE) on 14-15 September, attracted more than 100 hospitality trade decision-makers from around the Mekong Region to the Luang Prabang View Hotel, where they met some 30 Lao and international sustainable product and service providers, and participated in related symposia.

It’s Cool to Cleanup Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

More than 1,000 Luang Prabang residents turned out ahead of World Cleanup Day to rid the UNESCO World Heritage City of trash.

Upgrading Ban Nayang’s Tourist Homestay Appeal

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Ban Nayang is a great new destination for travelers looking for an authentic village homestay experience in Luang Prabang Province. Just a two-hour drive from Luang Prabang town, Ban Nayang has been hosting a small stream of tourists for a while.

Luang Prabang Film Festival Seeks Applications for 2018 Tribeca Talent Lab

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Luang Prabang Film Festival (LPFF) is now inviting applications for its 2018 Talent Lab, led by Tribeca Film Institute (TFI). The Lab, which will train Southeast Asian filmmakers on grant writing and project pitching, will be held during the opening weekend of the ninth annual festival, which will take place from December 7-12.

Laos Launches Traditional Food and Farming Website

Submitted 5 years 2 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Lao restaurants and businesses can now tap into Laos's rich food and farming culture, with last week’s launch of the Pha Khao Lao website dedicated to preserving traditional recipes and agricultural practices.

Ma Té Sai to Open “Pop-Up” Craft Shop in Vientiane

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Ma Té Sai is opening a Pop-Up Shop at the ICAT Gallery in Vientiane from Thursday, 13 September until Sunday, 16 September. The Luang Prabang-based Ma Té Sai will be showcasing a hand-picked selection of modern designs crafted by Lao artisans between 11:00-19:00. Up for sale are living and kitchen decor, contemporary textiles, bedding, and small gifts under the Lao Fair Trade banner.

Southern Laos Makes the Grade

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Grade 11 students at Vientiane Pattana School taking the Cambridge AS and A Level “Travel and Tourism” course will find an interesting surprise on page 131 of their text book, where Case Study 11 stars: “Southern Laos launches tourism destination brand”, a three-year-old press release.

Train Training in Vientiane

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos and China signed a feasibility-study agreement to establish a college for training personnel to work as ticket sellers, station operators and provide various passenger services for the upcoming Laos-China railway.

Lao Rainforests Becoming Laboratory for Cancer Drugs

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The emerging field of ethnopharmocology is pinpointing exciting new possibilities in Laos to fight the deadliest cancers.

Lao Bartenders Mix Well at ASEAN Championship

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The top two Lao bartenders at this year’s Bartender of the Year 2018 Competition at June's Lao Food Expo faced the best mixologists from the region at the ASEAN Hotel & Restaurant Association (AHRA) Bartenders Championship held in Singapore on 28 and 29 August 2018.

Sanctuary Hotels & Resort Update: “Destination Pakbeng” and More

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge is focusing on the “Destination Pakbeng” campaign in September, while naming a new manager for their Mekong Elephant Park.

Tiger Trail Preps Luang Prabang Treks

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Tiger Trail staff in Luang Prabang recently spent time clearing the tracks to prepare for the upcoming high season, and topping the list is the one-day, 17-km “Trekking the Longhut Trail”.

Sabaidee Pandaw Successfully Completes River Trials in Laos

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Pandaw’s newest river cruise ship has successfully completed river trials during the monsoon season, before her inaugural voyage from Laos to China this November.

Visa-free Extension for Korea

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Citizens of the Republic of Korea visiting Laos can now stay in the country for up to 30 days without a visa, following a new visa exemption scheme which comes into effect on 3 September 2018.

Luang Prabang to Host Sustainable Tourism Solutions Expo

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The inaugural Sustainable Tourism Solutions Expo (STSE 2018) will take place at the Luang Prabang View Hotel on 14-15 September, to match more than 30 Lao and international sellers of sustainable products and services with the hospitality trade in Luang Prabang and the Mekong region, as well as hold four related symposia.

Northern Landslides Halt Traffic on Main Roads

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Motorists in Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, and Houaphanh face a red alert for landslides when travelling on northern mountain roads, especially Route 13, which is completely blocked along some stretches, following three days of downpours.

THAI Announces High-Season Flight Schedule to Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Thai Smile, under the Thai Airways International banner, has announced its new Bangkok-Luang Prabang schedule.

Lao poet’s book, ‘Before We Remember the Dream’ set for October release

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sahtu Press recently announced the forthcoming release of the new illustrated poetry collection entitled “Before We Remember We Dream” by award-winning poet Bryan Thao Worra. This new book explores memory and geography in the Lao diaspora, and will be released in October, 2018. The collection also features original art by Nor Sanavongsay.

Laos Next Target For Chinese Tourist “Invasion”

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

With hordes of Chinese tourists overrunning one Southeast Asian country after the other as a result of a new travel freedom and rising spending power, Laos is the next destination on the map for them.

Rescues Keep Luang Prabang Wildlife Sanctuary Busy

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The new multi-species Luang Prabang Wildlife Sanctuary has been busy with rescues. Recent additions include a pair of young female Assam macaques, who had been tied by the neck with wire.

Lao Railway Construction Powers Through the Rains

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Construction of the railway linking Vientiane to the Chinese border is making progress despite the torrential rains, floods and landslides afflicting the north of the country.

Niew to the Rescue in Attapeu

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Bounniew “Niew” Somesak led the Luang Prabang LEOT School’s effort to directly deliver aid to the neediest victims of the Attapeu dam collapse.

Perseverance Pays Off for Lao Natural

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

On 15 August, Lao Natural launched its Luang Prabang showroom, marking a milestone in their journey to create and sell several lines of locally sourced natural toiletries, massage oils, and a range of other products.

Lao Green Season Is Getting Soggy in 2018

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Floods are causing the temporary closure of Lao tourist sites and partially submerging Vientiane’s new Nakharath City shopping centre in the Mekong Riverside’s Chao Anouvong Park.

AccorHotels supports Attapeu disaster relief efforts

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

In response to the devastation caused by the dam collapse in Attapeu, a south-eastern province of Laos, AccorHotels donated US$10,000 to the Lao Red Cross to support immediate disaster relief efforts.

Heuan Chan Heritage House Keeps Cooking in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Heuan Chan Heritage House is now offering immersive cooking classes to discover the complexities of Luang Prabang’s traditional food and the role it plays in the locals’ way of life.

Projects “Soon to See the Day” at Sanctuary Hotels & Resorts

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge is currently finalizing packages to provide a full Pakbeng experience that includes Mekong cruising, touring options and activities on land, and accommodation at the lodge.

Refill not Landfill Campaign for Southern Laos

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Southern Laos Marketing Taskforce is preparing to launch its Refill not Landfill campaign to reduce plastic waste in the tourism sector by promoting re-usable water bottles and water refill stations.

Xieng Khuang’s historic That Found stupa entices more visitors

Submitted 5 years 3 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

That Found stupa in Khoun district, Xieng Khuang province, is attracting more than 300 visitors a month following its renovation, a significant improvement compared to the past.

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luxury liner, Pandaw, has launched a 21-day combo river cruise that spends 11 days scouring the Mekong between Vientiane and the Golden Triangle. The other leg of the journey explores Halong Bay, and the Red River Delta and tributaries near Hanoi. The itinerary includes a Vientiane-Hanoi flight.

Offroad Laos Adventures Sets Golden Triangle Biker Dates

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luang Prabang-based Offroad Laos Adventures has announced the 2018 schedule for its seven-day Mysterious Golden Triangle motorcycle tours.

Paul Burnett Tapped as Summit Tours Executive Director

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Following the recent partnership between Summit Tours and Green Discovery to launch Summit Discovery, Summit Tours has appointed Paul Burnett as its Executive Director.

Khop Chai Deu Celebrates 20 Years

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Vientiane’s iconic Khop Chai Deu restaurant celebrated its 20 year anniversary on 19 July, with more than 400 guests and old friends gathering to raise a glass to its founder Inthy Deuansavanh, who went on to establish the Inthira Group.

Summit Discovery Launches Vientiane Helicopter Tours

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Summit Discovery, a joint venture between Summit Tours and Green Discovery, launched a slate of helicopter tours, by taking a group of local travel and hospitality leaders into the skies over Vientiane.

Pullman debuts in Laos

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Featuring 123 guest rooms, the hotel is the largest property located in the former royal capital of Luang Prabang.

Oudomxay Tells DPM of Need for Roads to Nature Sites

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

An Oudomxay government official recently reported to Deputy Prime Minister Dr Sonexay Siphandone and a committee that the province needs roads to a pair of high-potential nature sites: a 600-metre-high waterfall and forests with 1,500-year-old tea trees.

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Green Season brings waterfalls to life in Southern Laos. This year, the rains began in March, gorging rivers and turning trickling falls into pluming, ground-shaking wonders.

Trash Idol Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“Trash Idol hopes to make Luang Prabang a clean and green place for all of us,” said the group’s co-founder Somsack Sengta, owner of the UNESCO city’s Blue Lagoon Restaurant.

Authorities announce extra activities in Visit Laos Year 2018 campaign

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Authorities announced new activities to be organised under Visit Laos Year 2018 for the last six months of this year at a meeting for consultations and planning for the tourism sector that was held in the capital on Friday.

Helicopter Tourism Steps Ahead in Laos

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Summit Tours and Green Discovery announced on 16 July, they have formed a joint venture to provide helicopter tourism to Laos under the brand, Summit Discovery.

Senior Officials Tell Tourism Police to Remove Travel Barriers

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Ounthuang Khaophanh said immediate action is needed to remove rules that require tour operators to seek official approval before bringing tourists to Laos, as similar regulations had already been appealed.

Soaring Chinese Arrivals Prompt Tourism Infrastructure Development

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

More mega-projects are coming to Laos to accommodate the rising number of Chinese tourists, according to the Vientiane Times.

Don Daeng Days on the Mekong

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Don Daeng kicks off Southern Laos’ 4,000 Islands excursion on the Mekong, and it’s just a 40-minute van or taxi ride from the Pakse International Airport in Champasak.

Lao Tourism Faces Reality

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The government of Laos is set to revise its expectations for tourism arrivals this year, as it appears unlikely the country will welcome the forecasted 5 million visitor arrivals for 2018, nor will it earn the expected $900 million in tourism revenue.

New & Cool in Luang Prabang: Le Calao Restaurant

Submitted 5 years 4 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The L’Elephant family of fine dining restaurants in Luang Prabang opened the doors to Le Calao in October 2017, to present authentic royal cuisine and traditional Lao, ethnic, and seasonal dishes.

Building Partnerships through Silk

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Ock Pop Tok took silk reeling and twisting to the next level at Ban Tabu Village by partnering with a Thai university that invented award-winning yarn production machines.

Sanakeo Helps the Kids

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sanakeo Boutique Hotel & Spa staff recently handed over the contents of a donation box to Anabella Coria Zavala from Lao Friends Hospital for Children in Luang Prabang. The donation box sat beside the water dispenser in the hotels' lobby area.

Laos-China Rail Construction Reaches Vientiane

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Laos-China Railway Project gave journalists a look at the railroad’s progress on the relatively flat Vientiane Plain.

AVANI+ Leads Luang Prabang’s Luxury Charge

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

AVANI+ Luang Prabang and Mekong Kingdoms’ cruises have been gaining traction in the media, with Conde Naste Traveler pointing to Minor Hotel’s high-end additions as reason enough to visit Luang Prabang.

Savannakhet Upgrading Three Iconic Tourist Sites

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Savannakhet is further developing three attractions - Dong Natad National Protected Area in Kaysone Phomvihane City, the Monkey Forest in nearby Champhon and the Stone House (Heuan Hin) south of the city – to attract more visitors.

Luang Prabang Hosting 4-Day “Simply Beautiful” Celebration

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luang Prabang is holding Ngam Thae Oh (Oh Luang Prabang, You’re Simply Beautiful) events from 4-7 July, to promote the UNESCO city and beyond to Nambak and Ngoi districts.

Small Change, Big Impact at Apsara

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Apsara is among the first hotels to climb on board Luang Prabang’s “Plastic Free Bottle Initiative” that kicked off in January 2018, and the move is paying dividends.

Luang Prabang in Big Push for Premium Visitors

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos plans to work with foreign countries, including Thailand, to transform its former capital Luang Prabang into a premium destination for international tourists.

A Slice of Pizzerias in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Looking for good pizza in Luang Prabang? Check out these top-notch pizzarias.

Laos Eyes eVisa

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos is considering an eVisa system by early 2019, according to a tourism official attending the ongoing Mekong Tourism Forum in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand.

Laos' aviation sector requires greater transparency, Assembly hears

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

National Assembly (NA) members have proposed for the circumstances around the business of the national civil aviation to be opened for the Assembly through the enforcement of the Law on Civil Aviation.

Offroad Laos Adventures Leads Enfants du Laos Computer Room

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Offroad Laos Adventures’ humanitarian association Enfants du Laos (Children of Laos) recently received a major boost from France-based Batisafe, who spent 10 days constructing a computer room in a Hmong village frequently visited by the tour operator.

New & Cool: A New Dimension in Mekong Cruising

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

L’Horizon Private Charters offers a new dimension in luxury cruising on the Mekong. Based in Luang Prabang, L’Horizon presents a private four-seat modern motorboat and captain to do you want…explore, relax, water ski, fish…you can even power to Vientiane in a day. It’s up to you.

Culture Park for Pakse?

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Champasak Province and the local Tavisub Group signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to undertake a feasibility study for developing a Culture Park in Pakse, according to the Vientiane Times.

Inthira Exhibits at TTM+ Thailand

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Inthira Hotels & Restaurants participated in Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) on 13-15 June, 2018, at the Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Pattaya, Thailand.

Lao Dolphins Get More Turf

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Champasak authorities and residents have agreed to broaden the Mekong River’s Irrawaddy dolphin conservation zone from 21 to 150 hectares to provide more food and room for less human disturbance.

Tourist-Population Ratio Makes Laos a Winner: MoICT

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

While arrivals have dropped, the Ministry of Information, Cultural, and Tourist puts on a positive spin, though revenue per tourist remains the lowest in Asia.

Suntara Showcases Singapore Chefs

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Suntara Restaurant hosted an exclusive Singapore Embassy dinner party featuring the island nation's award-winning chefs Vincent Bio, Fabian Teo and Ronnie Seng Who Lee, who dazzled Lao guests with their culinary skills.

Sanakeo Weighs In on LAOFOOD ‘18

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sanakeo Boutique Hotel & Spa in Luang Prabang attended last week’s LAOFOOD ’18 in Vientiane, and offers interesting insight into the exhibition and culinary/hospitality competitions.

Inthira Sticks Up LAOFOOD 2018

Submitted 5 years 5 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Inthira Hotels & Restaurants presented Laos’ biggest ever basket of sticky rice at the opening of LAOFOOD 2018 Exhibition, held at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane from 7-9 July, while also taking home honours at the event’s hospitality and culinary competitions.

Lao Bears Getting Bigger Playground

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Free the Bears has announced its 2018 updates and plans, with its new Luang Prabang Wildlife Sanctuary (LPWS) near Kuang Si Waterfall taking centre stage.

New Orchid Species found in Lao Market

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Sulivong Luangaphay, a long-time plant lover and orchid aficionado, told the Lao media that a new orchid species was seen in a street market in Vientiane on Arbour Day.

Lao Tourism Minister Vows to Remove Tourism Barriers

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

With various barriers hindering the development of the tourism industry, authorities in charge will work closely with the relevant sectors to remove these obstacles, a minister told parliament yesterday.

New & Cool @ Mekong Riverview

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Mekong Riverview Hotel in Luang Prabang is currently developing the offsite Palm Tree Health Spa with a swimming pool, and the Viewpoint Organic Garden to grow their own produce. Both projects are well underway, and are scheduled to be up and running in 2018.

New & Cool: Le Grand Pakbeng

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The 5-star Le Grand Pakbeng Resort recently opened the doors to its 45 villas and suites nestled in the jungle on the Mekong in Pakbeng, the traditional overnight stop on the Luang Prabang-Houay Xay cruise.

Pakse Tourism Eyes Hilltop Buddha

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Pakse seems branded as a gateway to Vat Phou, the 4,000 Islands, and the Bolaven Plateau. While it recently received full city status, Pakse is generally viewed as a 1-day tourism destination. However, Champasak provincial authorities are looking to turn this trend around, and sees potential in the hilltop Vat Phou Salao and its giant sitting Buddha.

Houaphanh to Develop Lid Rapids as Tourist Site

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Houaphanh signed an MOU with a Lao company on Friday, 1 June, to develop Lid Rapids on the Nam Et River as a tourist attraction, while adding to the province’s other popular sites including “Cave City”.

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Summit Tours Sales & Marketing Manager Jan Wollen met with the Luang Prabang Travel Association (LUTA) on Thursday, 31 May, to introduce her new company’s helicopter tours, and announce Summit’s new cooperative effort with Green Discovery Laos, details of which have yet to be revealed.

New & Cool: Good Water Village

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Ban Nam Dee may only be a 10-minute drive from Luang Namtha Town, but it seems like 100 miles away. The ethnic Lanten “Good Water Village” popped onto tourism maps a decade ago as the last stop on the Tea Caravan Trail in north-western Laos. Today, "Good Water Village" is an easy-to-access - Lao Skyway offers Vientiane-Luang Namtha flights five days a week at 15:00 - responsible tourism success story with a new website.

Lao Airlines & Bangkok Air Ink Deal

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Bangkok Airways and Lao Airlines concluded a new codeshare deal, allowing Lao Airlines to ticket passengers to board Bangkok Airways’ flights on the Bangkok-Vientiane and Bangkok-Luang Prabang routes.

Vientiane Floats New Plans for Nam Ngum Tourism

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Vientiane has plans to develop new tourism services on the Nam Ngum River in Xaythany district, aiming to attract more visitors through nature-based tourism and the local lifestyle. Projects include three boat docks to allow visitors to travel by boat to organic vegetable farms and the Phaithamkor Conservation Park.

Crowds Flock to Lao Festival in Japan

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Thousands of Japanese swooped in on the Lao Festival held in Yoyogi Park, Tokyo, from May 26 to 29. The Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism organisd the event to promote Visit Laos Year and raise the profile of Laos.

Lao Tourism Job Numbers Climb

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao tourism industry is not only playing a significant role in boosting economic growth, but is also creating a huge number of job opportunities for local people, experts have noted. The United Nations’ World Travel and Tourism Council unveiled its latest report, which states tourism has directly created 114,000 jobs Laos, with related services upping the number to more than 385,000.

Tourism to boost growth in Lao PDR

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

According to World Travel and Tourism Council, in 2017, the total contribution from travel and tourism to Lao PDR's gross domestic product (GDP) was around US$2 billion, which accounted for 13.7 percent of total GDP. This figure is expected to rise up to US$3.3 billion by 2028.

Gov't Continues Search for Lao Airlines Partner

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The government is still seeking a qualified partner to jointly operate Lao Airlines in a bid to achieve more efficient and profitable operation of the national flag carrier.

An Ethnic Food Journey to Toilets

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

What started as a Mark Wiens’ Travel for Food vlog, ended up as toilets in a remote Khmu village in Luang Prabang.

Price Freeze on Rice & Noodle Dishes: Government

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

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.

Laos Plans Major Tree Planting for Arbour Day

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

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.

Mekong Kingdoms Launches Ultra-Exclusive River Cruiser

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

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's Golden 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.

Jeep along the Hidden Coffee Trail

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

New & Cool is stretching its wings to Southern Laos and a jeep journey deep into the heartland of coffee, hidden down uknown trails on the Bolaven Plateau.

New flights planned between Laos and China

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Hainan United Airlines and the Lao Tourism Promotion Department put the wheels in motion for a new route between Hainan, China, and Vientiane and Luang Prabang, while Lao Airlines expects to begin direct flights between Luang Prabang province and Changsha in Hunan Province starting in June.

Houaphanh marks Visit Laos Year, city pillar’s 10th anniversary

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Thousands of visitors crammed the provincial capital on Friday to enjoy the colourful activities organised to officially launch Visit Laos Year in Houaphanh province.

Vientiane Clean Up Slated for International Day of Biological Diversity

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The National University of Laos and other partners, led by Khiri Travel Laos, are celebrating the 25th International Day of Biological Diversity on Tuesday, 22 May, by organizing a "Clean Up and Water Hyacinth Removal" project in Vientiane from 16:00-18:00. Participants should gather at the Comcenter College, Nongchanh Village, Sisattanak District, Vientiane.

Asian Trails Laos Changes Management

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Asian Trails Group announced that Philippe Conod will retire from his role as a Managing Director of Asian Trails Laos as of 6 June, with Virginie Kury being tapped as the new General Manager as of 16 May .Ms Kury will report directly to Thuy Tien, who assumes role of Managing Director for both Vietnam and Laos.

New & Cool in Luang Prabang: The Road to Kuang Si Falls

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Part 3 of New & Cool in Luang Prabang takes you on The Road to Kuang Si Falls, with six great attractions along the way. Get your hands dirty at Living Land Company’ s Organic Farm, or watch the buffalo dairy process, from udder to mozzarella, at the Lao Buffalo Farm. The Kuang Si Butterfly Park presents an educational respite, before a meal or drink in nature at Carpe Diem Restaurant. And then it’s the Save the Bears Sanctuary at the gateway to the grand prize…Kuang Si.

ECC and Lao Tourism Welcome 13 Rescued Elephants

Submitted 5 years 6 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

In February this year, an Emirati plane sat on the tarmac at Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport, waiting to board 13 Lao elephants for a flight to Dubai and “Safari Park”. A call from Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith’s office halted the transfer. The outright sale of Lao elephants is illegal, he said. The elephants stay in Laos.

Building "Recycling" Event Planned in Vientiane on 17 May

Submitted 5 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Join with volunteers to start ‘recycling’ Vientiane’s old Typing School building into a community art space on International Recycling Day.

New & Cool in Luang Prabang: The Mekong’s Other Side

Submitted 5 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Head to The Mekong’s Other Side is the 2nd instalment of We Are Lao’s “New & Cool in Luang Prabang” series. Board a ferry and cruise to Chomphet. You’ll find the Four Temple Tour, Pottery Village, Green Jungle Flight at legendary Hoi Khua (100 Families Waterfall), and Pha Tad Ke Botanical Gardens with a café and shop.

Benelux Visits Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A five-day April Fam Trip to Luang Prabang opened the eyes of travel agents from Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, who didn't know how much Luang Prabang has to offer to tourists.

Macau Legend plans min US$300-mln further Laos input

Submitted 5 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Hong Kong-listed casino services firm Macau Legend Development Ltd has confirmed to GGRAsia it is aiming to invest US$300 million to US$500 million across “several projects” in the Southeast Asian country of Laos.

The Accidental Lao Adventure King: Inthy Deuansawan

Submitted 5 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“Me getting into tourism is a coincidence. I didn’t know it existed,” said Inthy Deuansawan, founder of Green Discovery Laos. “My dad wanted me to study tourism. I worked in sales and wanted to be an architect.”

Sign Up for Elephant Camp Welfare Workshop in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Register now for the free Elephant Camp Welfare and and Sustainability Workshop and Auditor and Advisor training in Luang Prabang from 25-27 April. Discover how to ensure your elephant tours or those you book keep pachyderms in the forefront.

Summit Tours lifts off into Luang Prabang’s Skies

Submitted 5 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Summit Tours took to the skies over Luang Prabang on Thursday 5 April, 2018, to launch their new luxury helicopter experiences, “Laos from the Sky”.

Summit Tours Takes Lao Tourism Sky High

Submitted 5 years 7 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Summit Tours launched their exclusive “Laos from the Sky” helicopter tours this week, taking top Luang Prabang hoteliers for the ride of their lives.

Pre-register Now To Attend LAOFOOD & HOTEL ‘18 And Save US$5.00 Entry Fee

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

You are invited to join thousands of trade visitors at LAOFOOD & LAOHOTEL‘18 – Laos’ No. 1 International Hospitality and Food & Drinks Show at the National Convention Centre, Vientiane from 7-9 June. Save USD 5 and get your free ticket to the expo by pre-registering today!

New & Cool in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luang Prabang is loaded with bucket- list “must sees”, but the UNESCO city offers a world of activities beyond the traditional trail. Stay an extra day or two, and do something new and cool.

Actor Harrison Ford Visits Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Actor Harrison Ford made a visit to Luang Prabang yesterday, stopping to make merit at Pha O temple and meeting with Sathou Onekeo Sittivong, the abbot of Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Pakkhan, and Wat Pha O, as well as being the Provincial Head of the Luang Prabang Buddhist Fellowship.

LAOFOOD+HOTEL 18 International Expo comes to Vientiane

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

In support of the tourism sector and to create a platform for suppliers to the hospitality and F&B industry to develop business contacts with key decision makers, the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Lao Hotel & Restaurant Association will host LAOFOOD+HOTEL 18 – Laos’ 1st Major International Hospitality and Food & Drinks Exhibition at the prestigious National Convention Centre, Vientiane from 7-9 June 2018.

Rescue of Endangered Asiatic Black Bears Highlights Laos’ Uphill Fight Against Wildlife Trade

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Free the Bears Fund center comes to the rescue. The capture of endangered Asiatic blacks bears, which are typically exported and sold so their parts can be used for medicinal purposes, continues to occur in Laos, despite efforts to reduce wildlife poaching and trafficking in the Southeast Asian nation and pledges by authorities to crack down on those who engage in them.

Luang Prabang Keeps Keeping It Clean

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

No one likes a trash-laden UNESCO site, least of all Luang Prabang. Over the years, several initiatives set out to keep the city clean, but the efforts were often uncoordinated and short-lived. As one project faded, another stepped in to help get rid of the litter that taint the streets and river banks.

Refill not Landfill

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A band of Luang Prabang businesses have jumped onboard the plastic bottle boycott with the “Refill not Landfill” initiative.

First Vietnam – Laos caravan tour launched in Hanoi

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A week-long trip “Journey through the Capitals of Vietnam and Laos” is being jointly organised by Vietnam’s Hanoitourist travel agency and Laos’ Xay Mung Khun Company.

Rosewood Luang Prabang opens in Laos

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Rosewood Luang Prabang opened on 27 March, as an ultra-luxury escape within an idyllic hilltop forest in north central Laos, where guests can to immerse themselves in the rich cultural history, spiritual heritage and diverse tropical landscape of Luang Prabang.

Celebrate World Water Day in Luang Prabang refilling reusable water bottles.

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The toursim industry in Luang Prabang is leading a campaign to reduce single-use plastic water bottles. Many hotels and tour operators, restaurants and cafes, museums and other businesses in the town center offer safe drinking water refill stations.

From remote Laos to haute couture: A journey of indigo dye

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Natural indigo-dyed garments fetch high price tags at boutique shops worldwide but little is known about the origin of this dark blue colour and the people who create it.

Bangkok Airways double daily to Vientiane

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Bangkok Airways introduces double daily services on the Bangkok-Vientiane route effective 25 March.

Luang Prabang View Hotel supports social activities, Visit Laos Year

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

uang Prabang View General Manager John Morris Williams explains that although business is important, backing for social activities is also part of the hotel's vision, especially in promoting Luang Prabang and Laos as a tourist destination.

Laos in danger of losing jobs and culture as Chinese pour in

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

A friend living in Vientiane recently complained of incessant noise next to her house where a Chinese gang was busy constructing a new feeder road. None of the residents had been consulted. The residents are afraid that asphalt will bring speed and accidents. To the slower paced Laotians, the Chinese are unwelcome. "Why can't Laotians do that work? Who asked if we wanted this road?" one onlooker asked. Good questions.

2018 Rocket Festival in Muang Nan, Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

What do you do when it’s hot, dry and you want it to rain? Shoot rockets into the clouds … at least that’s what the men of Muang Nan do every year in the month of May.

New Pandaw ship for Laos-China cruise to set sail in 2019

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Pandaw Cruises has announced the addition of a third vessel to its Lao fleet on the Mekong. Scheduled to Launch in September 2019, the RV Sabei Pandaw is being constructed to meet the demand for cruise line’s popular Laos-China route.

Lao Airlines halts direct Singapore-Laos route again

Submitted 5 years 8 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Laos’ national carrier Lao Airlines will halt direct Laos-Singapore flights from Mar 25 due to operational reasons.

Luang Prabang Announces Visit Laos Year 2018 Line Up

Submitted 5 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Luang Prabang has announced its Visit Laos Year 2018 event calendar, with the nine-day Lao New Year celebration topping the slate.

Sompaseuth Chounlamany’s “Reminiscence Painting Exhibition” Opens in Luang Prabang

Submitted 5 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Heuan Chan Heritage Luang Prabang opened Sompaseuth Chounlamany’s “Reminiscence Painting Exhibition” on 9 March, to showcase the award-winning Lao-American’s oil paintings “inspired by the beauty and richness of Laos from a bygone era.”

A Bird in the Bush Equals Money in the Hand

Submitted 5 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

Ecotourism direct payment approach for wildlife sightings reduces illegal hunting

It’s Official: Luang Prabang Establishes Tourism Association

Submitted 5 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Luang Prabang Chamber of Commerce announced that it officially recognizes the Luang Prabang Tourism & Hospitality Rendezvous as a valid association.

Luang Prabang View Hotel Wins ASEAN MICE Award

Submitted 5 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

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 prize. He noted the hotel is the only one in Luang Prabang to achieve this status.

SilkAir Announces Singapore-Laos Summer Schedule

Submitted 5 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

SilkAir has announced its Singapore-Laos summer schedule for 2018, which aims to provide better connectivity for European travellers.

World Bank Eyes Lao Nature Tourism

Submitted 5 years 9 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

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 Areas (NPAs).

Where have all the tourists gone?

Submitted 5 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

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.

The 2018 Luang Prabang Handicraft Festival Gets Underway

Submitted 5 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The annual Luang Prabang Handicraft Festival is underway. Organised by Heuan Chan Heritage Luang Prabang, “Lad-Bhu Han” is running from 28 January to 4 February, as part of the Visit Laos Year 2018 campaign. The event takes place on a quaint side street with traditional Luang Prabang-style wooden houses in the heart of the UNESCO city.

We Are Lao Launches Tourism Info & Marketing Site

Submitted 5 years 10 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

“I can’t find information about Laos.” That’s what you often hear from tourists returning to the Mekong Region, who have never crossed into the country. We Are Lao Media recognized this void, and decided to fill it with WeAreLao.com, where Laos is billed as The Last Frontier. The aim is to create the most informative, promotional, and up-to-date Lao tourism website, while providing a multimedia marketing platform that benefits all Lao tourism stakeholders.

MICE Ready to Feast in Laos

Submitted 5 years 11 months ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

The Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry launches LAOFOOD 2018 at a ceremony held on 14 December, at the Best Western Vientiane. By Bernie Rosenbloom The international hospitality trade’s spotlight will focus on the inaugural LAOFOOD 2018 Exhibition, being held at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane on 7-9 June, when global and local hospitality and F&B suppliers will present their latest products to regional hotels, restaurants, and distributors. The event – co-hosted by the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI) and Lao Hotel and Restaur

Handling Luang Prabang with Care

Submitted 6 years 3 weeks ago by Bernie Rosenbloom.

As Luang Prabang grows as a tourist destination, it faces many challenges in remaining a green destination. Some have termed the current situation in Luang Prabang as "fragile". In 2016, the Lao German Development Cooperation Project (GIZ) began implementing the "Handle with Care" project, funded by the European Union's Switch Asia Programme. The project has reached the halfway mark, and We Are Lao wanted to know how the project is proceeding.

30 May MTF Insights Paul

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

MTF Insights: Paul Burnett @ Sanakeo Boutique Hotel Paul is the general manager of the new Sanakeo Boutique Hotel, which is hosting the Mekong Tourism Sector Strategy Open Forum and the Blogger Match-Up. This will be Paul’s first MTF, having heard about event from Sanakeo’s owners. He first learned of the MTCO from local officials followed by a visit from MTCO Executive Director Jens Thraenhart and his team. What opportunities do you see for your business, and Luang Prabang, in hosting the multi-venue MTF? Hosting part of the MTF is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our hotel.

22 May MTF Insights John

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

MTF Insights: John Morris Williams @ Luang Prabang View Hotel John in the General Manager of Luang Prabang View hotel, which is hosting the MIST (Mekong Innovative Startups in Tourism) finalists’ presentations. This will be John’s first Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF).

1 June MTF Insights Georgie

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

MTF Insights: Georgie Walsh @ Laos Hospitality Consulting & Manda de Laos Georgie is the director of sales and marketing of Laos Hospitality Consulting and Manda de Laos, which is hosting the Marketing and Sales session. This is Georgie’s second MTF, having attended the 2010 event in Pakse. She first heard about the event from Rik Gadella, with who she works with at Pha Tad Ke Botanical Gardens. What challenges is your business facing in being one part of a multi-venue event? Manda de Laos is not a traditional meeting space.

30 May MTF Insights Gary

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

MTF Insights: Gary Tyson @ Azerai Hotel Luang Prabang Gary is the general manager of the new Azerai Hotel Luang Prabang, which is an Official MTF Hotel. This will be Gary’s first MTF, having heard about event from colleagues shortly before its public announcement.

31 May MTF Isights Susie Rachael

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

MTF Insights: Susie Martin & Rachel O’Shea @ Laos Buffalo Dairy Susie is the CEO and Rachel is the Chef of the Laos Buffalo Dairy, a sustainable venture with a unique business plan. This will be their first MTF, having heard about event in March from John Williams of Luang Prabang View, who directed them to the MIST application process.

Luang Prabang Cleans Up Its Act

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

28 April 2017 Luang Prabang Cleans Up Its Act By Bernie Rosenbloom Tourists expect to walk into a sepia-toned 19th-century postcard when visiting Luang Prabang. Sitting on the Mekong banks and sipping cocktails as a breeze flutters tree leaves. Ancient golden-topped temples peeking above French colonial buildings. Empty plastic bottles, discarded cardboard boxes, chunks of Styrofoam and plastic bags scattered along the rivers and roads. Luang Prabang must keep a constant vigil over trash.

25 May MTF Insights Sai

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

MTF Insights: Phonexay (Sai) Keuthbounmay @ Belmond La Residence Phou Vao Sai is the operations manager at the Belmond La Residence Phou Vao hotel in Luang Prabang. He has never attended an MTF, but has followed the forum in the news. He learned of the Luang Prabang MTF from the local hospitality network. What challenges does Luang Prabang face in hosting a multi-venue event? There is not enough capacity and facilities to handle a large event yet…The other challenge is that Luang Prabang is not connected enough to big cities apart from Bangkok, Singapore, and Hanoi.

23 May MTF Insights Jacques

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

MTF Insights: Jacques Mury @ Villa Santi and Santi Resort & Spa Jacques is the general manager of the Villa Santi and Santi Resort & Spa, which is the host of the MTF Food Fair. This is Jacques’ first MTF, and he first found out about the Luang Prabang event late last year. What challenges does Luang Prabang face in hosting a multi-venue event? Little information has transpired about this event. My understanding is that the main meeting will be at the Central Bank and some hotels will share some other functions.

Luang Prabang Pigs Out

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

13 December 2016 Luang Prabang Pigs Out By Bernie Rosenbloom Luang Prabang’s hotels and restaurants hold “The Battle of the Pigs” to raise funds for families making their livings at the dump. Troy Matusow frequently visits the Luang Prabang dump. The man behind Asia One Resort Supply knows the people who live amid piles of plastic under tarps. He’s watched them eke out a living by scavenging through the garbage pit, and often brings them water and food.

Lord Puttnam Tackles Lao Tourism Challenges

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

15 March 2016 Lord Puttnam Tackles Lao Tourism Challenges By Bernie Rosenbloom Oscar-winning producer Lord Puttnam was recently walking along Luang Prabang’s streets. He notices a fine-looking four-storey hotel topped with a terrace. He hikes up the stairs and takes in the view. He then asks the staff if he can order a drink. The smiling worker replies, “Yes sir, on the first floor.” Lord Puttnam’s anecdote kicked off his keynote address at the 18th Lanith Symposium on the challenges and barriers in growing Lao tourism.

Rural Tourism: Sharing the Countryside

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

Submitted by Bernie Rosenbloom (Huzhou, China) – Interest in Asia Pacific rural tourism has spiked in recent decades, much like country retreats did in 19th-century Victorian England, and for similar reasons. The growing urban Asian population is seeking to escape their pressure-filled, yet often mundane city life, and are increasingly turning to leisure and relaxation holidays in the countryside. However, the Asia Pacific faces a much different situation today than Thomas Cook in the 1850s.

18 May MTF Insights Tara

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

MTF Insights: Tara Gujadhur @ TAEC Tara is the co-director of the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC), which is hosting the MTF’s “Intangible Tourism” session. She attended the 2012 MTF in Pakse, Laos, and heard about the Luang Prabang event from the ADB’s Steven Schipani. Having worked in tourism with development agencies for several years, she has known about the organiser, Mekong Tourism Co-ordinating (MTCO), since its 2006 launch.

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

MTF Insights: Dr Andreas Hofmann @ GIZ Andreas had a long history in private sector travel before taking the position of Team Leader, Luang Prabang Handle with Care Project for German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ). He has never attended an MTF, and first heard about the Luang Prabang event from the organisers and Lao government, though he is familiar with the MTCO website. What challenges does Luang Prabang face in hosting a multi-venue event? Luang Prabang is not known for having the infrastructure to host large regional events.

24 May MTF Insights Derek

Submitted 6 years 4 months ago by WALBrunoA.H.Vincent.

MTF Insights: Derek Smith @ Saffron Coffee Derek operates Saffron, a sustainable coffee producer and local café. He has never attended an MTF, and first heard of about the Luang Prabang event at the Lanith Hospitality Managers' Rendezvous, which is where he first learned about the MTCO. What challenges does Luang Prabang face in hosting a multi-venue event? I really don't know much about the MTF. If it's a big event, perhaps Luang Prabang’s roads might not cope with extra traffic?

Northern Laos

Central Laos

Southern Laos

In Nature

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