That Luang Festival to Showcase Ancient Lao Traditions
The annual That Luang festival, featuring a colourful display of rituals and ancient customs, will take place in Vientiane from Nov 23-27.
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Tourism
Laos Tourism Soars with 285% Surge in 2023
The first nine months of this year have seen an astonishing influx of more than 2.4 million foreign tourists, a 285% increase compared to the same period last year.
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IMF Says Exports, Tourism Will Spur Laos’ Economic Growth by 4%
As per IMF revenue from tourism, foreign investment, and exports will help Laos’ struggling economy grow by 4% in 2024.
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Vientiane: An Impressive Cultural and Historical Capital
Vientiane Capital has a numerous interesting places to visit that are historical, architectural and of religious interest.
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Thailand PM Offers Condolences to China, Myanmar, and Laos After Mall Shooting Incident in Bangkok
Thailand Prime Minister expressed his deepest regret for the incident that occurred Tuesday night in one of Bangkok’s most visited mall.
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Khammouane Prepares Activities to Welcome Tourists in 2024
Khammuane province has prepared variety of activities for Lao Tourism Year 2024 to provide hospitality to tourists.
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A New Tourism Campaign to be Launched to Attract More Visitors
The Visit Laos Year 2024 tourism promotion campaign is scheduled to be officially launched in November.
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The Luang Prabang Boat Racing Event of 2023 is Ready to Display an Impressive Spectacle
The Luang Prabang boat racing event will happen September 5-14, 2023 and the authorities promised a grander and more colorful celebration.
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Must-Do Highlights of Luang Prabang
These are some of the highlights you shouldn’t miss when you go to Laos, former capital Luang Prabang.
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Elaborate Plans for Plain of Jars Development Revealed, with Full Adherence to World Heritage Guidelines
UNESCO’s world heritage guidelines will be fully observed when tourist attractions and facilities are built in areas surrounding Plain of Jars.
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Illegal Chinese Tour Guides in Luang Prabang are Taking Away Opportunities From Lao Nationals
Laotian tour guides in Luang Prabang say they are increasingly losing business to Chinese nationals offering unofficial tours to visitors from China.
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Laos Aims to Attract 4.6M Tourists Next Year
The Lao government is preparing for Visit Laos Year 2024 and expects to attract at least 4.6 million visitors next year.
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Laos Tourism Industry Soars with over 200% Increase in Tourist Arrivals
The country welcomed over 200% more foreign visitors in the first four months of 2023.
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That Dam: A Mysterious Landmark in the Heart of the City
This mysterious tower is said to enshrine a dormant seven-headed serpent that once protected Vientiane from destruction.
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Meuang Feuang Dubbed as the “Guilin of Laos”
Meuang Feuang is blessed with beautiful scenery full of natural charm and is considered to be a popular tourist destination nowadays.
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Fifth Lao-Thai Mekong Bridge to Open Next Year
Construction of the bridge linking Borikhamxay and Bueng Kan is ahead of schedule and is expected to open to traffic in early 2024.
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Laos’ Tourism-Driven Economic Recovery Hinges on China
Expert saw economic recovery through tourism but afraid of the risk of being too reliant on its northern neighbor.
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Train Tickets to Khamsavath Station Now on Sale
Tickets for travel on the Laos-China Railway can now be purchased at the station in Khamsavath village, Xaysettha district, Vientiane.
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Over 1.1 million Tourists Visit Laos in 4 months
More than 1.11 million foreign tourists visited Laos in the first four months of this year, according to figures from the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.
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Malaysia To Schedule Direct Flights From Vientiane to Kuala Lumpur
Direct flights will run from Vientiane to Kuala Lumpur is starting this year, with three flights a week.
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Laos to Host International Mountain Tourism Day
Authorities in Vientiane and Luang Prabang are gearing to welcome tourism-related business operators for the 5th International Mountain Tourism Day
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Yunnan Eager to Welcome Tourists this Summer
Yunnan province eyes Laos locals and Expats to travel after Chinese government has fully reopened its borders to foreign travelers.
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Laos Gears Up to Host ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024
Tourism authorities are preparingto host the annual Asean Tourism Forum next year, which will take place in Vientiane from January 22-27, 2024.
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Laos is in Google’s Top 10 Most Searched Travel Destinations
Laos was listed among 10 other countries that is most frequently targeted travel destination.
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Vientiane-Xamneua Flights to Start Next Week
Lao Airlines will operate a new flight route between Vientiane and Xamneua starting next week.
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Luang Prabang Attracts More Than 273,000 Visitors in 3 Months
Luang Prabang is gaining a huge amount of tourist, surpassing the number of from last year.
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Businesses Ordered to Relocate to Make Way for New Tourist Complex in Vang Vieng
Businesses around Vang Vieng old airport are asked to move out as the new tourist complex is about to start construction.
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Laos and S. Korea Mull Ways to Bolster Tourism
Officials are exploring its ways to expand tourism between the two countries.
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Rail Operator Reminds Passengers to Get a Chinese Visa Before Travelling
Passengers travelling to Xishuangbanna are expected to get visa prior to departure .
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Historic Cross-border Passenger Trains Travel Between Vientiane and Kunming
The first train making a direct journey from Vientiane to Kunming in China left the Lao capital on Thursday morning.
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Dirty Air in Laos and Thailand Affecting Tourism
The worsening condition of Air in both nations starts to impact businesses and tourism.
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Saravan Waterfalls Offer New Visitor Attractions
Saravan province entices visitors to see there newly renovated attraction.
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480 Vientiane Traffic Police to be on Duty During Pi Mai Lao Festivities
The Vientiane Traffic Police Department has arranged for 480 traffic police to be stationed during Pi Mai Lao celebrations.
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Saravan Eyes Upgrade of Phouphasouk Park to Entice Visitors
Saravan provincial authorities have given the green light for the construction of visitor facilities at Phouphasouk Park
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Laos-China Railway will Start Cross-border Service Before Pi Mai Lao
The cross-border service of Laos-China railway will open a day before Pi Mai Lao 2023.
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Borikhamxay Plans to Open Up Nam Kading Protected Area for Ecotourism
Nam Kading National Protected Area in Borikhamxay province plans to use some areas for ecotourism.
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Luang Prabang Authorities Ask People Not to be Rowdy During Pi Mai Lao
Authorities of the world heritage town of Luang Prabang have instructed people not to engage in revelry beyond 11:30pm…
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City Authorities Order Closure of Sihom Street Market
Due to garbage and traffic issues, officials decided to close Sihom street market.
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Laos-China Rail to Start Cross-Border Service by April
The Laos-China Railway Company Limited will be opening the cross-border service…
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2023 Pi Mai Lao Holiday Dates Announced
The Prime Minister’s Office has announced the Holiday dates for Pi Mai 2023.
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Time Magazine Calls Luang Prabang “A Hidden Paradise”
Luang Prabang is included on Time Magazine’s 50 greatest places in the world.
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Laos and Cambodia are Partnering to Promote Shared Tourism
Laos and Cambodia are joining forces to promote tourism between the two countries.
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The Influx of Chinese Visitors Could Overwhelm Hospitality Sector Experts Say
Expert says that the hospitality sector may struggle to deal with the influx of Chinese visitors to the country.
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Vietnam to Expand List of Eligible Countries for Visa Exemption
Vietnam will waive visas for more countries and extend the length of stay for foreign tourists to speed up the recovery of tourism.
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PM Orders Installation of Immigration Checkpoints at Train Stations to Cope with Visitor Influx
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has asked for urgent action to set up immigration booths at stations on the Laos-China Railway.
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Luang Prabang Plans “Pi Mai 2023” Extravaganza
Luang Prabang authorities have arranged an extensive programme of activities for the Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) 2023 festival.
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Khammuan Authorities Declare Hin Nam No a National Park
Khammuan authorities have officially declared the Hin Nam No National Protection Area (Karst mountains) a national park.
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Vientiane Province Adds Another Cave to List of Attractions
Visitors to scenic Vientiane province will soon be able to add a new location to their itinerary.
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Laos-China Railway to Start Online Ticket Sales Next Week
The Laos-China Railway Co., Ltd. will begin selling train tickets online through the LCR ticket app
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Tourism Ministry Takes New Step to Counter Trafficking in Persons
The Ministry of Tourism is making further steps to stop human trafficking through educating the youth about human rights.
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Lao Airlines to Resume Flights to Danang This Month
Lao Airlines is set to bring back flight going to Danang.
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Sihom’s Walking Street Attracts Local and Foreign Tourists
A street in Sihom Village in Vientiane is getting more local and international tourist visits.
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Visit Laos Year 2023-2024 Materials are Ready for Rollout
Welcoming materials for Visit Laos is on rollout to boost tourism.
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Japan Provides 52 Buses for Vientiane
The government of Japan has donated busses to help improve public transport in Laos capital.
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Prime Minister Urges Rail Operator to Improve Services
Lao Prime Minister urge the rail operator to improve its services to give passenger a better experience.
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Lao Airlines to Operate Flights From Pakse to China Starting Mid-2023
Lao Airlines announced that they open direct flights going to China mid this year.
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Riverside Spot in Borikhamxay is Set to Become a New Tourist Destination
Borikhamxay authorities are building visitor facilities at the popular Hadxaikhao beach on the Mekong River in Don village, Pakxan district.
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Laos’ Tourists Haven Feuang District Near Vientiane Expects Over 100,000 Tourists in 2023
After seeing over 45,000 tourists since the country reopened its borders in May last year, the Feuang district’s governor expects more.
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Lao Kip Boosts Travel; High-Speed Train Brings More Tourists to Thailand
The number of Chinese tourists visiting Vientiane in Laos, Nong Khai, and Udon Thani in Thailand has increased now.
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Laos, Cambodia Further Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation
Bilateral cooperation has been constantly promoted to strengthens area such as national defense and public security, economy and trade.
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Luang Prabang’s Night Market Vendors Enthused by Return of Tourists
Luang Prabang vendors are now making a comeback and earning a steady income as growing number of tourist arrived.
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Laos Tourism Number to Rise as Government Prepares for Return of Chinese Tourists
The Lao government and private sectors are actively preparing for the arrival of Chinese tour groups.
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After 3-year Hiatus, The Lao Elephant Festival is to be Held in February
After 3-year Hiatus, The Lao Elephant Festival is to be Held in February
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China To Scrap COVID Quarantine Rule For Inbound Travellers
China will stop requiring inbound travellers to go into quarantine starting from Jan. 8
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Laos Allows Entry Of Travellers Without Covid-19 ATK Test
The issuing of the notification was attributed to many reasons, such as the unfolding situation of Covid-19 in Laos and neighbouring countries, as well as globally
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Straw Hut Village Is New Tourist Attraction in Muang Fuang
A straw hut village has opened in Meuang Feuang district, Vientiane province, as a new tourist attraction in this increasingly popular bucolic riverside retreat
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Improve Key Factors To Boost Tourism Industry, Economist Suggests
“Most importantly, more inbound flights should be started and the number of countries eligible for visa-free travel should be increased.”
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Luang Prabang Named Among Easiest Places To Travel In SE Asia
“What makes this destination an attractive stop in Laos is its rich culture and laid-back vibe. Time slows down in Luang Prabang,” the magazine states.
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Travel Magazine Cites Laos As One Of Top Places To Visit
Laos was listed behind Norway, Malé, Los Angeles, Slovenia and Barbados, which all got special mention at www.wanderlust.co.uk.
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Laos Welcomes 42,197 Tourists In First Six Months Of 2022
Laos has seen a surge in the number of visitors following the lifting of travel restrictions in January as the Covid-19 pandemic subsided.
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Rail Operator Increases Train Services
The lack of seats and the difficulty in obtaining tickets led passengers to make complaints on social media about the problems encountered, with many people having to wait for hours in long lines to buy tickets. This forced the company to expand its services.
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Lao Govt Mulls Full Reopening For Foreign Tourists
The government is mulling full reopening of the country to foreign tourists after piloting the first phase of partial reopening for targeted groups of visitors.
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Lao Govt Launches Online Visa Application Portal As Covid Curbs Eased
The Lao government has launched an online visa application portal to ease entry procedures for foreign nationals and Lao nationals living overseas.
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Public, Private Sectors Gear Up For Return Of Tourists
The public and private sectors are making plans to reopen Laos to fully vaccinated tourists in 2022, although the details regarding quarantine upon entry are still being debated.
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Domestic Rail Services To Begin On December 4
To begin with, tickets will be on sale at railway stations but will not be available online, and travel will be limited to destinations within Laos because of the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak
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LaoSafe To Drive Improvements In Health And Hygiene Practices
LaoSafe comprises a series of health and hygiene standards for different subsectors of the tourism and hospitality industry
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Ministries To Outline Plans To Reopen Laos
The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism was assigned to work with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the National Taskforce for Covid-19 Prevention and Control and other relevant bodies to draw up a standardised plan for the reopening process.
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Laos, Thailand Keen To Reopen Land Border, Boost Connectivity
Laos and Thailand have agreed to set up a working committee to further discuss details and regulations concerning the reopening of their shared land border.
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Ministry Mulls Route Of Vientiane-Vietnam Expressway
The government is discussing the planned route of an expressway running from Vientiane through Xaysomboun, Xieng Khuang and Huaphan provinces to the Vietnamese border.
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Thailand Now Reopens (Incl. For Laos)! Summary of Thailand Pass and Guidelines Upon Arrival Explained
Under the new traveling rules, travelers are now categorized into three groups.
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Annual Vientiane Boat Racing Festival Cancelled Amid Covid-19 Outbreak
Vientiane authorities have cancelled all events that are traditionally part of the annual boat racing festival, which had been planned from October 20-30.
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New Bokeo International Airport Expected To Be Completed In Months
The construction of new Bokeo International Airport with capability of accommodating 200-seat aircraft such as Airbus A320, Boeing 737 and ATR-72 is expected to take a few months to complete.
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Multiple-Entry Visas Offered To People Of Lao Descent Living Abroad
The government has promulgated a new regulation that offers multiple-entry visas with longer stays for people of Lao origin those who hold another crtizenship and are residents in other countries.
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Can China’s Belt and Road Open Up Landlocked Laos?
As a 420 km high-speed railway nears completion, two Chinese-built highways have been given the green light. Will these projects open up Laos, or make it a crossing point on China’s Belt and Road?
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Lao Airlines Announces Changes To Domestic Flight Schedule
Lao Airlines has announced that flights to several domestic destinations will resume on June 27 and July 2, after being initially planned for June 25.
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No Travel Privileges Even With Two Doses Of Vaccine
Everyone entering Laos must comply all of the standard Covid-19 prevention and control measures, even if they have had two doses of a Covid vaccine, a senior government official has said.
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Vientiane-Pakxe Expressway Awaiting Govt Approval
Construction of the Vientiane-Pakxe expressway will go ahead after the government gives the green light for the proposed route, when feasibility studies on all sections of the highway will begin.
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Korea Airports Corporation To Enter Korea’s First Airport Development Project In Laos
The Ministry of Planning and Investment of Laos selected Korea Airports Corporation as a feasibility study provider for the Luang Prabang airport development project.
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90 Percent Of Tourism Businesses Close Due To Covid Outbreak
The hospitality industry in Laos is facing a further slump as a result of the ongoing outbreak of Covid-19 with about 90 percent of businesses forced to close their doors.
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After A Day Of Confusion, Govt Dismisses Capital’s Lockdown Proposal
The government has decided not to lock down Vientiane after considering a request by city authorities to impose the drastic measure until the end of this month.
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Thailand Braced For Infections Spike After Detecting UK COVID-19 Variant
Source: Thaivisa Thailand has detected at least 24 cases of the coronavirus variant B.1.1.7 first identified in Britain, a government health
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Thai Govt Confirms List Of Approved Vaccines For Foreigners To Enter Thailand With Reduced Quarantine
The Thai government has released its latest guidelines and requirements for foreign tourists wanting to enter the country.
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Pi Mai Lao Celebrations Limited To Traditional Events
Provinces across the country will organise scaled-down events to celebrate Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) from April 14-16 this year.
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Luang Prabang To Celebrate Lao New Year From April 10-25
Luang Prabang province is planning a colourful programme of activities for Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) from April from 10-25 in the hope of attracting more visitors
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Thailand Approves Quarantine Waiver For Tourists
The coronavirus task force on Friday gave the green light to Phuket to receive vaccinated visitors directly from July, without subjecting them to quarantine, after the island inoculates 70% of its residents.
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We Finally Know The True Age of These Huge, Mysterious Jars Scattered in Laos
In total, there are thousands of them – a giant landscape of strange, hollowed jars, carved from ancient stone.
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Tracking App Now Mandatory For Foreign Tourists: Thailand
Foreign tourists who have received the certificate of entry to Thailand are now required to download the ThailandPlus app, prior to their arrival
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Elephant Festival 2021 Limited To Just One Day
This year’s 15th Elephant Festival will be a scaled down affair and will take place over the course of just one day, as a result of the restrictions resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Visitor Adventure Park Planned For Phou Bia Mountain
The developers expect to spend more than US$47 million to create tourism activities alongside environmental conservation measures undertaken by the Khamphay Sana Group.
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More Domestic Tourists Rush To Vangvieng Amid Covid-19 Restrictions
Tourists from Vientiane and other nearby provinces are rushing to Vangvieng district for a short break despite the suspension of the Vangvieng Music Festival to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Thailand Could See Tens Of Thousands Of New Daily COVID Cases By Next Month: CCSA
Thailand could see tens of thousands of new COVID-19 cases per day by mid January, if people fail to follow the preventive guidelines issues to combat the spread of the virus.
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Vientiane-Vangvieng Expressway Officially Open For Motorists
Motorists will now have the convenience of travelling from Vientiane to Vangvieng in an hour following the opening of a new expressway linking the capital to the popular tourist destination on Sunday.
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Thailand To Remain Closed To Mass Tourism Until March, Travel Bubble Discussions Ongoing
Thailand will remain closed to the vast majority of foreign tourists until at least the second quarter of 2021.
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Opening Of Vientiane-Vangvieng Expressway Delayed
Authorities have postponed the opening of the 113.50-km expressway linking Vientiane and Vangvieng as work on the project is not yet fully complete.
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Thai Embassies Scrap 500k THB Financial Requirement For Single Entry Tourist Visa
The Thai embassies in London and Washington appear to have scrapped the recent requirement for foreigners applying for a Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV) to show proof of funds totalling 500,000 THB or equivalent.
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Laos Eagerly Anticipates Opening Of First Expressway
The Vientiane-Vangvieng section is about 110 km long, designed as a two-way four-lane expressway with a design speed of 80 km to 100 km per hour.
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Single Entry Tourist Visa To Thailand Now Requires Foreigners To Show Funds Of 500’000 THB
Foreigners who wish to apply for a Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV) to Thailand are now required to provide 6 months worth of bank statements showing a bank balance of at least 500,000 THB.
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International Border Crossings Remain Closed To Ordinary Travellers: Latest Update
The Prime Minister’s Office issued the update on Saturday, relaxing some of the restrictions in a bid to gradually normalise the situation and mitigate economic impacts.
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Laos To Launch Fast-Track Immigration Service For China Soon
Incomers are expected to spend a shorter time in quarantine; Authorities are also considering the use of electronic tracking devices
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COVID Taskforce Details Procedures For Entry Into Laos
Upon arrival in Laos, incomers will be tested for Covid-19 and will be quarantined at a designated location for 48 hours while they await the test results.
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Tourism Businesses In Laos Slash Prices To Woo Local Travellers
Tour and hospitality business operators have massively cut the cost of their services and package tours to make prices more affordable and encourage Lao people to take vacations around the country.
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Lao Airlines Issues Travel Requirements
Lao Airlines State Enterprise has issued travel advice for passengers wishing to use the airline to enter or exit Laos.
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End Of Buddhist Lent Culminates In Colourful Celebrations
Buddhists across the country spent two days taking part in colourful festivities to mark the end of Buddhism lent or Ork Phan Sa which concluded the three-month traditional rain retreat observed by monks.
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COVID-19 Travel Insurance For Thailand
Our travel insurance plan is designed to meet the health insurance requirements for visitors wanting to enter / transit Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Pilot Launch Of New ‘Phuket Model’ To Let Tourists In Likely Next Month
A new model to reopen Phuket to foreign tourists is expected to be piloted in the middle of next month
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Thailand Not Opening To Foreign Tourists Any Time Soon
Thailand will not be fully reopened to foreign tourists along the lines of the so-called “Phuket Model” any time soon because the government has to consider too many details
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Hin Nam No To Gain World Heritage Status By 2022
Source: Vientiane Times Laos is hopeful that Hin Nam No (Karst) National Protection Area in Bualapha district of Khammuan province
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Activities Around Vientiane
Now that lockdown is starting to ease and we can finally start leaving the house to do more than shopping
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Lao Airlines To Resume Flights On Vientiane-Hanoi Route
State-run Lao Airlines plans to soon resume its international service from Vientiane to Hanoi in Vietnam, with two flights a week on Mondays and Fridays.
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Nearly One-Third Of Tourism-Related Businesses ‘May Shut Down Permanently’: Thailand
The Tourism Council of Thailand estimates that in the next three months up to 30 per cent of tourism-related businesses in Thailand are at risk of shutting down permanently
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Do’s and Don’ts in Lao Culture
If you’re new to Laos it probably didn’t take you long to realise that Lao culture is very different to western cultures. To try and help you navigate the complexities of Lao culture we’ve put together this handy list of Do’s and Don’ts to help make sure you can get on with the local community.
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Medical Certificates Mandatory For Int’l Travel
All travellers exiting Laos will be required to produce a medical certificate for their destination country to contain the spread of Covid-19.
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These Are The Requirements For Foreigners Wishing To Enter Thailand
The Thai government has again confirmed the requirements for people wishing to enter the country amid the coronavirus pandemic.
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Despite Recent Denials, NokScoot Is Closing Down
The Covid-19 pandemic has claimed another victim – regional budget airline NokScoot is closing down.
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No Chance Of Vietnam Resuming International Flights In July: Experts
Vietnamese carriers’ plans to resume international flights next month will come to naught, given fresh Covid-19 outbreaks in Asia and other factors, experts say.
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US Embassy No Longer Issuing Visas For Lao Citizens: Consular Dept
The Consular Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an official notice to inform the general public that the US government has suspended the issuance of visas to Lao citizens.
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International Flights To Thailand Won’t Resume Until September, Says Aviation Authority
Thailand Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has said it will be September before international flights to and from the country resume.
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Vientiane-Vangvieng Expressway Over 70 percent Complete
Source: Vientiane Times Construction of a 113.50-km expressway linking Vientiane and Vangvieng is now over 70 percent complete and authorities
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Lao’s Bucket List
Whether you have lived in Lao for a long time, recently moved here, or are just passing through there are some things in Laos that you just can’t miss. Here we have listed a few of our personal highlights
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Laos Extends Flight Ban
The ban on flights to Laos continues with no end date in sight as far as government announcements go
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Lockdown Eased, But Thailand Remains Closed To Foreign Tourists For Another Month
Though Thailand will allow some businesses to reopen from Friday (May 1), the country is still not ready to welcome foreign tourists, say government officials.
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Ban On Inbound Flights Continues: Thailand
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is planning to extend its inbound flight ban for another 15 days
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Lao Tourism Income To Decline At Least US$350 Million In 2020
Laos is expecting tourism revenues to fall by at least US$350 million (3,111 billion kip) this year with the sector to cut 2 percent off the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).
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Lao Airlines To Resume All Domestic Flights Next Month
Lao Airlines will resume flights on all domestic routes next month after operations were suspended during April 1-19 to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.
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Thailand Extends Foreigners’ Visas As Coronavirus Cases Slow
Thailand’s cabinet approved a second automatic visa extension for foreigners for three more months until July 31
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Twelve Predictions For Life After Coronavirus: Travel & Tourism
12 predictions for the travel and tourism industry in Asia
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Vientiane Bus Suspends All Services
Vientiane State Bus Enterprise (VSBE) suspended its services on every route in Vientiane and to other provinces yesterday following the cancellation of international routes on March 23.
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Foreigners Can Apply For Lao Stay Extensions
Foreigners who cannot leave Laos at this time, because all borders are closed to prevent the spread of Covid-19, can request extensions on their stay.
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Health Certificates Required Of All Visitors: Thailand
The Thai government will extend the requirement of medical certificates and health insurance from Sunday to cover all visitors to the country regardless of nationalities to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
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Northern Laos Province Closes 10 Border Crossings With Vietnam
Authorities in northern Laos’ Huaphan province on Sunday (March 15) called for the temporary closure of 10 traditional border crossings with Vietnam
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Laos Cancels Public Events Including Lao New Year Celebrations on COVID-19 Fears
Authorities in Laos are urging the public to suspend or postpone all “unnecessary” social events including weddings and Lao New Year celebrations in an attempt to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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Bangkok Airways announces flight suspensions VTE-BKK
Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited has announced a decrease in flight frequency as well as flight termination on certain domestic and international routes to be in line with current passenger demand.
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Lao Airlines To Suspend Flights To South Korea
Source: Vientiane Times Laos’ national airline, the Lao Airlines State Enterprise, will suspend flights to the Republic of Korea beginning
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Pay Road Tax Or Get Stopped At The Border
Vehicle owners who have not paid road tax will not be permitted to cross the border into other countries
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Laos Ranked Third In Top Country Awards By UK Wanderlust Magazine
Source: The Star Laos has been named second runner-up in the Top Country rankings in the UK’s Wanderlust Reader Travel
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“Wear Face Masks Or Be Kicked Out Of Thailand” Says Thai Health Minister
Any ‘farangs’ who do not wear face masks should be kicked out of the country, that’s according to Thailand’s health minister, Anutin Charnvirakul.
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Vientiane Named Among Cheapest Cities For Backpackers
Vientiane has been named the second cheapest city in Asia for backpackers to visit in 2020
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Laos Cracks Down on Ivory, Rhino Horn Sales in Luang Prabang
Authorities in the Luang Prabang province of northern Laos have stepped up controls over the sale of ivory, rhinoceros horn, and other illegal wildlife products
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Zipline Failure Kills Korean Tourist
Travel professionals called on the Lao government to introduce stricter regulations after a Korean tourist died and two other tourists suffered injuries when a Zipline collapsed at this popular riverside tourist town in Laos.
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Friendship Border To Operate 24 Hours
Two land entry points – Nong Khai (between Thailand and Laos) and Sadao (between Thailand and Malaysia), will be open 24 hours a day for a three-month trial period.
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Thailand Is Reminding Travellers About Its Smoking Ban
The Tourism Authority of Thailand is reminding travellers about its smoking ban in public areas, which aims to promote a safe, clean and smoke-free environment for all.
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Thai Airways Sell One Pass One Price
Thai Airways International is offering a One Pass One Price Value Card Package for four economy class fares to destinations in the Mekong region
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Boat Races To Take Place In Front of Landmark Hotel
This year’s boat races will take place on a stretch of the Mekong River near the Landmark Mekong Riverside Hotel, in a change of plan announced on Thursday.
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Asia’s Beaches Go Quiet as Chinese Tourists Stay Home
From quiet beaches in Bali to empty rooms in Hanoi’s hotels, pangs from China’s economic malaise and weakening yuan are being felt across Southeast Asia’s vacation belt.
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Tour Bus Plunges Into Ravine in Laos, Killing 13 Chinese Tourists
A tour bus skidded off a road and plunged into a ravine in northern Laos’ Luang Prabang province Monday afternoon, killing at least 13 Chinese nationals and injuring 31 others, a Lao police officer said.
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Kaolao Cave Soon To Reopen After New Facilities Built
Kaolao cave in Nam-Eng village, Viengphoukha district, Luang Namtha province, will reopen at the end of this year after being closed for five months so that visitor amenities can be built.
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Lao Airlines to launch Vientiane-Kumamoto service in November
Source: Japan Times Lao Airlines said Thursday it is planning to launch regular flights in November connecting the Laotian capital
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Avoid Black Henna Tattoos Or Risk Permanent Scaring
Black henna tattoos are a popular holiday ‘souvenir sought after by many visitors to Asean’s holiday resort locations due to their allegedly non-permanent nature and the mistaken belief that they are safe, even for children.
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UNESCO Lists Plain Of Jars As World Heritage Site
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) on Saturday added the Plain of Jars in Xieng Khuang province to its list of World Heritage Sites.
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Laos Launches eVisa Service
Laos launched its tourist eVisa service, earlier this week, a move that the travel trade says will make it more convenient for visitors.
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Visitor Numbers From High-end, Target Countries Plummet
The number of visitors to Laos from high-end and target countries declined significantly in the first three months of this year compared to the same period in 2018, a recent report reveals.
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Extension to Wattay International Airport Planned
Source: Vientiane Times The government is planning to expand Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport to meet the growing need for passenger
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More Mysterious ‘Jars of The Dead’ Have Been Discovered in Laos
Unknown to many travellers in southeast Asia, the ‘jars of the dead’ in Laos are a 2,000-year-old mystery that has never been solved.
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Beat The Heat – Best Public Pools In Vientiane
Although cooling down under a cool lush waterfall is a long lost dream, there are several beautiful pools available throughout Vientiane city.
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Travel Insurance by APA
Our Travel Insurance covers accidents and illnesses incurred on your trips in Laos or abroad.
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Patuxai – Victory Gate Vientiane
When the USA donated cement and funds to expand the airport in Laos, the Laotians built a massive monument instead.
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Pi Mai Lao: 8 Rules To Follow
Vientiane Public Security Headquarters announced eight regulations, aimed at maintaining social order during Lao New Year (April 14-16).
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Scoot Is Now Offering Singapore’s First Direct Flight To Laos
Singaporeans can now hop on a direct flight to Luang Prabang and Vientiane, after budget carrier Scoot unveiled three new weekly flights to Laos on April 1.
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China’s US$7 Billion Railway Link To Laos Is Almost Half Done, On Schedule To Begin Service In 2021
The 414km railway from Yunnan’s provincial capital of Kunming to the Laotian capital of Vientiane would cut travelling time to three hours, from three days
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Crazier Than Fiction: The Elephant Rangers of Laos
An innovative project to utilise Laos’ elephant experts in service of protecting the country’s natural treasures is waiting on just one thing – government approval
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Two Week Wait For Tourist & Non-Immigrant Visa Appointments at Thai Embassy in Vientiane !
Anyone who was planning to visit the Royal Thai Embassy in Vientiane to apply for a tourist or non-immigrant visa should be aware that there are no appointments available for at least two weeks.
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Champassak Tempting Tourists For Visit Laos-China Year
Champassak is focusing on distinctive festivities and various initiatives in a bid to lure more tourists to the southern province during Visit Laos-China Year 2019.
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Lao Airlines Takes Off For Shanghai
Lao Airlines, the national flag carrier, has launched a weekly flight to Shanghai to serve the expected influx of Chinese tourists and other passengers during Visit Laos-China Year 2019.
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Laos To Host 2024 ASEAN School Games
Laos will have the opportunity to host the 16th ASEAN School Games for the very first time in its capital Vientiane in 2024, Lao sports authorities said.
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Scoot Launches New Laos Route From Perth
Fly from Perth, via Singapore, to Luang Prabang and Vientiane from $189 each way.
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Revealed: the special button that allows bent taxi drivers to rip off customers: Thailand
An online video showed what one taxi driver was doing to rip off his customers.
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Thai Embassy In Vientiane Issues Warning To Visa Runners
Source: ThaiVisa People who have a history of staying in Thailand using only tourist visas or ‘in-out’ border runs are
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Laos Faces Tourism Setback
Laos will close its “Visit Laos Year 2018 promotion well short of the 5 million tourist arrivals target
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Update: Thailand To Allow Again Land Border Entry for Expats In Laos And Other Neighboring Countries
The Interior Ministry regulation will be amended to allow foreigners who receive a visa waiver for 30 days and travel into Thailand via land immigration checkpoints or land border checkpoints to enter the country with an unlimited number of visa waivers per calendar year.
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How Thailand’s New e-Visa On Arrival Works (Video)
Last month Thailand officially launched its e-Visa on Arrival (E-VOA) application system.
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Chinese-Owned Cement Factories Pollute Lao Villages
Two Chinese-owned cement factories in the Vang Vieng district of Laos’ Vientiane Province are covering approximately 900 local families in at least four villages with dust and smog, threatening their health, local sources say.
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Time-Honoured Wax Castle Procession Pays Homage To That Luang Stupa
Thousands of Buddhists decorated their colourful pasaatpheung (wax castles) with candles, flowers, money and incense as they joined the annual procession yesterday to pay homage to the That Luang stupa.
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Police Announce Traffic Plans For That Luang Festival
The police have announced plans for parking and road access during this year’s That Luang festival from November 16-22, hoping to ease the traffic congestion that always plagues this popular event.
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Tour Operators Call For Chronic Problems To Be Addressed
Authorities should address issues that are a source of annoyance for tour operators and tourists, to ensure better conditions for visitors during Visit Laos-China Year 2019 and beyond, tour operators say.
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Myanmar-Laos Border Gate Receives International Status
The border gate between Myanmar and Laos has been upgraded and given international status, according to the Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population.
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Traditional Merit Making Marks End Of Buddhist Lent
A bright, sunny morning yesterday saw people across the country flocking to temples to present their offerings to monks as a means of making merit on the last day of Buddhist Lent.
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Don’t Miss Vientiane’s Boat Races, End Of Lent Festivities
Tourists visiting the capital of Laos this month shouldn’t miss the Vientiane Boat Racing Festival and other traditional and religious activities marking the end of Buddhist Lent.
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Plain Of Jars Potential As Unesco World Heritage Site Considered
A meeting will be held this week in Xieng Khuang province to report on the progress made for the consideration of the Plain of Jars (Thong Hai Hin) as a potential UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Lao Tax: Everyone Who Travels Pays
Sources at the friendship bridge said there were no exceptions and the tax applied to all foreigners regardless of their travel documents, include foreigners who are resident in Laos.
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Thai Hotel Features Nazi-Themed ‘Communist’ Room
Thai sex hotel sparks outrage with bizarre Nazi-themed room decorated with swastikas and huge murals of HITLER overlooking bed
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Laos Slaps A Dollar Tax On Tourists
Almost forgotten but on the brew for years the much talked about tourist tax was quietly introduced at all of Lao PDR’s border checkpoints 1 October.
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Vientiane Airport: International Expansion As China Tourism Booms
Vientiane Airport has doubled the size of its international terminal, supporting a Laotian initiative to boost tourism. Laos expects Vientiane’s international passenger traffic to double over the next five years, driven by a rapid increase in visitor numbers.
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Can Tourism Boost Lao’s Economy?
Source: The Asean Post Last July, Lao witnessed a catastrophe when the Xe-Pian Xe Namnoy dam located on the Xe
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Thakhaek, A Town Firmly Rooted In History
The French were forced out of Indochina during the 1950s but their legacy remains, with the most notable feature being the old buildings that bear their architectural stamp.
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The Flora Of Laos
A botanical park in Luang Prabang reveals how plants are used in everyday life in Laos
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Chinese Tourist ‘Invasion’ Feared As High-Speed Laos-China Railway Will Boost Visitor Numbers Dramatically
Trepidation about a huge influx of Chinese tourists into the small Southeast Asian country – with a population of just 6.8 million – was heightened last year when construction was started on the high-speed Laos-China Railway.
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Thai Banks ‘Prepared’ Amid Warning Of Global ATM Attack
Commercial banks in Thailand have boosted security to prevent unauthorised access to their automatic teller machines as cybercriminals are reportedly planning to carry out a large-scale global ATM attack.
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Laos’ Main Airport Got Huge Expansion
The international terminal of the airport serving the Laotian capital of Vientiane, Wattay International Airport, can now accommodate as many as 2.3 million foreign travelers a year, roughly nine times the original terminal’s capacity.
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Pullman Debuts In Laos
The 16-hectare resort overlooks a lush greenery with a backdrop of beautiful mountain views and paddy fields along meandering streams and ponds in the rustic countryside.
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Five Million Tourists Target Proving Lofty, PM Admits
The government is not so confident in achieving its target of attracting five million tourists to Laos in 2018 as an informal mid-year summary had shown that less than two million had visited the country so far this year, Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith told the recent Lao Business Forum.
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