Laos Preps for 2024 Tourism Boom

Laos is gearing up for a surge in foreign visitors in 2024 as it hosts the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and initiates Visit Laos Year 2024. The Lao government prioritises tourism as a key driver for economic revitalization and hopes to welcome at least 4.6 million tourists, generating $712 million in revenue.

Boosting Tourism Through Visit Laos Year 2024 Campaign

In November 2023, the government will launch the "Visit Laos Year 2024 Campaign" to boost tourism, broaden offerings, and improve service quality. The Deputy Prime Minister aims to make Laos a globally appealing destination by targeting key market segments. The campaign will prioritise various strategic areas for tourism development.

• Promoting Laos' unique culture and heritage

• Developing new tourism products and experiences

• Improving the quality of tourism infrastructure and services

• Marketing Laos to new and emerging markets

Activities and Improvements Across Provinces

Laos has scheduled 75 activities for Visit Laos Year 2024, with 14 of them being held nationwide and 61 in provinces. Provincial authorities are working hard to improve tourist attractions and facilities to meet international standards. They are also improving road signage and making it easier for tourists to access neighbouring countries and tourist sites.

Here are some examples of the activities and improvements that are taking place in different provinces:

• Vientiane Province: The capital city of Vientiane is undergoing a number of improvements, including the renovation of the city's historic centre and the construction of new hotels and resorts. The city is also hosting a number of events during Visit Laos Year 2024,including the ASEAN Tourism Forum and the Lao Food Festival.

• Luang Prabang Province: Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Laos. Provincial authorities are working to improve the city's infrastructure and services, and they are also promoting new tourism products, such as ecotourism and cultural tourism.

• Oudomxay Province: Oudomxay Province is known for its beautiful scenery and its diverse ethnic groups. Provincial authorities are working to develop new tourism products in the province, such as community-based tourism and adventure tourism.

• Champasak Province: Champasak Province is home to a number of ancient temple ruins, including the Vat Phou temple complex. Provincial authorities are working to improve the tourism infrastructure in the province and to promote the province's cultural heritage.

• Bokeo Province: Bokeo Province is known for its lush rainforests and its elephant sanctuaries. Provincial authorities are working to develop new tourism products in the province, such as ecotourism and adventure tourism.

Attractions and Events Across Different Provinces

Provinces across Laos are working to attract more tourists by promoting their unique attractions and events, improving visitor facilities, and enhancing tourism services.

• Phongsaly Province is planning to host ethnic food and tea festivals to showcase the province's diverse culture and cuisine.

• Luang Prabang Province, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Laos, is intensifying its advertising efforts and improving visitor facilities. The government is also investing in new tourism infrastructure, such as hotels and restaurants.

• Bolikhamxay Province is promoting activities such as hiking, camping, and kayaking, while Khammouane Province is working to improve the tourism infrastructure in the province and to promote its cultural heritage.

Preparations for ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024

Laos is preparing to host the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024, which will take place from January 22 to 27, 2024, in Vientiane, the capital city. The forum is a major event in the ASEAN tourism calendar, and it is expected to attract delegates from all over the world.

The government is making a number of preparations for the forum, including:

• Revising action plans: The government is revising its action plans for the tourism sector in order to ensure that the country is ready to welcome more visitors.

• Developing travel programs: The government is developing new travel programs for delegates to the forum. These programs will showcase Laos' tourist destinations and offer delegates a chance to experience Lao culture.

• Ensuring restaurant quality and environmental standards: The government is working with restaurants in Vientiane to ensure that they meet high standards of quality and cleanliness. The government is also working to improve the environmental standards in the city.

• Streamlining entry and exit procedures at border crossings: The Lao government is working to streamline entry and exit procedures at border crossings in order to make it easier for delegates to travel to and from Laos.

The ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 is a significant opportunity for Laos to showcase its tourist destinations to a global audience. The forum is expected to generate a lot of media attention and to attract new tourists to Laos.

Growing Tourism Numbers

In the first half of 2023, Laos recorded nearly 1.7 million foreign tourists, with Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese nationals being the top visitors. The country's allure continues to grow, making it an exciting destination for international travellers.

FAQS

What is the reason behind Laos preparing for a tourism boom in 2024?

Laos is anticipating a tourism boom in 2024 due to increased interest from international travellers and a growing reputation as an emerging destination.

What measures is Laos taking to prepare for this tourism surge?

Laos is investing in infrastructure, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and enhancing its hospitality services to accommodate the expected influx of tourists in 2024.

What are the main attractions in Laos that tourists can look forward to in 2024?

Laos boasts diverse attractions, including stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, historic temples, and the unique charm of cities like Luang Prabang and Vientiane.

Is Laos focused on sustainable tourism in its preparations for 2024?

Yes, Laos is committed to sustainable tourism, emphasising responsible practices to preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations.

Are there any visa or entry requirements for tourists visiting Laos in 2024?

Tourists should check with the embassy or consulate in their home country for the latest visa and entry requirements, as these regulations may change.

What can tourists do to support responsible tourism in Laos in 2024?

Travellers can respect local customs, minimise their environmental impact, and support local businesses to contribute to responsible and sustainable tourism in Laos.