Tourism promoted during National Games

In December, the National Games will be held in Savannakhet Province. The tourism office plans to attract more tourists for the occasion by promoting the many activities that are available along Road No. 9. This includes viewing of the dinosaur footprints at the Luang Rapids, observation of activities from a tower, visiting a turtle pond at Done Daeng Village, watching monkeys at Dong Muang Village and attending a celebration at That Inhang.

Eco-tourism in Laos

In June, Laos's National Tourism Authority, tourism agencies and non-governmental organisations met at Phou Khao Khouay National Park to discuss the long-term development of the country's parks for sustainable eco-tourism. The strategies proposed will use different steps and measures to develop eco-tourism in a way that preserves the environment and natural and cultural resources, as well as economically benefit local communities. A list of the main attractions in Laos include: a low population density, ethnic lifestyles and unspoiled traditions, and the most extensive ecosystem in the Indochina peninsula.

The Nam Et Phou Loei Protected Area in Huaphan Province (Laos's second-largest protected area) will be developed into a wildlife tourist attraction, giving visitors a chance to see tigers and protect the tigers from hunters. Tourism officials and tour operators will be invited on a special field trip in Huaphan Province later in the year, organised by Wildlife Conservation Society. Tourism will provide an alternative income for local people, especially in training them on how to provide standard services, such as accommodation, food, and tours for tourists who come to see tigers.

For the first months of 2005, the number of visitors in Bokeo Province has increased by 27%. In total last year 14,000 tourists came to the province, easily accessible from Luang Prabang or Luang Namtha provinces. The main attraction for visitors is to discover the lifestyle and clothing of the Lean Taen Tribe, who dwell in the eastern area of the province.

Openings in Luang Prabang and Vientiane

Luang Prabang

On 1^st September, the contemporary Green Park Boutique Hotel opened in the heart of Vientiane’s business district with 30 deluxe and executive guest rooms and four executive suites, all equipped with private balconies, mini-bars, bathroom gardens, satellite television and personal safes. Facilities include high-speed Internet access, a 24-hour business centre, a spa and fitness centre, and an outdoor swimming pool with Jacuzzi.

Villa Euangpa

The Villa Euangpa, which soft-opened in July, officially opened its hotel in September with seven guest rooms in two restored traditional houses. Each room is equipped with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and mini-bars. Located five minutes from the centre of Luang Prabang, the hotel also features a restaurant that serves French and Lao cuisine, a bar, and a boutique.