What should be done to revive tourism?

Although the government fully reopened Laos to foreign tourists last month, there are still very few visitors to be seen touring the sights in the capital. Vientiane Times asked some local residents what might be done to tempt tourists to return.

Mr Siphone, a resident of Naxaithong district: I think it will be quite hard to revive tourism to pre-pandemic levels. Some of our main attractions have lost their appeal because of poor maintenance, and now prices are rising and there’s a countrywide fuel shortage. This is affecting everything, and prices have risen right across the board. Of course, people travel to have fun and to enjoy some leisure time, while also visiting places of interest and scenic beauty. If people have to pay more than before to visit places that haven’t improved in any way and have the same facilities, they are likely to stay away. But if the government can do more to encourage tourists and make them feel welcome, I’m sure we will see them back here in large numbers.
 
Ms Chay Phetnavong, a government official in Xaythany district: Most importantly, all aspects of service should be improved to ensure safety for both visitors and service providers.  We have many places of natural beauty but they aren’t easily accessible. There are many places that are being developed to attract visitors but one thing that does need attention is road access to tourist sites, because many are in bad condition. In other places, road access is good, but the concessionaires that run the sites charge high entrance fees as well as requiring payment for various services. I think a lot of people are interested in coming to Laos but may be put off by stories of the inconveniences here. The authorities should set the price of transport and strictly monitor transport operators to ensure that visitors are not cheated during the fuel crisis.
 
Ms Katae Xayasa, a resident of Vientiane: There are many beautiful places in Laos and Vangvieng’s reputation in particular is growing, especially among younger travellers. But my visit last weekend revealed a different Vangvieng to the bustling little town I spent time in before the pandemic hit, because it was very quiet. I don’t think it will be difficult to persuade foreign tourists to return, but I don’t think it will happen for quite some time. Of course, it’s the same in almost every other country. Tourism has taken a sharp downtown globally and many countries are encountering an economic slump because of the absence of tourists. It would help if the government could do something to tackle the economic crisis we’re currently facing, as this would make travel a more attractive prospect.
 
Ms Lily, a resident of Chanthabouly district: I don’t see how tourism can be revived any time soon, because of the fuel shortage and the weak kip. As we know, travel is something that people do to relax and they don’t want to run into problems. Even in the past, the price of accommodation, food and services in Laos was relatively high compared to other countries, so I don’t want to think about the costs at present. If things in Laos don’t change soon, I think not only foreigners but also Lao people will look for travel opportunities in other countries. 

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update June 3, 2022)