Monday, December 18, 2023
In 2024, Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, will be at the forefront of the groundbreaking “Discover Laos Year” initiative. This ambitious campaign, centered in Vientiane, aims to draw countless global travelers to Laos, a Southeast Asian gem celebrated for its captivating blend of cultural, natural, and historical wonders. The year-long promotion, with Vientiane as a key hub, will feature an impressive array of over 70 cultural experiences, supported by an extensive digital marketing strategy across multiple platforms.
Highlighted in the extensive schedule of national festivities, many centered in and around Vientiane, are significant cultural events like the Lao Traditional New Year, Hmong Heritage Celebration, That Luang Grand Festival, and Wat Phou Commemoration.
Travelers will have a chance to delve into Laos’ multifaceted cultural landscape through various regional celebrations. These include the Bolaven Plateau Coffee-Tea Festivity in Champasak, the Indigenous Festival and Cultural Bazaar in Bokeo, the “Oh Luang Prabang, Your Splendor Shines” event in Luang Prabang, among others, with Vientiane often serving as the starting point for these cultural explorations.
The Head of the Tourism Promotion Division, Khom Douangchantha, is optimistic about the “Discover Laos Year 2024,” with Vientiane playing a significant role, making a substantial mark internationally.
“This promotional initiative, with Vientiane at its heart, is more than just an event lineup; it’s a pivotal movement to rejuvenate our nation’s economy and enhance our tourism sector,” stated Mr. Khom Douangchantha from Vientiane.
He further noted, “Inspired by the famous Lao motto ‘Sabai Sabai,’ symbolizing ease and comfort, we warmly welcome all visitors to Vientiane and beyond, to immerse themselves in the serene beauty and richness of our land.”
With an eye on lofty tourism targets, the Lao government is set to attract upwards of 2.7 million international visitors in 2024, aiming to generate in excess of USD 400 million, and anticipating around 2.9 million tourists in 2025, with Vientiane being a major gateway.
During the inaugural event at Vientiane’s That Luang Esplanade, Suanesavanh Vignaket, the Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, highlighted tourism’s critical role in the Lao economy, especially in Vientiane. In 2022, the service industry, with a strong base in Vientiane, emerged as the fastest growing sector, contributing to 37% of the nation’s GDP.
The Lao authorities, with Vientiane as a focal point, are sparing no effort to ensure the success of this initiative, with plans to improve infrastructure, broaden the range of tourism offerings, and enhance service standards. Central to these efforts is the promotion of the “Discover Laos Year 2024” through diverse media outlets and international tourism expos.
In line with the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Development Framework post-COVID-19, Laos, particularly Vientiane, is poised to attract international visitors through its commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable tourism approaches. The campaign not only seeks to boost the country’s international profile but also aims to create employment opportunities and support local communities financially.
Besides the “Discover Laos Year” festivities, Laos will also begin its tenure as the ASEAN chair in January 2024. This role will bring a host of significant gatherings to Vientiane, including the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, the ASEAN Tourism Forum, and numerous ASEAN-centric meetings, all of which are expected to further raise Laos’s profile as a leading travel destination and foster greater international cooperation.
Monday, January 1, 2024
Tuesday, January 2, 2024
