In a bold move to revitalize its economy, Laos has set an ambitious goal: attract two million national tourists and generate over 1.3 billion dollars in total income. The Year of Visit to Laos 2024, themed ‘A paradise of culture, nature, and history’, is well underway, marking a significant step towards achieving this objective.
Rebounding from the Pandemic: A Fresh Start
Speaking at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 in Vientiane, Southisack Sayasavanh, the Tours Director of DiscoverLaos, shared his insights on the recovery of tourism post the global pandemic. He revealed that domestic tourism markets have rebounded the fastest, with Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng leading the charge in terms of regional recovery.
Ecotourism and Cultural Preservation: The Cornerstones
Laos is focusing on creating the Ecotourism Standard of ASEAN, emphasizing sustainable practices and environmental responsibility. This commitment extends to preserving cultural heritage, with several cultural practices being nominated for UNESCO recognition.
Harnessing Technology: The Future of Tourism
Southisack expressed his vision for the future of tourism in Laos, highlighting new projects and areas of interest to tourists. He elaborated on how DiscoverLaos is leveraging technology to expand its business, enhancing customer experience and streamlining operations.
As Laos moves forward with its tourism revival plan, the focus remains on striking a balance between economic growth and cultural preservation. The Year of Visit to Laos 2024 not only aims to boost tourism as a means of economic recovery but also strives to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to the world.
