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Thursday, January 16, 2025
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Lao Art Museum Draws Praise, Criticism Over Entry Fee, Construction Delays

This Week

The new Lao Art Museum officially opened on 5 January in Vientiane’s Nonsaart village, Xaythany district. 

Construction of the Museum began in 2021 with a budget of over USD 50 million.

Covering 80 hectares, the museum complex currently features four zones, including the information building and a reception area, an arts and culture exhibition hall, an observation hall, and a multi-purpose building. 

However, construction is still ongoing with more facilities expected to open throughout the year. The venue is scheduled to be finalized by mid-February with wood carvings and paintings, souvenirs shop, restaurant and beverage options, an artificial waterfall and other attractions.

The hotels and resorts are currently under construction under Phase 2 of the plan. The completion date is yet to be identified. 

This new landmark is set to become a major tourist destination while offering a space for learning and conservation.

After the grand opening, some people expressed concerns, particularly about the museum’s readiness. While the official opening is scheduled for mid-February, some visitors have raised concerns about the museum’s readiness for public access. Questions about areas still under construction and the entrance fee have been circulating.

Areya Sayathith, Executive Director of the Lao Art Museum, addressed these concerns, explaining that certain zones are accessible to visitors, but some areas remain closed for construction and are not yet ready for public viewing.

“The reason why we are still unable to welcome tourists is because we do not have enough staff, the management system is not systematic, security staff and system, and some zones are not 100 percent complete,” she said.

While some users offered congratulations to the Lao Art Museum for its beauty and traditional art, others are asking for clearer information. 

Stephan R. Aeschbach, President of J&C Group, living and working in Laos for over 23 years, had the chance to visit the Lao Art Museum shortly after the opening.

“I’m incredibly excited that Laos now boasts such a magnificent landmark, a must-see destination for all visitors to the country, I am confident that it will showcase a wider range of Laotian art, become a hub for artistic interaction and exchange, and offer a diverse array of workshops for artists” he said. 

“The museum is a stunning sight, particularly the dramatic entrance via a floating stage across the lake. While still under construction, the sheer scale and beauty of this project are already impressive.”

But aside from the beauty and grandeur of the new structure, he has reservations regarding the entrance fees.

“Considering the museum is still under construction, with many facilities and areas remaining closed, and the current exhibit primarily focuses on wooden carvings, the entrance fee of USD 15 for foreigners (LAK 100,000 for Lao citizens) seems rather high. Once construction is complete, all facilities are open to the public, and a diverse collection of Lao art is on display, this entrance fee may become more appropriate” Aeschbach said. 

The full entry fee for Lao nationals is LAK 100,000, while for foreigners, it is LAK 220,000, tourists can pay by cash, credit card or bank transfer. An online booking system will be available in the future.

The museum is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:00 PM.

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