Travel

Thailand, China and Vietnam Fuel Laos’ Tourism Growth in 2026

Laos welcomed nearly 2.6 million international tourists in the first half of 2026, up 9.9 percent from the same period last year, according to the latest figures from the Tourism Development Department under the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism. Thailand remained the country's biggest source of visitors, with 833,738...

Laos Launches Cultural Association to Preserve Heritage, Build Soft Power

On 16 July, Laos established a new cultural association tasked with preserving national heritage...

Vietnam Rolls Out Digital Pre-Arrival System

Vietnam has launched the Pre-Arrival Information (PAI) system, replacing the paper arrival card that...

Laos, Japan Launch Major Upgrade of Wattay International Airport

Laos and Japan launched a major upgrade of Wattay International Airport in Vientiane on...

Remains of 37 People Discovered in Giant Stone Jar in Xieng Khouang

A new excavation on Laos’ mysterious Plain of Jars in Xieng Khouang has uncovered...

Lao Government Keeps Majority in Lao Airlines as COMAC Takes 49% Stake

On 10 November, the Lao government confirmed an agreement with the Chinese state-owned aircraft manufacturer, Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC). Under the deal,...

Japan Plans to Raise Visa Fees from 2026 Amid Overtourism Concerns

Japan plans to raise its visa issuance fees for foreign visitors starting in the 2026 fiscal year, as the country faces an unprecedented tourism...

China to Launch Online Entry Forms for Foreign Travelers Starting 20 November

China is set to introduce a new digital immigration system that allows foreign visitors to complete arrival forms online before entering the country.  Beginning 20...

Luang Prabang Scores Silver for Sustainable Tourism 2025–2027

Luang Prabang has set a new benchmark for sustainable tourism in Laos by earning the Green Destinations Silver certification for 2025–2027.  Soudaphone Khomthavong, Director of...

Attapeu Approves Xekaman 1 Dam Tourism Development Project

Attapeu Province is taking a major step to expand its tourism sector with the approval of a 30-year concession to develop the area around...

Registration, Licensing Required for Sound System Use During That Luang Festival

The Department of Culture and Tourism of Vientiane Capital has announced that all individuals, businesses, and organizations planning to use loudspeakers or sound systems...