The sun sinks behind distinctive karst hills overlooking the Nam Song River, just outside the city of Vang Vieng
Laos, or the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, has had a magic attraction to modern travellers since October 1989, when its borders were opened to international tourism. The country’s turbulent but colourful history, outstanding natural beauty and reputation for friendliness all combine to provide the ultimate package for visitors looking for to experience something charming but raw.
Having escaped the pitfall of overdevelopment that characterises some parts of Southeast Asia, Laos is also becoming increasingly known for its proactive stance on responsible tourism. Opportunities to experience traditional Lao culture are manifold and the chance to experience local daily life is a major attraction for many visitors.
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FEATURE ARTICLES
KUANG SI AND TAD SE: FALLING FOR LAOS’ NATURE NEAR LUANG PRABANG
The northern city of Luang Prabang is the perfect jumping-off point for visitors keen to see examples of Laos’ remarkable natural spectacles – the waterfalls of Kuang Si and Tad Se. MORE…
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THE POWER OF THE LOCAL CONNECTION
When a father loses track of a travelling daughter, the whl.travel local connection goes where others can’t. This article explores the occasionally surprising results of whl.travel’s unique strengths. MORE…
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LEE SHERIDAN AND TEAMWORKZ CONSULTING: A RESPONSIBLE TOURISM TRIUMPH IN SOUTHEAST ASIA
Although it was by no means a given that he should end where he is, there’s no contesting Sheridan’s golden touch today in Lao tourism. MORE…
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WHL.TRAVEL COVERAGE IN THE MEKONG MAY SOON KNOW NO EQUAL
whl.travel’s presence in the countries along the Mekong River is making travelling in the area simpler all the time, particularly when it comes to caring for the destination. MORE…
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TEAMWORKZ CONSULTING IN LAOS IS THE WHL.TRAVEL FRANCHISEE OF THE YEAR 2008-2009
At the 2009 whl.travel Asia-Pacific Regional Conference, Teamworkz Consulting was recognised as Franchisee of the Year for its work in and around Vientiane. MORE…
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LAOS ON TWO WHEELS: LOOKING BEYONG LUANG PRABANG
Two travellers seeking a more authentic experience of glorious Southeast Asian countryside, try their hands at something different: mountain biking in the Lao hills outside of Luang Prabang. MORE….
PHOTO OF THE WEEK (20/12/10): COOLING OFF IN VANG VIENG
A young boy cools down on the banks of the scenic Nam Song River in Vang Vieng, where Lao and international tourists flock to join in the fun. MORE…
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DESTINATION SITES
whl.travel currently supports four destinations in Laos.
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FINGER ON THE PULSE
Getting up-to-date information about Laos can be tricky. Luckily, the whl.travel local partner can help with regular updates, insight and opinions. Follow them:
- Flickr
- Twitter: @Lee_Sheridan
- Luang Prabang Hotels and Tours fan page on Facebook
- Vang Vieng Hotels and Tours fan page on Facebook
- Vientiane Hotels and Tours fan page on Facebook
For additional information, take a look at some media coverage:
- Small World (from TIME Magazine)
- Sustainability: The Time is Lao (from Sideways News)
- AusAID Enterprise Challenge Fund Case Study on Teamworkz Consulting (.pdf file, 140kb)
- Interview with Lee Sheridan of Teamworz Consulting on ABC Radio Australia: Connect Asia (transcript and audio available)
Posted under General
This post was written by paul on October 12, 2009