Provinces record mixed visitor numbers over Lao New Year

Provinces across the country reported mixed results in the number of visitors over Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) with some places attracting more than last year while other locations saw a dip in tourist numbers.
Head of the Vangvieng district Information, Culture and Tourism office, Mr Bounmy Phommavongsa, told Vientiane Times yesterday that the number of visitors to the perennially popular destination was down by about 20 percent compared to 2018.
“Visitor numbers were down because other provinces held special activities and some had developed new visitor attractions,” he said.

This year Vangvieng authorities also held the annual concert some distance away from popular places so as to reduce congestion and noise levels, which may have deterred some visitors, he added.
“Another reason for the dip in visitor numbers is the price of goods and fees at tourist attractions, as well as the fact that accommodation is more expensive than previously,” Mr Bounmy added.
However, authorities have trained staff in ways to improve the quality of services and facilities at hotels and guesthouses in a bid to impress visitors and lure them back.
Entry fees were also restructured so that visitors paid only once to gain access to the area’s leading tourist attractions.
Luang Prabang province is arguably the most popular destination over Pi Mai Lao thanks to its colourful activities, including the Miss Lao New Year (Nang Sangkhan) procession and the building of sand stupas to bring good luck.
There are also traditional shows with Phalak, Phalam and Nangkeo dancing to entertain visitors.
Nevertheless, visitor numbers for this year were expected to be much the same as in 2018.
“Visitor numbers didn’t increase because roads leading into Luang Prabang province were hit hard by floods last year and the authorities are still repairing them,” Director of the provincial Information, Culture and Tourism Department, Mr Soulithip Norkhounphon, said.
Meanwhile, further south the provinces of Champassak, Khammuan and Savannakhet reported more visitors than in 2018. More tourists from China and Vietnam were particularly apparent during Pi Mai Lao, according to these provinces’ Information, Culture and Tourism Departments.

By Siladda Souliyong
(Latest Update April 20, 2019)