Huaphan, Son La provinces stage festival to promote local culture, tourism

The Huaphan and Son La Cultural Tourism Festival, showcasing these remote northern provinces of Laos and Vietnam as a leading regional tourist destination, is taking place in Huaphan province from March 20-23.

Dr Khampheng Saysompheng (centre) tours a photo exhibition  portraying the close cooperation between Laos and Vietnam.

Son La province in Vietnam borders on Huaphan to the east and the two provinces are working to develop and benefit from their shared links.
Visitors can enjoy cultural shows that extol the glories of the area’s traditional customs and lifestyle, including traditional dances, a photographic exhibition, and food items that represent the quintessence of Huaphan cuisine.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Huaphan and Son La Cultural Tourism Festival, the Governor of Huaphan province, Dr Khampheng Saysompheng, said the event was an opportunity for people from Laos, Vietnam and other countries to explore and celebrate the area’s stunning scenery, local lifestyles, and histories of the two provinces.
The publicity campaign is part of the two provinces’ tourism promotion plan and in particular is a colourful contribution to Visit Laos Year 2024.
“It is also an opportunity for tourism-related businesses to improve the quality of their products and services as well as serving to conserve and promote cultural identity,” the Governor added.
“This remote region’s distinctive and attractive tourism products can become a magnet for both domestic and foreign tourists if properly promoted,” he said.
The festival features an intriguing mix of diverse activities with a focus on local ethnic culture. One of the events showcases the plum harvesting festival in Xamneua district, which is considered to be the home of the best plums in Laos.
Festival-goers can learn about the rich culture of the various ethnic groups in Huaphan province through a street fair that showcases popular local dishes and handicrafts made by ethnic groups.
The event is a rare treat for anyone visiting Huaphan province and offers a vast array of fascinating sights and experiences.

By Phetphoxay Sengpaseuth
 (Latest Update March 22, 2024)