China to Play a Key Role in Tourism Recovery for Laos – Cross-Border Railway Also Launched

Tourists from China will play a vital role in helping to uplift the tourism industry in Laos which will in turn help to boost the local economy; this was highlighted on the Nikkei Asia news website on 7th June 2023 which went on to reveal that a key aspect of this was the launch of the cross-border railway between the two nations in April this year; this passenger service connects the Chinese city of Kunming with Vientiane, the Laotian capital on an impressive 1,000-km-long route.

One of the stops of this train service is the ancient capital of Laos, Luang Prabang; this UNESCO World Heritage Site continues to be popular with tourists who can opt to stay at properties within the historical centre like Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel; for those based at such a centrally located luxury hotel, Luang Prabang sightseeing adventures are easy to enjoy and it is hoped that more travellers will arrive in the months to come. To further encourage visitors, the Laotian government also revealed a three-year plan this May which would focus on attracting Chinese tourists; initiatives include increasing flights from cities in China and training guides who can speak Chinese as well.