Govt sets plan to develop tourist sites

The government plans to develop a number of tourist sites nationwide over the next five years with the aim of making Laos a premier tourism destination.

Lao National Tourism Administration Vice President Mr Soukaseum Bhodisane said this week the government had listed the development of various tourist sites as one of the 21 mega-investment projects it plans to roll out from 2011 to 2015.

“A number of tourist sites, including Siphandon islands in Champassak and the Plain of Jars in Xieng Khuang, will be developed,” he told Vientiane Times on Thursday.

According to the government's draft 7th National Socio-Economic Development plan, which will be implemented over the next five years, the mega-investment projects will require total funding of more than US$50 million.

Mr Soukaseum said the government plans to mobilise funds to develop infrastructure such as roads, and water and electricity supply near major tourist sites to encourage investment in hotels and restaurants.

At present, many tourist sites in Laos are difficult to access and lack public utilities, making it difficult for investors to establish businesses in the area. Although Laos has high ecotourism potential it is unable to attract large numbers of tourists, primarily due to inadequate infrastructure.

Mr Soukaseum said the government would also need funds to develop the workforce by training more tour guides and filling other tourism related jobs. This would enable local people to benefit from the development and expansion of tourism in their community.

He said the government would ensure local communities have the opportunity to participate in the development of tourism sites, adding that community participation not only provides local people with jobs and income but also ensures a more sustainable industry.

The government believes expanding the tourism sector is one of the best ways to improve income distribution, as tourism generates income for a wide range of people ranging from farmers, to taxi drivers and hotel owners.

Mr Soukaseum said the government would promote the development of ecotourism in line with the country's potential, adding that many tourists like to experience the scenic beauty of rural Laos.

Historical sites such as former battlefields will also be developed to attract more tourists, he said.

According to a report from the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the government expects about 2.8 million tourists a year to visit Laos over the next five years, injecting about US$350 million per year into the domestic economy. The government also expects there will be 300 hotels around the country by 2015.

An increasing number of investors are finding Laos an attractive destination, particularly for hotel investments. Investments in hotels have increased by about 30 percent a year in recent years.