Lao National Tourism Authority Chairman Somphong Mongkhonvilay is optimistic tourist arrivals will hit 1.22 million in 2010-11, a figure endorsed by the National Assembly last week.
But achieving this target will depend on several factors, including the political situation in Thailand and how well tourism is promoted to the outside world.
“We are well aware that most tourists came to Laos via Thailand so we need to find more gateways into Laos such as through Vietnam or opening direct flights with other countries,” Mr Somphong said.
“The government and private sector need to be in agreement about providing good services at reasonable prices.”
If Laos could attract 1.22 million tourists, the revenue from tourism could reach about US$288 million, he said.
Mr Somphong, who is also Minister to the Prime Minister's Office, said the most important thing was to speed up the immigration process on entry into Laos.
The entry process should be fast, with no obstacles that would make tourists feel frustrated.
He also said Laos needed to maintain security and safety for tourists in all the places they visit.
“All our border checkpoints need to operate to the same standard so that officials everywhere act as good hosts by offering services that impress tourists,” Mr Somphong said.
Tour prices needed to be reasonable and programmes should be diverse and different from other countries so tourists could see the countryside and various ethnic cultures, he said.
“Tour companies need to be fair in their dealings with tourists and should not take advantage by overcharging them for anything.”
“We have many hotels, guesthouses and restaurants, but the standards of some of them have yet to meet Asean requirements,” Mr Somphong said.
The minister asked Lao Airlines and other related businesses to discuss ways of attracting more tourists.
The tourism authority plans to work with the sectors in charge of events to mark the 450th anniversary of Vientiane as capital, with a view to organising activities for visitors.
More tourism programmes are planned for all parts of Laos such as cultural events and ethnic festivals.
“We will organise caravans to take people to various places of interest. I think if we can do better at organising these events, more tourists will come to Laos.”
Mr Somphong said one of the most important things was to promote domestic tourism by encouraging Lao people to visit different parts of the country.
“We will cooperate with tour companies to encourage people from the north to travel to the south and vice versa, to boost the economy.”
The minister said Laos was an attractive destination in Asia as it has many wonderful natural, cultural and historic tourism sites. And Lao people are renowned for their friendly welcome and warm hospitality.
Many different cuisines are also on offer, including standard western dishes and Indian, Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese food.
Source: Vientianetimes
By Somsack Pongkhao
(Latest Update July 05, 2010)
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Topic: Govt targets 1.22m tourists next year (Read 194 times)
