Lao travel professionals gear up for Chinese tourist influx

Tourists are tasting Lao dishes. (Photo provided by interviewee)

The rapid and orderly recovery of China’s outbound travels recently has powerfully encouraged tourism in Laos as many Chinese tourists are traveling to Laos through China-Laos railway. Therefore, people engaged in tourism are actively working to provide better service to Chinese tourists.

“Since February, I have already received 3 tourist groups from the Yunnan, Guangdong, and Sichuan provinces of China,” said Suli, a Lao tour guide who can also speak Chinese. Nowadays, most tourists prefer to take the train to Laos instead of driving as car as before. Along the way, they can visit the Laotian places of Boten, Muagsai Lang Prabang, Vanvieng and Vientiane one by one.

“Laos has amazing scenic spots, friendly people and affordable prices. If you want to get close to nature and enjoy a slow-pace life, you may come to Laos,” said Su. Seeing Chinese tourists share travelling experiences in Laos online, Su felt happy and at the same time knew that he should work harder.

“We are sure to receive more Chinese tourists in the future. There are still many things for me to do.” Su added. “I need to know more about the history and culture of Laos and try my best in providing service to tourists so that they will enjoy staying in Laos.”

At the beginning of February, Long Xiaoli, the operator of Kunming office of Mang Kone Lao Travel Co.,LTD, took the train to Laos. “Since China has resumed outbound travel on Feb. 6, we have received about 100 Chinese tourists,” said Long.

“This year, the number of tourists from China to Laos is increasing,” said Peng Teng, director of Asset Management and Operations of Krittaphong Group, “and we are now preparing from all rounds to receive tourists.”

Hoping to attract more tourists, Peng added that they would try to cooperate with the Handicrafts Association of Laos in exhibiting handicrafts in markets and trade fairs.“

Reported by Yao Chengcheng and Yang Chunmei from Yunnan Daily; Trans-editing by Wang Yunya