Feature of the month: Boun Khao Phansa Plan for “Visit Laos Year 2018” Vang Vieng to upgrade standards New choice for budget hotel in Luang Prabang
Feature of the month: Boun Khao Phansa
During 3 lunar cycles, the monks are doing a retreat that restricts their usual way of life in the pagoda; monks will indeed not be allowed to sleep in a different temple and will spend more time meditating. Every full moon day, monks have to gather in one temple to recite “Phadhimoka” or the 227 rules. Khao Phansa Day is on the first day after the full moon of the eighth lunar month and marks the beginning of the three-month rainy season. The tradition of the Buddhist Lent or the annual three-month rains retreat is known in Lao as "Phansa". Khao Phansa means to remain in one place during the rainy season.
In ancient times, the number of flowers, joss sticks and small candles presented to a temple was usually equal to the number of monks in that temple. Where there were surplus candles, villagers tended to make numerous small candles into large one for presenting to temples. The large candles being stronger, with more light and longer lasting.
Buddhists believe that offering candles to monks as a means of light will also brighten up their future. These candles are known as Thian Phansa. For more assistance, please contact: sales@asiarevealtour.com.
Plan for Visit Laos Year 2018
Laos is preparing to launch its “Visit Laos Year 2018” to promote the tourism industry and revive interest in the country at a time when visits are declining.
The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism’s Tourism Marketing Department general director, Sounh Manivong, said the Visit Laos Year 2018 launch would take place this November to coincide with the That Luang festival.
Well-known celebrations in each province of Laos will be highlighted at the launch ceremony including the Blossom Festival in Bokeo, the Elephant Festival in Sayaboury, and the Lao New Year celebration in Luang Prabang.
The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism is in a process of recommending that the government create more favourable conditions for foreign visitors to visit Laos.
A timetable of monthly events in every province is under consideration. Publications featuring events will be released soon.
Vang Vieng’s tourism authorities will improve the standard of attractions, facilities and services to make the travel experience more rewarding.
Authorities will upgrade tourist attractions, while also implementing service training to meet international standards as the country prepares for Visit Laos Year 2018.
The department is ranking hotels and guesthouses standards from one to five stars, as well as offering hotel and guesthouse staff training.
Meanwhile, authorities have approved the use of paramotors (powered paragliders) suitable for aerial trips around he river area.
Garbage collection will be improved and staff at hotels will be trained to create more awareness among visitors to ensure they do not litter streets.
In addition, authorities have approved feasibility studies to build new tourist attractions, a hotel and sports complex and other facilities at the old airport site in Vang Vieng district will be developed.
New choice for Luang Prabang budget hotel: Sengmany Riverside
Sengmany Riverside Hotel is located on the banks of Mekong River, breathtaking views of the majestic Mekong River, Experience the Mekong River by staying at the Sengmany Riverside Hotel – a traditional Lao family compound with 23 rooms all built in time-honored Luang Prabang architectural style. Located less than 1 kilometer from the town center and 100 meters from Phosy local market. Guest can enjoy their stay to visit the city, temples, local market, traditional weaving and its surroundings. The rate is very competitive, in comparison with other 3 star hotels in Luang Prabang. For more information, please contact us at: sales@asiarevealtour.com
Feature of the month: Boun Khao Phansa
