Feature of the month: Boun Khao Padapdin 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 Padapdin & Boat Racing Festival
Boun Khao Padapdin, means the Day of the Commemoration of the Dead. In 2017, it occurred on 23rd & 24th August which contains many traditional social & sporty activities such as: Bun Haw Khao Padapdin, Great Alms Giving Ceremony and Finals of Boat Racing Festival.
The traditional ceremony is celebrated to remember, not only to one’s own ancestors, but also to the dead with no relatives. In Lao Calendar, it is held on the 15th day of the waning moon in the 9th month. People usually cook a great number of khao tom (steamed sticky rice cake, wrapped in banana leaf) and before leaving for morning alms giving, they put khao tom and other food: candy, cake... in the corners outside the house so that the spirits can come and get them. People also go to temple to attend Five Precepts, listen to the reading of the Buddhist writings in Pali or candlelit procession around the temple.
Bun Suang Huea (Boat Racing Festival), is active one week before Boun Khao Padapdin. A big trade fair is held on the Old Stadium with lots of stalls selling goods, foods, mini game and playing music. On the race day, people from the city and recent area come to Ban Xieng Ngeun, about thirty kilometers from Luang Prabang, to see and encourage the players. The races generally begin around mid – day (9-10:00 am), and finish before the sunset. Boats race each other (Boat Nang Dam to Boat Nang Don) then winners of each race continue competing until there is a final winner to take first prize, which contains a trophy, a silver cup and cash. 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 Padapdin
