After two decades of isolation from the outside world, Laos, a landlocked, sparsely populated country, is now admitting more and more tourists to get an unparalleled glimpse of traditional South-East Asian life.
Recently, the Innovative Group together with the Laoatian Embassy in the Philippines launched Lao Airlines at Dusit Thani Manila.
"May this not only open doors to more tourists and more jobs for both countries but more importantly, a good relationship, a long time friendship and understanding for both parties. "I am hoping we (Laos and Philippines) will have a good and long time together. May we realize the dreams we are all wishing for and let us work together for the betterment," said Ambassador of Lao PDR (People Democratic Republic), H.E. Leuane Sombounkhan.
"I am happy to introduce to you my country. Other people might not be aware of what and where Laos is. I want to let other people know how beautiful my country is: our colorful festivals, the delicious cuisine we have, and more importantly, how lovely our people are," he added.
In the meanwhile, Samy A. Syed, president and CEO of Air Innovative Travel and Tours and MD. Sazzad H. Khan, vice president of Air Innovative Travel and Tours, with Ambassador H.E. Leuane Sombounkhan, launched their regional office in the Philippines as a Passenger Sales Agent (PSA) of Lao Airlines.
Syed sees great potential in the Philippines, just as he does in Laos. Investing in the tourism industries of both countries is not a question. With Laos’ secure atmosphere, less competition in the business sector, and no political turmoil, and with Philippines’ booming tourism industry in tourism, he was encouraged to invest in the two countries.
"Laos is very close to my heart, as is the Philippines. Laos is a very safe place to go around, the infrastructure is getting better and better, and the people are all lovely and hospitable, like for example, the first thing they will give you when you go in an establishment or any home is water. As a tradition, they will make you comfortable first. The Philippines, on the other hand, is like my second home. My wife is a Filipina, and Philippines has a lot to offer especially in terms of tourism," says Syed.
The beauty of Laos
The confluence of several cultures has given Laos an appealing ambience. The fusion of French historical dwellings and Buddhists temples imparts a unique character of timelessness.
There is a lot to visit in the country such as That Luang, the monument of King Sayasetthathirat who founded Vientiane as the capital of Lanexang kingdom. It has been said that if you do not visit the That Luang, you have not arrived at Laos yet. The That Luang stupa (a mound-like structure containing Buddhist relics) is the biggest and most impressive stupa in Laos.
Another lovely place is Vang Vieng, about 152 km from the city of Vientiane, in the foothills of the mountains of Northern Laos, on the banks of the Song River. If you want some adventure, you can float on a tube down the Nam Song River and savor unspoiled nature lining the river. Breathtaking limestone formations nestle along the Song River. Catching the sunset is a must when you visit Vang Vieng.
|
