From a potential new UNESCO World Heritage Site to a better visa process, these are our top five reasons to visit Laos in 2019.
1. Plain of Jars
The Plain of Jars is a megalithic archaeological landscape in central Laos, where thousands of stone jars can be found scattered in valleys and foothills. An awe-inspiring place to visit, researchers believe the jars are associated with prehistoric burial practices. In 2019, Laos hopes to have the Plain of Jars added as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Luang Prabang and Wat Phu Champasak are the country’s other two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
2. Easier visa process
The practicalities of visiting Laos are set to improve in 2019, making this the perfect time to visit the country. The process of applying for visas will be vastly improved and will also include an online eVisa facility. This will make it far easier for international visitors to plan their trips to Laos, with a shorter turnaround time of receiving visas too. Visitors to Laos are projected to double by 2025, so now is the time to visit the country while you can still be one of the first among your friends to visit.
3. Laos-China Year of 2019
This year, the countries of Laos and China will be working together on various initiatives to promote travel between the two regions. That means 2019’s Chinese New Celebrations in Laos will be extra special. Luang Prabang and Vientiane both have significant Chinese communities, so these are the places to visit around 5 February 2019 to enjoy fireworks and the party atmosphere on the streets.
4. Luang Prabang Film Festival
This annual film festival is hosted in Luang Prabang in December every year as a celebration of South East Asian cinema. In 2018, one of the films featured here was chosen to be featured at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York too. Showing the growing art and culture credentials of Laos, the Luang Prabang Film Festival is a must-visit in Laos in 2019.
5. Grand new Vientiane hotel
Those who love the creature comforts and service of a hotel brand they know and love will be pleased to hear a Holiday Inn & Suites hotel is opening in Vientiane in 2019. InterContinental Hotels Group is behind the development of this 250-room new concept, which will be located in a prime position in the city.
