We don’t usually like to talk about sad topics, but we feel it’s important to address the devastating news about the incident in Vang Vieng. As you may have already heard, there has been a tragic case of mass methanol poisoning in this popular backpacker destination. While the exact details remain unclear, reports indicate that, as of this writing, six young tourists have lost their lives, and 11 others are hospitalized. Although we lack insider information and don’t want to make assumptions, let’s take a closer look at the situation.
Owner of
Nana Backpacker Hostel in custody
The Nana Backpacker Hostel is among the most famous hostels in Vang Vieng and is known as a bustling party hub with a pool. Usually, there’s always a great atmosphere there, but it seems like the hostel is linked to the recent incident involving free shots, which might have been contaminated with methanol. We have no idea if that’s true and, therefore, at least for now, we don’t want to change our review of the hostel in our guide about the accommodations in Vang Vieng. The only thing we know is that the hostel owner was arrested by the police and is currently in custody. As a result, the hostel is closed, and it’s unclear when or if it will reopen.
Methanol
tampered alcohol remains a huge problem in Laos
Unfortunately, methanol-tampered alcohol isn’t something completely unheard of. There are two main problems. The first is that the production standards aren’t comparable to those of more regulated countries, and there aren’t sufficient measures in place to prevent contamination. Therefore, it may happen that some homemade or low-quality alcohol contains methanol by mistake. The second problem is that there are dishonest producers who deliberately put methanol in alcoholic beverages to cut costs. Those counterfeit beverages are extremely dangerous. Luckily, the second case is rarer, but it still remains a problem. What we can say for sure is that methanol contamination is not only a problem in Laos. Similar cases like the one in Vang Vieng have happened in many other popular tourist spots like Mexico, Indonesia and Turkey.That doesn’t make the news any less tragic, but it highlights the need for greater awareness and caution when consuming alcohol while traveling.
Many
tourists start doubting the safety of the nightlife in Vang Vieng
We understand that many tourists start to doubt the safety of the nightlife in Vang Vieng, but we want to reassure you that such cases are rare and also happen in other party hotspots with a culture of excess. However, there is a certain risk when legal or illegal drugs are involved. In the past, there have also been several cases of drug deaths in Vang Vieng, mostly because of overdoses or mixing substances. For example, there were cases of tourists smoking opioids and drinking huge amounts of alcohol, what caused a fatal respiratory failure. If you’re partying in Vang Vieng, we recommend the following safety practices:
- Avoid any hard drugs
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Drink safe beverages like Beerlao
- Eat enough and stay hydrated
- Know your limits
- Seek help if you're feeling unwell
In most of the cases, by following those tips you should be fine. Just don’t forget that nightlife always involves certain risk. That shouldn’t deter you from enjoying a great time. Still, it’s important to remain cautious.
Consequences
for the tourism industry aren't ruled out
As expected, the Laos government has taken actions, but that doesn’t mean that there won’t be repercussions. There might be consequences for the tourism industry. Will those consequences be significant? That’s hard to say, because deaths in Vang Vieng aren’t that uncommon. It already happened before, and while the news is tragic, it most likely won’t lead to long-term changes, at least not in the whole country. After all, why should an incident at a party hub like Vang Vieng affect the popularity of a cultural destination like Luang Prabang. When it comes to Vang Vieng, it’s a little bit more complicated. A decline in visitors is possible, even though we don’t know how drastic it will be. What we can hope is that the government takes enough measures to prevent such sad incidents from occurring in the future.
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