Mekong Tourism

Lao PDR tightens tourist entry rules to strengthen tourism management

The Lao PDR government has officially implemented updated entry requirements for international tourists. Under a recent directive from the Ministry of Public Security, tour operators are now mandated to submit fully confirmed hotel reservations for the entirety of a visitor's stay to secure entry permission. This regulatory update is designed to enhance national security, streamline visitor tracking, and integrate accommodation data into a modernized tourism management framework. As Lao PDR continues to experience significant growth in international arrivals, these measures aim to ensure elevated safety standards and improved operational oversight across the tourism sector.

For more details, visit https://mekongtourism.org/lao-pdr-tightens-tourist-entry-rules-to-strengthen-tourism-management/

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Nipatpong Chuanchuen on turning low-carbon tourism ambitions into practical action in Thailand

In this interview, Nipatpong “Khun Tarr” Chuanchuen — founder of TrekkingThai and a long-time advocate of ecotourism — shares insights from Thailand’s Carbon Neutral Tourism (CNT) initiative, the development of the Zero Carbon app, and the realities of helping tourism operators adopt more climate-conscious practices. From low-carbon itineraries and community-based tourism to respons-ble nature tourism and the future of net-zero travel, the conversation offers a practical perspective on how Thailand’s tourism sector is gradually evolving towards a more sustainable future.

Read the full interview on our website https://mekongtourism.org/nipatpong-chuanchuen-on-thailands-path-towards-low-carbon-tourism/

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China’s Yunnan and Viet Nam strengthen coffee cooperation through Yunnan festival

China’s Yunnan and Viet Nam are exploring deeper cooperation in the coffee sector following the opening of the second Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Coffee Festival in Lijiang, Yunnan province. The event brought together businesses, experts and consumers to promote exchanges in coffee culture, technology and trade. With Việt Nam known for its Robusta coffee and Yunnan for Arabica beans, both sides see strong potential for collaboration in coffee tourism, product development, farmer training and cultural exchange. Industry representatives also highlighted opportunities to strengthen the global presence of both Vietnamese and Yunnan coffee while expanding market connections between the two countries.

For more details, visit https://mekongtourism.org/viet-nam-china-strengthen-coffee-cooperation-opening-new-opportunities-in-yunnan/

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Photo Credit: Visit Yunnan China

How do we transform insights into meaningful tourism growth?

In the Greater Mekong Subregion, the challenge is not a lack of data, but knowing which insights truly drive impact for communities, destinations, and ecosystems.

Ahead of the Mekong Tourism Forum 2026, the technical workshop “Data to Decision: Practical Tools for Evidence-Based Destination Marketing in the GMS” will serve as a platform to strengthen the analytical capacity of GMS tourism authorities and partners, helping ensure destination marketing is guided by clear demand insights.

Registration is open until 29 May.

For more information, visit https://mekongtourism.org/mekong-tourism-forum-2026/

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Cambodia and ADB discuss sustainable tourism investment opportunities

Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Cambodia discussed new opportunities to promote sustainable and resilient tourism investment during a roundtable on the “ASEAN Sustainable and Resilient Tourism Investment Outlook 2030” on 19 May. Tourism Minister Huot Hak highlighted Cambodia’s strong tourism potential, rich cultural and natural assets, improving infrastructure and connectivity, and the “Visit Cambodia in the Green Season” campaign, which aims to position the country as a year-round destination. The discussions also focused on improving the investment climate and supporting ASEAN’s long-term vision of becoming a global leader in sustainable, high-value tourism by 2045.

For more details, visit https://mekongtourism.org/cambodia-eyes-sustainable-tourism-investment/

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Sunrise or sunset? Shwedagon Pagoda glows differently at every hour of the day.

Situated on Singuttara Hill in the centre of Yangon, Shwedagon Pagoda is believed to be over 2,500 years old and is said to enshrine revered Buddhist relics beneath its iconic golden stupa, covered in gold plates and crowned with thousands of diamonds and precious gems. Long regarded as Myanmar’s most sacred Buddhist site, the pagoda has stood for centuries as a place of worship, pilgrimage, and cultural significance, drawing visitors from around the world with its breathtaking beauty and spiritual atmosphere.

A timeless symbol of Myanmar’s spiritual and cultural heritage, the pagoda can be explored through the technical tours as part of the Mekong Tourism Forum 2026.

Be part of the conversation shaping the future of Mekong tourism while experiencing the rich traditions and evolving creative spirit of Yangon.

Registration is open until 29 May. Secure your seat today.

For more information, visit https://mekongtourism.org/mekong-tourism-forum-2026/

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Cao Bằng, Viet Nam offers offbeat adventures and natural wonders

Rugged landscapes, breathtaking motorcycle rides and encounters with ethnic minorities are a few of the reasons many travellers love their time in Northern Vietnam. Cao Bằng is the last town at the country’s northernmost tip, and the jump-off point to the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia. Spend an afternoon touring Cao Bằng town, sampling local delicacies and strolling along the riverside, before taking on the area’s natural and historical wonders: mysterious Ngườm Ngao Cave, the enchanting Thang Hen Lake System, the former hideout of Hồ Chí Minh, and of course, the epic Bản Giốc Waterfall.

Source & Photo Credit: Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism

Thailand Turns Longevity Tourism into a Healthspan Journey

Thailand is rapidly transforming into a premier hub for "longevity tourism," shifting the focus from simply living longer to increasing your "healthspan"—the years spent in vibrant, good health. Combining world-class precision medicine, personalized nutrition, and regenerative treatments with the country's renowned resort-style hospitality and wellness culture, destinations from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and Phuket offer tailored experiences that merge advanced science with slow living and traditional practices. With government support like extended 90-day medical visas and highly competitive costs, Thailand isn't just a place for a holiday; it's a starting point for a longer, healthier, and more active life.

For more details, visit https://mekongtourism.org/thailand-turns-longevity-tourism-into-a-healthspan-journey/

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Photo Credit: The Nation

“Everyone needs to be a part of the solution.” – Masaru Takayama, Chairperson, Global Ecotourism Network & Advisor, Asian Ecotourism Network

At Mekong Tourism Forum 2026, Mr Masaru Takayama will deliver the keynote address: “Tourism for People: From Principles to Lasting Impact.” Drawing on more than 25 years of tourism experience across Asia, Masaru will share reflections on how tourism can create long-term value for people and places through community engagement, cultural respect, conservation, and responsible tourism development.

Moving beyond sustainability as a compliance exercise, the session reflects on how responsibility can become part of the everyday mindset of future generations through education, local engagement, and value-driven tourism development, highlighting how tourism can build more resilient and purpose-driven destinations for the future.

Register before 29 May to secure your seat.
For more information, visit https://mekongtourism.org/mekong-tourism-forum-2026/

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UN Tourism’s latest report highlights global tourism recovery and future outlook

UN Tourism has released the “International Tourism Highlights – 2025 Edition,” providing the latest global tourism data, trends, and insights on international tourist arrivals, tourism receipts, regional performance, and the continued recovery of the tourism sector worldwide. The report also reflects on 50 years of tourism growth, resilience, and transformation, while emphasizing the importance of sustainable and people-centered tourism development moving forward.

Read the full publication now at https://mekongtourism.org/library/un-tourisms-latest-report-highlights-global-tourism-recovery-and-future-outlook/

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Looking for a more authentic and sustainable travel experience?.

The alternative accommodation sector in the Greater Mekong Subregion is booming, offering travelers everything from cozy family-run homestays and heritage boutiques to eco-friendly glamping sites. Not only do these unique small-scale stays provide a deeper connection to local cultures and breathtaking landscapes, but they are also driving a massive positive impact by empowering local micro-entrepreneurs and championing green practices like zero-waste policies and local sourcing. By choosing non-traditional lodging in destinations across Thailand, Viet Nam, Lao PDR, and Cambodia, you can directly support community-led tourism while enjoying an unforgettable, experience-driven getaway!

Read more about how small stays are making a big difference: https://mekongtourism.org/the-mekongs-alternative-accommodation-sector-driving-big-impact-with-small-scale-stays/

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