New Tour: Exploring the Mekong’s Hidden side

This unique new tour takes guests who are visiting Luang Prabang to the other side of the Mekong in a typical lao tuktuk.

 

Upon arrival, they can discover this seldom visited area, so close and yet so different from the UNESCO Heritage town of Luang Prabang that lies on the opposing bank. During the trip, temples, local villages and authentic picturesque countryside landscapes offer a unique insight into the traditional lifestyle along the mighty Mekong River.

 

For more information, feel free to contact our Product Manager in Laos: [email protected]

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    B Corp Month: Celebrating business as a force for good
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    B Corp Month: Celebrating business as a force for good

    B Corp Month is a global campaign to raise awareness about the unique ethos of B Corps. Throughout March, the B Corp community comes together to demonstrate the power of purpose-driven business. This year, the theme of B Corp Month is ‘This way forward’, focusing on growth and impact. The campaign is highlighting how B Corps continue to evolve and make a difference in their communities and beyond. The month underscores the collective effort of B Corps in leading the way toward better business practices and a more sustainable future. Globally, more than 8,000 B Corp Certified businesses will be partaking in B Corp Month. EXO Travel kicked off the month by joining other Thailand-based B Corps for a meeting to share knowledge and discuss growing the local B Corp community. ‘It was the first gathering of Thai-based B Corp companies, and there is a strong will to keep going in that direction, encouraging further participation, interdependence and the sharing of resources where necessary, including expertise and technologies’, explains Jiraphat Briand, EXO’s Sustainability Leader. EXO's path to B Corp B Corp Month B Corporation (or ‘B Corp’) is a certification awarded to businesses that meet the highest standards of verified…

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    EXO Japan: Rising to the occasion
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    EXO Japan: Rising to the occasion

    In the wake of the pandemic, Japan has emerged as a global tourism hotspot. To meet this surge in interest, EXO Japan continues to strengthen our team and invest in resources.Despite the complexities of operating in an exceedingly popular country, our focus remains on maintaining our commitment to excellence in travel experiences. Mark Holguin, General Manager of EXO Japan, shares his perspective, stating,  ‘We have found ourselves in a unique position of managing one of the most popular destinations in the world, with clients who continue to grow their business in Japan'.'As we always work to plan ahead to meet this growing demand, we continuously review our manning requirements, office space and equipment, to stay ahead of the growth curve in order to deliver on the excellence our clients expect of us’.With a new Director of People and Culture in place, EXO Japan has been focused on expanding our team with the best and brightest talent. Beyond scaling up manpower, EXO Japan is also investing in resources that will ensure the continuity and quality of our services. Discover more Partner with EXO Since opening in 2011, EXO Japan has shown steady growth, a trend that's set to continue. ‘We wrapped up last…

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    Hotel Resilient: Making it easy to find sustainable accommodation
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    Hotel Resilient: Making it easy to find sustainable accommodation

    Choosing a more responsible hotel is an easy way for travellers and partners to reduce the negative impacts of travel on the environment. To help our global network of travel agents make informed decisions, EXO partnered with Hotel Resilient to create an online platform that ranks and reviews hotels based on a range of sustainability metrics.The organisation summarises the key indicators of the property’s commitment to sustainability and ranks it based on a series of criteria. As a result, partners can log-in from anywhere at any time and search for responsible hotels within a destination or search for a specific property by name.For example, Hotel Resilient provides an ‘at a glance’ snapshot of which hotel is offering water bottle refillable stations, if their employees are trained on child protection, details of ownership structure and other important criteria.By making this data easy to access, EXO encourages its business partners to select hotels that are actively working to reduce their environmental impact. In turn, we expect that hotels will be more motivated to improve their business model to achieve higher scores and more bookings.At present, Hotel Resilient features hotels from Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam with Thailand launching in late 2024. Read on to…

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    FITUR 2024: Insights and key takeaways
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    FITUR 2024: Insights and key takeaways

    FITUR 2024 wrapped up last week in Madrid. The annual tourism fair featured a busy schedule for the EXO Travel team, as they met with partners and shared news from across our portfolio of destinations. FITUR (Feria Internacional de Turismo) is always a wonderful opportunity for EXO to showcase exciting updates and discuss travel trends with our partners in the Spanish-speaking market - and this year was no exception!EXO was represented by Nick Ghosh, Director of Global Sales, Lucas Arruda, Sales Manager for Latin America and Louane Daigremont, Regional Manager Spain, Portugal and Latin America.  The trio hosted three days of meetings with partners as well as post-event meetings and training sessions with partners in the Madrid area. ‘FITUR 2024 was a great opportunity for meaningful engagement with our partners, particularly given the notable presence of Latin Americans at the event,’ Lucas explains. ‘The meetings we had were essential in bolstering our collaboration this year’. Read on to learn about their key takeaways and insights from the event. Partner with EXO 'I was delighted to meet with so many partners from Spain, Portugal and Latin America, and very pleased to hear that Southeast Asia was seeing a very strong rebound of interest…

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    EXO Foundation: A new coconut fibre road for Con Ho island
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    EXO Foundation: A new coconut fibre road for Con Ho island

    At EXO, we have always believed in travel as a force for good. This recently came to life through a meaningful project on Con Ho, a small island in the Mekong Delta.Home to only fifteen families, life on Con Ho is refreshingly simple: the residents get around on foot or by bicycle, the usual buzz of motorbikes is noticeably absent. There is no electricity, so the people rely on solar power and battery back-up. Despite the scarce resources, the people are incredibly welcoming. EXO has worked with the community to develop immersive visits, giving our guests a rare opportunity to experience rural Vietnamese life while also providing a much-needed additional income stream to the community.However this simple life comes with challenges. The island’s main road, which connects the village to the port, becomes impassable in the rainy season due to thick mud.  This hampers daily life, as the road is used by children to go to school, adults to go to the market and to access services such as medical care. Understanding the importance of this one-kilometre-long road, the EXO Foundation donated a cover made of durable coconut fibre. This sustainable solution is expected to last 5-10 years, promising a…

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    EXO Travel’s plastic-free journey
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    EXO Travel’s plastic-free journey

    As a signatory of the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative (GTPI), EXO Travel adheres to a set of actionable commitments aimed at minimising our impact on the environment. Recognising the delicate balance between exploring the beauty of our world and preserving it for future generations, EXO has continuously strived to be at the forefront of eco-conscious travel.  As a certified B Corporation, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Our journey has been one of constant evolution, seeking innovative ways to minimise our impact on the environment and serve as responsible stewards of the earth.Our commitment to sustainability led us to become a signatory of the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative in 2014. This initiative is aimed at uniting the tourism sector to tackle the root causes of plastic pollution and represents a collective effort to transition towards a circular economy of plastics in the tourism industry 'Waste management presents one of the most visible and pressing challenges in our beloved destinations. Our involvement is not just about reducing plastic usage.' As Alexandra Michat, EXO's Chief Purpose Officer, explains, 'Waste management presents one of the most visible and pressing challenges in our beloved destinations. Our…

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    Reflecting on 2023: A year of rebuilding, learning & achievements
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    Reflecting on 2023: A year of rebuilding, learning & achievements

    As 2023 draws to a close, we reflect on a year that was both challenging and rewarding. This year marked not only our 30th anniversary but also our journey out from the shadows of the pandemic and towards a brighter, more dynamic future. It was a year of significant milestones and accomplishments, of which we are immensely proud.The start of 2023 was a time of adaptation and resilience as we settled into the post-COVID era. We navigated the changing landscape of travel with a renewed sense of purpose, focusing even more on sustainability, flexibility and innovative travel solutions. Our commitment to rebuilding better has not only enhanced our operations but also deepened our connection with our communities and partners.Thanks to the support of our partners and our team, 2023 was a landmark year for us in many ways. We achieved several key milestones, from expanding our portfolio of destinations to launching new technologies and becoming a certified B Corporation.As we step into 2024, we do so with optimism and gratitude. The lessons learned and successes achieved in 2023 have laid a solid foundation for the future. We look forward to continuing our journey, exploring new horizons and delivering unforgettable travel…

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    EXO Selected as a Preferred Partner for Royal Commission for AlUla
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    EXO Selected as a Preferred Partner for Royal Commission for AlUla

    EXO Saudi Arabia has been selected as a preferred partner by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU).  This prestigious partnership marks a milestone in plans to develop and enhance tourism opportunities in the AlUla region. AlUla, known for its breathtaking landscapes and historical significance, is poised to become one of Saudi Arabia’s prime destinations for global travellers. The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) was established with the mission to protect and promote AlUla, leading the sustainable transformation of the region‘As one of only a few selected, preferred partners, EXO Saudi Arabia will be able to work even closer with the Royal Commission and have access to local services and opportunities before other parties,’ explains Sandor Leinwand recte Rein, General Manager of EXO Saudi Arabia. ‘In turn, this will benefit the guests of the tour operators who work with us, such as special rates and direct access to activities and information.’ This partnership between EXO Saudi Arabia and the RCU reflects a shared commitment to showcasing AlUla's magnificence to the world, ensuring that visitors experience the region's unique blend of nature, culture, and history in the most enriching way possible  Read on to learn more about AlUla and EXO’s innovative products and…

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    World Travel Market 2023: Key takeaways
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    World Travel Market 2023: Key takeaways

    World Travel Market (WTM) London is one of the industry’s largest trade shows and the 2023 edition proved, once again, to be busy and productive for EXO Travel. Over the course of the three day event, our team connected with global partners, sharing travel inspiration and new updates from EXO. This year EXO was represented by an all-star team of sales managers and destination experts, as well as our Chief Sustainability Officer and Chief Digital Officer. The team had a full slate of meetings, with existing and new partners, and attended many auxiliary events throughout the trade show. Nick Ghosh, EXO Director of Sales, remarked ‘After a rather quiet 2022 WTM it really felt like travel was back in 2023, with a lot of optimism in the air! Many partners and suppliers mirrored EXO’s happiness at being able to report a return to pre-pandemic levels of trade. 2024 is looking for many to be another great year, with the economic turmoil in our source markets not dampening people's eagerness to explore.’We take a look at some of the key talking points and takeaways from the event. 'At WTM, there was a lot of excitement about having EXO on the ground in…

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    Introducing our New, Improved Website
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    Introducing our New, Improved Website

    As EXO marks 30 years of innovative travel design, we are unveiling a new website that more accurately reflects who we are and where we are going.Inspired by our roots yet also distinctly modern, the refreshed design brings our expertise and pioneering spirit to life while making inspiration and information easier to find.Along with the new website comes an updated version of our Agent Hub. Now, the ability to find and book the right products to match clients’ needs is easier than ever. And, along with our refreshed blog, we have expanded access to the fast information and accurate resources needed to drive success.Read on to take a closer look at the new EXO Travel website and the information within. https://youtu.be/O12LGFn5fc4 Our new website is built to evolve with us, ensuring that our digital presence remains as dynamic as EXO itself. Our new website reflects our authenticity and our ongoing evolution as a company.  The design language is distinctly EXO yet with a new blend of elements that are both a nod to our heritage and our forward-looking approach. Vivid imagery is paired with informative text, sparking the imagination while also providing an accurate depiction of what we do and…

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Laos

Browse all the latest news, travel inspiration and stories from EXO Laos

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    Browse all the latest news, travel inspiration and stories from EXO Laos

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    Laos Product & Destination Update: April 2024
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    Laos Product & Destination Update: April 2024

    Welcome to the April EXO Laos Product & Destination update. This month we are featuring new and exciting products, hotel updates and important destination news that we hope you will find useful.  Lao New Year: the most awaited time of the year in Laos and the biggest celebration of the country. We will be taking a break from 12 – 18 of April, but we will have a team on standby should there be any urgent cases, contact these emergency numbers. New Products: We have 3 new exciting multi day tours showcasing different facets of Laos, from luxury glamping to picturesque Mekong River cruise and an unforgettable journey combining Laos’ authentic charm with a Thailand beach escape.  In addition, our 3 new experiences will satisfy those seeking for a unique Laotian experience that can only be found with insider insights.   Hotel updates: Featuring 2 new hotels in the capital city, Vientiane and 2 hotel promotions worth having a look at. Destination News: Lao Airlines has launched 2 international flight routes connecting Laos to its neighbouring regions: Vientiane – Phnom Penh and Vientiane – Danang. New products Luang Prabang: Glamping at the Namkhan: 3D/2N Swap hotels for a cosy bell tent overlooking the…

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    Visiting Thailand, Laos and Cambodia during local new year: EXO’s insight
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    Visiting Thailand, Laos and Cambodia during local new year: EXO’s insight

    April in Southeast Asia is a time of vibrant celebration as Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar mark their local New Year. Commonly known as the ‘water festival’, this three-day event is steeped in tradition and communal joy- as well as a lot of water.The festival is three days, 13-15 April, however most countries extend the holiday period for 5-7 days. During this time, there are a number of traditions around spiritual and social activities, the most famous of which being the throwing of water. Originally a gesture of respect towards elders, the practice of water pouring has transformed into playful water fights, symbolising refreshment and renewal amidst the April heat.While the water festival presents a special glimpse into local culture, for travellers, this time can also present unique challenges beyond just the possibilities of getting wet! The festivities may lead to closed restaurants and cultural sites, while the surge in domestic travel limits accommodation and transport options.Despite these hurdles, the festival remains a captivating experience, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Southeast Asia during its most animated — and wet — season. Partner with EXO Discover more Challenges of new year travel:Water!: Most indoor spaces, especially hotels,…

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    Temples to tides: Southeast Asia’s surprising beach combinations
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    Temples to tides: Southeast Asia’s surprising beach combinations

    Southeast Asia, known for its breathtaking cultural landmarks and pristine beaches, offers a unique opportunity to explore the best of both without the need to choose between them. Blending sightseeing and beachside relaxation is not only possible but easily achievable thanks to an extensive network of domestic and regional flights. From the ancient temples of Luang Prabang and Siem Reap or the modern skylines of Singapore and Bangkok, spectacular beaches are less than four hours away. Hotels across these destinations cater to every preference and need, ranging from luxurious resorts to family-friendly accommodations. This variety of options and ease of accessibility makes it possible for EXO to tailor a trip to fit guests’ interest and travel styles.For inspiration, here are our favourite examples of unexpected combinations of cultural discovery and seaside bliss.  Partner with EXO Luang Prabang & Phuket journey Luang Prabang and Phuket: Temples to tidesPair the serene beauty of Luang Prabang, Laos, with the sun-kissed beaches of Phuket, Thailand in one seamless holiday. Although Laos is landlocked, Phuket's tropical allure is less than 4 hours away by air, offering an easy connection from the spiritual tranquillity of ancient Buddhist temples to the vibrant, azure waters of one of Thailand's most…

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    Northeast Laos: Insight and tips
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    Northeast Laos: Insight and tips

    Tucked away in the heart of Southeast Asia, Northeast Laos rewards intrepid travellers with its raw beauty and intriguing history. ‘Once you venture away from renowned Luang Prabang, there are many off-the-beaten places I adore in the northeast and towards the Vietnam border,’ Andrea Vinsonneau, EXO Laos GM explains. The region is ripe for exploring with countless charming villages, such as Nong Khiaw, and opportunities for spotting Laos’ exotic wildlife at Nam Et-Phou Louey National Protected Area.  The country’s tumultuous history can be explored in the Viengxay and Sam Neau areas, and the rugged landscapes are prime for trekking and other outdoor adventures. Each destination in this unspoiled region offers a different perspective on the beauty and resilience of Laos. EXO Laos encourages guests to consider adding 4-5 days to their holiday to explore this diverse region. Read on to learn more about this area and EXO’s recommendations. Discover Northern Laos Nong Khiaw is surrounded by unspoiled natural landscapes, with limestone cliffs and dense jungle dotted with small villages, best explored on foot and by boat. Nong Khiaw Escape itinerary Nong Khiaw The closest place to Luang Prabang to get a taste of the Northeast is Nong Khiaw. This charming…

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    Discover Southern Laos: A serene escape
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    Discover Southern Laos: A serene escape

    Southern Laos is a region of serene landscapes and rich history. In addition to its laid-back vibe, the region boasts a diverse array of experiences that can be combined into a memorable 4-5 day trip. ‘In my opinion, Southern Laos is by far the most underrated region of Laos,’ Andrea Vinosonneau, EXO Laos General Manager explains.  ‘With such a wide variety of places and sites to visit, it’s hard to choose which I like best. Vat Phou, which is a UNESCO-listed pre-Angkorian site, and all the secret sites nearby, is a wonder for archaeology lovers, while the 4000 Islands offers insight into laid-back local fishermen’s village life.’She continues, ‘The Boloven area, perched up on a plateau offers stunning landscapes, waterfalls and a unique look at the world of coffee-growing in Laos. It is also home to authentic tribes, such as the Kathu people, who weave some of my favourite textiles in the country.’Each area in the south presents an opportunity to delve into Laos’ nature and its cultural heritage. Read on to learn more about this region and EXO’s recommendations. 'Vat Phou, which is a UNESCO-listed pre-Angkorian site, and all the secret sites nearby, is a wonder for archaeology lovers'…

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    EXO Laos: Reducing Plastic Waste with New Refill System
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    EXO Laos: Reducing Plastic Waste with New Refill System

    Without a decent recycling program, Laos has been struggling to manage its plastic waste. To address this crisis, EXO  Laos will be requesting all clients from 10 November 2023 onwards to travel with a refillable bottle. In order to provide clean and safe water to guests, EXO is equipping all supplied minivans and buses with a Water Refill System. This will ensure guests have access to cool, purified drinking water at all times, whether remaining in or out town.If clients do not have a refill bottle or wish to purchase a new refillable bottle, they are readily available at shops and hotels in Laos.In addition to EXO's refill stations, there are also free refill spots available to the public throughout Luang Prabang. We hope to see this public effort expand throughout the country, but until then EXO's Water Refill System will continue to be the main source for our guests. Below you will find a step-by-step guide on how we implement the Water Refill System in our vehicles. EXO Laos Vehicle Water Refill System Step 1:Water from a 40-litre UV-treated Mineral brand bottle is pumped into smaller 1.5-litre refillable water containers.  Mineral consistently tests as the best available drinking water in…

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    One Week in Laos: Where to go Beyond Luang Prabang
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    One Week in Laos: Where to go Beyond Luang Prabang

    Despite being nestled between tourism giants Thailand and Vietnam, Laos remains a relatively undiscovered gem for travellers. Those who do visit, tend to head straight to Luang Prabang for 3-4 days before flying out. Although the heritage town is worthy of the spotlight, the country has far more to offer.  As infrastructure has improved in Laos, EXO encourages visitors to stay longer and explore further. A one-week trip provides enough time to cover two or three destinations, resulting in a richer understanding and appreciation for this fascinating country. Here’s a closer look at some of our suggested places to visit, how long to stay and inspiring itinerary ideas! Siphandon (4000 Islands)Located in the far southern reaches of Laos, this collection of river islands is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the quiet rhythms of village life. Besides time spent relaxing, Siphandon offers an array of experiences and sites. UNESCO Heritage-listed Wat Phu is worthy of a detour for any culture buff while the town of Don Khone offers opportunities to spot endangered river dolphins and explore the  Lippi waterfalls. Suggested stay: 2-4 days 4000 Islands Journey Upper Mekong River Cruises The Mekong River is the lifeblood of Laos, winding through the…

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    Meet Andrea Vinsonneau : EXO Travel Laos GM
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    Meet Andrea Vinsonneau : EXO Travel Laos GM

    Andrea Vinsonneau With parents who both worked in the hospitality industry, Andrea had a more international upbringing than most. Hailing from France and settling in Thailand from the ripe age of two, is Andrea is a rare and wonderful living example of multiple cultures being fused into one. Those who meet her are immediately struck by the ease at which she transitions between  languages and connects with people from a multitude of backgrounds; a true 'chameleon' in the best sense of the word. Through her multi-national, multi-cultural meanderings growing up, it was Laos that truly captured her heart.  ‘There's just something about the warmth of the people, the beauty of the landscapes, and the richness of the culture that has always captivated me’.  Through this love of her adoptive homeland and her deep-seeded desire to share it with others, she became increasingly drawn to the industry of her parents, which not only allowed her to follow in their footsteps, but to carve out a path of her own in tourism.  When describing her passion, she said: ‘Laos is so unique and magical, and the opportunity to share it with others while also helping to support local communities through tourism drives me to excel every…

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    Mekong Elephant Wonders
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    Mekong Elephant Wonders

    More than just an excursion, guests will observe elephants in their natural habitat while also playing a small role in their preservation.Set in the Mekong Elephant Park (MEP), a lauded conservation and rewilding initiative, this half-day experience is distinguished by its commitment to sustainability.  MEP has received the gold certification by Asian Captive Elephant Standards (ACES), an organization that provides independent, expert evaluations of elephant parks. The gold certification is awarded only to projects who uphold the highest level of elephant welfare. Andrea Vinsonneau, General Manager for EXO Laos, recently visited MEP to learn more about the project. ‘There are only 800 elephants remaining in Laos, half in the wild and half in captivity. This is a dire situation as there were thousands in the past.At EXO we want to support sustainable, ethical elephant welfare and nature conservation projects and with MEP attaining ACES gold certification, we can confidently support them in their mission,’  Andrea explains.  'At EXO we want to support sustainable, ethical elephant welfare and nature conservation projects.' The Mekong Elephant Park is located in Pakbeng, a town on the Mekong River that is a popular stopover on cruises between Thailand and Laos. After spending a night in Pakbeng, EXO’s program begins with a…

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    Getting to and around Laos: Easier than Ever
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    Getting to and around Laos: Easier than Ever

    Recent developments in air and rail networks are improving the Laos travel experience, encouraging longer stays, richer experiences, and a more holistic understanding of the multifaceted beauty that is Laos. High Speed Train: Easier access to remote areas In the past, overland journeys in Laos usually involved an arduous drive over rough mountain roads. The debut of a groundbreaking high-speed train in late 2022 has changed that. With a top speed of 160 km/hour, the new rail line dramatically reduces travel time within the country and makes remote regions more accessible.  The train commences at the southern terminus of Vientiane, the commercial capital, and travels north to the Laos-China border at Boten. Along the way stops are made in Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay and Nateuy. The journey from Vientiane to Luang Prabang takes around 2.5 hours by train, a drastic improvement over the previous 6-7 hour drive. Alexander Stephan, EXO Marketing Director, recently travelled on the high speed train with his family. “Passing through so much stunning scenery in the comfort of a smooth, air conditioned train- we were almost disappointed to have arrived in Oudamxay from Luang Prabang so quickly!” EXO has long been a champion of the remote Oudomxay…

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