Lao PDR plan Visit Year 2012 debut

Lao National Tourism Administration will launch its Visit Laos Year 2012 with a grand ceremony in the capital city, 31 December, as part of the New Year's countdown celebrations.

LNTA director-general, tourism marketing and promotion department, Saly Phimphinith, told TTR Weekly that the opening ceremonyandnbsp; would be presided over by the Lao PDR president and other top government officials at the Lao National Culture Hall.The celebration will include a fair, stage performances such as traditional dances and music, a fashion show as well as a Miss Tourism contest.

Mr Saly said LNTA has still to finalise official events during 2012, but the emphasis will be on upgrading established festivals such as the Lao New Year in Luang Prabang, in April and the Elephant Festival in Xayaburi.As part of preparations LNTA staff are undergoing training in marketing skills at centres in Japan and Singapore.

Japan International Cooperation Agency will also provide LNTA technical support on promotions and helps formulate a tourism marketing and promotional strategy and plan for the Visit Laos Year 2012.In addition, to disseminate information about VLY 2012, a new multi-language website is currently under construction as well as a promotional video to distribute to visitors this year.

Source = ttrweekly