Gov't Okays Funding for Visit Laos Year 2012: The Lao government has approved 6 billion kip (USD750,000) for the "Visit Laos Year 2012" campaign. Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism (MICT) Marketing and Promotion Department Director General Saly Phimphinith told the Vientiane Times the money will mostly be used to launch a global publicity campaign. He said the funds will enable Lao officials and tourism representatives to attend international travel trade events to promote the country and to invite the worldwide media to visit. Funds from the budget have also been earmarked for organizing large-scale performances that display Lao culture such as traditional music and dance, traditional and contemporary fashions, and the lifestyle of the country's various ethnic minorities. Special events will be organized in conjunction with annual festivals in various provinces. He called on Lao people to act as ambassadors of their country's culture and traditions, and to display the warmth and hospitality that greatly contribute to Laos' reputation as a sought after tourist destination. The Vientiane Times also reported that many tourists appreciate the natural beauty and peacefulness of Laos, but complain there is too little information about the country. Laos held its first Visit Laos Year in 1999-2000, and Deputy Prime Minister Asang Laoly kicked off this year's campaign on 31 December at a ceremony held at the National Culture Hall in Vientiane. For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/visitlaos. |
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