Laos travel warnings issued

WASHINGTON: The US Department of State has warned US citizens against travel in parts of Laos, including Vientiane province, routes along the Thai-Laos border, and on roads throughout the country, following a number of deadly attacks in recent months. The State Department said in its warning, issued yesterday (January 6), that the attacks, although not apparently directed at Americans or other foreign nationals, had generally happened in public places such as markets or on transportation links frequented by foreigners. The Laotion government states that “bandits” are to blame but the State Department suggests that the attacks may be politically motived, and describes the situation as “unpredictable”. The travel advisory states, “More attacks could occur”, and adds, “Provinces that are most prominent in reports of attacks are Xieng Khouang, Luang Prabang, Houaphan, Sayaboury, Saysomboun Special Zone and north of Vang Vieng in Vientiane Province.” The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office updated its website advice on January 3 to recommend travel only in daylight hours. In its update, it concluded that although there was no evidence to suggest that foreigners were being deliberately targeted, they “may inadvertently get caught up in acts of violence.” Anyone considering travel to these areas, or Laos in general, is advised to contact their embassy for the most current information.