Vientiane, Laos — The Australian government has revised its travel advisories for Laos following the tragic methanol poisoning deaths of two teenage tourists from Melbourne earlier this month. The advisory was updated after the Lao government banned the sale and consumption of two local alcohol brands linked to multiple fatalities involving foreign nationals.
The deceased Australian youths, identified as 19-year-olds Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, were vacationing in the scenic town of Vang Vieng when they succumbed to suspected methanol poisoning after consuming local spirits. Their deaths are among several reported incidents involving toxic alcohol consumption in the area.
Following these incidents, the Lao authorities took swift action by prohibiting Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky, which have since been identified as potential health hazards. These brands are suspected of containing methanol, a cheaper alternative to ethanol but highly toxic and potentially deadly even in small amounts.
The Australian government agency Smartraveller issued a statement warning its nationals to exercise caution, particularly when consuming spirit-based drinks in Laos. The advisory stresses the importance of vigilance to avoid adulterated beverages and recommends that travelers stick to reputable licensed premises when drinking alcohol.
Methanol poisoning is not always immediately apparent which makes it particularly dangerous. Symptoms can take hours to manifest and can include headache, dizziness, nausea, and lack of coordination. In severe cases, it can result in vision loss, organ failure, or death.
The broader implications of the tragedy have prompted discussions among the international community present in Laos about the regulations surrounding the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in the country. Tourists are now being cautioned about the risks related to unregulated alcohol production, which often involves the use of dangerous substances such as methanol due to its low cost.
Smartraveller also advises travelers to never accept drinks from strangers, never leave drinks unattended, and to avoid homemade alcoholic drinks entirely. Labels on bottles may not be accurate, and in regions where alcohol regulation is lax, this poses a significant risk.
The travel warning status for Vang Vieng specifically has been heightened to “Reconsider your need to travel.” This comes as a considerable blow to the local economy, which heavily relies on tourism.
To safeguard against drink spiking — another concern highlighted by recent events — travelers are encouraged to stay in groups and keep an eye on each other’s drinks.
The losses experienced by the international community in Laos serve as a dire reminder of the dangers of unregulated spirits. It underscores the urgent need for rigorous standards and strict enforcement of alcohol production and sales to prevent further tragedies. As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of visitors to the region, as well as pressing for transparency and accountability in local markets.