Laos trains tour guides to support tourism growth

Vientiane: A national tour guide training course kicked off in Lao capital Vientiane, which aims to produce more qualified personnel to support tourism growth in Laos and address the shortage of skilled workers in this field. The course takes place from Sept. 9 to Nov. 29, with participants receiving training in ethical standards and how to satisfactorily lead groups of people to various locations and provide them with a high level of service, Lao National Radio reported on Tuesday. The course aims to produce a cohort of tour guides equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills and can demonstrate respect for Laos' culture and the country's many attractions, both historical and religious. Lao Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Dalany Phommavongsa said tourism is on an upward trend this year and is making a steady recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourism-related businesses have gained confidence in the stability of the tourism industry and are accelerating the expansion of new mark ets, focusing on green tourism and greater participation by local people. The training also teaches participants about the special attributes needed to provide an acceptable standard of service so that visitors have a good experience, are impressed, and want to return to Laos, said Dalany. In a bid to bolster tourist numbers during Visit Laos Year 2024, the government has approved visa-free entry and extended the duration of stay for tourists from certain countries. Source: The Namibia News Agency