Tourists Warned in Vang Vieng After Suspected Methanol Poisonings
The scenic town of Vang Vieng in Laos, known for its vibrant backpacker culture and river tubing adventures, is now at the center of a tragic incident involving suspected methanol poisoning. Six tourists, including four women and one man, died last week after consuming local alcohol believed to have been laced with methanol, a toxic chemical often found in bootleg liquor.
A Popular Destination Turned Risky
Vang Vieng, with its stunning landscapes and adventurous activities like "tubing" — a river-based pub crawl — has long attracted young travelers. However, following the recent deaths, concerns over drink safety have emerged. Tourists typically enjoy vodka shots at riverside bars during tubing excursions, but now caution reigns.
Two British tourists from Hertfordshire expressed their apprehension:
“We’re going to give the tubing a miss. No one wants to drink the local vodka right now.”
The Dangers of Bootleg Alcohol
Methanol poisoning occurs when alcohol is illegally produced or improperly distilled, leading to toxic levels of the chemical. The victims reportedly consumed free shots of vodka and whisky offered at The Nana Backpackers hostel, which has since closed. The hostel’s swimming pool, once a party hotspot, now sits empty.
One traveler noted:
“You wonder why the drinks are free. In the UK, it would definitely seem dodgy.”
Impact on the Backpacker Community
The deaths of young travelers, including Briton Simone White and Australians Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, have sent shockwaves through the backpacker scene. Many travelers, especially women, feel vulnerable. While some speculate that women’s drinks were deliberately spiked, authorities are still investigating.
Chat groups and online forums are filled with warnings, prompting many to avoid spirits altogether and stick to bottled or canned drinks.
Authorities Take Action
Local authorities have raided bars and questioned owners, but no clear answers have emerged. Both JaiDees bar and Nana hostel deny serving illegal alcohol, yet the investigation continues.
Safety Measures for Travelers
Visitors to Vang Vieng and other Southeast Asian hotspots are urged to:
- Avoid free or suspiciously cheap alcohol.
- Stick to bottled or canned beverages.
- Stay informed via traveler forums and local news.
As peak tourist season continues, backpackers are adjusting their plans, prioritizing safety over adventure in a region known for its carefree spirit.