6 tourists died in Laos after apparently drinking methanol. What is it and why was it in drinks?
Associated Press3 days
Six Tourists Die From Suspected Tainted Alcohol in Laos
Above: A motorcyclist passes the Nana Backpackers Hostel in Vang Vieng on Nov. 24, 2024. Image copyright: STR/AFP/Contributor via Getty Images
The Facts
Six foreign tourists, including two Australians, two Danes, one American, and one British citizen, have died from suspected methanol poisoning after drinking at venues in Vang Vieng, Laos this month.
The incident began on Nov. 13 when a group of more than a dozen tourists became ill after consuming alcoholic beverages at the Nana Backpackers Hostel, where they were offered free shots of Laotian vodka before going out for the evening.
The Spin
Narrative A
Local authorities were profoundly saddened to learn about this tragedy. As horrific as it may be, these deaths are isolated incidents in an otherwise safe destination that has successfully transformed itself from a party town into a family-friendly adventure tourism hub. The continued flow of tourists and normal operations in most establishments suggest that the incident has not significantly impacted the town's appeal.
Narrative B
These tragic deaths represent a severe blow to Laos' tourism industry, which has been working to shed its reputation for excess and rebrand itself as a legitimate adventure tourism destination. The country's strict control of information and limited transparency in the investigation raises concerns about safety standards for international visitors.