Lao Ecotourism Forum

"Bridging the Mekong Region"

26 - 29 July 2007

-- From 26 – 29 July 2007 the Lao National Tourism Administration will organize the third annual Lao Ecotourism Forum at the Don Chan Palace Hotel in Vientiane, Lao PDR. This exciting event will bring together and display the highest quality and most innovative ecotourism products and services on offer in the Mekong Region. Under the theme ‘Bridging the Mekong Region’ tour operators, travel agents, accommodation providers, development agencies, National Tourism Organizations and indigenous people from throughout the Mekong Region will gather under the same roof to network and expand business opportunities in their respective countries. This event is a must for anyone interested in shaping the course of ecotourism development in the Mekong Region.

In addition to the ‘Mekong Ecotourism Mart’ where buyers meet sellers on the first and second day of the Forum, an ecotourism conference, gala dinner, food festival, 5km fun-run, concert, handicraft exhibit and trade show are planned. For international buyers and the media, special pre and post familiarization tours will be offered.

Registration for the Forum opens on 1 March 2007, with online registration and a complete overview of events planned available at www.ecotourismlaos.com/forum2007

One of the many events being staged as part of the Lao Ecotourism Forum is the 5k Mekong Fun Run. The 5k Mekong Fun Run starts at Vientiane 's That Luang Stupa, passes the Victory Monument and Vientiane 's Old Quarter and ends at the Don Chan Palace Hotel. After the Mekong Fun Run the Lao Ecotourism Forum is open to the public with a local product and handicraft exhibit, concert, and prize giveaways all day on the 28 and 29 July.

Registration and payment of US$ 2 for participation in the Mekong Fun Run will be accepted until 7 July 2007. Register at the Lao National Tourism Administration's Tourist Information Center (first floor) on Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane, beginning on 1 March 2007. If you live outside of Laos, Online registration is available starting March 1 with payment due on the day of the race.

Fun Run course through the center of Laos capital while seeing all the best tourist sites!

For more information on Laos travel and ecotourism opportunitites please consult with North by North East destination specialists!