Hospitality sector rolls out the welcome mat

The Accommodation, Food and Tourism Committee (AFTC) has called on hotels in Vientiane to maintain high standards in the lead-up to the SEA Games next month.

Many hotels have begun to install decorations to welcome guests, including the flags of each nation participating in the event.

AFTC Director and Vice Mayor of Vientiane, Mr Somvandy Nathavong, said all hotels must maintain standards in all facets of their services to ensure guests enjoy their stay.

Mr Somvandy urged hotels to provide clean and nutritious food, while also offering good quality service and promoting Lao culture.

Ensuring visitors enjoy their stay during the games will encourage them to return in the future and help to boost tourism, he said.

The AFTC held a meeting yesterday at the National Culture Hall to report on preparations to welcome guests to Vientiane . In attendance were AFTC officials and members of the hospitality industry.

The meeting learnt volunteer and liaison teams are ready to assist in work relating to accommodation, dining and sightseeing.

The AFTC has assigned certain hotels to accommodate delegates and officials from different countries. Don Chan Palace will host guests from Brunei , Cambodia , Indonesia , Laos , Malaysia , Myanmar , the Philippines , Thailand , Singapore , and Vietnam .

The Lao Plaza Hotel will accommodate guests from Japan , Mongolia , Brunei , Korea , and China , as well as Vietnam and Thailand .

Various other hotels will host referees and other organising officials, while athletes will stay at the SEA Games Village at the National University of Laos.

Health officials have carried out inspections of hotels and guesthouses in Vientiane recently to ensure they can provide high quality services during the games.

By Sangkhomsay Bubphanouvong
(Latest Update Novembe 24, 2009)