Tragic deaths in Vang Vieng, Laos, involving six backpackers, including a British solicitor, were caused by suspected methanol poisoning. The incident has brought attention to the town's seedy past of illegal alcohol and drugs, highlighting lax policing and inadequate alcohol regulations.
Key Points
Tragic deaths of six backpackers in Vang Vieng due to suspected methanol poisoning
Incident raises concerns about illegal alcohol trade, lax policing, and inadequate regulations
Vang Vieng's past as a hub for illicit drugs and excessive drinking brought back to light
Efforts made by authorities to clean up town's image and promote eco-tourism after previous incidents
Pros
Authorities took action to clean up Vang Vieng's image and promote eco-tourism after previous incidents.
Cons
Tragic deaths highlight the risks of illegal trade in alcohol and drugs, as well as lax policing in the area.