Saturday, March 9, 2024
At the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024, a key event in the travel and tourism industry calendar, we had the privilege of engaging in an exclusive interaction with Inthy Deuansavanh, President Lao Association of Travel Agents and Chairman of Inthira Group. Deuansavanh, a prominent figure in the travel sector, shared his insights into the developments within the ASEAN tourism landscape, the role of sustainable practices in the industry, and the unique offerings of Laos as a travel destination.
Embracing ASEAN’s Tourism Potential
The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2024 served as an essential platform for professionals like Deuansavanh to meet, exchange ideas, and collaborate on the future of tourism in the region. “This is my third time in the event,” Inthy Deuansavanh remarked, emphasizing the forum’s importance in observing regional tourism progress and fostering cooperative efforts. The ATF’s focus on promoting unity and shared growth within the ASEAN community aligns perfectly with Inthy Deuansavanh’s vision of a harmonious and prosperous tourism industry in Southeast Asia.
Pioneering Eco and Adventure Tourism in Laos
Laos, with its rich natural landscapes, has been the focus of Deuansavanh’s work, particularly in developing eco-friendly and adventure tourism initiatives through the Inthira Group. He proudly stated, “My company is the first that developed eco and adventure tourism in Laos,” highlighting the significant potential for nature-based tourism in the country. By transforming natural attractions into adventurous experiences, his ventures not only enhance the tourist experience but also contribute positively to local communities, improving their livelihoods while preserving the environment.
The Inthira Group has successfully established five unique attractions, each offering a distinctive experience – from the longest zip line over breathtaking vistas, enjoying coffee amidst the treetops, to crossing suspension bridges over islands. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to present Laos as a top destination for travelers seeking immersive nature and adventure experiences.
Targeting a Diverse Clientele
Deuansavanh’s marketing strategy focuses not on specific countries but on attracting a particular demographic interested in nature, adventure, outdoor activities, and responsible tourism. While Europeans and Thais currently make up a significant portion of their clientele, the aim is to appeal to anyone with a passion for discovering pristine natural beauty and engaging in unique adventure experiences, regardless of their geographic origin.
Participation in Travel Trade Events
Highlighting the importance of travel trade events, Inthy Deuansavanh shared his extensive experience participating in major exhibitions such as ITB Berlin, the Mekong Tourism Forum, and specialized adventure tourism forums. These events offer valuable opportunities for networking, showcasing Laos’ tourism offerings, and staying abreast of industry trends. By focusing more on adventure tourism, Inthy Deuansavanh and his team aim to carve out a niche for Laos on the global tourism map.
Advocating for Sustainable Tourism
As President of the Lao Association of Travel Agents, Inthy Deuansavanh is at the forefront of promoting sustainable tourism practices within Laos. He emphasized the importance of aligning all members of the association with the goal of preserving Laos’ natural beauty while ensuring that tourism benefits are equitably distributed among local communities. This holistic approach to sustainability involves collaboration with locals to protect and conserve the environment, a critical factor in maintaining Laos as an attractive and responsible tourism destination.
Inthy Deuansavanh’s insights at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 underscore the evolving dynamics of the ASEAN tourism industry, with a particular emphasis on sustainable and adventure tourism. Through initiatives like those undertaken by the Inthira Group, Laos is positioned as a compelling destination for eco-conscious and adventurous travelers.
Deuansavanh’s leadership in both promoting Laos on the international stage and advocating for sustainable tourism practices serves as an inspiring model for the future of travel in the ASEAN region and beyond. His vision and efforts demonstrate a profound commitment to enhancing the tourism landscape while ensuring the preservation of natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
Tags: ASEAN, ASEAN Tourism, Inthira Group, Inthy Deuansavanh, zipline
Saturday, April 27, 2024
