In brief
Australia has issued a strong warning for travelers against consuming certain Laotian liquors, in the wake of suspected methanol poisoning that resulted in multiple deaths, including two Australians.
Australia's foreign affairs department has raised alarms over the consumption of specific liquors in Laos, urging travelers to refrain from drinking Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky. This advisory comes after a tragic series of events where six individuals died in Vang Vieng, a popular backpacking destination, which is alleged to be linked to methanol poisoning from local spirits. Authorities in Laos have prohibited the sale of these liquors harboring serious safety concerns. The victims, including two Australians — Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, both just 19 years old — reportedly consumed shots at a hostel before their fatal encounters. Amid these incidents, eight staff members from the Nana Backpackers hostel have been detained, although charges have not yet been filed. The hostel, which has since closed, has refuted claims of serving dangerous alcohol.In light of these harrowing events, families of the deceased are advocating for a thorough investigation by Laotian authorities. Mark Jones, the father of one of the victims, expressed a desire for justice, emphasizing the need to prevent further tragedies. The other victims included individuals from the UK and Denmark, raising concerns over the potential scale of illness among tourists related to these liquors. Methanol, an industrial substance, is commonly associated with distilled counterfeit spirits, and experts warn that even small quantities can be life-threatening. In response, the UK's Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office has updated its travel guidance, reflecting similar warnings against the risk of methanol poisoning present in Laos. Backpackers in the region have been advised to stay vigilant, sharing cautions such as "Don't drink the spirits," as the methanol issue continues to be a pressing problem across Southeast Asia.
