Sea Games tours to Laos lacks attraction due to high cost

Even though the 2009 Southeast Asian Games, or the 25th Sea Games, is drawing near, few Vietnamese tourists have put their names down for the regional sports event due to the high costs.
Doan Thi Thanh Tra, marketing executive of Saigontourist Travel Service, said only 50 people had come to register with her travel firm for tours to Laos on this occasion.
High cost is a hindrance, preventing people from attending Sea Games, said another tour operator in HCMC.
“Though lots of people have come for information, no one has registered till now,” said Ta Thi Cam Vinh in charge of Ben Thanh Tourist’s outbound section. The price is at US$375 exclusive of the return air ticket per person for a tour to Laos within seven days compared to a tour to Thailand costing only US$300, she told the Daily.
Vo Dong Hai, marketing executive of SPSC Tour under Saigon Petroleum Service Company, predicted that around 40 people will register to go to Laos for this Sea Games.
It is the first time Laos ever hosts the Southeast Asian Games from December 9 to 18. This event will take place in its capital city of Vientiane, Prabang and Savannakhet, where athletes from the region will compete in 25 sports.
The opening ceremony will take place at the New Laos National Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 25,000 people.