THE TRUTH ABOUT: Vang vieng | History Defined

Laos defends handling of tainted-alcohol deaths

Authorities in Laos said on Saturday they could not determine blame or cause of death in 2024 of six tourists previously linked to methanol-tainted alcohol because their families had refused to allow autopsies.

Bangkok Post · Jul 18

Laos Methanol Poisoning: How It Happens and Should Tourists Worry About Drinking After Hostel Deaths?

Six tourists died in Laos after drinking methanol-tainted alcohol at a hostel in Vang Vieng. Experts urge caution but say travellers can stay safe with basic precautions.

International Business Times UK · Nov 11, 2025

What is methanol poisoning? The colourless, tasteless liquid that can kill

Methanol is an important industrial solvent used in antifreeze, paint thinners and windshield washer fluid

The Independent UK · Aug 18, 2025

In wake of Laos backpacker deaths, questions linger in Vang Vieng

In the bars of the bustling Laos tourist town, visitors are nervous and information on the investigation into the deaths is scarce

The Guardian - AU · Nov 29, 2024

Laos bans local vodka and whisky brand following suspected poisoning, Australia says

Reported ban comes after two Australian teenagers, two Danish citizens, an American, and a Briton became ill, and later died, after drinking in Vang Vieng

The Guardian - AU · Nov 29, 2024

Eight staff members at Laos hostel arrested over 'tainted shot' tourist deaths

All six victims were staying at the NANA Backpackers Hostel in Vang Vieng - a popular tourist spot

Evening Standard · Nov 26, 2024

Six people have died in Laos from drinking tainted alcohol – what you need to know about methanol

Six tourists who were staying at a youth hostel in Vang Vieng, Laos, have died of methanol poisoning. The methanol was believed to be in contaminated drinks.

The Conversation · Nov 25, 2024

New Zealand citizen poisoned by contaminated alcohol in Laos returns home

Laos government pledges to prosecute those responsible

The Independent UK · Nov 25, 2024

Laos’ methanol poisoning deaths send chill through backpacker paradise

Backpacker hotspot Vang Vieng is in the spotlight following six deaths blamed on tainted alcohol.

Al Jazeera · Nov 25, 2024

Laos government ‘profoundly saddened’ by deaths of tourists in Vang Vieng

Six foreign visitors died earlier this month after suspected methanol poisoning during night out in backpacker hotspot

The Guardian - UK · Nov 23, 2024