Dear Travel Partners,
We are pleased to bring you information about upcoming events and projects in Laos...
"The Nest" Eco-Project
A new and unique eco-project located in northern Laos, in the middle of "Nam Et - Phou Louey" National Park.
This project will be operated by villagers and will benefit 12 villages through a development fund. Tourists will enter the middle of the protected area to observe wildlife and collect photos taken by camera traps (see image below) that have been set up at strategic locations around the park to capture photos of unsuspecting animals that are usually very hard to capture by camera, such as the rare Sambar deer. As an charitable incentive for the local villages to protect the wildlife rather than simply hunting, an amount of money will be given to the locals for each photo captured.
The experience will start at "Nam Poung Village" with introduction of local culture; from there a 12km trail will bring you to "The Nest". This eco-lodge inspired by bird and insect nests will be built by bamboo and wood and covered by tissue to give some privacy and as protection from the rain. This will offer a total immersion in to nature, whilst still being environmentally friendly..
Poung Nyied salt lick is located 300 metres out of the camp; there you will find "The Hide" observation tower. Elevated amongst a small patch of trees, the "hide" offers dual aspect views of the small stream and salt lick. The frame is built between 3 mature trees with integrated seating and leaning table, facing the best possible views. The structure is kept lightweight and covered with a rope lattice to reduce the chances of it disturbing wildlife.
With this project tourists are able to get involved in a unique experience to see wildlife and nature, whilst simultaneously helping to develop one of the poorest regions in Laos and show the local people the importance of preserving this biodiversity.
Estimated opening date: December 2015.
Boat Racing Festival
Traditional carved boats from all the surrounding villages will race this year on the 12th of September.
This event is one of the most important social events and sporting activities in Laos. Boats holding from 20 to 50 paddlers compete one two at a time over a distance of 2 km. This race originates from the ancestral tradition of paying homage to the Nagas (water divinities), protectors of the country.
Half Marathon in Luang Prabang
On the 18th October this year Luang Prabang, the ancient capital of Laos, will host the third Half Marathon. This charity event aims to raise funds for three different beneficiaries, working in youth health and education.
The races distances will be 7km, 14km and 21km, taking take place on the 7km circuit around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang, running past many of the town's most famous and beautiful land-marks. For more information, please visit: http://www.luangprabanghalfmarathon.com

For more information about any of the events or projects mentioned in this newsletter, please contact your Sales Manager in charge.
Sincerely,
Your Focus Asia Team
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