Warning for Australians as Laos authorities ban brand of vodka, whisky after teenagers' suspected poisoning deaths
The Australian government has issued a warning to travellers following the decision of authorities in Laos to ban the sale and consumption of Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky after the deaths of six tourists, including Melbourne teens Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles.
SmartTraveller today issued updated travel advice warning Australians in Laos to avoid consuming the products due to "serious safety concerns".
Bowles' and Jones' bodies have been returned home to Australia after they died a week ago in separate hospitals in neighbouring Thailand, where they'd been flown for more intense treatment after suffering suspected methanol poisoning.
READ MORE: What is methanol and why might it have been in tourists' drinks?
Holly Bowles (right) and her best friend Bianca Jones (left), aged 19, had been enjoying a backpacking holiday with friends in Laos before their deaths from suspected methanol poisoning. Supplied
The two 19-year-olds had free shots at Nana Backpackers Hostel where they were staying, in Vang Vieng, a popular backpacker destination in northern Laos, before going out and drinking at other bars on the night before they were found ill.
"Several foreign nationals, including Australians, have been victims in November 2024 of methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks," SmartTraveller's updated advice reads.
Vang Vieng is a popular backpackers' destination in Laos. AP
"Be alert to the potential risks, particularly with spirit-based drinks including cocktails."
The Australian government's current advice generally is to exercise normal safety precautions in Laos overall while higher levels apply in some areas including Xaisomboun and Bokeo provinces.
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