Let’s not see another Vang Vieng

For those who have traveled the Southeast Asia loop recently, a big topic of conversation is whether or not to visit Vang Vieng in Laos. Prior to November 2012, Vang Vieng, depending on your perspective, was a disgusting look into what western debauchery can do to a local atmosphere.

Though the town itself is perched on a river with a beautiful background of limestone peaks, it was filled with western style bars, blaring techno music, selling drugs under the table and soliciting prostitution. On top of that, they also played “Family Guy” and “Friends” episodes on repeat. Now with the bars being closed by the government, the town is a ghost of its former westernized self, and is beginning to recuperate. Though tourism has dropped immensely, locals have regained control of their home.

While visiting western Sumatra, I was introduced to a beautiful riverside town called Bukit Lawang. Locals are friendly, food is cheap and the whisper of the rolling river as you sit and enjoy a meal is wonderful. With that being said, the further I moved into the backpacker area, the more propositions I had for weed or other drugs.

Though I personally have no problem with a little ganja, the thought of this small town turning into a hive for tourists looking to get fucked up scared me. Is that really what it takes to boost tourism in a town boasting so much incredible beauty?

Though there’s nothing wrong with a beer or a toke in moderation, watching a city literally whore out its surroundings and defy its own culture is depressing. Laos and Indonesia, as well as the respective cities, are both beautiful places. Do we really want to see another city lose itself and its future to a bunch of westerners who are missing the point of travel?

Photo courtesy of Ron Travel