The country’s government will allow international tourists to travel within a “green zone”, with visitors having to fill in a one-page online form to secure a travel pass on Laos’ e-visa website or on arrival at Vientiane or Luang Prabang airports.

They will then have to take a PCR test and go through a 24-hour self-isolation period in their first hotel before being allowed to travel within the approved green zones.

Inside Travel Group’s James Mundy said while travel across the whole of Laos was “not on the cards”, the green zone areas were “quite extensive”.

“There hasn’t been a lot of great news for the travel industry this December, but this is very positive from Laos,” added Mundy.

“Although there are still some limitations, initial review would suggest that limited restrictions would still allow for extensive exploration of this beautiful little country.”

The easing of Covid-19 restrictions in Laos follows similar moves in the region, with Thailand partially reopening and Cambodia now allowing fully vaccinated tourists to visit. Malaysia also plans to reopen to international tourists in January.

“InsideAsia is still looking to see if remaining restrictions will affect the enjoyment of a trip to Laos or indeed our other destinations - if at all - but the move is a positive one and we cannot wait to start helping our agent partners get their clients to this incredible little country and region again,” continued Mundy.