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

Authorities in Laos have shut down a distillery and detained hostel staff after six foreign tourists died from suspected methanol poisoning in Vang Vieng.

The deaths of six young tourists in Laos from suspected methanol poisoning have sent shockwaves through the backpacking community and prompted governments worldwide to issue urgent travel warnings about consuming alcohol in Southeast Asia. Whilst the tragedy has raised legitimate safety concerns, experts say tourists can still travel safely by following basic precautions.

The incident occurred in mid-November in Vang Vieng, a popular backpacking destination in northern Laos. Two Australian teenagers, Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both 19, along with British lawyer Simone White, 28, American James Louis Hutson, 57, and two Danish women aged 19 and 20, died after consuming alcohol believed to be contaminated with methanol. At least six others were hospitalised.