On paper, Laos seems to have all to attract international tourists. It owns mighty waterfalls, golden temples and nearly two dozen national parks.
But the land-locked country welcomed only 4. 2 million visitors in 2016—a small (achieve) in comparison with its southeastern Asian neighbors. In that same year, there (be) 32 million tourists in Thailand, 26. 8 million in Malaysia and over 10 million in Vietnam—all countries boasting their long and (impress) beaches. As for Laos, its main problem is its lack of the three Ss—sun, sand and sea. , things seem to change now.
A high-speed rail link between Laos and China (expect) to open in 2022, with the purpose of attracting more tourists.
The country is making a bold attempt to overcome this natural deficit by becoming the first foreign country to use Chinese technology, equipment and investment (connect) with the giant nation's domestic fast and vast rail network.
If all goes as planned, Laos will be the first stop on one route of the Pan-Asia Railway, aim is to connect China with all of Southeast Asia. With trains (run) at speeds of up to 125 miles per hour, the inconvenience of carrying both passengers and cargo in the mountainous areas will be overcome (great).
If so, those who enjoy hiking, now it could, be the last chance to experience an undeveloped part of Southeast Asia before it joins its neighbors in boosting its tourism.
