Travel Influencers Fall Ill After Alcohol Consumption at Laos Hostel in 2023

Travel Influencers Fall Ill After Drinking Alcohol in Laos

In 2023, travel influencer Johannes Uthaug, known as “Snusleppa,” became ill after consuming free alcohol at a hostel in Vang Vieng, Laos. Reportedly, he initially planned to stay for four days but left after experiencing severe sickness for two days.

Uthaug shared that on his first night, he and several other guests received free drinks. He stated, “I didn’t drink much, but I felt really unwell. Everyone who drank was in terrible shape. It felt like dehydration, even though I wasn’t.” Afterward, Uthaug and another guest switched hostels due to health concerns, having heard local warnings about the hostel’s alcohol, suspected to be homemade.

Since the incident, at least six tourists have died after allegedly consuming poisoned alcohol in Vang Vieng. Victims include two 19-year-old Australian women, two Danish women in their twenties, one Brit, and one American. The hostel manager has been arrested, and police are investigating potential methanol poisoning.

Uthaug expressed his sadness over the situation, saying, “It is terrible for the families of these people. It shows that you can never be too careful.” He emphasized that Laos is a beautiful country, and he hopes the incident does not hurt the local tourism industry.

The Norwegian Foreign Ministry is aware of the situation but has no information suggesting any Norwegian citizens are affected. They advise traveling Norwegians to be cautious with alcohol of unknown origin. Currently, about 70 Norwegians are registered in Laos, and those needing assistance should contact the embassy in Hanoi or the Ministry’s operational center.