For Australian friends Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, their overseas adventure was their first big trip, filled with dreams and excitement. Like many 19-year-olds, they decided to explore Southeast Asia.

According to the BBC, after months of saving up, the two girls arrived in Laos on November 12, reaching the tourist town of Vang Vieng.

They stayed at the Nana Backpacker Hostel, a popular spot for travelers where guests often receive a free shot upon arrival. However, just a few days later, they ended up in intensive care units in Thailand.

Bianca passed away on November 21, followed by Holly a day later. Alongside them, 28-year-old British tourist Simone White and three more travelers—two Danish women aged 19 and 20 and an American—became victims of a suspected mass methanol poisoning.

It is unclear how many others fell ill, but an international police investigation into the deaths is underway.

Insecurity in a Tourist Hotspot

The Nana Backpacker Hostel, where some of the victims consumed free shots, is at the center of the investigation.

The hostel manager denies any responsibility, stating that the same drinks were served to over 100 people without issues.

The town of Vang Vieng, known for its natural beauty but also for its reputation as a party destination, has tried in recent years to clean up its image. Despite efforts, the region’s lax safety regulations remain a problem.

Fear and Reflection

After the tragedy, visitors to the town are avoiding free drinks and sticking to bottled beers.

British traveler Natasha Moore canceled her stay at the hostel, saying: “It’s terrifying; I feel like I escaped death,” she stated in a TikTok video, warning other travelers.

This tragedy has once again highlighted the lack of awareness among travelers about the dangers of adulterated alcohol.

Thousands of methanol poisoning cases are recorded every year in Southeast Asia, according to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).

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Party town Vang Vieng turns deadly: Six young tourists die from methanol poisoning