Two Australian friends, Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, embarked on their first major trip to explore South East Asia, drawn by its charm and beauty. After saving up post-school and university, they arrived in Vang Vieng, Laos, on November 12, staying at the popular Nana Backpacker Hostel where guests often receive a free shot upon arrival. Days later both were on life support in hospitals in Thailand.
A night out in Laos turned tragic as six tourists, including two Australian teenagers, lost their lives after reportedly consuming tainted alcohol. Among the victims was Holly Bowles, 19, who had been on life support for several days in neighboring Thailand after being evacuated from Laos. Despite efforts to save her, she succumbed to her condition, according to CNN affiliate Seven News.
Holly’s friend, Bianca Jones, also 19, tragically passed away on Thursday, making the loss even more devastating. The two friends were part of a group of tourists enjoying a trip in the Southeast Asian nation when the incident occurred.
Tainted alcohol has long been a concern in several regions, with dangerous substances like methanol often used in illicitly produced drinks. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fatalities, and the tragedy has reignited warnings for tourists to exercise caution when consuming beverages in unfamiliar locales.
This heartbreaking incident is a stark reminder of the potential dangers travelers may face abroad.
