VIENTIANE, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- As the New Year approaches, many are mapping out their holiday journeys, with Lao travelers increasingly choosing the China-Laos Railway as their preferred route, gliding along the tracks with ease, comfort, and scenic beauty as they welcome the dawn of a new year.
Joey, a freelance graphic designer in the Lao capital Vientiane, described the past year as a whirlwind of deadlines, client meetings, and late-night projects. For the New Year, he is planning a week-long trip to trade the city's chaos for the gentle rhythm of rivers and mountains.
"I'm planning a solo trip to Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. I'm looking forward to nature activities like hiking, camping, and boating along the river, hoping the journey will heal my tiredness," Joey told Xinhua on Tuesday.
"I've worked hard all year. This trip will be my prize, a way to honor the effort and sacrifices I've made," Joey said. "I want to leave behind the stress. I didn't want to worry about traffic, road bumps, or driving, so I chose the China-Laos Railway for this trip."
He added that watching the forests and mountains pass by while sitting back on the train makes him feel as if time slows down, allowing all the stress he carries to simply drift away. "I believe the train will give me that peace from the very start, turning the journey itself into a gift," he said.
Lao authorities have highlighted the railway's role in strengthening rail transport and reaffirmed the government's commitment to developing infrastructure to drive growth, enhance regional and international connectivity, and improve livelihoods.
Before the railway, traveling to northern Laos was difficult and time-consuming due to winding and challenging roads. Since its opening, residents and tourists have embraced the railway for its safety, comfort, and punctuality.
For newlyweds Bie and his wife, a couple living in the Lao capital Vientiane, the upcoming New Year holiday is an opportunity for a honeymoon trip to northern Laos' Luang Prabang province, a journey to celebrate the season together and create lasting memories. They chose the China-Laos Railway for its convenience and affordable tickets, allowing them to travel comfortably as a couple.
"Traveling by train saves so much time compared to driving and is much more comfortable. We can sit together, enjoy the scenery, and start our holiday feeling calm and happy instead of stressed from traffic," Bie told Xinhua.
"I believe that beginning the year with a smooth, relaxing journey will help boost our energy for the hard work ahead," he added.
For some, the New Year holiday is a perfect time to meet friends and family, gathering to celebrate together in a lively, warm, and joyful atmosphere.
Paopao, a resident of Luang Prabang who works in the Lao capital Vientiane, said the New Year holiday is a time for returning home and celebrating with her family.
"This trip is my chance to reconnect with my family and hang out with my childhood friends. The China-Laos Railway makes it so easy. It's convenient, comfortable, and the tickets are affordable, so I don't have to worry about travel stress. I can just sit back and get excited for the celebrations ahead," she said.
Meanwhile, Nounoy, a resident of Vientiane province, is traveling to the Lao capital Vientiane to meet her university friends and continue her journey with close friends.
Paopao and Nounoy agree that the China-Laos Railway has made travel easier, more enjoyable, and a part of the holiday experience itself. They added that they can take selfies by the window and enjoy chatting with friends as the train carries them along the scenic route. ■
