The parents of Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, two young Australians who tragically died from methanol poisoning in Laos, are urging fellow Australians to boycott the country. The girls, both 19, perished while staying at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng in November last year, part of a backpacking trip with friends. In total, six individuals lost their lives due to the tainted alcohol.
Following the incident, Bianca’s parents, Mark and Michelle Jones, expressed profound frustration at the lack of investigation and communication from Laos authorities. Mark stated that they had received no updates regarding the situation, despite being informed that 12 suspects were taken into custody and subsequently released without facing charges. He remarked that no local nationals had reportedly been arrested, which has left them disheartened by the apparent lack of action.
Michelle emphatically stated, “Our girls were murdered and nothing’s getting done,” as she joined her husband in calling for Australians to avoid travel to Laos until safety can be guaranteed. Mark added that if the nation wants to attract visitors, it must ensure their safety.
The couple feels that the situation is not being treated with the seriousness it deserves. They voiced their disappointment over the insufficient progress, highlighting that they do not wish for anyone else to endure such a traumatic experience.
Australian Federal Police offered assistance in the investigation; however, this help was reportedly declined by Laos authorities, further complicating the situation for the grieving families. As concerns over safety grow, the Joneses’ message is clear: Australians should reconsider travelling to Laos.
Holly’s father, Sean Bowles, described the loss of his daughter as surreal, equating it to living in a nightmare that no parent should have to experience. He shares in the collective grief of families affected by this tragedy, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability and improved safety measures in Laos.