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MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre: Unveiling Laos's Hidden History

Explore Laos's hidden history at the MAG UXO Visitor Centre in Phonsavan: learn about UXO and the ongoing efforts for a safer future.

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The MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre in Phonsavan offers a crucial and sobering look into the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos, the most heavily bombed country per capita in the world. Through informative displays and personal stories, the center highlights the devastating consequences of the Vietnam War era and the ongoing efforts to clear these deadly remnants.

A brief summary to MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre, Phonsavan

Local tips

  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the exhibits and learn about the impact of UXO in Laos.
  • Consider making a donation to support MAG's work in clearing UXO and assisting affected communities.
  • Check the center's opening hours before your visit, as they may vary.
  • Be respectful of the sensitive nature of the exhibits and the stories of UXO survivors.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre is located on Road 7 in Phonsavan. From most points in the town center, it's easily accessible on foot. Simply head towards the main street (Thanon Laek 7), also known as Road 7, and look for the center next to the STB bank. The center is well-signed and easy to find.

  • Tuk-tuk

    Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Phonsavan and are a convenient way to reach the MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre. A short tuk-tuk ride from anywhere in the town center should cost between 10,000 to 20,000 LAK (approximately $1-2 USD). Negotiate the price with the driver before you begin your journey.

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Discover more about MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre, Phonsavan

The MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre in Phonsavan provides a vital window into a little-known aspect of Laos's history: the immense impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) resulting from the Second Indochina War. From 1964 to 1973, the United States dropped over two million tons of bombs on Laos, a staggering amount that makes it the most heavily bombed country per capita in the world. A significant percentage of these munitions, around 30%, failed to detonate, leaving a deadly legacy that continues to threaten communities today. The visitor center, operated by the Mines Advisory Group (MAG), offers a comprehensive overview of the UXO problem in Laos. Exhibits detail the historical context of the bombings, the types of ordnance used, and the impact on the Laotian people. Visitors can learn about the challenges of clearing UXO, the risks faced by clearance teams, and the importance of mine risk education in affected communities. Personal stories from survivors add a poignant and human dimension to the exhibits. These accounts highlight the resilience of the Laotian people and the ongoing struggle to rebuild their lives in the face of this hidden danger. The center also serves as a valuable resource for tourists, providing information about safe travel in the region and promoting awareness of the UXO issue. The MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre is not just a museum; it's a place to reflect on the past, understand the present, and support a safer future for Laos.

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