Paradoxically, limited international linkages may also be contributing to Lao PDR's tourism attractiveness and its benchmark strength in several areas. Limited tourism numbers enhance Lao PDR's quiet charm for those tourists who are able to make the journey. Limited linkages also make Lao PDR a more exotic destination, a positive marketing tool and image that can help it stand out in the increasingly interconnected world of tourism.
Lao PDR is near or tied for lowest rank in the GMS for roads, telecom. international linkages, cleanliness of public facilities, and health management. In nearly all cases, however, it shares the low ranking with most of the other countries in the study and lags behind only GMS-benchmark Thailand as well as Singapore and Malaysia in the larger region. This gap reflects the differing levels of development between Thailand (and Singapore and Malaysia) and th rest of the GMs. As Lao PDR develops, these attributes should improve.