obviously tourism brings with it money for the government and the chance for jobs in areas that have no industry or few other job opportunities. however, like any activity, tourism has an impact on the places and the culture in which it takes place. this impact can be positive but, if not managed well, it can become very damaging. countries have to be careful of problems like higher prices for locals, pollution, environmental damage and so on. it is very important then that laos does not just keep building and developing and so loses the beauty that makes it such a special country. balance between tourism, the environment and the need for economic development is the key.