Travelling can be an adventure of a lifetime, especially for Australians who love exploring and discovering new things.

Southeast Asia has been a go-to destination for adventurers with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

However, recent events cast a shadow over the excitement of travellers, where an incident raised severe health and safety concerns.

The Australian government issued a warning to travellers heading to Southeast Asia, particularly Laos.

This warning came after alarming incidents involving suspected methanol poisoning, which left two Melbourne locals fighting for their lives.

The travellers, who are on life support as of writing, suffered after reportedly consuming methanol-laced drinks while in the region.

While it's okay to indulge during travels, Smartraveller urged Aussies to be vigilant about the drinks they consume in other countries. Image Credit: Pexels/Magda Ehlers

According to reports, two other travellers lost their lives to the poisoning, and at least a dozen more have been hospitalised.

In light of the incident, Smartraveller has updated its travel guidelines.

'Several foreign nationals, including Australians, have been victims in November 2024 of suspected cases of methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks,' the updated advice stated.

'Be alert to the potential risks, particularly with spirit-based drinks, including cocktails.'

Methanol, a toxic chemical commonly found in paint, fuel, and cosmetics, could be illegally added to alcoholic beverages as an alternative to ethanol.

Consuming Methanol, even in small quantities, could lead to blindness, kidney failure, or death.

The incidents should be a grim reminder of the risks associated with consuming alcohol in overseas destinations.

While trying local specialities and enjoying the nightlife should be part of the experience, it's crucial to remain vigilant about what travellers consume during their holidays.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe during your travels:

• Stick to sealed, branded bottles: When possible, choose beverages in their original, sealed containers. This reduces the risk of consuming altered food and drinks.
• Avoid homemade or unlabelled spirits: These drinks could contain Methanol or other contaminants.
• Be cautious with cocktails: Cocktails could mask the taste of Methanol, making it harder to detect. Ask the bartenders to prepare the drinks in front of you.
• Watch out for symptoms: Symptoms of methanol poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, and lack of coordination. If you or someone you're with starts to feel unwell, seek medical attention immediately.
• Travel with a buddy: Have a friend or companion who could look out for your well-being, especially if you plan to indulge in the local nightlife.
• Stay informed: Stay updated with the latest travel advisories from Smartraveller and register your travel plans in case of emergencies.

Our hearts go out to the families of the affected Aussie travellers, and we hope for a speedy recovery for those still battling the effects of this suspected poisoning.

Key Takeaways

• Australian travellers are warned about the risk of methanol poisoning after cases in Laos which involved Australians.
• Two Melbourne locals have been on life support, and there have been deaths and hospitalisations linked to the suspected poisoning.
• Smartraveller updated its guidelines urging caution towards spirit-based drinks, particularly cocktails.
• Methanol could be illegally added to alcohol, and small dosages could be fatal.

How do you keep yourself safe during travels? Share your tips and experiences with us in the comments below. Let's help each other stay informed and enjoy our travels without compromising our health.

 

[Nantes]

What a horrible dreadful cruel thing to do to these girls .What is wrong with these people?

People???? Don't you mean predators??? A lot of these losers do this, because adult women are too smart for them.