Vang Vieng, a popular backpacker destination in Laos, is facing an international scandal after six tourists died from suspected methanol poisoning in their drinks. The deaths have raised safety concerns among travelers, particularly young women, leading many to avoid local spirits and stick to bottled or canned beer. Despite the tragedy, the town remains busy with tourists, though there's a heightened awareness and caution regarding alcohol consumption. The Nana Backpackers hostel, linked to the deaths, has been closed, and local bars are under scrutiny.
Fort Lauderdale is preparing for spring break by implementing safety measures such as free roofie tests for drinks, rideshare zones to limit drunken driving, and increased police presence. The city also announced beach restrictions and additional safety measures, including more lifeguards and jet ski patrols, as well as accessible Narcan in hotels and by lifeguards. The police will be enforcing regulations and cracking down on alcohol violations, fake IDs, public disturbances, and public indecency. Additionally, the city has set up rideshare zones and circuit shuttles to reduce traffic congestion and is providing safety tips to reduce the risk of sexual assault and pickpocketing.
Sequoia National Forest's Miracle Hot Springs has been closed indefinitely following the second death in two years, with the cause of death undisclosed. The closure order blocks access to the hot springs and its vicinity, while a nearby campground remains open. The hot springs, managed by Hot Spring Angels, Kern River Conservancy, and the Forest Service, sustained minor damage in 2020.
A snowboarder spent 15 hours trapped inside a gondola at Heavenly Mountain Resort in Lake Tahoe after it stopped running, leaving her alone in freezing temperatures. Monica Laso, who was found suffering from cold exposure, had rubbed her hands and feet to stay warm through the night before being discovered by workers the next morning. The resort is investigating the incident, emphasizing the safety of its guests, while authorities described the situation as a "total anomaly."
