Simone White Among Six Dead from Methanol Poisoning in Laos

Six tourists, including British lawyer Simone White, tragically died after consuming methanol-laced vodka while staying at Nana Backpackers Hostel in Vang Vieng, Laos. Simone, 28, was among those who accepted free vodka shots, leading to severe health complications and ultimately her death on November 21. Her mother, Sue White, recounted her harrowing journey to Laos upon learning of her daughter's critical state, expressing a mother's intuition that Simone would not survive. The incident has prompted local police to detain eight hostel employees for questioning, although the owners have denied serving contaminated alcohol. Simone's two friends survived but are reportedly traumatized by the experience, highlighting the dangers of accepting drinks while traveling. Sue White urges caution to fellow travelers, emphasizing that such tragedies can affect anyone, regardless of their background.