Two 19-year-old Australian women on a backpacking trip in Laos became ill in the town of Vang Vieng and were hospitalized for suspected alcohol poisoning.

The Age newspaper from Melbourne, the women’s hometown, reported that they fell ill after participating in a group event at the Nana Backpacker Hostel, which offered free shots of Lao vodka.

The hostel manager, Duong Duc Toan, noted that no other guests reported illness and said the women had been out drinking further that night.

Australian authorities are providing consular assistance, as the women were transferred to hospitals in Bangkok and Udon Thani, Thailand, where they are receiving treatment.

Methanol, sometimes found in illicit mixed drinks, is suspected to be the cause.

Vang Vieng is a popular backpacker destination known for its lively party scene and adventure sports.

Although no other tourist illnesses were confirmed, the incident has heightened awareness among travelers.

The Nana Backpacker Hostel has temporarily ceased offering complimentary drinks amidst the ongoing investigation.