The Bangladesh Traveller » Free Travel Tips http://bangladeshtraveller.com Official Website of Bangladesh: The Bradt Travel Guide Thu, 25 Mar 2010 02:17:01 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.2 en hourly 1 Highlights (Free to registered members!) http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/highlights/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/highlights/#comments Tue, 29 Dec 2009 05:59:14 +0000 Mikey Leung http://bangladeshtraveller.com/?p=300 Bangladesh rarely makes any ‘top ten’ lists worldwide, but an often asked question comes more along the following lines: ‘Since I’m in Bangladesh, what are the top ten things I should see?’ Here’s a suggestion list to get you started.]]>

Bangladesh rarely makes any ‘top ten’ lists worldwide, but an often asked question comes more along the following lines: ‘Since I’m in Bangladesh, what are the top ten things I should see?’ Here’s a suggestion list to get you started:

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]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/highlights/feed/ 0 24.8196449 90.7690430 Tourist Information and Tour Operators (Free!) http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/tourist-information-and-tour-operators/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/tourist-information-and-tour-operators/#comments Tue, 29 Dec 2009 05:57:05 +0000 Mikey Leung http://bangladeshtraveller.com/?p=318 Travellers might find the services of a tour operator more efficient and helpful in the search for information and guidance while considering a journey to Bangladesh. ]]>

Bangladesh’s national tourism organisation is called the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, or Parjatan, meaning tourism, for short. The organisation’s old Dhaka headquarters were recently demolished to make way for a road and its new address had yet to be decided. This was probably for the better as the organisation was largely ineffective and its materials well out of date, and so travellers might find the services of a tour operator more efficient and helpful in the search for information and guidance while considering a journey to Bangladesh. The following list contains all international operators who have tours to Bangladesh. For a detailed list of the local operators, please check the Tourist Information chapter of the Dhaka chapter.

UK

  • Exodus UK Grange Mills, Weird Rd, London SW12 0NE; tel: +44 (0)208 675 5550; e-mail: sales@exodus.co.uk; www.exodus.co.uk. Offers a Darjeeling/Sikkim & northwest Bangladesh itineary.
  • Explore UK Nelson Hse, 55 victoria Rd, Farnborough Hampshire GU14 7PA; tel: +44 (0) 845 013 1537; e-mail: hello@explore.co.uk; www.explore.co.uk. Also offers a package tour covering northwest Bangladesh, Darjeeling, Sikkim and Bhutan.
  • Saddle Skedaddle 110 Ouseburn Bldg, Albion Row, East Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 1LL; tel:+44 (0)191 265 1110; e-mail: info@skedaddle.co.uk; www.traidcraft-tours.co.uk. Offers specialised handicraft tours to Bangladesh with UBINIG, a Bangladeshi NGO with fantastic local knowledge.
  • Undiscovered Destinations Saville Exchange, Howard St, North Shields NE30 1SE; tel: +44 (0)191 296 2674, 206 4038; e-mail: info@undiscovereddestinations ; www.bangladesh-undiscovered.com. An operator with specialist knowledge of Bangladesh. The owner definitely has a special soft spot for the country.

Europe

  • Grace Tours Sankt Peders Stræde 28, 1453 København, Denmark; tel:+45 33 117 117; e-mail: email@gracetours.com; www.gracetours.com. Operates tours on an on-demand basis, for individual travellers. Resources are mostly in Danish, but do speak English if you call.
  • Thurgau Travel Rathausstrasse 5, 8570 Weinfelden, Switzerland; tel: +41 71 626 55 00; e e-mail: info@thurgautravel.ch; www.thurgautravel.ch.Specialises in private boat journeys in Bangladesh.

Usa /Canada

  • Asian Pacific Adventures 6065 Calvin Av, Tarzana, CA 91356, USA; tel:+1 818 881 2745, +1 800 825 1680 (inside US, toll free); e-mail: info@asianpacificadventures.com; www.asianpacificadventures.com
  • Experience Bangladesh Austin, TX, USA; tel: +1 512 263 0653; e-mail: contact@experiencebangladesh.com; www.experiencebangladesh.com . Unique perspective on tour operations to Bangladesh. Focuses mainly on tourism for poverty-alleviation purposes.
  • GAP Adventures 19 Charlotte St, Toronto ON, M5V 2H5, Canada; tel:1 800 708 7761 (in North America); Tell:+1 416 260 0999 (outside North America & UK); +1 246 426 2246 (agents outside North America & UK); +44 (0)870 999 0144 (UK); +1888 800 4100 (USA); www.gapadventures.com . Package tours to Bangladesh, includes the highlights & professional logistical management.
  • Remote Lands 6th Flr, 845 Third Ave, New York, NY 10022; tel: +1 646 415 8092; e-mail: info@remotelands.com. Luxury boutique operator offering specialised & highly organised individual tours to Bangladesh. All-inclusive tours generally start at US$750/day, including expert guides, drivers, internal flights, meals, hotels & activities.

Australia

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/tourist-information-and-tour-operators/feed/ 0 Embassies and High Commissions (Free!) http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/embassies-and-high-commissions/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/embassies-and-high-commissions/#comments Tue, 29 Dec 2009 05:55:15 +0000 Mikey Leung http://bangladeshtraveller.com/?p=338 What follows is a list of the all the foreign Embassies and High Commissions in Dhaka, as well as a list of all high commissions/embassies of Bangladesh abroad. We would appreciate notice if this list has changed. ]]>

What follows is a list of the all the foreign Embassies and High Commissions in Dhaka, as well as a list of all high commissions/embassies of Bangladesh abroad. We would appreciate notice if this list has changed.

The following post is free content on the Bangladesh Traveller.

[private]

Abroad

In Bangladesh

[private]

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/embassies-and-high-commissions/feed/ 1 Travelling Positively (Free!) http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/travelling-positively/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/travelling-positively/#comments Tue, 29 Dec 2009 04:55:28 +0000 Mikey Leung http://bangladeshtraveller.com/?p=461 While traditional tourist thinking keeps people away from supposed disaster zones such as Bangladesh, there's another way of looking at such disheartening situations. Visits to the country are in fact a real opportunity to do something positive for communities in need, like building houses for cyclone or flood victims, or helping a slum education project to operate more efficiently and save costs.]]>

While traditional tourist thinking keeps people away from supposed disaster zones such as Bangladesh, there’s another way of looking at such disheartening situations. Visits to the country are in fact a real opportunity to do something positive for communities in need, like building houses for cyclone or flood victims, or helping a slum education project to operate more efficiently and save costs. By contacting certain organisations before your arrival, it is often possible to set up low-cost volunteer placements that can make a holiday to Bangladesh both memorable and very positive for the local community. In Bangladesh, this form of travel is already fairly common and there are plenty of opportunities available to assertive volunteers.

There are also a number of internships available in the country where for a nominal fee you can be exposed to the work undertaken.

A few caveats first. Certainly the country attracts a fair number of wellintentioned do-gooders wanting to save the world, but do be aware that the experience of volunteering in developing countries such as Bangladesh often brings up more thorny questions than it solves. Much of the change these volunteers want to create is more often manifest in themselves than in their outside surroundings. In other words, if you come on a volunteer experience you must remember that local people are also here to teach you about yourself as much as they want to learn from you. It also helps to leave patronising attitudes at home – Bangladeshis have long endured negative perceptions towards the country. For your sake and theirs, do remember that you are dealing with people who know what development is. The simple reality is that many Bangladeshis suffer for a lack of opportunity, whether that be fiscal, educational or employment. That probably also explains why when given the opportunity, most Bangladeshi people fervently seize it with both hands.

Pre-departure, the best thing you can do is your homework. Learn as much as you can and set your expectations properly about what you hope to achieve, and talk with former long-term visitors to the country if you can. Learn the local language as much as possible before your arrival, and do realise that the climate, food and cultural conditions of Bangladesh will take your health to task during a stay here. While this may seem very daunting, the intensity of the Bangladeshi experience will undoubtedly prove to be memorable and rewarding.

The Internship Experience with RDRS

From previous experience, the RDRS has found that interns who are motivated and committed, adaptable and able to work on their own prove the best interns and both parties gain most from the experience. Although the RDRS provides reasonable living conditions in its guesthouses (there are five main guesthouses, in Dhaka and the field), living in northern Bangladesh can prove very challenging and demanding – there is little freedom of movement, and foreigners (especially women) attract attention wherever they go, which can be difficult for those not used to it. There is little or no evening social life. Visitors are expected to fit into prevailing cultural practices and norms so as not to cause offence. Visitors may also find the same Bengali food monotonous and unappetising for weeks on end. The summer months are also very hot and humid (averaging 34–36°C and with 95% humidity) which can be energy-sapping. Communications are also problematic. It is possible to telephone Europe or North America (though charges are high); email/internet communication exists. Owing to political circumstances there may be frequent strikes often extending for several days when all transport stops and interns should remain indoors. In the summer months, including the monsoon, flooding does occur which is unlikely to affect the interns directly but may limit their movement. Finally, the RDRS is a busy working NGO – there may be no staff member with much time to assist or supervise an intern, so the intern may have to fit into the travel arrangements of others to visit the field. Occasionally other interns can become disillusioned and this can unsettle even those who are relatively satisfied.

For those who can adjust to these conditions, an internship can be a rewarding experience and the RDRS has been privileged to have had a long list of interns who have adapted, and benefited personally from the experience as well as contributing to the work of the organisation and articulating its work abroad. The RDRS also has experience of a few who were not satisfied, or found the circumstances oppressive.

Normally, interns are expected to have some maturity – so anyone below age 23 would need to be highly motivated. Some previous exposure to developing countries will also help overcome the initial ‘shock’.

Volunteer Organisations

Bangladesh

Bangladesh Rural Improvement Foundation www.brif.org. Has worked with international volunteer-sending organisations in the past, but now accepts applications to volunteer.

Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed www.crpbangladesh. com. Needs volunteer physiotherapists or occupational health therapists, but also accepts skilled volunteers for other tasks.

Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh e-mail: info@habitatbangladesh.org; www.habitatbangladesh.org. Supports groups of volunteers to do relief work but also regular construction programmes.

LAMB Project e-mail: stwc@lambproject.org; www.lambproject.org. A Christian hospital facility located at Parbatipur, 24km east of Dinajpur. Accepts short-term volunteers for various health-related needs.

The Dhaka Project www.thedhakaproject.org. Accepts volunteers for their project in which slum children are given free education, healthcare & food.

International

AYAD www.ayad.com.au. Paid placements for recently graduated Australian youth. Has a significant presence in Bangladesh; opportunities here are based on the local skills required.

Hands on Disaster Response e-,ail: info@hodr.org; www.hodr.org. Supported a volunteer team in reconstruction after Cyclone Sidr, but works in other disaster regions of the world. Volunteers are provided with meals & accommodation & only need to pay for travel expenses to get to the project site.

Idealist.org www.idealist.org. A repository of volunteer opportunities. Do your homework on organisations before accepting a post.

Volunteers for International Development Australia www.vidavolunteers.com.au. A similar programme to the AYAD programme, but for a longer placement period & focusing specifically on poverty-reduction activities.

Volunteers for Peace www.volunteerforpeace.org. USbased outfit with a database of international volunteering opportunities, including Bangladesh. Voluntary Service Overseas Canada www.vsocan.org. Volunteer-sending organisation for professional, skilled workers. Has a Bangladesh programme. Typical volunteer placement is 2 years but short-term placements are increasingly common.

BRAC e-mail: internship@brac.net; www.brac.net/get_involved.htm. Also hosts research & student internships for those interested in familiarising themselves with the activities of one of the largest NGO in the world. wCawnwad.ciiadna .Ignct.ecran. aOtifofenrasl Dsoemveel olpimmietendt Aingteenrcnyships to Bangladesh through Canadian education institutions, particularly Humber College in Toronto (www.humber.ca).

Fulbright Program www.fulbright.state.gov. US State Department programme that sends American scholars to Bangladesh for courses of study or research projects.

Grameen Bank e-mail: g_iprog@grameen.com; www.grameen-info.org. Offers exposure internships at reasonable costs to students & researchers (for further details see box, page 000).

Rangpur Dinajpur Rural Service (RDRS) e-mail: rdrs@bangla.net; www.rdrsbangla.net. Northwest Bangladesh’s best & largest NGO. Supports an internship programme from the North Bengal Institute in Rangpur (for further details see box, page 000).

Transparency International Bangladesh e-mail: info@tibangladesh.org; www.ti-bangladesh.org. The organisation responsible for publicising the incidents of corruption in graft-ridden political system of Bangladesh. Naturally, internships here would be very challenging.

Stuff your rucksack – and make a difference!

www.stuffyourrucksack.com is a website set up by television’s Kate Humble which enables travellers to give direct help to small charities, schools or other organisations in the country they are visiting. Maybe a local school needs books, a map or pencils, or an orphanage needs children’s clothes or toys – all things that can easily be ‘stuffed in a rucksack’ before departure. The charities get exactly what they need and travellers have the chance to meet local people and see how and where their gifts will be used.

The website describes organisations that need your help and lists the items they most need. Check what’s needed in Bangladesh, contact the organisation to say you’re coming and bring not only the much-needed goods but an extra dimension to your travels and the knowledge that in a small way you have made a difference.

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/29/travelling-positively/feed/ 0 Spend a Friday on the Sundown River Cruise, hosted by Big Blue http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/09/spend-a-friday-on-the-sundown-river-cruise-hosted-by-big-blue/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/09/spend-a-friday-on-the-sundown-river-cruise-hosted-by-big-blue/#comments Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:08:05 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=211 Join us on Friday 18 December for the Sundown River Cruise. We will leave from the BAGHA Club on road 44 in Gulshan at 11:00 in private transport and enjoy an hour’s drive through Dhaka to Demra. There, we will board the boat and begin a relaxing journey down the Shitalakhaya River. After that: food, drink, sunset and the company of good people]]>

Sundown Cruise Posterclick poster for full size..Join us on Friday 18 December for the Sundown River Cruise.  We will leave from the BAGHA Club on road 44 in Gulshan at 11:00 in private transport and enjoy an hour’s drive through Dhaka to Demra.  There, we will board the boat and begin a relaxing journey down the Shitalakhaya River.  After that:  food, drink, sunset and the company of good people.

This fully-furnished experience – transport, a memorable day on the water, lunch and cold beers – is offered at a minimal cost of 3,600 taka.  All you need are your camera and flipflops.  For bookings of four or more persons, we will deliver the tickets to your house or office.  For more information, call/SMS 01918 931 803 or email info@bigblue.com.bd.

Big Blue wants to create entertainment that excites guests and improves their quality of life in Bangladesh.  Help us and the community by spreading word of our efforts to your friends, family and colleagues.  If you’re on Facebook, visit our group page, which is the easiest way to find out about what’s coming up in the near future.  Alternatively, find us on Twitter (BigBlueInDhaka).

Big Blue LogoSince its inception only a few months ago, Big Blue has teamed up with the Bangladesh chapter of Future Shorts, the world’s largest short film network, the JAAGO Foundation children’s charity, the authors of the Bangladesh: Bradt Travel Guide, and Multimode Bangladesh, the parent company of Lal Teer, the largest seed distributor in Bangladesh.  It has enjoyed the support of event sponsors such as Etihad Airways, Dragonair, the Westin Dhaka, the Radisson Water Garden, Le Saigon, Contic Tours, and Olympic Industries Limited.  If you would like to work with Big Blue – whether you’ve got an idea, a need for event management assistance, or a desire to support one of our events – get in touch with us any time, any day.

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/12/09/spend-a-friday-on-the-sundown-river-cruise-hosted-by-big-blue/feed/ 0 Get out of Dhaka on "The Gazipur Retreat", hosted by Big Blue http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/11/18/get-out-of-dhaka-on-the-gazipur-retreat-hosted-by-big-blue/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/11/18/get-out-of-dhaka-on-the-gazipur-retreat-hosted-by-big-blue/#comments Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:10:30 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=204 Are you one of those poor souls who has yet to see and breathe the clean air of the countryside just outside of Dhaka??? Then this Friday daytrip is for you. Hosted by Big Blue Entertainment, this is one of those rare opportunities to get you out of the city and relaxing with some road pops [...]]]>

Clean Air!Are you one of those poor souls who has yet to see and breathe the clean air of the countryside just outside of Dhaka??? Then this Friday daytrip is for you.

Hosted by Big Blue Entertainment, this is one of those rare opportunities to get you out of the city and relaxing with some road pops at a beautiful countryside house. From the hosts themselves:

“We’re planning a fun, enlightening, unique and incredibly-affordable day trip to Gazipur, only an hour’s drive from Gulshan. Private buses will depart at around 10:30 on Friday 20 November and stop first at the Lal Teer (Red Arrow) Seed Factory, which is the most renowned seed distributor in Bangladesh. We’ll take a fascinating tour of its premises, enjoy a traditional Bangladeshi lunch and then jump back in the buses for a ten-minute journey to a private, stunning rest spot, the Awal Farmhouse, that includes picnic areas, a massive garden comprising plantlife from around the world, and opportunities to fish, enjoy a nature walk and take in the fresh air and open space.

For those who are interested, we’re organizing a very informal football tournament, while everyone else can sunbathe, tour the garden, take advantage of amazing photographic opportunities, and experience the finest of Bangladesh’s nature and climate. Towards the late afternoon: high tea, followed by a relaxing trip back to Gulshan.

For lovers of the outdoors, photographers, families, football enthusiasts, those who are interested in learning about agriculture and industry in Bangladesh, and people who wish to meet some new friends, this is a great tour package.”

Details:
~10:30 departure in private buses from the BAGHA Club on road 44
~tour of the Lal Teer Seed Factory
~traditional Bangladeshi lunch
~several hours at the Awal Farmhouse
~informal football tournament for anyone who’s interested
~high tea
~early evening arrival at the BAGHA Club
~only 2,000 taka (1,500 for children under 12)
~beers included
~50 places available

To get more details, please contact 01918 931 803 or e-mail info@bigblue.com.bd.

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/11/18/get-out-of-dhaka-on-the-gazipur-retreat-hosted-by-big-blue/feed/ 1 FAQ Series: Heading to Darjeeling from Dhaka? Here's the cheapest way.. http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/07/26/faq-series-heading-to-darjeeling-from-dhaka-heres-the-cheapest-way/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/07/26/faq-series-heading-to-darjeeling-from-dhaka-heres-the-cheapest-way/#comments Sun, 26 Jul 2009 12:43:20 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=178 Heading to Darjeeling from Dhaka? Here’s some advice: The bus ride is REALLY long. If you can afford it, fly via Kolkata. But if you want to really see the countryside and are travelling on a budget, we recommend breaking the trip at Rangpur on the way up, otherwise your only choice is an overnight direct [...]]]>

Heading to Darjeeling from Dhaka? Here’s some advice:

The bus ride is REALLY long. If you can afford it, fly via Kolkata. But if you want to really see the countryside and are travelling on a budget, we recommend breaking the trip at Rangpur on the way up, otherwise your only choice is an overnight direct bus to Siliguri, which leaves you in a pretty tired state once you get there. But for Tk1,300, and the chance to be in Darjeeling within 24 hours….

Border crossing info:
Burimari/Chengrabandha (ø 07.30–17.30) This crossing, located at the very northern tip of Rajshahi Division, is used to access Siliguri, from where you can travel to Bhutan, Sikkim or Nepal. Like all the other borders, facilities here are basic. There is one unremarkable hotel at the BRTC bus office in Burimari, nothing more than a room with some beds, should you arrive late after the border has closed. Otherwise you will find some other basic and cheap options at nearby Patgram 12km away, or better yet you can stay at the well-serviced RDRS
Guesthouse in Lalmonirhat (Saptibari, Patgram Rd; Ø 0591 61378; e-mail: rdrslal@tistaonline.com; dbl/AC $$–$$$), 90km from Burimari. Crossing usually takes a couple of hours, especially if it’s early in the morning and there are a fair number of other people in the queue.

When heading into Bangladesh, get enough taka from the money exchangers on the Indian side of the border, as there is none on the Bangladeshi side, and the nearest ATM is in Rangpur, over 100km away. Unlike the other borders there doesn’t seem to be a departure tax levied on foreigners at Burimari, although if this does change it should be Tk300 like the other borders.

Here’s the bus information:
SILIGURI SHYAMOLI PARIBAHAN (departs Kamlapur Railway Station at 21.00 and transits through Gabtali Bus Station about 22.00;tel: 836 0241) Operates a nightly service to Siliguri in conjunction with the BRTC, which is the eastern gateway to Nepal, Darjeeling or Sikkim. The bus arrives at the Burimari border at about 06.00. Customs clearance takes a few more hours, and about 15 hours later you arrive in Siliguri. Tickets can be purchased from any Shyamoli Paribahan office but it’s probably easiest to meet the bus as it leaves the city from Gabtali Bus Station. There’s also a Shyamoli Paribahan office just north of Asad Gate in Mohammadpur.

For breaking the journey in Rangpur, stay here:
RDRS Guesthouse (24 rooms) Jail Rd, Dhap; tel 66492–3 ext 102; m 01713 200185; www.rdrsbangla.net. Beautiful facility in a greened out campus. Simply one of the best places to stay in all of northern Bangladesh, with excellent management & food. Rooms have hot water, TV, balcony & AC. Downstairs a library, pool table & restaurant are attached. There is also a cabinet containing handicrafts from RDRS projects. It’s not the cheapest place to stay but excellent value if you can afford it. $$$

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/07/26/faq-series-heading-to-darjeeling-from-dhaka-heres-the-cheapest-way/feed/ 1 FAQ series: Dhaka's Membership Clubs for Expatriates — the definitive list http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/07/21/faq-series-dhakas-membership-clubs-for-expatriates-the-definitive-list/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/07/21/faq-series-dhakas-membership-clubs-for-expatriates-the-definitive-list/#comments Tue, 21 Jul 2009 02:32:19 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=175 Stuck wondering where/what all the expatriate clubs are in Dhaka? here’s a quick list with phone numbers to get you going. Each of the foreign clubs requires club membership, which can be something of a nuisance to pick up depending on your nationality or your connections. Otherwise, knowing a few other friendly foreigners will help you [...]]]>

Stuck wondering where/what all the expatriate clubs are in Dhaka? here’s a quick list with phone numbers to get you going.

Each of the foreign clubs requires club membership, which can be something of a nuisance to pick up depending on your nationality or your connections. Otherwise, knowing a few other friendly foreigners will help you out as most members can sign in guests. Once you’re in, you purchase cash coupons to pay for your drinks. Most of the city’s social life revolves around these clubs, which many people use to ‘escape’ the reality of Bangladesh. The never-ending circuit of parties and drinks does mean you’ll often meet people who, despite
having lived in Bangladesh for several months, have yet to leave Dhaka.

  • BAGHA Hse 17, Rd 44, Gulshan 2; tel: 881 4644.
  • American Recreation Association Hse 13, Rd 69, Gulshan 2; tel: 882 1025.
  • Canadian Recreation Club UN Rd, Baridhara (next to American Embassy); tel: 988 1208, 989 5223, 989 5139.
  • German Club Hse 24, Rd 104, Gulshan 2; tel 882 7440.
  • International Club Hse 5, Rd 74, Gulshan 2; tel: 988 1712.
  • Nordic Club Hse 18, Rd 55, Gulshan 2; tel: 882 1331.
  • The Aussie Rd 83–84, Gulshan 2; tel: 881 3105.
  • Netherlands Recreation Association Hse 33, Rd 74, Gulshan 2; tel 882 3877.

Got a question you’d like to ask us? Use the contact page and we’ll get back to you.

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/07/21/faq-series-dhakas-membership-clubs-for-expatriates-the-definitive-list/feed/ 0 The FAQ Series: Best Activities in Srimongol http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/04/07/the-faq-series-best-activities-in-srimongol/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/04/07/the-faq-series-best-activities-in-srimongol/#comments Mon, 06 Apr 2009 18:01:51 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=157 More FAQs! We're giving away some free tips here at Joybangla.info, especially for our most frequently asked questions.]]>

More FAQs! We’re giving away some free tips here at Joybangla.info, especially for our most frequently asked questions. If you’d like to challenge us with your stumper of a question, e-mail it to faq@joybangla.info and if we’ve written about it, you get a free snippet of the guidebook to get you going. But you’ll need the book for all the information in one place, sorry! (aha, of course there was a catch!)

#1: Lawachara Reserve Forest, home of the Hoolock Gibbons
For exploring Lawachara, we suggest you take the services of a Nishorgo-trained eco-guide, who may not have stellar English but can certainly see more wildlife than you and indicate where to look. Especially if you want to see the gorgeous Hoolock Gibbons that inhabit the forest.

Nishorgo Eco-Guides (www.nishorgo.org) Nishorgo was a USAID-funded program that helped to develop the nature guiding skills of several locals in the Srimongol area, some of whom come from the indigenous communities around the forest. If you check the Nishorgo website you will find a list of their guides at the various Nishorgo protected sites around the country, as well as information on the protected areas and Nishorgo’s work. Each guide has suitable English, so if you want the most amount of interaction, then these young locals would be the way to go. Consider it a free Bangla lesson too. You can try Mr. Dhiraj Shing (mob: 01190 270716, Manipuri) or Mr. Benedict Daring (mob: 01723 760499, Garo), both of whom are members of Srimongol’s indigenous community. They would also be good sources of information if you wanted to know about indigenous festivals of the area or wanted to see a cultural performance of the Manipuri people.

#2: Get on your bike
For bicycles, it’s a bit difficult to source them from the eco-cottage. But if you would like bicycles, you can either look for them yourself in town or convince Razu at Classic Tours and Travels to prepare them for you in town, with his guide Sablu’s help. Bikes rent for Tk150-200 per day, depending on the quality. If you call yourself a cyclist but don’t have your own bicycle up here, do remember to give the brakes a good check before you set off — there are hills out there! Full listing follows.

Classic Tours and Travels (Dhaka: Ste 313, 2nd flr, Taher Tower, Gulshan 2, mob: 01556 360566, speak with Razu; Srimongol: Railway Station Office, mob: 01718 155492, speak with Sablu; e-mail: info@classictours-bd.com; www.classictours-bd.com) While many other tour operators offer trips to Srimongol, Classic Tours is only operator that maintains an office in Srimongol with a full-time local guide/staffer from the region. While the office itself is stuffed into the back of a tiny store, the people here do know Srimongol better than many of the other operators. Single female travellers or groups would probably benefit most from their services. They can hire bicycles, organise transport and make accommodation bookings and you will benefit from the relationship they have with the local contacts, useful when you want to see something interesting.

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/04/07/the-faq-series-best-activities-in-srimongol/feed/ 0 The FAQ Series: Flying to Bangkok from Dhaka and Heading to Srimongol http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/04/04/the-faq-series-flying-to-bangkok-from-dhaka-and-heading-to-srimongol/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/04/04/the-faq-series-flying-to-bangkok-from-dhaka-and-heading-to-srimongol/#comments Sat, 04 Apr 2009 16:53:05 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=155 We're getting a lot of questions these days as more and more people learn about our new guidebook project. We'll post some FAQs as they come.]]>

We’re getting a lot of questions these days as more and more people learn about our new guidebook project. So if enough questions are asked we will take the time to blog some answers.

Q: What is the best way to get to Thailand nowadays?

A: Druk Air had the cheapest return fair when I went this February, but didn’t have the best departure times (twice a week). When I buy my air tickets I usually consult a travel agent and get them to make the phone calls to check the schedules. I was quoted a return fare of Tk24,000.

Instead I took a Biman flight at Tk27,000, which was being flown by Turkey’s Pegasus Airlines, as it seems Biman doesn’t have enough cash to keep its leased airplanes flying at the moment. Probably good news for you as you know you’ll be on a properly maintained plane! Biman also has a higher frequency of flights, and could probably use your economic support of their flights. When I left my flight was virtually empty, and after asking the attractive Turkish flight stewardesses what was going on, they said that the Bangkok route is fairly empty. So, the extra taka also means you get more space and a better schedule.

Your other choice is Thai Airways, which is more expensive, often Tk33,000 or more. If you have an onward flight to other destinations that Thai Airways flies, then maybe you’d score a better ticket, but if you’re just flying to Bangkok and your dates are flexible, Biman and Druk are your best bets.

Malaysia is the cheapest — under $200 USD special is being advertised on Malaysia Airlines until tomorrow. From here you can fly to Thai destinations on Air Asia, for a combined fare that is probably still cheaper than Druk or Biman.

Q: What’s the best place to stay in Srimongol?

Definitely the Nishorgo Eco-cottages. There are two there, and one is becoming mighty popular among Dhaka visitors so you need to book ahead.

Our recommendations:

Nishorgo Nirob Eco-Cottage (3 rooms) Radhanagar, 20 minute rickshaw ride from train station; mob: 01715 041207; Nishorgo’s flagship project of creating ‘eco-cottages’ began here at this small village just a few kilometers outside of Srimongol and a 45-minute walk from the Lawachara rainforest. The concept was to employ locals to house visiting guests and provide some fo the capital necessary to build facilities for them. At the Nirob eco-cottage, there are three rooms. One is housed in a standard concrete building but the other two are bamboo huts nestled in a lemon grove tucked away at the back of the property, with a small flowing stream behind it, perfect for dipping on hot days. Needless to say, this is a secret spot that won’t remain hidden for long. Calling ahead for booking is essential. The proprietor’s wife is an excellent cook as well. The bamboo hut costs Tk1,000 per night and includes breakfast. Facilities include hot water on request, meals, and a power supply system that can run computers, chargers and lights even when the power goes out. Mr. Shamsul is the one you want to speak with. $$$

Nishorgo Nandan Eco-Cottage (2 rooms) Uttar Baligaon, Karamat Nagar; mob: 01711 731551; The second of Nishorgo’s eco-cottages, offering similar facilities but not the beautiful bamboo hut. If Nirob is already booked this would be a great choice as well. Facilities are the same: two double-bedded rooms with attached bath and basic food served (Tk1,000). Mr. Anando is the proprietor here. $$$

We invite you to submit more questions to us on the contact page if you’ve got them and we’ll post the answers here for other travellers.

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/04/04/the-faq-series-flying-to-bangkok-from-dhaka-and-heading-to-srimongol/feed/ 1 Climb Bangladesh's second-highest mountain; visit the Chittagong Ship Breaking Yards http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/03/29/climb-bangladeshs-second-highest-mountain-visit-the-chittagong-ship-breaking-yards/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/03/29/climb-bangladeshs-second-highest-mountain-visit-the-chittagong-ship-breaking-yards/#comments Sun, 29 Mar 2009 01:36:04 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=149 This April, join Bangladesh travel guru Mikey Leung for an unforgettable Chittagong Hill Tracts Trek, co-organised with Bangladesh Eco-tours, the hill tracts’ leading trek operator.]]>

PosterClick here for full size poster..

It’s time to escape the heat and head for the hills!

This April, join Bangladesh travel guru Mikey Leung for an unforgettable
Chittagong Hill Tracts Trek, co-organised with Bangladesh Eco-tours,
the hill tracts’ leading trek operator. The trek departs on April 14 from Chittagong and ends on April 18th, also in Chittagong.

Summary
An interesting tour focusing on the most interesting and least visited part of the country, the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT). Here you will experience the culture and lifestyle of the hidden indigenous people living there.

ACTIVITIES & HIGHLIGHTS
You’ll stay at quaint eco-cottages, enjoy a river cruise, the CHT’s New Year festival (Sangrai for Marma people), treks, handicraft shopping (or perhaps learning), bird watching, sightseeing & photography and most of all — absorbing the pristine atmosphere. Highlights include indigenous cultures, village-based education projects, tribal crafts, music, Buddhist Khyang and more.

DAY 01: Tue 14 Apr Arrive Chittagong
We greet you at Chittagong airport or train station. After a brief sightseeing tour of port city Chittagong we drive to south along the Arakan Highway and into the hills to a small tribal market town of Bandarban. After hotel check-in, you’ll enjoy the Sangrai, the new year festival of Marma tribe, then explore Buddhist temples and Stupas, wander through and photograph the indigenous bazaar or take a walk in the hills. Overnight at the Hillside Eco-lodge with great views of the Sangu river. Bandarban. (L/D)

DAY 02: Wed 15 Apr Bandarban to Ruma
This morning you’ll visit the local weekly market and able to see different tribal peoples arriving to trade for essentials, then drive to Ruma on a smaller hilly road. After a 2 hour drive, you’ll arrive at Ruma Ghat to board a small traditional wooden boat that will take us down the Sangu river to Ruma Bazar. At this time of year there will be little water in the river. This is a very small interesting and ‘relatively’ important riverside market inhabited by Bawm tribal people. In Ruma we’ll stay at the small local guesthouse (B/L/D)

DAY 03: Thu 16 Apr Ruma to Boga Lake, trekking
After breakfast, you’ll take a 5-6 hour trek up a creek valley. You’ll halt for bananas and tea at half-way point. On reaching the last section, the valley will narrow and you’ll have a short climb up the foothill and have some very nice views. The rest of the afternoon is free to rest and mingle in this small and friendly Bawm village. Overnight at a community-built guesthouse. (B/L/D)

DAY 04: Fri 17 Apr Boga Lake & Kewkradang
Today you spend all day at Boga lake village observing and perhaps helping out a bit in the daily life of these hill people. Optionally, you can take a shorter trek up to Darjeeling Para and see the peak of Keokeradang (highest point in Bangladesh). Or you can visit a nearby Marma Buddhist village below the lake. Overnight at a community-built guesthouse. (B/L/D)

DAY 05: Sat 18 Apr Boga Lake to Bandarban via Ruma
You take leave village hosts this morning and gradually trek down the small river valley to Ruma Bazaar. You then take a small wooden country boat to Bandarban and drive back to Chittagong. It was home to the largest population of British in Bengal next to Kolkata (Calcutta) during the colonial times.

We will also include an optional visit to the ship breaking yards where large ships are scrapped by hundreds of men by hand (lots of them), the recycling of gigantic ships by hand, a truly awesome sight! and also visit some recycling shop.

We drop you at airport to fly back to Dhaka or transfer to train station for the overnight journey. (B/L).

Note:
Please note that this tour plan is just a guide to what is planned. We remain open to your input and plans be adjusted to make your tour more interesting, relevant and exciting. It may also be modified due to unforeseen circumstances.

Deposit:
Trip deposit (US$100) will be required in order to book reservation for this trip. The maximum number of passengers is four.

Malaria Notes:
We will be trekking through malaria prone areas on this trip. While we don’t expect any problems, it is best to be prepared. Mosquito nets will be provided at all accommodation. It is highly recommended that you bring long-sleeved tops and bottoms for the evenings and wear mosquito repellent at all times. Guests must also begin the malaria prophylaxis before departure. Malaria testing facilities are widely available in the CHT.

While Bangladesh Ecotours and Joybangla.info are happy to offer advice and suggestions on anti-malarial measures, we cannot take any responsibility for the misconduct of guests who do not follow our advice. Passengers will be required to sign a waiver form to this effect before departure or they will not be allowed to participate on this trip.

Cost:
The trip cost is $425 USD, or 29,000BDT.

The trip cost includes:
-All meals as listed in the itinerary
-Private hire transport from Chittagong to Chittagong
-Accommodation at local guesthouses and villages
-Boat Ride on the Sangu River (Ruma to Bandarban)
-Obtaining government permits
-Local Tour Guide
-Foreign Professional Tour Leader

Trip cost does not include:
-Transport to/from Chittagong
-Gratuities
-Souvenirs
-Antimalarial medicines (available locally in CHT)

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/03/29/climb-bangladeshs-second-highest-mountain-visit-the-chittagong-ship-breaking-yards/feed/ 0 A Useful List: Bangladesh Holidays 2009 http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/01/12/a-useful-list-bangladesh-holidays-2009/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/01/12/a-useful-list-bangladesh-holidays-2009/#comments Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:50:26 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=101 Thinking about planning your 2009 holidays in Bangladesh? Then the following list might be useful: 21 Feb International Mother Language Day. 10 Mar Eid-e-Milad-un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet). 26 Mar Independence Day. 14 Apr Bangla New Year. 1 May Labour Day. 9 May Buddha Purnima. 7 Aug Shab-e Barat (Ascension of the Prophet). 13 Aug Sri Krishno Jônmashṭomi. 15 Aug Bangabandhu Assasination Day. 18 [...]]]>

Thinking about planning your 2009 holidays in Bangladesh? Then the following list might be useful:

21 Feb International Mother Language Day.
10 Mar Eid-e-Milad-un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet).
26 Mar Independence Day.
14 Apr Bangla New Year.
1 May Labour Day.
9 May Buddha Purnima.
7 Aug Shab-e Barat (Ascension of the Prophet).
13 Aug Sri Krishno Jônmashṭomi.
15 Aug Bangabandhu Assasination Day.
18 Sept Shab e-Qadr (Evening of Destiny).
21 Sep (3 days) Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan).
28 Sept Durga Puja (Vijaya Dasami).
28 Nov (3 days) Eid ul-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice).
16 Dec Victory Day (Bijoy Dibosh).
25 Dec Christmas Day
7 Nov National Revolution Day.
28 Dec & 8 Jan Ashura

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2009/01/12/a-useful-list-bangladesh-holidays-2009/feed/ 0 Do you know where your shrimp comes from? http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/23/shrimp-farming-bangladesh-short-film-swallows-ngo/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/23/shrimp-farming-bangladesh-short-film-swallows-ngo/#comments Mon, 22 Dec 2008 18:15:03 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=99 If not, maybe you should find out. “White Gold”, as Swedish NGO the Swallows NGO has termed shrimp from Bangladesh, is one of the nation’s most environmentally threatening products. This is because the shrimp farms require saline water. In a bid to increase production for the lucrative product, producers have forcibly taken land from poor villagers, [...]]]>

If not, maybe you should find out. “White Gold”, as Swedish NGO the Swallows NGO has termed shrimp from Bangladesh, is one of the nation’s most environmentally threatening products.

This is because the shrimp farms require saline water. In a bid to increase production for the lucrative product, producers have forcibly taken land from poor villagers, according to the ‘Voices from Paikgacha’ short film produced by Gazi Mahtab Hassan and Katrin Aidnell. The film was part of a photo exhibition held earlier this year in Sweden and several other countries. A PDF containing photos from the exhibition is available by clicking here.

Increased demand for shrimp could result in great potential for land destruction, especially with respect to Sundarban, the world’s largest mangrove forest and home of the Royal Bengal Tiger. Because the land is inundated with salt as a result of shrimp farming, the surrounding landscape becomes infertile in a matter of two decades.

The decision of what to eat remains squarely with travellers. But because of this destructive practice, we recommend that travellers avoid eating prawns or shrimps in the country and by doing so, decrease demand for this environmentally harmful product.

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/23/shrimp-farming-bangladesh-short-film-swallows-ngo/feed/ 2 Urban Study Group offers new walking tours of Old Dhaka http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/15/urban-study-group-offers-new-walking-tours-of-old-dhaka/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/15/urban-study-group-offers-new-walking-tours-of-old-dhaka/#comments Mon, 15 Dec 2008 02:48:05 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=98 Homaira and Taimur at it again—this time they’re expanding their tours to include other destinations in Old Dhaka, starting with a walk on 16 December to the historic boro and choto Katras (caravansarai), some of Old Dhaka’s ancient mosques, the Armenian Church, and then the Lalbagh Fort. Previously, they have featured tours of Shakhari Bazar (also [...]]]>

Homaira and Taimur at it again—this time they’re expanding their tours to include other destinations in Old Dhaka, starting with a walk on 16 December to the historic boro and choto Katras (caravansarai), some of Old Dhaka’s ancient mosques, the Armenian Church, and then the Lalbagh Fort.

Previously, they have featured tours of Shakhari Bazar (also known as Hindu Street) and the Sutrapur/Farashganj areas, where there are a number of old and decaying buildings that still somehow manage to demonstrate the majesty of Dhaka’s former glory.

Contact Taimur and Homaira directly for more info, and to get on their mailing list to be notified of future walks exploring Old Dhaka.

Urban Study Group
Hse 29 (2nd Floor), Road 1
Dhanmondi, Dhaka 1205
tel: 01819 248408
e-mail: usg.dhaka [AT] gmail.com

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/15/urban-study-group-offers-new-walking-tours-of-old-dhaka/feed/ 0 Guide Tours offers Dolphin and Whale Watching tours in the Bay of Bengal http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/11/guide-tours-offers-dolphin-and-whale-watching-tours-in-the-bay-of-bengal/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/11/guide-tours-offers-dolphin-and-whale-watching-tours-in-the-bay-of-bengal/#comments Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:20:25 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=97 ~courtesy Guide Tours~ 50 Kilometers offshore of Dubla Island (Sundarban Reserve Forest), there is an underwater canyon where the depth increases drastically from only 10 meters to over 500meters – the Swatch-of-No-Ground. The change in depth is clearly visible on the surface, dramatically marked by a contrasting color change. The amazing fish abundance supports [...]]]>

~courtesy Guide Tours~

Dolphins in the Bay of Bengal50 Kilometers offshore of Dubla Island (Sundarban Reserve Forest), there is an underwater canyon where the depth increases drastically from only 10 meters to over 500meters – the Swatch-of-No-Ground. The change in depth is clearly visible on the surface, dramatically marked by a contrasting color change. The amazing fish abundance supports a large number and diversity of marine mammals, namely whales and dolphin.

Since 2004, the Bangladesh Cetacean Diversity Project (BCDP), a research project supported by the New York based Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is conducting cetacean research at the Swatch-of-No-Ground.

This winter, the local fishing boat “Shahin Akhter” turned research vessel welcomes you to join the BCDP team during their research activities at the Swatch-of-No-Ground and meet the Bottlenose, Spinner and Spotted dolphins as well as the local gentle giants, the Brydes’s whale.

TRIP ITINERARY
Day 1 Travel by a/c Volvo day bus or afternoon flight from Dhaka to Khulna. Drive from Khulna to Mongla (1hrs) by non-a/c reserved car/microbus. Stay overnight at the Parjatan Motel ‘Passur’, Mongla.

Day 2 Board F.B. Shaheen Akhtar at Mongla very early in the morning, between 4 and 6 am. Cruise 120 kilometers south through the Sundarban mangrove forest. Reach the Swatch-of-No-Ground around 3pm, where you will search for and observe dolphins until sunset. Overnight on board F.B. Shaheen Akhtar, drifting at the Swatch-of-No-Ground.

Day 3 Wake up at the Swatch. After some hours of more dolphin searching, the boat will cruise back to Mongla, arriving between 8 and 10 pm. Overnight stay at Motel Passur.

Day 4 Early morning drive to Khulna by non-a/c reserved car/microbus in time to catch the a/c Volvo day bus or morning flight to Dhaka. You will reach Dhaka in the late afternoon if traveling by bus, by midday if traveling by air.

Please note that this is an Adventure Trip. All arrangements are very basic, including accommodation, food and toilet. There is no shower or basin on board. The trip itinerary will be adjusted to weather circumstances if required. We kindly request you to consult with our office staff and see photographs of the arrangements before considering joining this tour.

Departure-Return Dates (4am from Mongla)
20-21 Dec 08
3-4 Jan 09
5-6 Jan 09
30-31 Jan 09
1-2 Feb 09
3-4 Feb 09

Please note: It is possible to catch the 11pm bus from Khulna (Day 2) to be back in Dhaka by the next morning. This will reduce the cost for accommodation at the Motel Passur, Mongla.

Price per person for above mentioned Itinerary in BDT*:
6-7 pax: 14,150 BDT
4-5 pax: 18,400 BDT
3 pax: 25,900 BDT

Price includes:
1. Transfer by non-A/C reserved vehicle KHL-MNGL-KHL
2. Trip to Swatch-of-No-Ground on F. B. Shaheen Akhtar according to itinerary
3. All food from breakfast on day 2 to dinner on day 3

Price does not include:
1. Travel to and from Khulna
a. A/C Volvo Bus DAC-KHL-DAC @ 1300 BDT per person
b. Air DAC-JES-DAC @ 10,500 BDT per person

2. Accommodation at Parjatan Motel ‘Passur’, Mongla
a. A/C room, twin sharing basis @ 1200 BDT/night
b. Non-A/C room, twin sharing basis @ 600 BDT/night

3. Forest Permission for foreign nationals @ 1400 BDT

Things to bring: Sun hat with wide brim and strap, sunscreen, sunglasses, long-sleeve cotton shirts for sun protection, torch/flashlight, towel, tooth brush & paste, sleeping bag, binoculars, camera & battery/charger, munchies, prescription medicine (if required).

Things to know before deciding to join this trip:
• This is an Adventure tour with very basic arrangements
• The overnight onboard the fishing trawler is in big makeshift-cabin, shared with others = very little privacy

• It is noisy when the boat is running
• There is a generator on board to charge your batteries, but no electricity during the day
• The toilet is very, very basic with an extremely narrow entrance (causes problems for large people)
• The food is tasty and hygienic, but basic- rice, dal and vegetables
• Of course we will try our best to show you as much as possible, but please remember that this is a big area and some days, due to weather or other unavoidable reasons, sightings of dolphin or whales might be scarce
• You will see very little of Sundarban as we will cruise along the large Passur river
• While the vessel has safety equipment including two-way radio on board, insurance is the responsibility of each participant

For more information:
House 142, Road 12, Block E
Banani, Dhaka – 1213 Bangladesh
Tel: 880-2-9886983,9862205

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/11/guide-tours-offers-dolphin-and-whale-watching-tours-in-the-bay-of-bengal/feed/ 0 Dhaka's top seven value-for-money restaurants http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/09/dhakas-top-seven-value-for-money-restaurants/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/09/dhakas-top-seven-value-for-money-restaurants/#comments Tue, 09 Dec 2008 06:47:13 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=96 ~story by Mikey Leung~ Stuck for some restaurant recommendations while living in Dhaka? Here are our top seven recommendations straight from the upcoming guidebook. The following choices were made on ‘value,’ which really means value for money. Price was definitely a consideration but not the deciding factor in this list. 1. Dhaba Hse 100, Rd 11, Block [...]]]>

~story by Mikey Leung~

Stuck for some restaurant recommendations while living in Dhaka? Here are our top seven recommendations straight from the upcoming guidebook. The following choices were made on ‘value,’ which really means value for money. Price was definitely a consideration but not the deciding factor in this list.

1. Dhaba Hse 100, Rd 11, Block C, Banani; tel: 989 0136; 4/F Rifles Sq, Dhanmondi; MM Ali Road, CDA Ave, Dampara, Chittagong; The author’s personal favourite in Dhaka and Chittagong, squarely for its special phuchkas. The ‘dahi’ (yogurt) variety, which is topped with yogurt and freshly chopped tomatoes, onions and chaat, is healthy, vegetarian and delicious. $$

2. Chaat Street Hse 10, Rd 23, Gulshan 1; tel: 01720 106164; With an open air courtyard and your choice between several restaurants, this is one of Gulshan’s most unique eating venues. You can choose dosas from Chaat Street itself, or choose basic Thai, Indonesian or Mexican meals from one of the other shops surrounding the courtyard. Great value. $$

3. Shad Tehari Ghar 2/4 Block C, Lalmatia; tel: 02 911 8695, 01195 057 002; Still Bangladesh’s best chicken reshmi kebab and a real hidden secret in Dhanmondi area. Also serves tasty chatpoti and garlic naans. $$

4. Koreana Hse 5, Rd 136, Gulshan 1; tel: 882 4044, 989 9827; Beer, soju, barbeque and good prices make this Gulshan’s best Korean restaurant. Definitely a place to make the meat eaters happy. $$$

5. Spaghetti Jazz 2/F Alam Arcade, 43 Gulshan Av (On Rd 91); tel: 882 2062; Authentic Italian cuisine served in comfortable atmosphere. Sizzling steaks and pizza consistently good, albeit up the price scale. Recommended. $$$$

6. Roll Express Café Hse 34, Rd 21, Banani; tel: 01720 100016; Great paratha rolls and a wide range of chaats and phuchka. Reminiscent of Kolkata street snacks but definitely nicer décor. Recommended for lunch and/or snacks. $$

7. Bengal Café Ltd Hse 275/F, Rd 16 (new), Dhanmondi; tel: 812 3115; Great value restaurant attached to the Bengal Gallery. Décor is relaxed and the food not bad. $$

Price codes:
$ – Dirt cheap, with the emphasis on dirt
$$ – Great value for money
$$$ – Nice to try out for a change but too expensive to make it a regular thing
$$$$ – Great for special nights out but definitely upscale

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/12/09/dhakas-top-seven-value-for-money-restaurants/feed/ 4 "Guide to Wildlife" of Bangladesh http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/11/18/guide-to-wildlife-of-bangladesh/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/11/18/guide-to-wildlife-of-bangladesh/#comments Tue, 18 Nov 2008 04:34:33 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=93 Click here for a full-size preview of the cover. (Nov. 18, 2008, Dhaka) – A new “Guide to Wildlife” book has just been released in Bangladesh. The 306 page full-colour guide has colour photographs of all the mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians found in the 19 protected areas of Bangladesh. It includes the coverage of almost 400 [...]]]>

Cover Guide to WildlifeClick here for a full-size preview of the cover.

(Nov. 18, 2008, Dhaka) – A new “Guide to Wildlife” book has just been released in Bangladesh.

The 306 page full-colour guide has colour photographs of all the mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians found in the 19 protected areas of Bangladesh. It includes the coverage of almost 400 species, and provides some basic details about their habits and distribution in Bangladesh. The author, Monirul H. Khan, took the photographs himself.

“I hope the book encourages young nature lovers to get and explore our system of protected areas,” said Khan, at a press conference held in Dhaka on Nov. 16.

The book was published with the support of the US Government through USAID Bangladesh, and by the Forest Department’s Nishorgo Program.

The book will soon be available in bookstores in Dhaka or directly from the Wildlife Trust of Bangladesh. The publication of the book is a fully non-profit venture.

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/11/18/guide-to-wildlife-of-bangladesh/feed/ 0 "Shushuk Mela" – Introducing Whales and Dolphins of Bangladesh http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/10/08/shushuk-mela-introducing-whales-and-dolphins-of-bangladesh/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/10/08/shushuk-mela-introducing-whales-and-dolphins-of-bangladesh/#comments Wed, 08 Oct 2008 03:45:17 +0000 Mikey Leung http://www.joybangla.info/?p=84 ~guest post by Elisabeth Farhni Mansur~ Click image for large size preview. We are proud to announce the first-ever ‘Shushuk Mela’, an interactive exhibition ‘introducing the Whales & Dolphins of Bangladesh’ at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy, Dhaka, from 9th to 12th October 2008. It is open to all every day from 9.30 am to 8.30 pm. The exhibition, [...]]]>

~guest post by Elisabeth Farhni Mansur~

Bangladesh Cetacean Diversity ProjectClick image for large size preview.

We are proud to announce the first-ever ‘Shushuk Mela’, an interactive exhibition ‘introducing the Whales & Dolphins of Bangladesh’ at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy, Dhaka, from 9th to 12th October 2008. It is open to all every day from 9.30 am to 8.30 pm.

The exhibition, organized by the Bangladesh Cetacean Diversity Project (BCDP), aims at introducing Bangladesh’s cetacean diversity and ongoing conservation efforts. Through photographs, film shows, games and models we hope to create a sense of pride and to foster support for the conservation of these unique aquatic animals.

Sponsored by the Wildlife Conservation Society, WCS, BCDP works to conserve cetacean diversity and abundance in Bangladesh with local communities and institutions.

In conjunction to this four-day event, BCDP is holding a Seminar Series on Saturday, 11th October, focusing on research and conservation efforts carried out in Bangladesh so far. A proposed ‘Protected Area Network for Cetacean Diversity’ will be presented.

You are cordially invited to visit the exhibition and participate in the Seminar Series. Your presence will be greatly appreciated.

We look forward to seeing you at the Shushuk Mela!

With the best wishes for the upcoming holidays,

Elisabeth Fahrni Mansur,
BCDP Education and Training Coordinator
Rubaiyat Mansur Mowgli,
BCDP Principal Researcher/Research Program Coordinator

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/10/08/shushuk-mela-introducing-whales-and-dolphins-of-bangladesh/feed/ 6 Amar Sonar Bangladesh: photo video presentation http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/08/07/amar-sonar-bangladesh-photo-video-presentation/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/08/07/amar-sonar-bangladesh-photo-video-presentation/#comments Thu, 07 Aug 2008 15:29:48 +0000 Mikey Leung 836072663 ~photos by Mikey Leung and Belinda Meggitt~ We’ve received some mixed reviews over the above photographic video presentation, which we’ve shown to some members of the Bangladesh tourism industry. Some people love the images and the music, while others have told us some of the images portray a side of Bangladesh that should remain hidden. We [...]]]>

~photos by Mikey Leung and Belinda Meggitt~

We’ve received some mixed reviews over the above photographic video presentation, which we’ve shown to some members of the Bangladesh tourism industry. Some people love the images and the music, while others have told us some of the images portray a side of Bangladesh that should remain hidden. We now leave it to you, our audience, to tell us what you think?

PS: Youtube’s encoding filters have changed the alignment of the music and frames, plus the quality of the photography has fallen significantly in the transition.. but that’s the deal you get with Youtube. So, that’s why the music doesn’t line up 100 per cent properly with the frames, despite our efforts to make them do so in the first place.

]]> http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/08/07/amar-sonar-bangladesh-photo-video-presentation/feed/ 4 Vedic Village: Luxury escape just over the border at Kolkata http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/08/02/vedic-village-luxury-escape-just-over-the-border-at-kolkata/ http://bangladeshtraveller.com/2008/08/02/vedic-village-luxury-escape-just-over-the-border-at-kolkata/#comments Sat, 02 Aug 2008 15:29:45 +0000 bmeggitt http://www.joybangla.info/?p=74 ~story by Belinda Meggitt~ To see more photos, click here. My bags bounced around me in the car as we bumped along the rural road. About 20 minutes later after leaving the main highway, I landed in the lap of Vedic Village’s luxury. I’d just survived a near collision with a rickshaw wallah bearing bamboo poles, [...]]]>

~story by Belinda Meggitt~ To see more photos, click here.

Vedic Village Reception AreaMy bags bounced around me in the car as we bumped along the rural road. About 20 minutes later after leaving the main highway, I landed in the lap of Vedic Village’s luxury. I’d just survived a near collision with a rickshaw wallah bearing bamboo poles, so the warm welcome at the front door with a fresh lime soda was exactly what the doctor ordered. Thankfully there were also several doctors waiting for me at spa, just in case the collision did happen.

This property isn’t a hospital, however. It’s the creation of Raj K Modi, a passionate health advocate and, after seeing the resort, one would have to say entrepreneur. His concept—combining luxury escape and rural lifestyle—is radical, but stepping outside the box is what makes him successful. His vision, according to CEO Michael Robinson, was so forward-thinking that his initial investors actually withdrew. But now, The Vedic Group will expand the facility from its 150-acres organic farm to 1,200-acres, which will include 600 acres for new IT developments—apparently the backers are convinced. More photos available here.

Five-star service made of bamboo and mud

Vedic Village BungalowLike all components of the resort, each feature has been carefully designed for five-star ambience, without compromising the village ideal. Pointing to the expansive bamboo roofs that add light and texture to the main buildings, Mr Robinson explained that designers found it very challenging to create the property from natural materials as monsoon rains fall heavily in these parts every year. To meet the challenge, they turned to treated Assam bamboo, backed it with metal scaffolding and combined with thatch roofing. The result are well-fortified buildings that can withstand the region’s intense weather, but still fit in comfortably within the environment of the resort.

Local artisans were inspired by traditional Bengali architecture and used natural materials as the cornerstones for their design. Inside, feature decorations include chairs and tables made by local artisans that combine mud, copper, brass, wood and other natural products. There are also traditional terracotta sculptures showcasing Bengali culture and even white terracotta wall carvings that explain the story of Durga Puja and other folk stories of Bengal.

The main building contains a small block of suites and studios—perfect for the city dweller that escaped from the village and never wants to return. Despite the name city comforts are bountiful: a bar, restaurant, lotus-shaped pool and Jacuzzi and sauna await guests, while the library and games room could entertain the kids. Yet for those seeking isolation and tranquillity, bungalows and earth villas are subtly positioned around a small lake surrounded by rainforest, only minutes from the main block – you won’t be getting your feet muddy in this village.

The ambience of the resort is akin to Pleasantville: everyone is smiling and the staff always greet you with a pleasant word. Kolkata’s baseline traffic hum is replaced with the occasional putter of a golf cart—movement around the smoothly paved resort roads is simple and easy. Potentially the most radical component of the resort are the familiarly coined ‘hobit homes’, named as such due to their sloping grass-rooves. This feature is designed to minimise heat Island effect: a rise in ground temperature of between one to six degrees celsius in urban areas. Rows of these identical homes, internally decorated with modern furnishings and equipped with a roof top pool, are available for purchase and can then be rented out to resort guests.

The Spa

The focus of the resort is its luxurious medical spa, a first for its combination of Ayurveda and Western Naturopathy under the one roof.

Four trained doctors—two Ayurvedic and two trained in traditional medicine and naturopathy—guide your experience. After meeting the medical staff I was taken for a live blood analysis. A simple pin-prick and one drop of blood later, I was seeing my blood on the computer screen against the healthy blood sample and wondering where I could sign up far an intensive treatment. I didn’t have to explain that I had digestive problems — my blood said it all.

The doctors at Vedic like all alternative medicine practitioners predominantly treat individuals who have failed to be healed by our pill-popping culture. In a society that seeks quick fixes, alternative medicine is not the answer, but perhaps it is the solution. As a physiotherapist and nutritionist I resonated well with the advice of the well-trained practitioners at Vedic. Change is the only solution.

Change of environment is one thing. By stepping into the resort the doctors claim you will get a reduction of your symptoms by 30% — I don’t doubt it. But environmental stress is only one factor, the real changes that these doctors advocate is lifestyle and nutritional alterations that are essential to long-term healing. A short detox package or pampering session will make you feel rejuvenated, but if you’re serious about healthy living, come to Vedic with an open mind and a desire to change.

Ayurveda

Statue at Vedic VillageBeing familiar with Naturopathy I was interested to know a little about Ayurveda—was there more to this traditional medicine than scraping your tongue in the morning and rinsing your nose with salt water? What I discovered was a rich cultural history that surrounds the practice. Dr Pradyumna and wife Dr Sabitha are originally from Kerala, the home of Ayuveda described to me the rich tradition.

Dating back over 5,000 years, it claims to be the mother of all medicines basing its diagnoses on imbalances between the mind and body. Unlike western medicine that classifies the mind in the domain of psychiatrists, Ayurvedic doctors are trained to deal intimately with all systems. The example I was given was that of addressing the mind, the goal is to take a mind stuck in a state of anxiety or depression and return in to balance. This concept is central to all treatment and it is through the resumption of balance that we find healing.

In need of balance, Dr Pradyumna left me in the hands or one of his 20 trained staff in panchancharma. Through awkward broken English and non-verbal communication I was informed I had to strip down naked and be draped with a see through loincloth. Wasn’t I coming here for balance and not increased anxiety? Despite my fears, the two women guided me onto the 300-year-old wooden plinth where they initially massaged me and then scrubbed me down with hot medicated oils, before pouring a consistent flow of oil across my forehead for about ten-minutes. By this point I felt as though I was baby wrapped a cocoon of comfort. Had I regained balance? Perhaps I had been transported into a temporary state of bliss, but I think balance takes a lot longer to regain.

Dining Options

Two dining options are available:
Yagna: provides buffet style and ala-cart dining offering a range of tasty Indian options and pseudo Western meals. Chef specials are available daily and definitely worth trying. For those individuals on detox packages or just wanting a healthy option, meals are available from the spa, but need to be ordered in advance if you are planning to eat at the restaurant.

Bhoomi: offers Traditional Bengali fine dining in a rustic mud hut. Displays of terracotta carvings decorate the simple intimate dining space. An earthen smell awakens your senses in preparation for the fresh unique tastes of this Bengali cuisine, quite unlike any Bengali food I have tried before.

Complimentary buffet breakfast is provided with a standard room package offering a selection of fresh fruits, cereals, breads, south-Indian fare and eggs any-style. Cold drinks and tea or coffee are also included, but bring your own coffee or prepare for detox if you don’t classify Nescafe as coffee.

Room service is available, although unless privacy is your desire, this service isn’t recommended. Service is impeccable, but food served in the restaurant is far fresher and tastier.

Bar:
Agnee: a relaxing bar overlooking the lotus pool serves delectable cocktails, beer, wine and a vast selection of spirits and liquors. Yes, alcohol and cigarettes are available even in a spa resort.

Getting there and away

Situated just outside the heart of the city, Vedic Village is a 40-minute drive from Kolkata city or just 20 minutes from the airport. Transfers can be arranged from the airport and can include a tour of the city upon request.

For further details:
Vedic Village Kolkata Office
1/1B Upper Wood Street, Kolkata 700017, India
Phone : +91 33 2280 2071/7552, Fax : +91 33 2247 1311
www.thevedicvillage.com
For reservation call: +91 98300 25900 or +91 98308 20445.
E-mail: info [AT] thevedicvillage.com

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