MestoGo - Bangladesh

Things to keep in mind while travelling in Bangladesh

When is the best time of year to visit Bangladesh?

The best time of year to visit Bangladesh is from November to February, when the weather is dry and cool. Avoid the monsoon season from June to October, when heavy rains and floods can disrupt travel plans.

What are the visa requirements for Bangladesh?

Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Bangladesh, which can be obtained from a Bangladeshi embassy or consulate in your home country, or on arrival at the airport or land border. You will need a valid passport, a passport-sized photo, and a fee of $51 USD for a single-entry visa or $100 USD for a multiple-entry visa. You may also need to show proof of onward travel, hotel booking, and sufficient funds. The visa is valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days at the immigration office in Dhaka.

What is the currency and how can I access money in Bangladesh?

The currency of Bangladesh is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT), which is divided into 100 paisa. The exchange rate as of January 2024 is 1 USD = 108.10 BDT. You can exchange foreign currency at banks, hotels, or authorized money changers, but be aware of the commission and exchange rate. ATMs are widely available in major cities and towns, but may charge a fee of around 200 BDT per withdrawal. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is preferred for most transactions.

What language is spoken in Bangladesh and how can I communicate with locals?

The official and most widely spoken language in Bangladesh is Bengali (Bangla), which is written in a script similar to Hindi. English is also widely spoken in urban areas, especially by educated and younger people, but less so in rural areas. You may also encounter some regional languages, such as Chittagonian, Sylheti, or Rohingya. It is helpful to learn some basic Bengali phrases, such as greetings, numbers, and directions, to communicate with locals and show respect for their culture.

What are some places to see and things to do in Bangladesh?

Some of the top attractions in Bangladesh include: 1. Old Dhaka - Explore the historic mosques, temples, and markets 2. Sundarbans National Park - Spot tigers and other wildlife 3. Cox's Bazar - Relax on the world's longest beach 4. Srimangal - Tour the tea estates and forests 5. Bagerhat - Visit the medieval mosques and shrines 6. Sylhet - See the shrines, temples, and natural areas 7. Chittagong - Discover the colonial sites and hill tribes

Is it safe to travel in Bangladesh with kids?

Travelling in Bangladesh with kids can be safe with some extra precautions - make sure they are up-to-date on vaccines, avoid tap water, dress conservatively, and supervise them closely in crowded areas. Kids may get extra attention from curious locals.

What kind of food can I expect in Bangladesh and what are some dishes to try?

Food in Bangladesh is spicy and rice-based. Dishes to try include biryani (spiced rice and meat), paratha (fried flatbread), and curry dishes with fish, lentils, and vegetables.