Traveling to Bangladesh can be somewhat bewildering as much of the online information regarding visas, safety, and culture is contradictory. For those seeking a brief, clear guide to visiting Bangladesh, you’ve found it.
Visas
For those flying into one of the international airports, Bangladesh provides a visa on arrival for numerous citizens from Western nations, several Asian countries, and others in the Middle East. This is the simplest method to obtain a visa, and you can check if your country qualifies here. The fee, which must be paid in cash, is about $50. However, the airport procedure is extremely slow and can take roughly 30-45 minutes if you’re at the front of the queue.
I suggest you arrive as early as possible (power walk!) to minimize your wait time. It will also save you some time to have a printed copy of your travel itinerary in and out of the country – failing which, you will waste time emailing it to the desk, waiting for it to be received, reviewed, and approved.
For everyone else, you have the option to apply for a visa to Bangladesh in advance.
Where To Stay
Bangladesh features a range of hotels catering to various budgets, so finding suitable accommodation shouldn’t be overly challenging. Additionally, there aren’t many tourists visiting Bangladesh, allowing you to discover great deals on quality hotels at better prices than in neighboring countries. In Dhaka, the Intercontinental is a high-end choice, but there are numerous alternatives and homestays in small villages and towns throughout Bangladesh.
Safety In Bangladesh
Considering all the recent reports about mass protests in Bangladesh, it may be difficult to envision Bangladesh as a relatively safe and inviting destination for travelers. Beyond basic common sense advice such as keeping an eye on your bags in crowded areas and being cautious of the traffic, where crossing the street can be nearly maddening, Bangladesh is a bustling yet welcoming country to explore. It may not suit everyone, and seasoned travelers may feel more comfortable, but it’s not so chaotic that it detracts from the travel experience.
It’s also important to note that the locals are friendly and curious; indeed, Bangladesh may have the least camera-shy populace I’ve encountered. Everyone seemed eager to take photos or feature in my videos, and I felt more like a guest than merely a tourist. Bangladesh is on the verge of becoming a hotspot for travelers, and if you are looking for a bit of adventure and wish to uncover the best day trips, now is the ideal time to visit.