Reaching Bangladesh can be somewhat puzzling as much of the information available online regarding visas, safety, and culture is often contradictory. For those seeking a concise, clear guide to visiting Bangladesh, this is it.
Visas
If you are entering through one of the international airports, Bangladesh provides a visa on arrival for many citizens from Western nations, various Asian countries, and some from the Middle East. This is the simplest method to obtain a visa, and you can verify if your country is included on the list here. The fee, which must be paid in cash, is approximately $50. However, the process at the airport is extremely slow, taking about 30-45 minutes if you are at the front of the line.
I suggest you arrive as swiftly as possible (power walk!) to minimize your waiting time. Additionally, having a printed copy of your travel itinerary in and out of the country will save you some time; otherwise, you might spend time emailing it to the desk, waiting for it to be received, reviewed, and finally approved.
For everyone else, it is possible to apply for a visa to Bangladesh in advance.
Where To Stay
Bangladesh boasts a range of hotels catering to various budgets, so securing decent accommodation shouldn’t be overly challenging. There are not many tourists traveling to Bangladesh, allowing you to discover attractive rates on nice hotels that are often better than those in neighboring countries. In Dhaka, the Intercontinental represents a luxury choice, but there are numerous alternatives as well as home-stays in small villages and towns throughout Bangladesh.
Safety In Bangladesh
Despite the recent headlines regarding mass protests in Bangladesh, it might be difficult to envision that the country is relatively safe and welcoming for tourists. Aside from standard advice such as keeping an eye on your bags in crowded areas and being cautious about traffic as crossing the street can be quite chaotic, Bangladesh is a bustling yet friendly destination to explore. It may not appeal to everyone, and those who are more seasoned travelers may feel more comfortable, but it is not chaotic enough to detract from the travel experience.
It’s also important to note that the locals are warm and curious; indeed, Bangladesh may have the most camera-friendly people I have encountered. Many individuals wanted to take pictures or be featured in my videos, making me feel more like a guest than just a tourist. Bangladesh is progressing towards becoming a destination ripe for travelers, so if you’re looking for a bit of adventure and wish to discover the best day trips, now is the perfect time to visit.