United News of Bangladesh

The month-long celebrations commemorating the historic July Uprising of 2024 will continue with a grand public event on Tuesday on Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, featuring cultural performances, a symbolic celebration of the fall of fascism, the historic reading of the July Declaration, and a special drone drama titled 'Do You Miss Me?' among daylong festivities. Organised by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and managed by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) with support from the Bangladesh National Parliament Secretariat, the event will begin at 11am and run throughout the day. The cultural programme will kick off with performances by the band Tong, including songs like ‘July-er Puthi Gaan’, ‘Ami Chitkar Kore Kadite Chahiya’, and ‘Teesta Bachan, Dhobla Bachan’. This will be followed by Saimum Shilpigoshthi performing revolutionary songs including ‘Jegei Jokhon Uthechho Bondhu’, ‘Ei Andolon Sofol Hobe’, ‘Aay Tarunno Aay’, and ‘Boichhey Batash Boiree’. Kolorob Shilpigoshthi will present ‘Tribhubone Priyo Muhammad’, ‘De De Pal Tule De’, ‘Teer Hara Oi Dhewyer Shagor’, and ‘Delhi Na Dhaka’. Solo performances will include ‘36 July’, ‘Manush Manusher Jonno’, and ‘Palashir Prantor’ by Nahid, and ‘Bangladesh’, ‘Ami Banglay Gaan Gai’, ‘Chol Chol’, and ‘Karar Oi Louho Kopat’ by Tashfee. Following a break for Zuhr prayers, Chittagong Hip-Hop Hood will take the stage with tracks such as ‘Pehenol’, ‘Nawab’, ‘Rafqi’, and ‘Re 89’. Rapper Sejan will follow songs like ‘Kotha Ko’, ‘I Ain’t A Killer’, and ‘Hudai Hutashe’. Rock band Shunno will perform ‘Shotho Asha’, ‘Godhulir Opare’, ‘Behula’, ‘Bedona’, ‘Rajahin Rajjo’, and ‘Shono Mohajon’. At 2:25pm, a symbolic commemoration of the fall of fascism will be observed, followed by a performance by popular singer Shayan featuring ‘July-er Gaan’, ‘Ami Gaichi Sobai’r Jonno’, and ‘Tajjob Bone Jai’. Singers Ethun Babu and Mousumi will present ‘Deshta Tomar Baper Naki’, ‘Gonojagoroner Gaan’, ‘Maa’, and ‘Amader Bangladesh’. Iconic bands Souls and Warfaze will then perform back-to-back. Souls will play ‘Dekha Hobe Bondhu’, ‘Mon Shudhu Mon Chhuyeche’, ‘Brishti Dekhe Onek Kedechhi’, and ‘Nissongota’, while Warfaze will deliver ‘Maharaj’, ‘Osamajik’, ‘Nei Proyojon’, ‘Obak Bhalobasha’, ‘Purnota’, and ‘Tomake’. After Asr prayers, the historic July Declaration will be read, followed at 5:30pm by ‘Amra Korbo Joy’ performed by the Basic Guitar Learning School. Ethnic band F Minor will present ‘Meye’, ‘Mukti’, and ‘Dahuk’. Singer Parsha will perform ‘Chol Bhule Jai’, ‘Muktir Mondire’, and ‘Mora Jhonjhar Moto’. After Maghrib prayers, Elita Karim will present ‘Dhono Dhanno’, ‘Palashir Prantor’, and ‘Ghure Darao’. The highlight of the evening will be a special drone drama titled 'Do You Miss Me?' from 7:30pm to 8pm. Authored by The Anonymous and jointly presented by the Governments of Bangladesh and China, the show will feature 2,000 drones recreating key moments and slogans from the July Uprising, showcasing scenes of student and public mobilisation that led to the eventual victory. Finally, headliners Artcell will close the night with performances of ‘Swadhinota Medley’, ‘Dukkho Bilash’, ‘Pothchola’, ‘Onno Shomoy’, ‘Bangladesh’, and ‘Kandari Hushiyar’. The entire event will be open to the public, according to BSA.  

The recent removal of a reference to Donald Trump’s impeachments from a Smithsonian museum exhibit has triggered renewed debate over how history is preserved, presented — and potentially manipulated — especially when it involves powerful political figures. On Friday, the Smithsonian Institution confirmed it had taken down mention of Trump’s 2019 and 2021 impeachments from a temporary exhibit panel on the U.S. presidency. While the museum denied facing political pressure from the Trump administration, the move has drawn scrutiny amid broader concerns about the politicization of historical memory. The museum said the exhibit will soon be updated to reflect all presidential impeachment proceedings throughout American history. Trump, now seeking a return to the White House, has long called for institutions under federal oversight to focus on “national achievements” rather than what he labels “divisive” topics. In response to the panel’s removal, the White House issued a statement, without addressing impeachment directly, saying it supports updating displays to “highlight American greatness.” But historians and scholars argue that historical accuracy cannot be compromised for political comfort. A wider campaign to reshape historical narratives?The Smithsonian's decision comes against a backdrop of past actions by Trump’s administration to reshape cultural and historical institutions — such as removing a gay rights activist’s name from a Navy ship, seeking to defund public broadcasting, and reshuffling leadership at major cultural centers. How to protect yourself from wildfire-related air pollution “This is part of a broader effort by the president to influence and shape how history is depicted at museums, national parks, and schools,” said Julian E. Zelizer, professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University. “It’s not just about the country’s narrative — it’s about his place in it.” The debate echoes similar struggles elsewhere. In authoritarian regimes like China and the former Soviet Union, history has often been rewritten or censored to maintain state power and suppress dissent. In such systems, inconvenient facts and figures are erased from textbooks and public memory alike. Jason Stanley, a leading scholar on authoritarianism, emphasized how crucial control over history is for political dominance. “If they don’t control the historical narrative,” he said, “then they can’t create the kind of fake history that props up their politics.” Presidents shaping their own legacy — and limitsThe impulse to manage historical memory is hardly unique to Trump. U.S. presidents and their families have long sought to influence how they are remembered — from Jackie Kennedy’s editorial influence over accounts of JFK’s assassination to Ronald and Nancy Reagan orchestrating sympathetic documentaries. Yet, scholars argue that Trump’s approach goes further. Rather than merely shaping his legacy, critics say he is fostering an atmosphere where institutions may feel pressured to choose between political loyalty and historical truth — even without direct orders. Robin Wagner-Pacifici, a sociologist at the New School, said such museum exhibits are essential for helping people “situate themselves in history.” Without them, she warned, “it seems like we just kind of burst forth from the Earth.” China’s traditional Baijiu spirit gets a makeover to woo younger drinkers Timothy Naftali, who helped overhaul the Nixon Presidential Library to give a more objective account of the Watergate scandal, called the Smithsonian’s decision “concerning and disappointing.” “Museum directors need red lines,” said Naftali, now at Columbia University. “Removing this panel crosses one.” Power and memoryDespite his immense influence, Trump’s fixation on museum exhibits and public memory shows that legitimacy in politics is never fully secure, experts say. “He’s constantly working to reshape how the public sees him and the country,” said Wagner-Pacifici. “Power has to be reconstituted constantly. It can never rest on its laurels.” Trump has previously accused the Smithsonian of promoting a “divisive, race-centered ideology,” reinforcing how the presentation of history — especially in public institutions — has become a battleground in America’s ongoing cultural and political struggles. Source: Agency 

Smoke from wildfires can travel vast distances and significantly deteriorate air quality far from the fire's source, posing health risks even in areas not directly affected by the flames. Fires burning in one region can spread smoke across multiple states, and wildfires in Canada have also sent polluted air into U.S. cities. Here's what you need to know to stay safe when air quality worsens due to wildfire smoke: Understanding bad air quality The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses the Air Quality Index (AQI) to rate air pollution. A lower AQI means better air quality: 0–50: Good51–100: Moderate101–150: Unhealthy for sensitive groupsAbove 150: Unhealthy for allSensitive groups include individuals with asthma, lung conditions, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to Dr. Sanjay Sethi of the University at Buffalo. “If you have heart or lung problems, then you’ve got to be definitely more careful," he said. Staying indoors or wearing an N95 or at least a dust mask is recommended in such conditions. How to check your air quality Sometimes you can see or smell smoke, but even if it's not visible, the air can still be harmful. The EPA provides real-time air quality updates on its website. In addition, PurpleAir offers detailed, hyper-local data through a citizen science-based monitoring network. Blood sugar monitoring devices gain fans, experts advise caution For indoor air readings, Joseph Allen of Harvard University’s Healthy Buildings Program suggests buying a low-cost air quality monitor, widely available online. If you need to go outside Brief outdoor exposure usually doesn't cause long-term harm for healthy individuals. However, experts recommend wearing an N95 mask, which can block 90–95% of harmful particles. “If you have a respirator-type mask, that’s even better,” said Jennifer Stowell of Boston University’s Center for Climate and Health. If you start to wheeze or feel short of breath, return indoors or move to an area with cleaner air. Improving indoor air quality Keep windows closed and set your air conditioner to circulate indoor air.Use blankets or towels to seal gaps under doors or around windows where outdoor air might enter.Upgrade your air conditioner filter to a MERV 13, if possible, and ensure it’s properly installed.Use a portable air purifier, especially in the room where you spend most of your time.Stowell emphasized the value of using even a basic room air purifier to reduce indoor pollution.

A special group art exhibition titled 'The Trendsetters' featuring works by 10 talented Bangladeshi artists has been inaugurated on Friday evening at Bhumi Gallery in the capital’s Lalmatia. The opening ceremony began at 6:30 pm and was inaugurated by internationally acclaimed artist Monirul Islam as the chief guest. Art connoisseur Gitanka Debdip Datta attended the ceremony as the special guest, and a number of renowned and emerging artists, art critics and art lovers were also present at the event. Organised by Bhumi Gallery, the exhibition showcases artworks by Anukul Chandra Majumder, Azmeer Hossain, Kamal Uddin, Sadek Ahmed, Kazi Shahid, Sohag Parvez, Abdullah Al Bashir, Kamruzzoha, Shahanoor Mamun and Sourav Chowdhury. Highlighting the exhibition’s theme, the organizers said that art reflects human thought, struggle, and society. Each generation gives rise to creative minds who challenge norms, redefine practices, and inspire others. 'The Trendsetters' presents the artistic journey of 10 promising and established young artists who are developing their own visual languages and occupying a significant space in the contemporary art scene. The exhibition features 70 artworks in diverse styles and mediums—ranging from realism and abstraction to experimental and traditional expressions. Despite their artistic differences, all works are unified by originality, persistence, and passion. These artists not only represent individual success but also serve as role models for emerging creators. Their works embody a strong sense of cultural identity while engaging in global artistic dialogues. According to the gallery, 'The Trendsetters' is more than just an exhibition—it is a forward-looking initiative where bold creatives are guiding, inspiring, and becoming voices of the future. Their works demonstrate that with dedication, integrity, and creative courage, Bangladeshi art can proudly take its place on the global stage. The 12-day exhibition will remain open to all every day from 4 pm to 9 pm until August 12.

Baijiu, China’s centuries-old high-proof liquor known for its fiery flavor and strong presence at business banquets, is undergoing a transformation as distillers target younger, health-conscious consumers. Distilled mainly from sorghum and containing up to 60% alcohol, baijiu is central to Chinese drinking culture and social rituals like the customary gan bei (bottoms up) toast. Yet as modern drinkers shift away from heavy drinking and lavish feasting, baijiu’s producers are innovating to stay relevant. “If you like spirits and haven’t tried baijiu, it’s like eating noodles but never trying spaghetti,” said Canadian wine expert Jim Boyce, founder of World Baijiu Day. The annual event promotes awareness of the spirit outside China, where it’s less known than whiskey or vodka. The most famous variety, Moutai from Guizhou province, was famously praised by U.S. diplomat Henry Kissinger during a 1974 banquet with Deng Xiaoping. But despite its prestige, baijiu sales have slumped in recent years. According to the China Alcoholic Drinks Association, Feitian Moutai’s price has dropped 36% this year, and overall baijiu production is expected to decline for an eighth consecutive year in 2025. Letting children grow: Tips for instilling a love of gardening Crackdowns on official extravagance and workplace drinking, coupled with an economic slowdown, have weakened demand. In May, the Communist Party banned alcohol during work meals as part of its anti-corruption efforts. In response, baijiu makers are adapting. Some, like Kweichou Moutai, launched innovations like Moutai-flavored lattes with Luckin’ Coffee, reportedly selling 5 million cups daily. Others are infusing baijiu with fruit, bottling it in sleek designs, and lowering alcohol content to under 10% to attract Gen Z consumers. Brands like Jiangxiaobai use poetic packaging and lifestyle-oriented marketing. Bartenders are also embracing baijiu in cocktails to appeal to younger palates. “Baijiu is quietly making its way into our lives,” said Shirley Huang, 27, sipping a baijiu-based cocktail in Beijing. “It may not appear as itself, but it reemerges in new forms.” Source: Agency 

A six-day public exhibition titled ‘Bidrupe Bidroho’ (The Power of Satire) got underway at the Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) on Thursday evening, attracting a large and enthusiastic crowd on its opening day. Organized by the renowned satire platform Earki, the exhibition commemorates the first anniversary of the 36-day mass uprising of July 2024, exploring satire as a powerful tool of political resistance. Scheduled from July 31 to August 5, the exhibition revisits the creative expressions that shaped the 2024 movement, where citizens demanding justice and democracy turned to humor and wit as forms of defiance. From cartoons, memes, and graffiti to protest songs, poetry, and video installations, satire became a bold medium for voicing dissent against political oppression.

Encouraging children to develop a love for nature and gardening can not only teach them patience and responsibility but also help them form healthy habits that last a lifetime. Experts say the best way to inspire children is to start young and give them ownership of their gardening experience. Let them choose their plants Taking children to a plant nursery and letting them select what they want to grow can spark early interest. While picking annuals or perennials, it’s important to consider safety and the garden’s conditions—such as sunlight or drainage. Some plants, like tomatoes, potatoes, and rhubarb, have toxic leaves and stems, so parents should supervise closely. For edible gardening, let kids choose vegetables they enjoy eating. Experts say they are more likely to care for what they plant and feel proud when their produce becomes part of a family meal. This can also positively influence their food choices over time. Child-sized gardening tools—rakes, hoes, spades, and gloves—can be bought new or sourced from garage sales and online marketplaces. Even regular kitchen spoons can serve as makeshift tools. Thailand provides safe shelters for pets left behind amid border clashes Make it their own At home, children can measure out a small 3-square-foot plot to serve as their personal garden space. Those without access to outdoor space can use containers with proper drainage. Encouraging children to name their garden areas—such as “Ayaan’s Garden” or “Maya’s Marigolds”—helps build a sense of ownership. They can even name each plant, adding a personal touch that deepens their connection to the garden. Teach, but let them learn by doing Children should be taught that gardens need food and water, just like they do. Parents can show the signs of under- or over-watering, but it’s best to let kids observe and decide when care is needed. Observing the sun’s path together can help them understand plant needs. While guidance is important, experts advise against expecting perfection. Kids should be allowed to get dirty, make mistakes, and learn—such as discovering that an unripe tomato doesn’t taste as good as a ripe one. A calendar—placed somewhere visible like the fridge or a bedroom wall—can help children take responsibility for watering and weeding. Checking off tasks adds a sense of achievement. Gardening offers more than just flowers or food—it provides valuable life lessons, encourages healthy habits, and creates lasting memories between parents and children. And for many families, that may be the most rewarding harvest of all.

When faced with overwhelming bureaucracy in Poland, Magdalena Kujawińska and her Colombian fiancé Heinner Valenzuela turned to Denmark for a simpler solution — and tied the knot in a 10-minute ceremony at Copenhagen’s historic City Hall. “We realized that it’s not that easy to get married in Poland,” said Kujawińska. The couple, who reside in Krakow, struggled with document delays, especially the certificate of non-marriage from Colombia, which expires in three months and couldn’t arrive in time. Instead, they turned to an online wedding planner who helped them secure approval to wed in Denmark within just four days. Copenhagen has become a magnet for international couples — mixed-nationality and same-sex alike — earning the nickname “Las Vegas of Europe” for its streamlined wedding procedures. According to Anita Okkels Birk Thomsen, head of the marriage office at Copenhagen City Hall, the capital hosted around 8,000 weddings last year, 5,400 of which involved couples with no Danish residency — nearly double the number from five years ago. But the popularity comes with a downside. Local couples are finding it harder to secure ceremony slots. Tea-loving Nepal is developing a taste for coffee “The significant rise in foreign couples getting married in the capital poses challenges for Copenhagen-based couples,” said Mia Nyegaard, the city official in charge of culture and leisure. Starting late October, City Hall will reserve 40% of wedding slots for residents. However, ceremonies via private registrars will not be affected. City lawmakers will also explore additional measures to relieve pressure on wedding services after the summer break. Denmark’s appeal lies in its liberal marriage laws. It was the first country in the world to recognize same-sex civil unions in 1989 and legalized same-sex marriage in 2012. The requirements are simple: no birth certificate or proof of single status is needed in most cases. Applications cost 2,100 kroner (about $326) and, if approved, couples receive a certificate within five working days. All that's typically required is a valid passport — and a visa, if necessary. “We get that thing like, ‘Are you sure we do not need a birth certificate?’ And we go, ‘Yes,’” said Rasmus Clarck Sørensen, director of Getting Married in Denmark, an online wedding planning company. His firm helped over 2,600 couples last year through its €875 ($1,014) “Complete Service” package. For Kujawińska and Valenzuela, Denmark offered more than convenience — it fulfilled a long-delayed dream. “It means a lot for us because we’ve been waiting a lot for this,” said Kujawińska. “We’re really happy.” Source: Agency 

Online booking systems have turned once-complicated air flight arrangements into seamless digital experiences. All Bangladeshi airlines now operate official websites for ticketing convenience. A major leap forward has been the rise of flight search engines that integrate nearly all airlines under one virtual platform. Let’s explore some renowned international flight booking sites leading the country’s air travel revolution. Some Popular Sites for Booking International Air Flights from Bangladesh Here are some renowned websites where people can book air flights depending on their schedule, requirements, and budget plans.  Biman Bangladesh Airlines Link: https://www.biman-airlines.com/ The state-owned airline introduced its online seat booking system in 2010. Through its official website, passengers can effortlessly complete the entire ticketing process from home. This includes selecting the destination, date, and class and providing detailed traveller information such as email address and mobile number. Payment can be made through digital banking or any preferred mobile payment platform. Upon successful payment, an e-ticket is sent directly to the passenger's email. For added convenience, Biman Bangladesh Airlines also offers a mobile application, Biman App, available for any smartphone users. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.BimanAirlines.Biman&hl=en&gl=US Apple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/biman/id6444130555 Read more: Online Ticket Booking in Bangladesh: Websites for Buying Train, Bus, Launch, Air Tickets Shohoz Link: https://www.shohoz.com/ A reliable platform for e-tickets across international and domestic transport, Shohoz has built a strong presence. Since its inception in 2014, it has brought buses, trains, launches, and flights under a single digital platform. On the Shohoz website, users can specify departure date, destinations, and travel dates separately for each transport mode. After completing payment via mobile wallet or bank card, users receive a link to download their ticket, either via email or SMS. The entire process is mobile-friendly, allowing seamless booking directly from a smartphone. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.shohoz.rides Apple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/shohoz-app/id1354321445?ls=1 ShareTrip Link: https://sharetrip.net/ What began as a small Facebook page named Travel Booking BD in 2013, with a focus on selling plane tickets, evolved into ShareTrip the following year. ShareTrip became the country’s first platform to offer online ticketing for both domestic and international flights through a unified system. In addition to its website, ShareTrip provides dedicated apps for Android and iPhone users. All platforms feature real-time fare listings for available flights. Customers typically receive their e-ticket via email within one to two days after completing payment. It depends on the working day, weekend, or public holidays.  Booking requires account registration, and the account can later be used to manage cancellations or rescheduling requests. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.sharetrip&hl=en  IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sharetrip-flight-shop-voucher/id1469335892 GoZayaan Link: https://gozayaan.com/ Among Bangladesh’s foremost online travel agencies (OTAs), GoZayaan has been facilitating domestic and international air ticketing since 2017. Beyond e-ticketing, the platform also offers services related to hotel bookings, tour packages, and visa assistance. To place a booking, users must first create an account, which grants access to flight updates and ticket management. The website features both flight search and fare comparison tools across multiple airlines. With support for nearly all major mobile wallets and banking systems, the platform is easily accessible to a wide range of users. In addition, dedicated mobile apps are available for both iOS and Android users. IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/gozayaan/id1635126688 Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gozayaan.app&hl=en Read more: Air ticket syndicate back in Bangladesh as fares rise defying govt order Wego Link: https://www.wego.com.bd/ Founded in 2005, Wego is a dynamic multinational travel platform representing over 30 nationalities. Along with domestic routes, the company offers international flights with great deals on preferred airlines. A standout feature is Wego’s direct airline comparison tool, which lets users evaluate multiple carriers in real time. In addition, the platform integrates Airalo, its exclusive eSIM service, for effortless mobile connectivity abroad, as well as e-visa solutions for select destinations. Beyond flights, Wego is a proud partner of Airbnb. They operate ShopCash, a rewards platform for shoppers across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. With the advantage of multiple payment methods, customers conveniently afford this world-class service.  Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wego.android&hl=en IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/sg/app/wego-flights-hotels-booking/id751096907 US-Bangla Airlines Link: https://usbair.com/ With its inaugural flight launched on the Dhaka-Jashore route, US-Bangla Airlines began operations on July 17, 2014. It has since expanded its reach to major cities across Asia and the Middle East. The airline offers its frequent flyers the Sky Star Program, allowing passengers to accumulate Sky Star Miles. These can later be redeemed for flight tickets or other exclusive rewards. The website is known for its visually engaging interface and clear navigation. The platform also supports a wide range of payment options, making the entire booking experience accessible. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.stsbd.fahim.usbangla&hl=bn&gl=US iOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/us-bangla-airlines/id1519327703 Amy Link: https://www.amybd.com/ Since its establishment in 2015, Amy has earned a reputation as a trusted all-in-one travel platform. They streamline everything from flight bookings to hotel reservations and Umrah packages. Amy’s real-time booking system ensures instant confirmation via SMS and email, giving travelers peace of mind. With its advanced flight search, schedule updates, and price comparison features, users stay fully informed at every stage. The platform accepts a wide range of local and international banking cards and supports the most popular mobile financial services. They also offer a suite of smart tools, including the Amy Flight Tracker, live airport flight screens, and Amy Chat. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amybd.amy IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/amy-bd/id1482481770 Read more: Why Are We Asked to Put Our Phones on Airplane Mode During Flights? Buy Tickets Link: https://buytickets.com.bd/ On August 19, 2018, Buy Tickets, an initiative of Airspan Ltd., began its domestic and international air ticketing operations. Today, it holds a notable position in Bangladesh’s growing travel sector. Like other leading OTAs, Buy Tickets offers a user-friendly interface for effortless flight booking. Customers receive their e-tickets via SMS or email after completing payment. The platform currently supports Android users through its dedicated mobile app. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.buytickets.bd&hl=en Firsttrip Link: https://firsttrip.com/ As an initiative of US-Bangla Airlines, Firsttrip has emerged as one of Bangladesh’s leading OTAs. It fuses travel and technology to streamline flight bookings and adapt to evolving traveller expectations. Functioning as a comprehensive flight search engine, it allows users to reserve tickets on the most prominent and trusted carriers. Each carrier covers both international and domestic routes. Their standout features are Open Flight Tracker, an intuitive interface, and flexible payment choices across mobile wallets and banking platforms. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.firsttrip.user IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/firsttrip/id6462388200 Final Words These popular international flight booking sites of Bangladesh reshape the experience of travelling abroad with ease, speed, and reliability. Biman Bangladesh and US-Bangla Airlines reflect the country’s aviation pride. Wego, Shohoz, ShareTrip, and Amy have emerged as trailblazers in the country’s flight search engine space. The latest OTAs, GoZayaan, Buy Tickets, and Firsttrip, blend modern travel tech with user-centric features. Altogether, these platforms reflect the evolving travel industry, where digital innovation meets global connectivity.

A big bowl of steamed clams and juicy-crisp corn is summer eating at its finest. The combination is fresh, sweet and briny, almost like a chowder made for eating with your fingers. In this recipe from our cookbook “ Milk Street 365: The All-Purpose Cookbook for Every Day of the Year,” we finish the clams and corn with a small measure of crème fraîche (or whole-milk yogurt); the briny-sweet liquid released by the clams becomes a subtly creamy broth that’s as delicious as the clams themselves. Fennel perfumes the broth with anise-like notes. Scrub the clams well before cooking and be sure to dispose of any with cracked or damaged shells. Give any clams with open shells a gentle tap and toss if they do not close within a few seconds. If you can, use corn kernels cut from freshly shucked ears (you’ll need two good-size ears to get the 2 cups kernels called for in the recipe), but frozen corn works in the off-season. When buying corn, look for bright green husks and supple silk, and avoid ears small brown holes in the husk. To easily remove kernels from the cob, place the ear flat on the cutting board and slice, rotating as needed. Avoid these 5 common mistakes for a perfect fruit salad Serve with oyster crackers, or with crusty bread for mopping up the broth. Steamed Clams with Corn, Fennel and Crème Fraîche Start to finish: 30 minutes Servings: 4 Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 medium fennel bulb, halved, cored and thinly sliced 1 medium yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced 2 teaspoons fennel seeds Kosher salt and ground black pepper 2 cups corn kernels 2 pounds hard-shell clams (about 1½ inches diameter), such as littleneck or Manila, scrubbed ¼ cup crème fraîche OR plain whole-milk yogurt Directions: In a Dutch oven, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the fennel, onion, fennel seeds and a pinch of salt, then cook, stirring, until the vegetables are lightly browned. Stir in the corn and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil and add the clams. Cover and cook over medium, stirring once or twice, until the clams have opened. Stir once more, then remove and discard any clams that haven’t opened. Off heat, stir in the crème fraîche and ½ teaspoon pepper. Season with salt. Optional garnish: Hot sauce OR chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley OR lemon wedges OR a combination.