Lifestyle
Best Honeymoon Resorts and Hotels in and around Dhaka
Dhaka being a concrete jungle, does not really have much of a natural retreat or staycation options. That is especially true for newlyweds looking to get away from all the noise and traffic of the city and spend some quality time with each other. Though such options might be scarce in the city centre, if one opts for just an hour's drive away from the city, there are beautiful honeymoon resorts and hotels set in nature. Here are our top 10 picks among them.
Top Resorts and Hotels in and around Dhaka for Staycation
This list includes the existing hotels in Dhaka and resorts within an hour or two drive away. For a great experience, this list will consider 3-star and above hotels with at least 4-star and above aggregate ratings from Tripadvisor and Booking.com.
Dhali’s Amber Nivaas
Dhali’s Amber Nivaas recently became quite popular due to its location, modern design, and amenities. The resort is situated in Sirajdikhan, Munshiganj, a one-hour drive from Dhaka.
The resort is completely family-friendly, with beautiful gardens and terraces, a long swimming pool on the perimeter of the cottages, and beautifully designed modern structures.
Currently, the resort still has two offers: the day long package and the full board package. The day-long package will cover entry, lunch, and swimming pool access for 2500 BDT per person. The full board package is specially designed for couples looking to stay the night. It comes with a deluxe room, lunch, dinner, and breakfast, along with all the other standard amenities, for 12,999 BDT per couple.
Read more: Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in Europe
CCULB Resort
CCULB Resort is situated in Kaliganj near Purbachal, around 40 minutes drive from the city on weekends. This pristine staycation resort is established on a vast expanse of land complete with gardens, artificial lakes, cottage homes, deluxe boarding rooms, outdoor restaurant, and recreational centres.
The resort currently has a package for honeymooners looking to stay the night called 'Soul Mate'. Within this package, the couples will get a super deluxe room, access to all the amenities and complimentary services, special dinner and lunch, and breakfast buffet all for 9500 BDT per couple. Vacationers can also opt to take a 10-minute ride around Purbachal on a Helicopter for 5,500 BDT per person.
RASS Resort
Looking for something with a more budget-friendly option? Then RASS Resort can be a good option. Located in Sreepur, Gazipur, this luxurious yet budget-friendly resort is nestled in nature with all the modern amenities.
From beautifully constructed cottages to charming decor and a swimming pool, RASS resort has everything to escape the crowded megacity and get lost in a natural environment. They currently have an ongoing offer that would cost around 10,000 BDT for an arch cottage and 11,000 BDT for a premium bungalow stay overnight with complementary foods and services. There is another staycation opportunity at 5000 BDT per couple, with just breakfast included in the service. But this offer will last till July 10, 2023, so better hurry up.
Read more: Romantic Beach Honeymoon Destinations in Asia
Subarna Bhumi Resort
A great staycation option in Gazaria Munshiganj is the Subarna Bhumi Resort. The resort comprises a vast area near the adjoining river. The long riverbank is complete with a stretch of Kaashful too.
Best Foods to Increase Platelets in Dengue Fever
Dengue fever, an illness transmitted by mosquitoes, is a viral infection that impacts a vast number of individuals every year across the globe. It is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and in some cases, a decrease in platelet count. Platelets, being vital components of the blood, play a crucial role in the process of coagulation, ensuring the prevention of excessive hemorrhaging. Dengue can lead to a decrease in platelet count. While medical intervention is crucial in severe cases, certain foods can support platelet production and aid in recovery.
Platelet Counts in Dengue
In dengue fever, the virus affects the production and function of platelets, which can lead to a condition known as thrombocytopenia. In a healthy body, the standard quantity of platelets in circulation within a microliter of blood falls within the range of 150,000 to 450,000 platelets. However, during dengue fever, the platelet count can drop significantly, putting individuals at risk of bleeding.
Platelet counts below 150,000 are considered low. And when the platelet count falls below 100,000 platelets per microliter of blood, it is considered a risk zone, and immediate medical attention is required. It is essential to monitor platelet levels regularly during dengue fever to ensure appropriate medical intervention if necessary.
Read more: Dengue Prevention: 10 Home Remedies to Repel Mosquitoes
Best Foods to Increase Platelets in Dengue Fever
Eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet is vital for supporting the immune system and aiding in the recovery from dengue fever. Here are some of the best foods that can help increase platelet counts during dengue fever.
Papaya
Papaya is rich in vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in boosting platelet production. It also contains enzymes like papain that help improve digestion. Consuming ripe papaya or drinking fresh papaya juice can be beneficial. In Bangladesh, papaya is readily available and can be included in the diet easily. Try to have 1-2 servings of papaya daily.
Pomegranate
Pomegranate is a powerhouse of antioxidants and essential nutrients. It can help stimulate the production of platelets and improve overall blood circulation. Including fresh pomegranate juice or adding pomegranate seeds to salads or yogurt can be a healthy choice. Attempt for 1-2 servings of pomegranate daily.
Read more: Exploring Dengue Diagnosis: The Essential Tests for Detecting the Virus
Leafy green vegetables
Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and fenugreek leaves are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They help in increasing platelet counts and boosting overall immunity. These vegetables are commonly found in Bangladesh and can be incorporated into meals or consumed as salads. It would be better to have 2-3 servings of vegetables per day.
Beetroot
Beetroot is rich in iron and folic acid, which are essential for maintaining healthy blood and increasing platelet production. It also contains antioxidants that help in detoxification. Including beetroot in salads or consuming freshly extracted beetroot juice can be beneficial. You may consume 1-2 servings of beetroot daily.
Dengue Prevention: 10 Home Remedies to Repel Mosquitoes
In the midst of a recent dengue outbreak, households have become battlegrounds against pesky mosquitoes. Though chemical repellents may kill these disease-carrying insects, it may also create diverse health issues. Many seek natural ways to keep mosquitoes away from home. Let’s take a look into some practical methods to control the mosquito menace.
Top 10 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Mosquitoes at Home
Remove Standing Water
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant or standing water, so eliminating any sources of standing water around your home is crucial. Regularly empty and clean water containers, flower pots, bird baths, and gutters to prevent mosquito larvae from developing. Even small amounts of water, such as puddles or water collected in discarded items, can serve as breeding grounds. By removing standing water, you can significantly reduce the mosquito population around your home.
Necessary Precautions
- Wear protective clothing and gloves when handling stagnant water to prevent contact with mosquito larvae or bacteria.
- Be cautious when removing water from areas with potential mosquito breeding sites, such as gutters, to avoid falling or injuring yourself.
Read more: How to get rid of cockroaches, bugs at home without using insecticide
Use Mosquito-Repelling Outdoor Fans and Lighting
Mosquito-repelling outdoor fans work by creating a strong breeze that makes it difficult for mosquitoes to fly. Place these fans strategically in outdoor areas to create a protective air current. Mosquito-repelling outdoor lighting utilizes yellow or LED lights that are less attractive to mosquitoes. Install these lights in outdoor spaces to deter mosquitoes from gathering around.
Necessary Precautions
- Ensure the outdoor fans are placed in areas where you and your family can enjoy the breeze while minimizing the risk of fan-related accidents.
- When using mosquito-repelling outdoor lighting, make sure it doesn't compromise visibility or safety in the area. Also, make sure that it is easy for you to repair any errors. It is best to seek the assistance of a skilled technician for both fans and lights like these.
Read more: Exploring Dengue Diagnosis: The Essential Tests for Detecting the Virus
Install Window Screens
Keep mosquitoes out of your home by installing window screens, which serve as a formidable barrier against unwanted intrusion. Ensure that all windows and doors have properly fitted screens without any holes or gaps. Screens allow fresh air to circulate while keeping mosquitoes and other insects outside. It is especially important to keep windows and doors screened during evenings and early mornings when mosquitoes are most active.
Necessary Precautions
Regularly inspect window screens and repair any damages or holes promptly. Clean screens regularly to remove debris or dust that can obstruct airflow.
Use Netting on Windows and Doors
This is an effective natural method to keep mosquitoes out of your home. The intricately woven netting forms a fortress, halting the invasion of mosquitoes while permitting the gentle, invigorating breeze. It is crucial to ensure the netting is properly installed and without any gaps or holes to maximize its effectiveness.
Read more: Why do Mosquitoes bite me so much?
Necessary Precautions
- Regularly inspect the netting for any damages or holes and promptly repair or replace them to maintain its integrity.
- Keep doors and windows closed when the netting is not in use to prevent mosquitoes from sneaking in through other openings.
Top 10 Dhaka Restaurants with Outdoor Seating
Dhaka, being a concrete jungle, has an acute shortage of open spaces — places where one can relax and unwind with friends and family under the sky. This shortage of open recreational spaces makes us appreciate restaurants with outdoor seating all the more. Today we look at 10 of the best such restaurants and cafes in Dhaka city.
10 Best Restaurants in Dhaka Offering Outdoor Seating
For this list, restaurants and cafes are mentioned based on reviews and ratings and not on the specific type of food they are offering. This list also includes rooftop restaurants with sufficient open space and outdoor seating.
Cielo Rooftop
Cielo Rooftop situated in Paribagh is another café offering an outdoor experience. The café has both inner and outdoor seating comprising the entire rooftop. Being situated on the 24th floor, Cielo Rooftop provides a mesmerizing bird’s eye view of Paribagh and the adjoining Shahbagh and Eskaton areas. The restaurant mainly serves coffee and patisserie but there is a gourmet menu available as well.
Read more: Top Instagrammable rooftop restaurants in Banani
Rivendell by Gotcha
Gotcha has become quite popular since its inception thanks to its unique bubble tea menu. This international retail chain is now expanding its horizon in Dhaka with the introduction of its first restaurant.
Rivendell by Gotcha is situated in House 8, Road 28 of Gulshan 1. The restaurant has beautiful outdoor seating on artificial turf designed to look like genuine grass. The spacious seating area makes for a compelling experience for those looking to relax over a sip of tea. In addition to their wide range of tea by Gotcha, Rivendell also offers eastern and oriental menus for diners.
Butlers Chocolate Café
Looking for the best chocolate in Dhaka? Butlers should be the go-to destination. This international chain is a self-proclaimed chocolate expert who has a branch in Gulshan 2.
Read more: Instagrammable Rooftop Restaurants in Uttara
The outdoor seating area of Butlers isn’t that large but it is sizeable to accommodate a few groups together. The restaurant has a wide range of menus from English breakfast to pizza to continental main courses. But as the name suggests, their chocolate and dairy products, especially the signature milkshakes are a must-try item.
Café Eden
Situated near Gulshan Lake Park, Café Eden is an upscale diner specializing in Asian and oriental dishes. Their outdoor seating area seems like something straight out of a Ghibli movie. There is a fountain in one corner with wooden tables spread across the garden. The mix of real and faux plants creates an enchanting environment that becomes even more magical under the sodium lights in the evening.
Villa Azzure
Villa Azzure is one of the most picturesque restaurants that you will come across in Banani. In their own words, the theme of the restaurant is to bring in the South of France experience with Parisian decadence.
Read more: Project Hilsa: Largest restaurant in Bangladesh with elegant interior, pricey food.
How to Lose Weight without a Strict Diet or Heavy Exercise
Losing weight is a common goal for many individuals. Though the traditional methods of dieting and exercise help with losing weight, these may not be suitable for everyone. Fortunately, there are alternative approaches that can help one shed those extra kilos without following strict dietary restrictions or intense workout routines. It's important to recognise that weight loss is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. Let’s explore some effective strategies to lose weight without relying solely on diet or exercise.
11 Tips to Slim Down without Harsh Diet or Intense Exercise
Understanding Caloric Deficit
Regardless of the weight loss approach, achieving a caloric deficit is essential for losing weight. Caloric balance refers to the relationship between the calories one consumes and the calories one burns. To reduce weight without diet or exercise, one needs to focus on creating a calorie deficit through mindful eating and making healthier choices.
Incorporating Healthy Eating Habits
An individual can stay fit without following a strict diet plan. The secret is adopting healthy eating habits, which is also crucial for weight loss. To maintain a healthy diet, one should consume nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Including a variety of colours on the regular food menu can ensure a good balance of vitamins and minerals. To prevent weight-gain, one should avoid or minimise the intake of processed foods, sugary beverages, and snacks high in saturated fats.
Read more: PCOS Diet: Foods to eat & avoid for ovarian cyst conditions
Mindful Eating
It is a key to weight loss. Embrace mindful eating to cultivate a positive connection with food. By slowing down, savouring each bite, and being attuned to the body's hunger and fullness signals, one can prevent overeating and establish a healthier relationship with what one eats.
For mindful eating, one needs to avoid distractions like smartphones or television; because technology and devices can lead to mindless eating.
Always Keep Healthy Snack
During work or after exercise one can feel hungry. Sometimes it can be challenging to have access to nutritious snacks and meals. Many tend to navigate to food apps and order fast foods, which may lead to gaining extra pounds besides harming health.
Depending on personal preference, one should carry some healthy snacks, such as nuts, beans, or a protein bar. These snacks can help to avoid the consumption of higher-calorie fast foods or restaurant meals.
Read more: Dietitians Warning: Who Should Avoid Red Meat?
Do Some Physical Activities
Even if one does not have time for exercising with fitness equipment, incorporating physical activities in everyday lifestyle can help shed weight.
One can engage in activities one enjoys, such as walking, jogging, swimming, dancing, or playing a sport. Furthermore, one should try to stay active throughout the day, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a short walk after meals.
5 Tasty Beef Momo Recipes You Can Make at Home
If you enjoy exploring different cuisines, then you must try spicy beef momo recipes. Originating from Nepal, momos have gained popularity worldwide for their delectable taste and versatility. These dumplings filled with a mix of ground beef and aromatic spices are sure to tantalize your tastebuds.
5 Delicious Beef Momo Recipes
Classic Beef Momo
Ingredients
For dough: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon oil, ¾ cup water.
For filling: 1 cup ground beef, 1 onion (sliced into tiny cubes), 2 tablespoons soy sauce, ½ tablespoon salt, 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste, 1 tablespoon black pepper, 5 cloves garlic (chopped), ½ capsicum (chopped), a few drops cilantro/fresh lime.
Read more: 5 Delicious Less Spicy Mutton Recipes
Instructions
First, mix flour, salt, and water in a bowl. Knead the dough, adding more flour if needed. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the filling in a separate bowl with ginger-garlic, cilantro, salt, soy sauce, and black pepper.
After 30 minutes, divide the dough in half. Roll out one half thinly. And place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each piece of dough. Complete it with folding and sealing the dough. Steam the momos for 8-9 minutes, then repeat the process.
5 Delicious Less Spicy Mutton Recipes
While mutton dishes are popular, they can be quite heavy and spicy. To avoid digestive problems, you can choose lighter and more digestible mutton recipes that are gentle on the stomach. Here are five less spicy, mouth-watering mutton recipes.
5 Less Spicy Mutton Recipes
Mutton Kebab
Ingredients
600 grams minced mutton, 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic, ⅓ cup finely chopped onion, ⅓ cup roughly chopped cilantro and mint, ½ tablespoon paprika, ½ tablespoon pepper, ½ tablespoon garam masala powder, 3 tablespoon cooking oil, and salt (as required).
Instructions
Combine the minced mutton with all the ingredients. Mix evenly but no need to knead. Next, carefully skewer the mutton and ensure it is evenly distributed along the length of the skewer. Shape the meat into cylindrical forms, applying gentle pressure. Repeat this process until all the minced meat has been skewered.
Read more: Eid-ul-Azha 2023: 5 Less Spicy, Delicious Beef Recipes for Summer
Moving on to the next step, once the skewering is complete, heat a tawa or flat pan over medium-high heat. Now, brush the pan generously with oil. Afterward place the skewered mutton, along with the skewers, onto the pan. Cook the meat until it turns slightly golden, periodically basting it with oil on all sides.
Digital Detox: Unplugging for Stress Relief and Mental Wellbeing
In today's hectic urban life, stress has become a constant companion, affecting our mental wellbeing. Research suggests that information overload, constant digital connectivity, unlimited screen time and heavy use of tech devices can lead to issues such as sleep problems, depression, and increased stress levels. Amidst such situation, digital detox can help to refresh the mind and help find moments of tranquility.
A digital detox is a personal choice to temporarily disconnect from digital devices and social media. Taking a break from screens and unplugging from the online world can provide a much-needed escape from the overwhelming digital noise. Let's explore the ways of embracing a digital detox for a rejuvenated mind.
11 Ways to Unplug Temporarily from the Digital World
Set Screen-free Zones
Consider setting up designated screen-free zones in your home. Like the dining table or bedroom, as peaceful havens for unwinding and enjoying precious moments with your close ones. By creating these spaces, you can foster relaxation, encourage meaningful connections, and cherish quality time without the distractions of screens. Let these areas become sanctuaries of togetherness and tranquility in your home.
Read more: Protecting Your Child’s Mental Health: 10 Tips for Parents
Prioritize Real-world Connections
You can schedule frequent face-to-face meetings and outings with your loved ones. These moments hold immense value in nurturing deep connections and decreasing our dependence on virtual interactions. Engaging in real-life interactions allows us to have authentic conversations, shared experiences, and a sense of closeness that cannot be replicated online.
Set Tech-free Hours
You can try to set aside specific hours each day for complete disconnection from digital devices. During this time, give yourself the opportunity to engage in activities that bring you joy, such as reading a book, exercising, or pursuing your favorite hobbies. You can create a space for personal growth, and the fulfillment that comes from offline experiences. You can embrace this valuable time to nourish your mind, body, and soul.
Khulna and Bagerhat Travel Guide: Best Places to See, Exciting Things to Do
Khulna is Bangladesh's 3rd largest city after Dhaka and Chattogram. It serves as the administrative centre of Khulna district and division. Khulna is located on the Rupsha and Bhairab rivers. The city is served by the Mongla port, the country's second-largest seaport. Khulna's rich history is evident in its oldest and busiest river port. Bagerhat is another district in Khulna division that can’t be ignored while travelling in Khulna. These two districts share a few historically and culturally significant places. This article explores the ten most interesting places to see in Khulna and Bagerhat, and things to do there.
How to Reach Khulna from Dhaka
The easiest way to reach Khulna from Dhaka is by bus or train. You can take Sundarbans, or Chitra Express trains from Kamalapur Station in Dhaka to go to Khulna. You have to pay Tk. 550-1400 per seat, depending on the class. You can also take a bus from Syedabad, Malibagh, or Gulistan bus station. Generally, bus tickets will cost you around Tk 650-1400 per seat.
How to Reach Bagerhat from Dhaka
You can reach Bagerhat from Dhaka in two ways. First, you can take a direct bus from Syedabad, Malibagh, or Gulistan bus station to Bagerhat. It will cost around Tk 500 to 1000. The other way is to reach Khulna by train and, from there, reach the Shonadanga Bus Stand. There you will find buses for Bagerhat for Tk 100-150 per seat.
Read more: 11 Cool Places in and around Dhaka to Visit on Eid Day with Family, Children
Top 16 Tourist Attractions in Khulna and Bagerhat
Khulna Divisional Museum
The Khulna Divisional Museum, established on September 12, 1998, is the second-largest museum in Bangladesh's Khulna division. Located near Shivbari Mor in the city's Public Hall area, the museum showcases photographs of heritage sites and essential structures from the southern region. It houses rare artifacts unearthed at various excavations, including Bharat Bhayana in Jashore, Barobazar in Jhenaidah, and Khan Jahan Ali Samadhi Soudho in Bagerhat.
Visitors can explore antiquities from the Gupta, Pal, Sen, Mughal, and British periods, along with terracotta, stone and black stone statues, gold and silver coins, and diverse artifacts representing the Khulna division. Managed by the Bangladesh Archaeology department, the museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Saturday (10 am to 6 pm in summer, 9 am to 5 pm in winter), for an entry fee of Tk 20 for children under five. Foreign tourists (from the SAARC region) have to pay Tk 50, and those from other nations have to pay Tk 100.
The museum is a mere 4 km away from Khulna city and is easily accessible by local transport.
Read more: These are the top 25 hotels in Asia, according to Tripadvisor
Khan Jahan Ali Bridge
Khan Jahan Ali Bridge is a prominent attraction in Khulna, drawing couples, families, and schoolchildren. It goes over the Rupsha river and is the primary entry point to Khulna city, connecting the southern districts and Mongla seaport. This Japanese-funded bridge is especially popular during festivals and weekends, offering separate lanes for pedestrians and vehicles and staircases for easy access. The bridge's western end attracts a lively crowd, while the nighttime view of Khulna city is truly mesmerizing.
11 Cool Places in and around Dhaka to Visit on Eid Day with Family, Children
In Bangladesh, the two Eids make up the largest form of national festivity enjoyed by people of all ages and all walks of life. This is also the time with the longest national holiday. As a result, Eid is also a time for families to enjoy each other’s company. To add to the festivities of the day, there are lots of beautiful places in and around Dhaka that one can explore with their family and children. Here’s a list of the best ones.
Best Places to Visit In and Around Dhaka on Eid-ul-Azha 2023
Lalbagh Fort
Built in the 17th Century, the Lalbagh Fort is a monumental architectural beauty, and a testament to the Mughal brilliance. The fort was commissioned by Prince Mohammad Azam, son of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
Today the fort remains as an homage to the rich cultural heritage of the region. There is a large open garden kept intact in its original design. The site also houses the mausoleum of Pari Bibi, daughter of Shaista Khan, the then Subedar of Bengal.
Read more: These are the top 25 hotels in Asia, according to Tripadvisor
The fort is open every day, except for Sundays, from 10 am to 5 pm. The Lalbagh Fort remains closed on Eid day, but it will be open from the second day of Eid.
Ahsan Manzil
Widely dubbed as the “Pink Palace,” Ahsan Manzil situated in Islampur, Dhaka is another exquisite architectural marvel in the city. While the Lalbagh Fort is a testament to the Mughals, Ahsan Manzil stands tall as a remnant of the Nawabs of Dhaka.
The palace was built in the early 1900s, incorporating both European and Mughal styles of architecture. The palace is also noted to be the first home to have electricity in Dhaka back in the day.
The visiting hours of Ahsan Manzil are the same as Lalbagh Fort. It also remains closed on Eid day and will open from the second day of Eid.
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