United News of Bangladesh

The World's 50 Best Beaches platform, renowned for curating coastal destinations across the globe, has unveiled its anticipated 2025 rankings. This latest compilation celebrates the finest shores that blend natural beauty with pristine conditions. Claiming the coveted top spot this year is Italy’s Cala Goloritze, a striking Mediterranean gem. Let’s explore the key highlights and details that earned this idyllic haven global recognition. About Cala Goloritze Beach Tucked along the Baunei Coast on Sardinia’s eastern edge, this breathtaking cove stands apart from the island’s extensive 1,000-mile shoreline. Sardinia is dotted with countless scenic beaches. Among them, this secluded stretch in the Gulf of Orosei’s southern reaches offers a raw, untouched allure that few can rival. Daily visitor numbers are capped at just 250 to preserve its delicate ecosystem. Yet, those who make the effort are rewarded with a scene born from nature’s drama. It includes towering limestone cliffs, crystalline waters, and a dramatic rock spire shaped by a 1960s landslide. Read more: Hong Kong’s Cloud-Covered Kowloon Peak Resembles Mount Fuji, Sparking Tourist Surge Its striking natural features and ecological significance led to official recognition in the early 1990s. First declared a regional natural monument in 1993, it was further honoured with national monument status by 1995. What Makes Cala Goloritze So Special Along Sardinia’s Baunei Coast, where dramatic cliffs meet sapphire seas, one secluded cove rises above the rest for its exceptional character. Framed by a soaring 143-metre limestone pinnacle, the setting combines natural drama with serene clarity. Its waters are so pure they seem almost unreal. This rare harmony of elements sets the area apart, even amid a coastline renowned for its beauty. Preservation remains at the heart of its allure. Stringent conservation policies include limiting footfall, banning motorised access, and barring boats from docking. All these have helped maintain the site’s pristine condition. No roads carve through its landscape, and no unchecked development mars its rugged charm. Read more: Yemeni Island Socotra: The Most Alien-Looking Place On Earth Drawing Global Wanderers When judges unveiled the beach as the world’s finest, they reflected on how its unspoiled beauty evokes a powerful emotional response. They noted that whether one observes it from the cliffs above or stands at the water’s edge, the experience lingers. Best Season to Visit Travellers hoping to sidestep peak-season crowds would do well to look beyond July and August. These two months, though popular, often bring a surge of visitors that can overwhelm the serenity. For a quieter experience without sacrificing sunshine, June and September offer the perfect compromise. These shoulder months balance mild weather with a calmer atmosphere, allowing the landscape to be appreciated in peace. How to Reach Cala Goloritze Getting to this remote coastal haven takes planning and a fair bit of determination. Its isolation isn’t accidental but a deliberate measure to preserve the purity of its setting. Unlike more accessible beaches, this stretch of Sardinian coastline offers no shortcuts. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated There are only two routes in: a challenging hike or a swim from the sea. Boats are allowed to approach, but only up to 200 metres from the shore. From there, it’s the swimmer’s effort that completes the journey. On land, the journey begins well before the trailhead. Travellers must fly into either Olbia or Cagliari, followed by a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Sa Porteddu. That’s where the footpath begins, open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The beach itself closes promptly at 5 p.m. Entry is limited and managed strictly. Advance online reservations are essential, as on-the-spot access can’t be guaranteed. The hike takes roughly 90 minutes each way, cutting through rugged terrain that mirrors the untamed character. To reach the shoreline by water, rental services from Arbatax or Santa Maria Navarrese, both nearby ports, provide the most comfortable marine route. Even then, strict regulations prevent motorboat traffic from disturbing the last 200 metres. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte

What began as a curious alteration to a local hillside quickly spiralled into a nationwide stir. A summit, once unassuming, now draws attention for its unexpected resemblance to Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji. The transformation, triggered by a smoky grey cloud, sparked a wave of online amusement and confusion. Some locals, too, have remarked on the uncanny similarity, especially when the peak is veiled in cloud. At the centre of it all stands Kowloon Peak. Let's get to know how this phenomenon came to be and how tourists have responded to this spectacle. A Viral View from Quarry Bay From the corner of Healthy Street East and King's Road in Quarry Bay, an unexpected spectacle took shape. This single vantage point offered the only angle precise enough to capture the illusion in full – Kowloon Peak appearing as a snow-capped giant. It was here that the now-famous photographs were taken, just as drifting clouds brushed the summit. The moment aligned perfectly, framing the peak in a way that mimicked the serene silhouette of Mt Fuji. Playfully nicknamed the ‘snow cap matcha volcano’ by amused onlookers, the hill's uncanny resemblance quickly lit up social media. As photos made their rounds online, intrigue followed. The scene, complete with urban foreground and misty ridgeline, lacked only a convenience store to complete the Fuji-like composition. Read more: Yemeni Island Socotra: The Most Alien-Looking Place On Earth Drawing Global Wanderers Compelled by the viral snapshots, several residents made their way to Quarry Bay. Not just to see the hill itself but to stand where the camera did. A similar moment unfolded in Thailand last year. A photo of Khao Ok Talu beside a 7-Eleven drew comparisons to the iconic Lawson snapshot beneath Mt Fuji. About Kowloon Peak Locally known as Fei Ngo Shan, meaning ‘Soaring Goose Mountain’, this peak rises prominently from the northeast edge of New Kowloon. At 1,975 feet, it claims the title of the highest point in the Kowloon region. Tucked within Ma On Shan Country Park, its rugged slopes straddle the border between Sai Kung and Wong Tai Sin districts. Two of Hong Kong’s well-known hiking routes, the Wilson Trail and the MacLehose Trail, cut across its terrain. The route makes a favoured challenge for avid trekkers. Geologically, the peak is built on a foundation of volcanic rocks, particularly tuffs, with solid granite forming its lower reaches. Its natural formation, layered and textured, lends it a raw, untamed character rarely mirrored in artificial landscapes. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated Echoes of Mount Fuji's Symmetry Veiled in mist and rising behind the city’s frame of glass and concrete, Kowloon Peak appears almost sculpted. The way the cloud clings to its summit lends it a hushed, snow-draped elegance. From this perspective, its form takes on a quiet grandeur, unexpectedly reminiscent of a distant volcano. In contrast, Mount Fuji presents a near-perfect cone, its snowy peak often floating above soft horizons. Where Fuji looms with serene isolation, Kowloon Peak surprises, emerging from urban chaos with a momentary stillness. It doesn’t mimic Fuji’s symmetry, yet echoes its silhouette in a fleeting, almost cinematic illusion. Though vastly humbler in scale and fame, the misty peak carves out its own quiet allure. It may lack the majestic sweep and spiritual weight of Mount Fuji, but it doesn’t seek comparison. Instead, it captivates in its own right—less a rival, more a reminder that even modest peaks can inspire awe. Reactions Surrounding Mount Fuji of Hong Kong What began as a light-hearted post on Threads soon rippled across social media, pulling in thousands of viewers intrigued by the resemblance. The buzz caught fire quickly. Some viewers found humour in the comparison, suggesting that all it needed was a denser veil of clouds. Others embraced the idea that this ‘Hong Kong version’ had its own appeal, a kind of localised charm distinct from its Japanese counterpart. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte However, several visitors who came after seeing the picturesque images confessed to a sense of disappointment. For them, the so-called ‘mountain’ was little more than an ordinary hill. Some lamented how easy it is to be misled by carefully framed photographs. It pointed to this episode as yet another example of online visuals setting unrealistic expectations. Despite the divided opinions, the view did manage to impress a few passersby. Some expressed genuine appreciation for the scenery, calling it unexpectedly beautiful. Others stopped to capture the moment themselves, aware of the growing online attention. A number of visitors returned to the same vantage point in hopes of replicating the famed composition. Not all succeeded; many missed the fleeting cloud formations that gave the illusion its power. For Hikers, It's More Than Just A View Multiple trails snake their way toward the summit, with routes branching off from both Jat's Incline and Fei Ngo Shan Road. These provide varying levels of challenge, but one, in particular, casts a long shadow over the others. An infamous ascent that has come to be known as Suicide Cliff. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Despite its ominous name, the moniker does not stem from tragedy but rather from the sheer danger posed by its terrain. This vertical scramble, beginning from Clear Water Bay Road, isn’t a traditional hiking path. It’s an exposed rock face that demands agility, courage, and luck. The risk is not theoretical; the climb has been marked by real peril, including accidents and fatalities. One dramatic incident even saw 160 firefighters deployed in a large-scale rescue when two tourists found themselves stranded. For most hikers, however, the thrill of reaching the peak need not involve danger. Fei Ngo Shan Road offers a far gentler approach, one that rewards effort with breathtaking views, not unnecessary risk. Final Words Hong Kong's clouded Kowloon Peak, as seen from Quarry Bay, drew comparisons to Mount Fuji for its misty silhouette. The image sparked mixed reactions online – some were amused, others felt misled. Hikers, however, admire it for the thrill of Suicide Cliff and its challenging trails. Amid Hong Kong’s dense cityscape, the peak offers a rare blend of rugged beauty and quiet reflection. It proves that even in the chaos of urban life, moments of natural grace can still hold meaning. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a dream destination for many travellers, including Bangladeshis. Known for its dazzling temples, bustling street markets, incredible nightlife, and mouthwatering cuisine, Bangkok offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity.  Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this travel guide will help you explore the best attractions, food, shopping destinations, and travel tips to make your trip from Bangladesh to Bangkok smooth and enjoyable.  Best Things to Do . Explore Chinatown One of the most energetic areas in Bangkok, Chinatown is a paradise for food lovers and photographers. Walk along Yaowarat Road, where you will find sizzling street food, gold shops, and vibrant temples. At night, Chinatown transforms into a lively dining hotspot with vendors selling everything from dim sum to roasted duck. Read more: City Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal for Bangladeshis

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a mesmerising destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "City of Temples," Kathmandu offers a unique blend of traditional heritage and modern attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, Kathmandu has something for everyone. For Bangladeshis, Nepal is an accessible and affordable travel destination with visa-on-arrival facilities. Let's dive into a detailed city guide to Kathmundu with the best places to see, exciting things to do, and adventurous activities to explore. Best Things to Do in Kathmand . Explore Swayambhunath Stupa – The Monkey Temple Swayambhunath, known as the Monkey Temple, is one of Kathmandu’s iconic landmarks. Perched on a hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. The temple, dating back over 2,000 years, is accessed by climbing 365 steps, where playful monkeys may accompany your journey.  Reaching the top of the temple, you can explore the stupa, enjoy its intricate artwork, and embrace the peaceful spiritual atmosphere. This site is perfect for photography and quiet reflection, making it a must-visit for holidaymakers. Experience the Vibrant Streets of Thamel Thamel is the lively heart of Kathmandu, known for its bustling streets, markets, cafes, and restaurants. Here, you can shop for Nepali souvenirs, enjoy local delicacies, and experience the blend of Nepali culture and modern conveniences. Thamel is also a hub for nightlife, making it a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing and exploring. Read more: Safety Precautions for Traveling on Buses or Public Transport at Night Visit Bhaktapur – A UNESCO World Heritage Site Located just outside Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is a short drive away and rich in cultural history. The city boasts impressive temples like Nyatapola Temple and the 55-Window Palace. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you will encounter traditional Newari architecture, local crafts, and vibrant squares like Taumadhi Square. B Bhaktapur is also famous for its food, especially the delicious momo (dumplings). A visit here will take you back in time, immersing you in the mediaeval charm of Nepal. Discover Pashupatinath Temple Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu sites in Nepal, is located along the Bagmati River. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it attracts millions of pilgrims annually. The sprawling temple complex is home to numerous shrines and pagodas, where visitors can witness religious ceremonies, including public cremations on the riverbanks. The site provides a peaceful yet powerful experience, offering deep insight into Hindu rituals and spiritual practices. Read more: Top Reasons Why London Is Tripadvisor's Best Travel Destination for 2025

Every year, Tripadvisor unveils its top destinations, hotels, restaurants, and attractions worldwide based on millions of reviews and ratings collected over 12 months. For 2025, London has claimed the crown as the world's best travel destination. The city’s unique mix of history, culture, entertainment, and world-class amenities solidifies its appeal. Here's a detailed look at why London stands out and continues to enchant travelers from across the globe. London Named World's Top Destination for 2025 . Rich History and Iconic Landmarks London’s history offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore Roman ruins, medieval castles, and royal heritage. Must-visit historical landmarks include the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. These sites transport visitors to different eras, revealing the city’s fascinating past and cultural significance. London’s iconic landmarks, such as the Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament, are architectural marvels that are as captivating today as they were centuries ago. Guided tours through these storied structures provide unforgettable experiences and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. Read more: Thai e-Visa for Bangladeshis: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online

Traveling abroad is often an exciting dream, but for many, navigating visa requirements can make the process feel overwhelming. From embassy visits to lengthy approvals, securing a visa can turn a simple plan into a complicated ordeal. Thankfully, visa-free travel offers a convenient alternative, allowing travelers to bypass these hurdles and enjoy seamless journeys. According to the 2025 Henley Passport Index rankings, Bangladeshi passport holders now have access to a range of destinations where no visa is required. These visa-free opportunities open up new horizons for Bangladeshi travelers, offering simplified access to explore the world. Read on to discover the visa-free countries you can visit with a Bangladeshi passport in 2025, making your travel plans easier than ever. Visa-exempt Countries for Bangladeshi Citizens in 2025 A fully visa-exempt immigration policy eliminates the need for paper and digital permits for entering or leaving a country. This means travelers are exempt from paying visa fees in either local or foreign currencies. In such cases, the passport alone serves as the sole travel document. However, this policy comes with limitations on the duration of stay, which varies depending on the destination country. According to the Henley Passport Index, these countries offer fully visa-exempt travel for Bangladeshi nationals in 2025.  Read more: Langkawi Travel Guide 2025: Top Things to Do in Malaysia’s Jewel of Kedah Visa-exempt Country List (21) 1. Bahamas 2. Barbados 3. Bhutan 4. British Virgin Islands 5. Cook Islands 6. Dominica 7. Fiji 8. Grenada 9. ​​Haiti 10. Jamaica 11. Kiribati 12. Madagaskar 13. Micronesia 14. Montserrat 15. Niue 16. Rwanda 17. Saint Kitts and Nevis 18. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 19. The Gambia 20. Trinidad and Tobago 21. Vanuatu. Read more: Ultimate Koh Samui Travel Guide: Top Things to See and Do on Thailand’s Stunning Island On-arrival Visa Destinations for Bangladeshis in 2025 Visa-on-arrival policies grant travelers entry permits at checkpoints such as airports, seaports, or land borders upon arrival in the destination country. While this type of visa is typically free, some countries may impose a fee. The length of stay permitted under this policy varies across nations. According to the 2025 Henley Passport Index, 16 countries will allow visa-on-arrival access to passport holders from Bangladesh. The list of countries is as follows: On-arrival Destination List (16) 1. Bolivia 2. Burundi 3. Cambodia 4. Cape Verde Islands 5. Comoro Islands 6. Djibouti 7. Guinea-Bissau 8. Maldives 9. Mauritania 10. Mozambique 11. Nepal 12. Samoa 13. Sierra Leone 14. Somalia 15. Timor-Leste 16. Tuvalu Read more: Discover Ha Long Bay: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Vietnam’s Natural Wonder This marks a decline from 18 in 2024, as Seychelles and Togo have been removed from this category. Seychelles has transitioned to an eTA system, while Togo now requires an e-visa. Destinations Requiring an eTA for Bangladeshi Travelers in 2025 An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a digital travel permit linked directly to the traveler’s passport. Unlike traditional visa processes, eTAs can be obtained entirely online through the immigration websites of the issuing countries. This eliminates the need to visit an embassy in person. In 2025, Bangladeshi citizens will require this authorization for travel to three destinations—Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Seychelles. Seychelles, previously listed under the visa-on-arrival category, has transitioned to the eTA system this year. As per the Henley Passport Index, three visa policies—complete visa exemption, visa-on-arrival, and eTA—are collectively categorized as visa-free. For 2025, the total number of visa-free destinations accessible to passport holders from Bangladesh stands at 40, marking a decrease from 42 in the previous year. Read more: Ultimate Pattaya Travel Guide: Top Things to See and Do in Thailand’s Coastal Gem This shift has impacted Bangladesh’s global standing, causing its position in the Henley Passport Index to drop from 97th to 100th. After reaching its lowest ranking in 2021, the country experienced three consecutive years of gradual improvement. However, this year’s changes mark a setback in the global standing of Bangladeshi passports. E-visa Accessible Countries for Bangladeshi Citizens in 2025 While both eTA and e-visa systems rely on online processes, their purposes and procedures differ significantly. E-visas are primarily designed for long-term travel, such as studying, working, or conducting business abroad, and often require extensive documentation. Conversely, eTAs cater to short-term trips, focusing on tourism or transit, and involve minimal paperwork, making the process faster and more convenient. Despite its digital nature, the e-visa application process can be time-consuming due to the requirement for supporting documents. However, eTA applications are streamlined and straightforward. Read more: Thai e-Visa for Bangladeshis: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online E-visa Category (34 Countries) 1. Albania 2. Antigua and Barbuda 3. Azerbaijan 4. Bahrain 5. Benin 6. Botswana 7. Cameroon 8. Colombia 9. Equatorial Guinea 10. Guinea 11. Ethiopia 12. Gabon 13. Georgia 14. Kazakhstan 15. Kyrgyzstan 16. Malaysia 17. Moldova 18. Myanmar 19. Oman 20. Pakistan 21. Qatar 22. Sao Tome and Principe 23. Suriname 24. Syria 25. Tajikistan 26. Tanzania 27. Thailand 28. Togo 29. Turkey 30. Uganda 31. Uzbekistan 32. Vietnam 33. Zambia 34. Zimbabwe. Read more: Trip to Bali: A Comprehensive Travel Guide Summing Up Overall, Bangladeshi passport holders will have access to 40 destinations that do not require a visa for entry in 2025. With the exclusion of Lesotho from the 2024 list, the number of fully visa-exempt destinations has declined in 2025. Meanwhile, Seychelles, previously listed under on-arrival visa options, now operates via an eTA system. Similarly, Togo has transitioned from offering on-arrival visas to implementing an e-visa system, reducing the number of countries providing on-arrival visas from 18 to 16. However, the availability of the eTA system has increased, rising from 2 to 3 countries this year. Additionally, the e-visa facility will be available for travel to 34 countries, reflecting the evolving visa protocols tied to Bangladesh. Read more: Shopping in Bangkok: What to Buy, Where to Buy from

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Discover Langkawi, the “Jewel of Kedah”—a breathtaking tropical paradise with pristine beaches, verdant rainforests, and a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. From cultural experiences to natural wonders, this travel guide reveals why Langkawi is a bucket-list destination for globetrotters. Location and Significance of Langkawi . Langkawi, officially Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah (Malay: Langkawi Permata Kedah), is an archipelago of 99 islands (with five more visible at low tide). It is located in the Strait of Malacca, about 30 km off northwestern Malaysia's coast near the Thai border. It is an administrative district of Kedah, with Kuah as its largest town. The name "Langkawi" is derived from the Malay words "helang" (eagle) and "kawi" (reddish-brown), reflecting its iconic reddish-brown eagles, symbolized by the statue at Eagle Square. Other interpretations link it to Indian and Sanskrit roots, like "Langkapuri," meaning beautiful island city. Langkawi holds historical significance as part of the Kedah Sultanate, witnessing legends, invasions, and eventual growth into a UNESCO Global Geopark and renowned tourist destination. Read more: Safety Tips for Solo Female Travellers Top Places to Visit in Langkawi  . Pantai Cenang Pantai Cenang is Langkawi’s most popular beach destination, celebrated for its soft white sand, turquoise water, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can unwind by the sea, enjoy thrilling water sports, or savor local delicacies at beachfront cafes.  It is a lively hub perfect for socializing and entertainment. The bustling market area nearby offers great shopping opportunities, while the sunset views make it an unforgettable experience. Whether relaxing or adventuring, Pantai Cenang delivers a perfect beach holiday. Tanjung Rhu Beach Tanjung Rhu Beach offers tranquility and natural beauty, making it one of Malaysia’s finest beaches. Known for its clean sand and calm water, this serene spot is surrounded by limestone formations and lush greenery.  The sunsets here are mesmerizing, adding to the romantic ambiance. The name derives from "Sea Pine Trees" (Rhu trees), which line the area. Away from the crowds, it is a perfect destination for those seeking peace and breathtaking landscapes. Read more: How to Visit Kotka Beach at Sundarbans Pantai Tengah Pantai Tengah is a quieter alternative to Pantai Cenang, ideal for visitors seeking solitude and relaxation. The beach’s long stretch of golden sands is perfect for leisurely strolls and sunbathing.  It is also a hotspot for parasailing, offering adventurers a bird’s-eye view of the island’s stunning coastline. The surrounding area features cozy restaurants and bars, creating a laid-back vibe. Pantai Tengah combines peaceful surroundings with thrilling activities, catering to diverse preferences. Black Sand Beach (Pantai Pasir Hitam) Black Sand Beach stands out with its unique dark-colored sand, a result of mineral deposits from Mount Raya’s granite formations. This photogenic destination is perfect for picnics and sunbathing.  An ancient wooden jetty and fishing village add cultural charm to the site. Though swimming is discouraged due to its high mineral content, visitors can explore nearby souvenir shops and sample local street food. It is a fascinating destination blending natural beauty and cultural experiences. Read more: Discover Bisnakandi: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Sylhet’s Tourism Hotspot Mahsuri’s Tomb and Museum Mahsuri’s Tomb commemorates a legendary village maiden. Visitors can explore the peaceful gardens, a Malay-style house, and a museum showcasing Langkawi’s history and Mahsuri’s story.  The site also hosts cultural performances and offers traditional handicrafts for sale. The legend of Mahsuri adds a mystical aura to this historical site, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Langkawi Sky Bridge The Langkawi Sky Bridge is an engineering marvel, perched 125 meters above Mount Mat Cincang. This curved suspension bridge provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and the Andaman Sea. 

Imagine yourself basking under the warm sun on a postcard-perfect island, where palm trees sway gently along powdery beaches, and crystal-clear waters shimmer endlessly. Welcome to Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island and a must-visit tropical paradise that enchants travelers from around the globe. In this all-in-one Koh Samui travel guide, uncover the island’s hidden gems, explore its cultural landmarks, and find out why this breathtaking destination deserves a top spot on your travel bucket list. Whether it’s relaxing on secluded beaches or visiting ancient temples, your unforgettable Koh Samui adventure starts here! Location and Naming History Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island, with a distinct area of 228.7 square kilometres. Situated on the east coast of the country, the island is a place blessed with natural scenic beauty. In Thai, the word “Ko” means island. However, the origin of the word “Samui” is still unknown. Local people believe that the island got its name from the native tree named Mui. Others associate the Sanskrit-Tamil root “S̄mwy” as the origin, which means “sea weather.” Read more: Discover Ha Long Bay: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Vietnam’s Natural Wonder Koh Samui has always been a great attraction for travellers. According to a 1998 report, the island used to receive around 700,000 visitors. In 2020, that number declined due to COVID-19's global impact. Even so, 2023 has observed a steep increase, measuring over 200,000 annual visitors. How to Reach Koh Samui Only two islands in Thailand have international airports; Koh Samui is one of them. Travellers can directly reach the island by air. However, most travellers like to take off in Bangkok or Phuket first and then take a second flight to Koh Samui. It takes about an hour to land in Koh Samui from both airports. But once you are in Thailand, you can also take a bus and ferry combined route. Many tour agencies and private service runners offer combo tickets. This may require you to change your vehicles multiple times and be a much slower journey; nonetheless, it will make your travel more meaningful by letting you see more of Thailand. Read more: Ultimate Pattaya Travel Guide: Top Things to See and Do in Thailand’s Coastal Gem

Vietnam's Ha Long Bay, a mesmerizing natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a paradise for travelers. Known for its emerald-green waters, dramatic limestone islands, and lush landscapes, this iconic destination offers unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Location, Significance, and History of Name  Ha Long Bay is situated in northeastern Vietnam, stretching across Quang Ninh Province and covering an area of about 1,553 km², including nearly 2,000 limestone islets. Administratively, it spans Ha Long City, Cam Pha City, and Van Don District. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bay is famed for its breathtaking limestone karst formations and unique biodiversity. "Ha Long" translates to "Descending Dragon," rooted in Vietnamese legend. According to folklore, dragons descended from heaven to aid the Vietnamese in defending their land by spitting jewels that formed the bay's islands.  The bay’s mythical and geological allure has fascinated people for centuries. Historically, it was referred to by names like An Bang and Luc Thuy. Its name emerged in the 19th century, appearing on French maritime maps, and has since become synonymous with natural beauty and cultural significance. Read more: Trip to Bali: A Comprehensive Travel Guide Top Places to Visit in Ha Long Bay . Bai Chay Beach  Bai Chay Beach is a bustling seaside destination offering soft golden sands, calm azure waters, and a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for relaxation and water activities, this beach is ideal for swimming, jet-skiing, and sunbathing.  Nearby, you will find numerous restaurants and entertainment venues catering to tourists. In the evenings, the beach comes alive with colorful lights and street performances, making it a lively spot for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Read more: Shopping in Hong Kong: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave) Thien Cung Cave is an awe-inspiring natural wonder, renowned for its intricate stalactites and stalagmites. Covering 10,000 square meters, the cave features fantastical formations illuminated by colorful lights, creating a magical ambiance. 

Thailand, famously known as the "Land of Smiles," is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures. Among the attractions, Pattaya is a vibrant coastal city that offers the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. Discover why Pattaya should be at the top of your travel bucket list! Location and Significance of Pattaya Pattaya, located on the eastern Gulf coast of Thailand, is approximately 100km (62 miles) southeast of Bangkok. A part of Chonburi province, Pattaya is a vibrant city renowned for its picturesque beaches and lively attractions.  Historically, its name stems from “Thap Phraya,” meaning “army of the Phraya,” marking the peaceful surrender of a local leader to King Taksin in the 18th century. Over time, it evolved into "Phatthaya," referencing the seasonal southwest-to-northeast winds. Read more: Thai e-Visa for Bangladeshis: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online The city also serves as a gateway to Coral Island (Koh Larn), a gem in the Gulf of Thailand. Known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life, Coral Island offers a serene escape and exciting activities like snorkeling and diving. Its significance lies in natural beauty and its role as a symbol of Pattaya’s allure, blending tranquility with adventure.