Weekends are like a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This period offers a precious window for rejuvenation and self-expression. However, avoiding the pitfalls of idleness and monotony during these treasured days is pivotal. It is the time to shun procrastination and embrace creativity, ensuring these moments are not squandered in lethargy. Engaging in diverse entertaining and stimulating activities can transform weekends into an enriching experience, igniting a sense of fulfilment. 10 Creative Ways to Spend Your Weekends Reading You may immerse yourself in a captivating book during the weekend to explore new worlds, gain knowledge, and engage your mind. Reading goes beyond mere entertainment; it expands horizons, fosters empathy, and acquires knowledge.  Read more: Benefits of Reading Habit for Mind and Body Traversing the lines of a well-crafted story or delving into informative texts engages your mind in discovery and enrichment. Relaxation blends with mental stimulation as reading deepens your understanding of the world. Altogether it is a perfect choice for a fulfilling weekend activity.

When stepping into Indonesia, every globetrotter finds it to be a treasure-trove of islands. A nation adorned with natural wonders, each island tells a tale of its own. Especially the historical attractions along with spectacular beaches hold surprises for winter wanderlusts. Unveiling the budget-friendly gems, this list meanders through Indonesia's winter retreats. These are the most affordable tourist spots in the Indonesian archipelago. 10 Best Budget-Friendly Indonesian Destinations to Visit in Winter Gili Islands A trio of small islands off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia, the Gili Islands are famed for their lush vegetation and world-class diving and snorkeling spots. The underwater world surrounding these islands is a mesmerizing sight, easily accessible from any point along the shoreline. For those considering a journey from Dhaka to Lombok by air, the most economical per-head deal is USD 334 in parity with BDT 36,689.97, with the exchange rate at USD 1 = BDT 109.85.  Accommodation costs per person are generally IDR 146,755 or BDT 1,027.21 (IDR 1 = BDT 0.007), and a day's worth of meals can be budgeted at IDR 49,993 which is equivalent to BDT 349.93. Read more: Best Asian Alternatives to the Maldives: Affordable Island Getaways Ubud Located in the uplands of Bali, Ubud offers a central hub of attractions. The Royal Palace, situated in the heart of town, is free for visitors, and just down the road lies the Sacred Monkey Forest, a popular destination. A bemo ride takes travelers to the famous Goa Gajah, an elephant cave in Bedulu village, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for intricate carvings. Accommodation costs in Ubud typically IDR 2,142,151 in proportion to BDT 14,993.94, with budget options such as Agung Trisna Bungalows and Inang Villa. The daily charge for food in Ubud is approximately IDR 189,959 equaling BDT 1329.61. The most cost-effective airfare from Dhaka to Ngurah Rai Airport is USD 252 in parity with BDT 27,682.25. Read more: Shopping in Malaysia: What to Buy, Where to Buy from

Nestled serenely within the expanse of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives has lured travelers with its opulent allure. The pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts have made it an icon in high-end travel. Yet, for those with a more budget-conscious spirit, some exotic tourist destinations in the heart of Asia can offer almost similar experiences. Let’s take a look into some of the most popular budget-friendly Asian alternatives to the Maldives. 10 Best Budget-Friendly Alternatives to the Maldives in Asia Phi Phi Islands, Thailand This tropical paradise, along with its mesmerizing blend of stone and sand beaches, is located in the Andaman Sea. Among this island group comprising six distinct islands, Phi Phi Don is renowned for its Monkey Beach and Maya Bay. In the case of spending the night, Tropical Garden Bungalows come with a jungle vibe with modern amenities. The airfare to Phitsanulok, the nearest airport to this place, from Bangladesh starts at USD 230 (BDT 25,264.65 at an exchange rate of USD 1 = BDT 109.85) per person. Meals cost approximately THB 417 or BDT 1,289.45 (THB 1 = BDT 3.09) per day, while local transportation is estimated at THB 253 or BDT 782.33 daily. The average cost for a couple's hotel stay in Koh Phi Phi is THB 2,956 (BDT 9,140.58). Read more: Beach Bucket List: 9 Magnificent Sea Shores in South Asia Koh Lipe, Thailand This hidden gem, located in the Andaman Sea, offers hiking opportunities to take in the island's natural beauty from elevated vantage points. The island provides a variety of amenities, from bars and open-air restaurants to cafes and massage shacks.

If you are planning a trip to Malaysia, you are in for a treat. This vibrant country offers not only stunning natural beauty but also a unique shopping experience. Malaysia is renowned for its diverse shopping opportunities, from bustling street markets to high-end shopping malls. This article will explore the best souvenirs, home decoration items, and other special treasures to buy in Malaysia.  Best Souvenirs to Buy in Malaysia When you visit Malaysia, the desire to collect souvenirs that encapsulate the essence of this beautiful nation is nearly irresistible. Malaysia offers an array of choices for those seeking mementoes, each reflecting the rich culture and heritage of the country.  One such option is the exquisite Malaysian batik, a true work of art. These hand-dyed fabrics are adorned with intricate designs and a vivid spectrum of colours. This extends beyond clothing to include accessories and wall hangings available in the vibrant markets and boutiques across Malaysia. These intricate patterns and bold hues make batik an ideal keepsake. Read more: Romantic Beach Honeymoon Destinations in Asia Traditional Malaysian clothing is another fantastic choice. Women can opt for the elegant 'baju kurung' and 'baju kebaya'. Meanwhile, men have the option of the 'baju melayu,' a timeless symbol of style and cultural significance. These outfits pay homage to the rich heritage of Malaysia. Handmade crafts are the way to go for those who appreciate craftsmanship. Malaysian artisans’ skills are reflected in the exquisite wooden carvings, rattan baskets, and traditional pottery. These items are not merely souvenirs; they also serve as splendid choices for adorning your home. Their intricate details and cultural significance make them outstanding decorative pieces. Lastly, Malaysia's reputation as a haven for food enthusiasts makes it an excellent destination for culinary souvenirs. Among the popular choices is Durian Candy, offering a unique experience of the iconic but divisive durian fruit.  Another is Dodol, a beloved sweet treat throughout Southeast Asia, and White Coffee is a unique Malaysian brew known for its creamy, smooth taste. These souvenirs are more than mere items; they are fragments of Malaysian history and culture, destined to be cherished for years to come. Read more: Can You Travel Abroad Without Buying US Dollars? Home Decoration Things to Buy in Malaysia Malaysia presents a diverse selection of distinctive items when it comes to enhancing the aesthetics of your home. Malaysian pewter stands out as a prized choice. It offers intricately designed vases, candle holders, and figurines that exude elegance and charm, making them ideal additions to any home décor. Traditional Malaysian carpets, particularly those originating from Kelantan, are a splendid choice. These are perfect for those keen on incorporating a vibrant Malaysian flair. The carpets are renowned for their complex patterns and vivid hues. They serve as a perfect accent to infuse the living space with a touch of Malaysian culture. If you are on the lookout for furniture, you may choose Malay rattan pieces. Rattan chairs, tables, and storage units showcase exquisite craftsmanship and also reflect an eco-conscious choice.  Read more: How to comfortably travel with babies Other Special Things to Buy in Malaysia Beyond souvenirs and home decorations, Malaysia opens the door to a treasure trove of distinctive items that hold their own unique allure. Among them, fine jewellery commands attention. Gold and silver pieces are adorned with beautiful designs inspired by the rich tapestry of Malaysian culture.  For collectors and history enthusiasts, traditional Malay weapons such as the 'keris' and 'parang' offer an intriguing choice. These weapons bear a rich cultural legacy. It makes them fascinating collectables and also powerful symbols of Malaysia's history. Food enthusiasts can not overlook Malaysia's status as a culinary paradise with exotic spices and herbs. Lemongrass, turmeric, curry leaves, and more await to elevate your culinary adventures at home. Read more: E-Passport for Children in Bangladesh: Application process, necessary documents Whether you seek a meaningful gift, historical artefacts, or culinary inspiration, Malaysia's diverse offerings extend far beyond then expected. They are perfect to enrich both your home and your life.

Sylhet, Bangladesh is a region endowed with mesmerizing natural beauty. Lush green hills, expansive tea gardens, and meandering rivers create an irresistible canvas of diversity. This Jaflong travel guide is going to highlight the spellbinding charm of this traveler’s paradise. Origin of the Name Jaflong The name Jaflong is steeped in the history of the Khasi people. The term "Jaflong," with its connotation of a “haat (market) of pleasure”, finds its roots in the Khasi culture. Geographical Location of Jaflong Jaflong is nestled at the foothills of the Khasi-Jaintia Hills, approximately 62 km to the northeast of Sylhet. These majestic mountains serve as a natural border, separating Bangladesh from India along the Meghalaya border. The surrounding region falls within the Piyain River basin in Gowainghat upazila of Sylhet district. It's through Jaflong that the Dawki River enters Bangladesh from the hills located in India. Read more: Tinap Saitar Waterfall Travel Guide: Visit a pristine natural fountain in Bandarban Best Time to Visit Jaflong Jaflong's charm undergoes a captivating transformation with each season. However, it is during the rainy season that the destination is in its full glory. Those who desire to experience the beauty of this water kingdom must visit during the rainy season. The period from June to October is the recommended period for the visit. During this time, the greenery of the mountains flourishes and becomes even more captivating, extending into November. What to See on the Jaflong Trip Standing knee-deep in the Piyain River and gazing upward at the verdant hills cloaked in clouds is a truly unparalleled experience. The suspension bridge is a relic from the British colonial era. Additionally, the winding course of Dawki River, a Piyain River tributary, beckons tourists with its majestic allure.  Read more: 8 Best Winter Travel destinations in Bangladesh The Khasia village, located just beyond the Piyain River, features unique hillside dwellings that pique the interest of thousands of tourists.  Jaflong hosts a Baishakhi fair on the first day of the Bangla New Year. Even if the occasion is the same, the banks of the river with rapid currents, surrounded by mountains, look very different compared to the crowded atmosphere of Dhaka.

Bangladesh being on the tropical spectrum of the climate, experiences a moderate winter season. Apart from the northern regions of the country, the mild winter season makes for a perfect time to go for a vacation and explore the diverse landscape of the country. With that said, here are the 8 top popular tourist destinations in Bangladesh for spending winter vacation.  Top Place to Visit in Bangladesh During Winter  Saint Martin’s Island  One of the prime attractions of winter travel is Saint Martin’s island. This Bea coral island is situated in the south of Bangladesh off the coast of Cox’s Bazar. The ship operation to St. Martin remains closed from April to October. It begins in early November and runs through March for the winter and spring seasons.  Every year, millions of tourists flock to the island to experience the serene landscape and the blue lagoon all around. Getting to St. Martin Island is also easy. There are direct bus services from Dhaka to Teknaf. From Teknaf, there is an abundance of ships and launches going to St. Martin. It takes about two and a half to three hours by ship to get to the island.  Read more: Bandarban Tourist Spots – Best Places to See and Craziest Things to Do To protect the biodiversity and environment of this coral island, the government of Bangladesh has taken some initiatives. Tourists are required to take permission before visiting this island. Make sure to take ample winter clothes as nights can get pretty cold. Take note of the tides to experience the unobstructed beach along the coast of the island.  Kuakata  Kuakata is famous for being the only place in Bangladesh where one can enjoy both sunrise and sunset. Often referred to as the “Daughter of the Sea”, Kuakata is comparatively less crowded than Cox’s Bazar during the peak travel season.  Read more: Best Places for Honeymoon in Bangladesh

The word pyramid is often associated with the three large triangular structures in Egypt. These iconic tombs of the Egyptian Pharaohs are a testament to the glorious history and ancient culture of the country. However, beyond the borders of Egypt, there are other pyramids scattered across the globe. Each of these structures has their own history and purpose. Let’s look at 10 of the most famous pyramids that put visitors under a spell.  Top 10 Notable Pyramids Across the World  Most of the noteworthy pyramids are located in Egypt. However, pyramids were also discovered in Mexico which are similar to the ones in Egypt with a distinctive design. This list comprises the pyramids in Egypt and Mexico as they are the most iconic ones with deep-rooted history.  The Great Pyramid of Giza The Great Pyramid of Giza is located in the pyramid complex of Giza Valley in Egypt along with two other pyramids. The Great Pyramid stands tall as the largest one among the three. It is the tomb of Pharaoh Khufu of the fourth Egyptian Dynasty.  The pyramid was built in 2570 BCE by royal patronage before the death of Khufu. At its center, the tip of the pyramid is 146.6 meter long from the base. Initially, the pyramid was constructed with 2.3 million blocks of smooth limestone and granite which have mostly eroded over time.  Read more: Top 15 Heritage Sites of Bangladesh The inside of the pyramid has three chambers: the king’s chamber, the queen's chamber, and a subterranean chamber which was never finished.  Pyramid of Khafre  The Pyramid of Khafre is the second largest pyramid in the Giza complex. The Pyramid of Khafre was also built during the fourth dynasty by Pharaoh Khafre, son of Khufu, and was intended to be his burial site. The construction started sometime in 2570 BCE.  The top of the pyramid still retains some of the original limestones. The height of the pyramid is 136.4 meters at its peak. However, it looks taller compared to the Great Pyramid because of its position on a higher base structure.  Read more: Top 10 Historical Mosques in Bangladesh

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. Read more: Island Paradise: The Bahamas Travel Guide

Asia is often considered the most diverse continent in the world. From winter escapades to tropical retreats, Asia offers a vacation experience unlike any other. To complement these retreat options, there are thousands of hotels and vacation stays available across countries. In this article, let's take a look at 25 of the best hotels in Asia and the amenities that await travellers.  Best Hotels in Asia According to Tripadvisor This list will focus on ratings taken from Tripadvisor, one of the leading websites for hotel reviews. The platform takes reviews and ratings from thousands of users based on their experience and aggregates them to create their list. Let’s start from the bottom.  #25 Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong  The last on the list is Four Seasons Hong Kong. The hotel is situated right across the famous Victoria Harbor adjoining the Hong Kong financial district. Visitors can conveniently access the Hong Kong metro and the famed Star Ferry Terminal. The specialty of his hotel is the incorporation of several world-leading features into their service. The most notable of them are the two Michelin-starred restaurants: Caprice and Lung King Heen. The latter is also the first authentic Chinese restaurant to receive this honor.  Read more: These are the countries you can visit visa-free with a Bangladeshi passport in 2023 There is also their award-winning spa experience on the rooftop adjoining the infinity pool overlooking the Hong Kong skyline. 

Thor Pedersen – a Danish traveller- has just completed his mission to visit every country in the world in a single trip without flying. During his 3,512-day voyage, he visited 203 countries, including several disputed territories not included on the United Nations' official list, BBC reports. From a container ship off the coast of the Maldives, he told BBC that his journey included a two-year stopover in Hong Kong due to the Covid lockdown and two marriages. Read more: Cambodia Travel Guide: Best Places to See and Amazing Things to Do During his interview, Thor acknowledged that nonstop travel has not always been simple. He spent four months attempting to enter Equatorial Guinea, and during long bus rides, he would frequently gaze up at an airplane and wonder what he was doing with his life.