United News of Bangladesh

When people think of Africa, images of heat, savannas and wildlife often dominate imagination. But tucked away in southern Africa is a rare exception— Lesotho, a high-altitude, landlocked country entirely surrounded by South Africa. Often called the “Kingdom in the Sky,” Lesotho stands out as the only country in Africa where all land lies above 1,000 metres, making it the continent’s coldest nation. Snowfall and freezing temperatures are common between May and August, particularly in the Maluti Mountains, where winter temperatures can drop below minus 10 degrees Celsius. In some high-altitude areas, snow and ice are frequent, allowing for rare winter sports like skiing and snowboarding on the continent. Historically, the region was inhabited by Khoisan-speaking hunter-gatherers before the Sotho people unified the territory under King Moshoeshoe I in the early 19th century. Lesotho later became a British protectorate and gained independence in 1966. Since then, the country has faced political instability, economic challenges and persistent poverty, with heavy reliance on neighbouring South Africa for trade and access to global markets. Despite its challenges, Lesotho has pursued modernisation efforts since the 1990s. Tourism and diamond mining have emerged as key economic sectors, while the capital Maseru has expanded as an urban centre. The country is one of only three in the world, along with Vatican City and San Marino, that is completely surrounded by another nation. The country experiences a seasonal climate, with most rainfall between October and April. Weather conditions vary sharply with altitude, with summer highs reaching around 32°C in lowlands, while winter temperatures in highland areas can fall below minus 18°C. Frost is widespread, and the Maluti Mountains are often snow-covered in winter. Its landscape is largely dominated by grasslands and mountains, though overgrazing and soil erosion have damaged natural vegetation in many areas. Conservation efforts, including reforestation, have had limited success so far. Wildlife populations have also declined significantly over time due to hunting and habitat loss. Large species such as lions, zebras and wildebeests have disappeared, though smaller animals like antelopes, hares and hyraxes still exist. Protected areas such as Sehlabathebe National Park preserve endangered species including the bearded vulture and mountain reedbuck. Lesotho’s population is predominantly Basotho, a group with strong cultural unity rooted in the legacy of King Moshoeshoe I. Smaller communities include Zulu-origin groups, people of mixed or Asian heritage, and a limited number of expatriates. The country has also gained global cultural recognition. Its dramatic mountain scenery and cultural elements, including the traditional Basotho blanket, influenced the design of the fictional African kingdom Wakanda in Marvel’s Black Panther. The film’s costume designers drew inspiration from Lesotho’s landscape and clothing traditions to shape its visual identity. Tourism is further boosted by Afriski Mountain Resort, one of only two ski resorts in sub-Saharan Africa. Located at around 3,050 metres in the Maluti Mountains, it offers skiing and snowboarding between June and August, along with year-round adventure activities such as mountain biking, hiking and trail running. With its snow-covered peaks, unique geography and rich cultural identity, Lesotho remains one of Africa’s most unusual destinations, challenging common perceptions of the continent while continuing to attract global attention.  #From NDTV

More than 7 million border crossings were recorded in Beijing in 2026 as of Sunday morning, a 13% rise from a year earlier, according to official data. This year, the number of exits and entries by foreign nationals at Beijing ports had surpassed 2.28 million as of Sunday morning, up 34 percent from the same period of 2025, according to the Beijing General Station of Exit and Entry Frontier Inspection. As of Saturday, about 828,000 foreign arrivals at Beijing ports this year had entered under visa-free or temporary entry permit policies, accounting for over 70 percent of all foreign entrants. The recent surge in Beijing's inbound tourism is partly attributable to the continuous optimization of visa-free policies. To date, China has introduced unilateral visa-free policies for 50 countries and implemented 240-hour transit visa-free arrangements for 55 countries. To boost clearance efficiency and deliver better services amid the increasing passenger flow, Beijing has introduced a series of measures, including a one-stop service for issuing temporary entry permits and conducting inspections for people applying for the 240-hour visa-free transit, as well as guidance on visa-free policies and assistance in filling out arrival cards for first-time visitors to China. 

The Danakil Depression in Ethiopia is considered one of the most extreme environments on Earth, known for its intense heat, active volcanoes, acidic pools and strikingly colourful landscapes shaped by ongoing geological activity. Often described as a “gateway to hell,” the region stands apart from typical travel destinations, as its defining features are natural forces such as shifting tectonic plates, geothermal activity and volcanic eruptions rather than human-built landmarks. Located in the Afar region in northwestern Ethiopia near the Eritrean border, the depression is one of the lowest and most hostile places on the planet. It sits at the junction of three tectonic plates — African, Arabian and Somali — making it a key site for studying continental drift. Due to this constant geological movement, parts of the land lie more than 100 metres below sea level. Scientists say the Earth’s crust here continues to crack and sink, allowing magma to rise closer to the surface and reshape the terrain. The region is also among the hottest inhabited places in the world, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius and sometimes reaching 45 degrees. Low rainfall and harsh conditions mean that very few plants or animals can survive, while steam vents, sulphur fumes and exposed salt flats dominate the landscape. One of its most notable features is Erta Ale, an active volcano that contains a rare, permanent lava lake. The molten lava continuously bubbles and glows, offering scientists and visitors a unique view of volcanic activity. Another major attraction is Dallol, where bright mineral formations, sulphur vents and highly acidic pools create an almost surreal environment. Some of these المياه have extremely low pH levels, making them among the most acidic on Earth and highly dangerous despite their vivid colours. Although much of the area is uninhabited, the Afar people live in nearby settlements and have adapted to the harsh conditions over generations. Their livelihoods depend largely on salt mining and livestock such as camels and goats, with traditional salt caravans still transporting blocks of salt across the desert. Reaching the Danakil Depression is difficult and typically involves travelling from the city of Mekelle in four-wheel-drive vehicles, often with guided tours due to safety and environmental challenges. The best time to visit is between November and February, when temperatures are relatively lower, though still extreme. Experts advise careful preparation, including adequate supplies and experienced guidance. Scientists consider the Danakil Depression a natural laboratory that offers valuable insights into Earth’s structure and the processes that shape continents, while for travellers it provides a rare opportunity to witness raw geological forces in action.

German airline Lufthansa has announced plans to cancel around 20,000 short-haul flights through October as kerosene prices have reportedly doubled following the outbreak of the war in Iran. The airline said the decision is expected to save about 40,000 tonnes of fuel and is aimed at reducing “unprofitable short-haul flights” across its network. According to the company, the first phase of cancellations—affecting around 120 flights per day—began on Monday and will remain in effect until the end of May. Lufthansa also confirmed that it will permanently withdraw 27 aircraft from its Lufthansa CityLine unit, citing strike-related disruptions and rising fuel costs linked to Middle East tensions. The airline said the broader restructuring comes amid increasing pressure on European carriers due to fuel supply risks. Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency has warned that Europe could face jet fuel shortages lasting up to six weeks if supply disruptions continue.

The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, stands as a vital natural barrier along the coast, protecting millions of people from cyclones, storm surges, and rising sea levels. Often likened to a nurturing mother, this unique ecosystem not only endures harsh environmental conditions but also shields vulnerable communities from the increasing threats of climate change. Beyond its protective role, the Sundarbans supports rich biodiversity and sustains local livelihoods, making its preservation crucial for both people and nature. Recently, I have been to the Sundarbans with my grandsons, Tanzif and Tawfeeq, and their parents, Shahrin and Asif, and came back on the 26th instant. It took me quite a while to convince my daughter that it’s much more rewarding to visit the Sundarbans than Cox’s Bazar! I was referring to her perceptions of people who have visited the Sundarbans. I was wondering what the Sundarbans meant to our younger generations and discovered Samia Jahan Shefa ([email protected]), a student of the Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, between her lines. Samia, on June 3, 2024, wrote to the editor of the Financial Express: “The Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is like our mother who endures adversity but protects us. It safeguards the coastal areas, offering protection from Nature's fury. In recent memory, two of the deadliest super cyclones—Sidr in 2007 and Aila in 2009—hit the coastal areas of Bangladesh. After these devastating cyclones, other severe storms made landfall, including Fani and Bulbul in 2019, Amphan in 2020, and Yaas in 2021. Each time, the protective Sundarbans played the role of a saviour against Nature's ferocity. It was no different at the time of Remal. The Sundarbans, our first line of defence against natural disasters, once again safeguarded the nation from Cyclone Remal. It saves us but pays a heavy price in terms of the forest's ecosystem, wildlife, and biodiversity. The flora and fauna of the forest sacrifice their lives to save us. ……………….. If the Sundarbans survive, Bangladesh will survive, as it takes care of us. But who will take care of it? Bangladesh aims to be a developed country by 2041. What will be the condition of the Sundarbans then? Will it become a scapegoat for ‘development’? We don't want a developed Bangladesh at the cost of destroying our ‘saviour mother,’ the Sundarbans.”  

Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, has become a global icon since its inauguration in 2010, symbolising the United Arab Emirates’ ambition, growth, and architectural prowess. Soaring 828 metres into the sky, the building has redefined luxury and remains a magnet for both tourists and locals, with observation decks on levels 124, 125, and 148 offering panoramic views of Dubai. Purpose behind Burj KhalifaThe primary goal of constructing Burj Khalifa was to create a landmark for Downtown Dubai that would attract tourists and investors while serving as a hub for economic activity. The vision was to design a vertical city encompassing residences, luxury hotels, tourist attractions, and corporate offices. By doing so, Dubai aimed to diversify its economy beyond oil, drawing global investment into real estate, business, and tourism. Backed by the UAE government, the project was intended as both an architectural and economic statement. Construction journeyConstruction began in 2004, led by architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), with Adrian Smith as the chief architect and Bill Baker as the structural engineer. The design process involved rigorous studies on wind resistance, material strength, and temperature variations along the building’s height, pushing engineering boundaries. The tower was completed in October 2009, just over five years after construction began. Among its remarkable features are the 26,000 exterior glass panels, each weighing 362 kg, installed by more than 300 Chinese cladding specialists — a world record for aluminium and glass façade installation at 512 metres. The telescopic spire, the building’s crowning feature, contains 4,000 tonnes of structural steel and houses communication equipment, with xenon lights flashing 40 times per minute to prevent collisions. How Dubai’s Burj Al Arab became the world’s ‘only 7-Star Hotel’ amid Iran strikes Burj Khalifa’s infrastructure is equally impressive, with 57 elevators, eight escalators, the world’s tallest service elevator capable of carrying 5,000 kg, stairways reinforced with fireproof concrete, and a water system supplying an average of 946,000 litres daily. Economic impactThe project cost $1.4 billion and was officially opened in January 2010. Named in honour of former UAE president Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan as a gesture of gratitude for financing, Burj Khalifa has since become a major economic driver. Entry ticket sales alone generate $621 million annually, and the residential units have earned $2.18 billion since 2010, with over 76% priced above $1 million. The tower draws millions of visitors and investors, significantly boosting Dubai’s economy. What’s inside Burj KhalifaBurj Khalifa combines luxury, business, and lifestyle under one roof. It houses the Armani Hotel on floors 1 to 8 and over 900 private Armani residences from levels 9 to 108, designed by Giorgio Armani. Corporate suites, observation decks, spas, gyms, and swimming pools extend up to level 154. For dining, Atmosphere on level 122 is the world’s highest restaurant from ground level, offering spectacular views alongside fine cuisine. Beyond its height, the tower features the most floors, the highest elevators, the tallest habitable floor, and the highest residential apartments in any building worldwide — truly embodying the concept of a vertical city. Burj Khalifa remains a landmark of ambition, luxury, and innovation, cementing Dubai’s place on the global stage.

India’s varied landscapes continue to fascinate travellers, from the snow-covered Himalayas to the sunlit beaches of Goa. Among these attractions is a striking road in western India that feels almost unreal. Known as the Road to Heaven, the nearly 30-kilometre-long stretch links mainland Kutch with the historic village of Dholavira in Gujarat. The road is celebrated for its rare geography and breathtaking views. For almost half the year, water stretches out on both sides, while during the remaining months the surroundings turn into vast white salt pans. Depending on the season, travellers often feel as if they are driving across water or through an endless salt desert. This dramatic setting has made the route hugely popular on social media and a visual symbol of Kutch’s natural beauty. The journey also leads to Dholavira, a globally significant archaeological site recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond its scenic appeal, the Road to Heaven carries cultural importance as it connects the craft village of Khavda, located near the White Rann, with Dholavira. The route gained national attention after being featured during the G20 Summit, after which authorities opened it to the public. Since then, it has become a favourite drive for tourists. Travel influencer Arihant Baid recently shared a viral Instagram video showcasing the road’s mesmerising landscapes. In his post, he described it as one of India’s most beautiful roads, located close to the Pakistan border and leading to Khadir Bet island, home to ancient Dholavira. Peru airport near Machu Picchu raises overtourism fears Best time to visit The ideal time to experience the Road to Heaven is between November and February. Winter brings cool, dry weather, clear skies and comfortable conditions, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the views of the salt desert. How to get there By air, travellers can fly to Bhuj Airport and hire a cab for the roughly 80-kilometre journey. By train, Bhuj Junction is the nearest railhead, with taxis and private vehicles available onward. For many visitors, however, a road trip remains the best option, as the route is well connected with major cities across Gujarat. For those seeking a unique and dreamlike driving experience, the Road to Heaven in Kutch stands out as a destination that truly lives up to its name.

A long-delayed airport project in Peru’s Sacred Valley is fuelling fresh debate over tourism growth and heritage protection, as critics warn that the development could permanently alter the landscape surrounding the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. The Chinchero International Airport, under construction on the outskirts of the historic Andean town of Chinchero, is expected to significantly reduce travel time for visitors by allowing them to bypass Lima and Cusco. Designed to handle up to eight million passengers a year, the airport could boost visitor numbers to the region by as much as 200%, according to Peruvian authorities. Supporters argue the project will provide an economic boost to one of Peru’s less-developed regions. The Ministry of Transport and Communications says the airport, which has already cost an estimated 2.3 trillion Peruvian soles, has created more than 5,000 construction jobs and could benefit around one million people linked directly or indirectly to tourism. However, Indigenous groups, archaeologists, environmentalists and local tourism operators have raised concerns about cultural loss, environmental damage and unchecked development. The Sacred Valley, carved by the Urubamba River and surrounded by the Andes, was the spiritual and administrative heart of the Incan empire and still contains functioning pre-Incan and Incan infrastructure, including roads, irrigation systems and agricultural terraces. Opponents warn the airport threatens watersheds, wildlife habitats and archaeological sites. Local guide Luis Flores said agricultural land around Chinchero has already been sold off since the project was announced more than a decade ago, replacing traditional corn and potato fields with housing and commercial development. He fears intensified construction to support mass tourism will further reduce farmland. Tourism professionals acknowledge potential economic benefits but stress the need for proper planning. Machu Picchu guide Lizbeth Lopez Becerra said the region’s infrastructure is already under strain, citing traffic congestion, water shortages and inadequate waste management. A comprehensive heritage impact assessment, she noted, remains incomplete. The airport project, first proposed in 1978, has been repeatedly delayed by funding problems, construction setbacks and allegations of corruption. Officials now estimate it will be completed in late 2027, though some residents doubt it will ever open. Concerns have also been raised about overtourism. Unesco has warned that poor management and rising visitor numbers could threaten Machu Picchu’s World Heritage status. Peru’s Ministry of Culture currently caps daily visitors at between 4,500 and 5,600, depending on the season, but a sharp rise in arrivals could place further pressure on the fragile site. Veteran guide Efrain Valles Morales said the key issue is not visitor numbers alone, but how tourism is managed. He urged authorities to invest in guide training and diversify attractions to spread visitors beyond Machu Picchu, highlighting lesser-known nearby sites such as Chonta Canyon and ancient agricultural terraces at Surite. Hotel owner and philanthropist Petit Miribel said while Cusco’s existing airport is overcrowded and new infrastructure is needed, development must be carefully controlled. She warned that rapid, unplanned construction is already changing the character of towns like Urubamba, adding that long-term impacts on future generations must be considered. Although the airport has yet to open, residents say its effects are already being felt. “The damage is already there,” Miribel said, reflecting a growing concern that transformation of the Sacred Valley is underway even before the first plane lands.   With inputs from BBC

The Siwa Salt Lakes in Egypt’s Siwa Oasis are known for their striking turquoise water and for a rare experience: in many of the pools, it is extremely difficult to sink. Unlike some viral travel locations that disappoint in real life, these desert pools often look much like the photos shared online. Located near Egypt’s border with Libya, the pools are shaped by the area’s geology and by salt extraction. As minerals are excavated from dried salt lakes, some basins later fill naturally with water from underground springs. In the intense desert climate, water evaporates quickly, leaving behind very high concentrations of mineral salts. That salinity makes the water denser, creating strong buoyancy, so swimmers tend to float on the surface soon after entering. Some accounts say salt levels in certain pools can rise to extremely high concentrations — far higher than seawater — which further increases buoyancy and makes sinking unlikely. Beyond their appearance, the Siwa lakes are also linked to the oasis’s long history. Reports note archaeological finds in the region dating back thousands of years. Locally, salt and salt-rich materials have traditionally been used in construction, including in structures such as the historic Shali Fortress. Bali named world’s top travel destination for 2026 by TripAdvisor Today, salt taken from the lakes and ponds is used in a range of products and in wellness practices. Many visitors and locals believe the mineral-rich water can help with skin and sinus problems, though these claims are largely based on tradition and personal experience. Visitors are commonly advised to be cautious: avoid getting the water into your eyes and avoid shaving right before swimming to reduce irritation. Why Mount Damavand, Asia’s tallest volcano, is so famous To reach the lakes, travelers typically book day tours from Cairo or Alexandria or use local transport such as tuk-tuks for shorter trips. Alongside floating in the salt pools, tourists often visit Cleopatra’s Pool, the Oracle Temple, the Shali Fortress area and the Mountain of the Dead tombs. Siwa became more accessible after a highway opened in the 1980s, bringing the once-isolated oasis onto Egypt’s travel map.   #With inputs from  NDTV

Bali has been crowned the world’s best travel destination for 2026 in TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best, beating a list of global favourites including London, Dubai, Hanoi, Paris and Rome. The ranking is based on the volume and quality of traveller reviews collected throughout 2025, reflecting feedback from real visitors across the globe. Bali Governor Wayan Koster said the recognition highlights the island’s enduring appeal despite challenges such as waste management, traffic congestion and fluctuations in visitor numbers. “Bali has secured the highest position in the world, proving that these issues cannot weaken its standing as a top global destination,” he said in Denpasar, according to Antara. Why Mount Damavand, Asia’s tallest volcano, is so famous Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said the award shows continued confidence among international travellers. “Being chosen as the world’s best destination by TripAdvisor proves that Bali remains a major magnet for global tourism,” he said in a statement. TripAdvisor described Bali as a “living postcard”, known for its white sand beaches, coral reefs and historic World War II shipwrecks. Along with the top global ranking, Bali also earned several other honours. It was ranked first among the best honeymoon destinations, placed in the top 10 for cultural destinations and solo travel, and listed among the world’s top 20 trendiest cities. The island is popular for its diverse attractions, from the green rice terraces and art markets of Ubud to the calm beaches of Seminyak and Nusa Dua. Adventure lovers often hike Mount Batur for sunrise views, while visitors explore iconic temples such as Tanah Lot and Uluwatu. Greenland in winter and summer: A land of ice, adventure, and stunning landscapes Snorkelling and diving hotspots like Amed and Nusa Penida also draw travellers with their clear waters, coral reefs and rich marine life. With its blend of natural beauty, culture and relaxation, Bali continues to attract travellers from every corner of the world.   #With inputs from NDTV