United News of Bangladesh

In response to widespread public criticism over high airfares on the Sylhet-Dhaka route, authorities have announced a revised fare structure, officials said on Friday. According to a statement from the Sylhet Deputy Commissioner’s media cell, the revision aims to improve passenger services while reflecting current market conditions, based on information provided by Biman Bangladesh Airlines. Under the new fare structure: Minimum fare: 2,024 BDT; with taxes, the total comes to 3,199 BDT. Maximum fare: 7,024 BDT; with taxes, the total comes to 8,199 BDT. The announcement follows growing public anger over soaring ticket prices on the Sylhet-Dhaka route. Protesters in Sylhet have claimed that unscrupulous syndicates are taking advantage of poor road conditions on the Sylhet-Dhaka highway to artificially inflate airfares.

FlyDubai has made a major strategic shift by ordering 150 Airbus A321neo aircraft, marking the first time the budget carrier will expand its fleet beyond Boeing. The memorandum of understanding, announced Tuesday at the Dubai Airshow, is valued at about USD 24 billion at list prices and includes purchase rights for another 100 jets. The order represents a significant expansion for FlyDubai, which currently operates 95 aircraft exclusively from Boeing’s 737 family. The A321neo, a single-aisle mid-range jet, directly competes with Boeing’s 737 models and will give the carrier new flexibility as it grows its regional and medium-haul network. FlyDubai and Airbus shared few details about the agreement, but officials described it as central to the airline’s long-term fleet diversification strategy. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of FlyDubai and Emirates, said the addition of Airbus aircraft would strengthen future expansion as Dubai prepares to build a massive five-runway airport at Dubai World Central. Airbus executives praised FlyDubai for balancing low-cost operations with an increasingly strong premium offering. The order follows FlyDubai’s 2023 purchase of 30 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, which will introduce wide-body capability to its fleet for the first time. Also at the airshow, Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways confirmed an order for 16 Airbus aircraft, including A330-900s, A350-1000s and A350 freighters, supporting the airline’s financial rebound after posting a record USD 476 million profit in 2024. On Monday, Emirates ordered 65 Boeing 777-9 jets worth USD 38 billion despite ongoing program delays. Emirates President Tim Clark acknowledged the uncertainties but said the scale of the purchase could accelerate Boeing’s delivery timeline. Both Emirates and FlyDubai are preparing for rapid growth as Dubai advances a USD 35 billion plan to transform Al Maktoum International Airport into one of the world’s largest aviation hubs.

While millions flock to the Colosseum and Sistine Chapel, only a select few ever gain access to the opulent Colonna Palace — Rome’s most exclusive historic residence, still privately owned and largely closed to mass tourism. Spanning an entire city block in the heart of Rome, the baroque palace houses galleries of paintings, sculptures, tapestries and the 76-meter Great Hall. Yet entry is tightly restricted: only small groups of 10, guided by art historians, may visit for limited hours on Friday and Saturday mornings. “This is not meant for mass tourism,” said palace restorer Elisabetta Cecchini. Visits are allowed, she said, only because “art dies without public appreciation,” but the home will never be turned into a commercial museum.

What started as a small effort by a few parents to make cycling to school safer has turned into a joyful weekly ritual in Montclair, New Jersey, where more than 350 children and parents now ride together in what’s known as a “bike bus.” On Friday mornings, families gather in a neighborhood shopping area before setting off on a 5-mile group ride to two local elementary schools. Volunteers in bright safety vests help coordinate the route, while cars stop to let the long line of cyclists pass. “It was so fun,” said 7-year-old second grader Gigi Drucker after arriving at Nishuane Elementary School. “The best way to get to school is by bike because it gives you more exercise. It’s healthier for the Earth.” Organizer Jessica Tillyer said the initiative began with just five parents who wanted to ride with their children but felt unsafe cycling alone. “Now, we can have up to 400 people riding together,” she said, adding that the weekly ride builds community and healthy habits. Nutritionist warns: 5 protein-rich foods that may actually cause weight gain The “bike bus” trend is spreading worldwide, with more than 400 similar routes across the U.S., Europe, Australia, and Asia, according to the nonprofit Bike Bus World. Co-founder Sam Balto, who started one in Portland, Oregon, said families are drawn to “something super joyful and community-driven” instead of long car lines. The Montclair group maintains enthusiasm through themed rides, social media coordination, and weather-ready planning. Organizers stress consistency — rain or shine — and encourage others to start small. “Don’t ask for permission. Just get on your bikes and ride,” Tillyer said. “Once people experience it, they’ll want to join.” Source: AP 

Saint Martin’s Island is a marvellous blessing of nature on the Bay of Bengal. This heavenly island bestows a cherished retreat for both domestic and foreign visitors drawn to its calm, coral-fringed shores. Despite recent travel restrictions and environmental limitations, tourists still find their way to the country's only coral island. The transport system, however, remains limited; only a few authorised ships operate on fixed schedules. Ticketing and travel pass regulations are now more stringent, with tied permits for visits and overnight stays. Let’s unravel all the necessary details of how tourists can visit Saint Martin in the tourist season (2025–26). Saint Martin Visiting Time This Winter Considering the weather conditions and safety protocols, passenger ships to Saint Martin’s Island are permitted to operate only upon approval from the concerned administration. For the ongoing open season, travel is allowed from November 1, 2025, to January 2026. Read more: Visit Saint Martin, Coral Island, Bangladesh: Piece of Paradise on Bay of Bengal During November, visitors must complete their trips within the same day, as overnight stays are restricted. However, from December through January, night halts are authorised, enabling short-term accommodation under regulated supervision. BIWTA Jetty, Cox's Bazar: The Only Departure for Saint Martin Trip For security and administrative reasons, all authorised tourist vessels to the coral island will operate solely from Cox’s Bazar. The Teknaf and Ukhia Inani routes remain legally prohibited. Only authorised passenger ships are allowed to operate; small boats, trawlers, and speedboats remain strictly prohibited under current regulations. Ships will depart from the Nuniya Chhara BIWTA Ghat between 7:00 and 10:00 a.m., their schedules aligned with the low tide. Return journeys from the island are set between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m., also based on tidal conditions. Depending on weather and sea currents, the voyage typically takes five to five and a half hours each way. Read more: St Martin’s reopens, but no ships sail as overnight stays banned Visitors may remain on the island without a fixed time limit during December and January, when night stays are allowed.

Call it a new kind of medical advice: find a shady tree, breathe deeply and check back tomorrow. Healthcare providers in the United States have long encouraged patients to spend more time outside. Now, hundreds of them are formalizing that guidance by issuing prescriptions for nature outings, as stress fueled by social media, politics and global conflict continues to weigh on Americans. No one needs a doctor’s note to step outdoors, but some practitioners say the written prescription helps people treat the advice as a priority rather than a luxury. “When I bring it up, it’s almost like granting permission to do something they may think is frivolous at a time when everything feels serious and stressful,” said Dr. Suzanne Hackenmiller, a gynecologist from Waterloo, Iowa. She began prescribing nature after finding comfort outside following her husband’s death. Research shows benefits in natureStudies have consistently found that time in natural environments can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones and strengthen the immune system. “Study after study says we’re wired to be out in nature,” said Dr. Brent Bauer, director of the Mayo Clinic’s complementary and integrative medicine program in Minnesota. The program explores treatments such as meditation, massage, acupuncture and nutrition. “There’s real science behind it.” Making the advice stickTurning suggestions into prescriptions began gaining momentum around a decade ago. Dr. Robert Zarr, also a certified nature guide, founded Park Rx America in 2016 to help doctors incorporate outdoor time into treatment plans. A cheese lover’s guide to choosing the right mozzarella for every dish The group’s guidelines encourage providers to discuss a patient’s interests, how often they can get outdoors and nearby parks to visit. The details are written into a prescription, and patients receive reminders. Nearly 2,000 providers worldwide have joined Park Rx America, including in Australia, Brazil, Cameroon and Spain, and more than 7,000 nature prescriptions have been issued since 2019, said Dr. Stacy Beller Stryer, the group’s associate medical director. About 100 similar programs have emerged in the U.S. For some, the prescription itself is motivation. Bauer, who treats business executives, said he writes about 30 nature prescriptions each year. “When someone hands me a piece of paper telling me to take a medication, I’m more likely to act on it,” he said. “The same idea works here.” Nature as a refugeHackenmiller said more patients are searching for breaks from a world filled with constant crisis. “When so many things are out of our control, it can help to step away from the media and immerse ourselves in nature,” she said. “People often reconnect with moments when nature brought them comfort before.” Proper timing key to successful shrub transplants, experts advise Measuring impact still underwayA 2020 study by the U.S. Forest Service and researchers from two universities found more research is needed to assess how often patients follow through and what long-term health results emerge. Still, experts agree that getting outdoors is beneficial unless conditions like smoke or insects pose a hazard. At William & Mary in Virginia, students prescribe outdoor time to fellow students through an online system. Applicants list when they can go outside, how far they’re willing to travel and what activities they enjoy. The program issued an average of 22 prescriptions per month in 2025, up from 12 in 2020. Senior Kelsey Wakiyama, from Villanova, Pennsylvania, said she relied on nature prescriptions after arriving on campus and not knowing the local trails. “I love the greenery,” she said. “When you’re indoors for hours, the fresh air feels incredible. It calms my nervous system and brings back good memories.” Source: AP

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, has become one of the most sought-after destinations for European families, retirees, and investors looking to buy property overseas. With its scenic beaches, rich culture, pleasant year-round weather, and welcoming Thai hospitality, the island offers an appealing escape from Europe’s cold winters, economic challenges, and urban stress. Improved connectivity has made Phuket even more accessible for European travelers, with expanded direct flights from London, Frankfurt, Paris, Zurich, Vienna, and other major cities, along with convenient transit options through the Middle East, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The island’s affordability, tranquil lifestyle, and safety have also boosted its reputation as a prime spot for long-term stays. Compared to popular European coastal destinations such as Spain’s Costa del Sol or Italy’s Amalfi Coast, property prices in Phuket remain considerably lower. Buyers can choose from a wide range of condominiums, from affordable units to premium branded residences offering strong investment value. Phuket’s appeal goes beyond real estate. The island offers a vibrant lifestyle with world-class golf courses, marinas, shopping centers, diverse dining options, and numerous outdoor activities. Reliable internet connectivity, international schools, and advanced healthcare facilities make it an attractive place for families, professionals, and retirees alike. At the forefront of Phuket’s property boom is the Banyan Group, best known for its luxury Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts. Recognized as Asia’s leading developer of branded residences and ranked fifth globally, the group emphasizes sustainability, comfort, and wellness. European buyers, who traditionally represent about one-third of its customers, value Banyan’s reputation and high-quality after-sales service. The company recently won 15 top honors at the International Property Awards — the highest number achieved by any Asian developer. How to shop secondhand sustainably and stay stylish A major highlight of the island’s development is Laguna Phuket, a 1,000-acre integrated resort by the Banyan Group situated along a three-kilometer stretch of Bang Tao Beach. This lakeside and woodland community includes seven luxury hotels, an award-winning golf course, and more than 3,000 branded condominiums, all linked by complimentary shuttle buses and boats. Laguna Phuket now houses residents from over 50 nationalities, supported by comprehensive infrastructure that includes a kindergarten, wellness centers, diverse leisure facilities, and the new Rava Beach Club — the largest on the island. “Laguna Phuket has evolved into a thriving residential community. It offers a safe, world-class environment where families, retirees, and professionals can flourish,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. Source: AP

Beyond the hum-drum of hectic cities, Bangladesh is home to several wildlife sanctuaries that conserve endangered species, maintain ecological balance, and offer natural habitats for wildlife and migratory birds. The Habiganj district, located in the northeastern part of Bangladesh, is blessed with natural greenery, featuring lush forests, tea gardens, hills, and wildlife. Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary was created in 1982 in Habiganj and was enlarged in 1996. Besides abounding in many rare plants and animal species, its scenic landscapes provide fresh air, biodiversity, and a peaceful environment for visitors and locals. Here is a detailed travel guide to Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary.  Location The Rema–Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary is located at Chunarughat Upazila of Habiganj District in the Sylhet Division. It lies next to India's Tripura border and close to Srimangal in the Moulvibazar district. Approximately 130 km northeast of Dhaka, the city, lies the wildlife reserve. It includes the Kalenga, Rema, Chanbari, and Rashidpur portions of the Habiganj District's Kalenga Forest Range. Significance The Rema–Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected forest and wildlife reserve in Bangladesh. It is a dry and evergreen forest, and after the Sundarbans, it is the largest natural forest in Bangladesh. It is also the country’s second-largest wildlife sanctuary and one of the richest areas in terms of biodiversity. The sanctuary covers an area of 1,795.54 hectares. Among the few natural forests in Bangladesh that have survived in relatively good condition, Rema–Kalenga is one of the most notable. Read more: International Air Flights with Connecting Flights: Beginner’s Guide for Transfer-transit Passengers Among Bangladesh's natural forests, this sanctuary is still in good condition. However, the refuge is threatened by deforestation and careless tree theft. Flora The sanctuary is home to 638 species of plants, trees, and vines. Some of the most notable among them include Awal, Teak, Kakra, Neur, Hargaza, Gandharoi, Haritaki, Bohera, Jamun, Fig, Jackfruit, Champa Jackfruit, Kau, Kadam, Rata, Chikrashi, Chapalish, Neem, Bonmala, etc.

Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong is set to request a 700 million baht (S$27.6 million) budget from the Cabinet for a domestic flight giveaway programme aimed at drawing at least 200,000 international tourists to destinations across the country. Sorawong on Wednesday said the Ministry of Tourism and Sports plans to submit a proposal to the Cabinet next week for the budget allocation to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The programme, titled “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights,” is designed to encourage foreign visitors to explore locations beyond Thailand’s main tourist cities. Foreign couples rush to marry in Denmark, Copenhagen moves to prioritize locals The TAT will work with six domestic airlines—Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Airways International (Thai), Thai Lion Air, and Thai VietJet—on joint promotional campaigns to strengthen Thailand’s tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth. “The government will support domestic flight tickets priced at 1,750 baht per one-way trip and 3,500 baht for round trips. The initiative aims to attract at least 200,000 foreign tourists, covering destinations across Thailand, with a particular focus on Unesco-designated cities, popular tourist spots, and key destinations nationwide,” Sorawong explained. “The total budget for this project is 700 million baht, which will run from August to December, with travel to take place from September to November.” Italy's Cala Goloritze Ranks Top among the World's 50 Best Beaches in 2025 International visitors purchasing standard airfares to Thailand—either through airline websites, multi-city options from Thai and Bangkok Airways, or fly-thru/check-through services from Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, and Thai, or via online travel agents (OTAs)—will receive free round-trip domestic tickets along with a 20kg luggage allowance. The programme is expected to generate at least 8.81 billion baht in direct revenue from foreign tourist spending, with total economic benefits projected at 21.80 billion baht. The initiative is inspired by Japan’s “free domestic flights” campaign, which seeks to spread tourist traffic from major cities to secondary destinations. It supports the Thai government’s designation of 2025 as the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year.”

International air flights connecting flights offer broader route options and competitive fares. However, for first-time flyers, navigating unfamiliar airports and managing transit procedures can be overwhelming. From booking to baggage, every step demands informed choices. This guide aims to simplify that journey by covering all essential aspects of multi-leg flights for beginners. Here’s a professional walkthrough for travelling globally through international air travel with connecting flights and layovers. Essential Tips for Connecting International Flights with Layovers . Pre-Booking Considerations Selecting the right flight involves more than just picking the lowest fare. Direct flights offer convenience and time savings but are often more expensive. Connecting flights, on the other hand, open access to competitive pricing and flexible routes, though they demand careful planning. Always prioritise a safe buffer between flights, preferably 2 to 4 hours for international connections. It's helpful to be proactive about potential delays, immigration checks, and terminal changes. Understanding visa and transit requirements is equally vital. In certain countries, a transit visa may be required even when the traveller remains within the airport's international zone. European hubs under the Schengen Zone often have specific rules that can surprise unprepared travellers. Read more: Shopping in Dubai: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Use tools like Skyscanner for price comparisons, FlightConnections for route mapping, and SeatGuru for aircraft layouts. For first-time travellers, airports with efficient signage and clear terminal layouts, such as Changi, Doha, or Munich, can make a noticeable difference. Booking Tips and Smart Planning When booking international flights with connections, the platform you use matters significantly. Direct airline websites often provide greater reliability, transparent policies, and easier support in case of delays or changes. While third-party portals may offer marginal savings, they can complicate refund or rescheduling processes. Most importantly, always ensure all legs of your journey are issued under a single ticket to secure your connection rights if a delay occurs. Your seat choice can also influence your transit ease. If your layover is short, seats near the front of the aircraft can reduce disembarking time. For critical schedules, business class may offer faster immigration clearance, priority boarding, and lounge access. Avoid tightly scheduled layovers, particularly during peak hours or late-night slots when airport services may be limited. Larger airports with complex terminal systems require longer transit windows. Read more: Shopping in Hong Kong: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Offline Assistance: Local Airline Offices For beginners, visiting the local office of an airline can provide clarity that online platforms often lack. These offices offer face-to-face guidance on booking complexities, baggage allowances, and layover arrangements. Printed itineraries, verified baggage details, and tailored layover advice make these visits particularly useful for first-time international travellers. Staff can also explain stopover hotel eligibility and suggest suitable travel insurance. They can even walk travellers through rechecking procedures during connections. Before visiting, travellers should prepare specific questions in advance on layover durations, visa implications, baggage handling, and airline-provided accommodations. Airport Navigation During Connection Upon arrival at a layover airport, following signage marked “Connecting Flights” is essential to maintaining the scheduled transfer. Depending on the airport's infrastructure, an additional security screening may be required even if the traveller remains within the international zone. Terminal changes are a critical aspect of many large hub connections. Identifying the mode of terminal transfer is best achieved through official airport apps or terminal maps. It usually applies particularly in complex airports such as Heathrow, Dubai, or Changi. Read more: Trip to Bali: A Comprehensive Travel Guide Transit procedures vary by location. In some cases, international passengers may be required to clear immigration before proceeding to the next gate, even without exiting the airport. A clear understanding of these processes contributes significantly to a smooth onwards journey. Baggage Transfer Rules Understanding baggage transfer protocols is essential when planning journeys involving connecting flights. When tickets are issued under a single booking, baggage is typically through-checked to the final destination. This eliminates the need to collect and recheck luggage during transit. However, bookings involving separate airlines, particularly those outside major alliances, often require travellers to claim and reprocess their bags at each stop. Given such uncertainties, a well-packed carry-on becomes crucial. Essential items such as medications, travel documents, a change of clothes, and valuables should remain easily accessible. Additionally, international regulations must be observed – liquid limits, electronic device screenings, and prohibited items vary by region. Strategic packing prepares for baggage mishandling while ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. Dealing with Flight Delays and Missed Connections In the event of delays, rebooking and compensation depend on jurisdiction and ticket structure. Under regulations, passengers are entitled to assistance and compensation when delays or missed connections result from the airline’s fault. However, when connections are missed due to short layovers or separately booked itineraries, responsibility often shifts to the traveller. Read more: Thai e-Visa for Bangladeshis: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online Comprehensive travel insurance can significantly mitigate these risks. Coverage for delays, missed onwards flights, and baggage issues offers both financial protection and access to emergency support. Familiarity with policy terms and claim procedures ensures timely assistance when disruptions occur. Punctuality and Being Concerned Efficient time management is fundamental to successful transit. For domestic-to-domestic connections, a layover of at least 60–90 minutes is generally sufficient. However, international connections, especially those requiring terminal changes, demand a minimum of 2 to 4 hours. Upon landing, adjusting the phone or watch to the local time zone helps maintain alignment with airport schedules and departure times. Information desks, real-time flight display monitors, and airport Wi-Fi services can provide critical updates and assistance. Boarding gates are occasionally changed, and announcements may not always be repeated. Maintaining personal well-being and safety enhances comfort during longer waits. Many major airports offer lounges, rest zones, and prayer facilities. Valuables, passports, and essential documents should never be left unattended, particularly during overnight layovers or crowded peak hours. Read more: Top 10 Online Platforms to Book International Flights from Bangladesh Wrap Up This beginner’s guide to international air travel with connecting flights has covered every critical phase. It spans from pre-booking decisions and offline assistance to baggage handling, transit procedures, and time management. Each step presents unique challenges, but with structured preparation, even complex itineraries can unfold with confidence. Staying informed about airline rules, visa requirements, and airport layouts can significantly reduce stress. A well-packed carry-on, timely bookings, and awareness of passenger rights further support smoother travel experiences.