travel
Best Hotels and Resorts in Kuakata
Kuakata, often referred to as the "Daughter of the Sea," is a picturesque coastal town nestled along the stunning shores of the Bay of Bengal in southern Bangladesh. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and serene ambiance, Kuakata has earned its place as one of the country's most sought-after tourist destinations. Naturally, several staycations have been developed here to accommodate the influx of tourists in every season. Let’s take a look at the most renowned hotels and resorts in Kuakata to spend vacations.
Top Resorts and Hotels in Kuakata
Sikder Resort and Villas
Sikder Resort and Villas is one of the largest and most luxurious seafront resorts in Kuakata. The resort is situated opposite to the Eco Park. It is strategically positioned to provide easy access to the beach at any time of the day.
Sikder Resorts has three different accommodation options. Visitors can choose to stay either in the Lake View tower, the Villas, or the Sunrise and Sunset tower. If you don’t want to miss the sunrise and sunset Kuakata is so famous for, we suggest booking the Sunrise and Sunset Tower.
Currently, the resort is offering a monsoon special offer. Visitors can book from several options ranging from deluxe, superior, premier, and royal suites which cost 7590 BDT, 10,626 BDT, 12,144 BDT, and 34,155 BDT for two people per day. Services like buffet breakfast, swimming pool, jacuzzi, car parking, internet, and gym are complementary.
Read more: Khulna and Bagerhat Travel Guide: Best Places to See, Exciting Things to Do
Somudra Bari Resort, Kuakata
Somudra Bari Resort is situated in Kalapara, opposite the Sikder market. The resort is within walking distance from the Kuakata Sea beachfront. Somudra Bari can be a perfect accommodation choice for those looking for economic options.
The resort is situated right beside the lake which provides an exceptional view of the horizon from their lake view suites. Visitors can even go on a boat ride in the lake at an additional charge. There are two types of rooms for couples -/ Deluxe AC Lake View and Deluxe AC Garden View. Additionally, single rooms are also available. Services like buffet breakfast, in-room tea, and parking facilities come as complementary with the stay.
Last month, Somudra Bari was offering a 2-day 2-night stay package at 5,550 BDT for two. This month they are offering a 50% discount on all their rooms and services. Booking details are available on this resort's Facebook Page.
Read more: 11 Cool Places in and around Dhaka to Visit on Eid Day with Family, Children
Rose Valley Motel and Resort
Rose Valley Motel and Resort is situated on the Kuakata main road, a bit away from the sea beach. While it's not very far from the beaches, it brings a sense of calm and quietness all around as there aren’t bustling people everywhere.
The resort can be a perfect vacation accommodation for budget travellers. There are five different room options ranging from Luxury suite, Superior deluxe to VIP suite. The cost ranges between 2500 BDT to 6500 BDT per night for two.
Room services, parking facilities, and wife come as complementary with the stay. Visitors can dine in-resort or choose from the several local restaurants nearby.
Read more: Top 25 hotels in Asia, according to Tripadvisor
How to Get BRTA Smart Card Driving License
When it comes to driving from one place to another, having a driving license is not just a privilege but a necessity. But when it makes that transition time-consuming, the journey becomes downright painful. Unfortunately, it has been a regular scenario in Bangladesh. However, thanks to the Smart Card Driving Licence, the possibilities in the road transport sector are beginning to unfold. This is going to be a signature service of BRTA (Bangladesh Road Transport Authority). Let’s discuss the steps to get a BRTA Smart Card Driving License hassle-free.
What is the BRTA Smart Card Driving License?
The BRTA's Smart Card Driving License streamlines the license acquisition process, storing driver information and expediting police verification.
Previously, applicants needed to apply separately for learner and smart card licenses through BSP (BRTA Service Portal). Later on November 16, 2022, a merged online form was launched, simplifying this. It, even, comes with some new benefits.
New Benefits of BRTA Smart Card Driving License
- Single visit to the examination center for biometric, written, oral, and practical tests.- BSP portal registrants receive a learner license with an online QR code for temporary nationwide driving.- Services also include fee payment, exam results, application submission, and status tracking.- Smart card licenses are sent by post.
Read more: Smart NID Card in Bangladesh: Online Application Process, Documents Needed, Fees
Prerequisites for BRTA Smart Card Driving License
It includes mental and physical qualifications, education up to at least class 8, and minimum ages of 21 for professional and 18 for non-professional drivers. Importantly, passing the learner’s test is mandatory to apply for a smart card license.
How to Apply for the BRTA Smart Card E-Driving License
Required Documents
Most documents needed for a learner’s driving license application also apply here, including:- Recent passport-sized photograph of the applicant (300/300 pixels)- Medical certificate from a registered doctor.
Applicant's NID
- One utility bill (gas/electricity/water) if the current address differs from the NID- Certificate of educational qualification- Proof of passing learner’s driving license test- Refer to the provided links for police investigation reports, where applicable.
http://www.brta.gov.bd/site/page/511a7af4-20c8-4450-b4a6-5f92dde1b23f/-
http://www.brta.gov.bd/site/page/4258fc8f-8aec-4895-b11d-a0b33b489af2/-
Please ensure that all documents are scanned and prepared before applying online. The scanned passport-sized photo file should not exceed 150 KB (kilobyte), while other files should stay within 600 KB.
Read more: Bangladesh Smart National ID Card Correction Process: Payments and Necessary Documents
Online Application Process
To apply online, visit the BSP portal at https://bsp.brta.gov.bd/. Begin by creating an account on the portal through registration, which will store all the driving-related information. Let's proceed step by step through the application process.
Registration
- Click on the 'Registration' menu at the top right of the BSP portal.- Complete the registration by providing the date of birth, NID, and mobile number.- Verify the mobile number through the OTP (one-time-password) sent to it.- Finish the registration by setting a password.
Access the BSP portal using the mobile number and password. Those who have already registered can enter their accounts directly by clicking on the 'Login' menu on the site.
Application for Learner’s Driving License
- After logging in, the user will encounter their customer dashboard. On the left-hand side, they should navigate to the 'Driving Licence' sub-menu and select 'Application for Driving Licence.'- The next page displays the required documents. Download the Medical Certificate form via the 'Click Here' link.- Obtain a medical certificate from a registered doctor or medical officer based on this form.- Follow the terms on the page and click 'I agree' to proceed to the next step.
Read more: Where to Learn Car Driving in Dhaka?
NID Information
This step initializes the 5-step driving license application process. The NID number will auto-fill, considering it was provided earlier. Click 'Next' to proceed to the 2nd step.
Driving License Information
- Choose the driving license language, type, class of motor vehicle, and type of applicant (Learner and Smart Driving License).- Click 'Next,' and a popup message confirms the successful saving of information. Click 'OK' to proceed.
Basic Applicant Information
- Some information will be pre-populated based on the NID. Additional data needs to be input.- Complete mandatory fields, including educational qualification, blood group, occupation, marital status, nationality, and dual citizenship. Click 'Next,' then 'OK' as before.
Address and Contact Information
- Provide emergency contact details, including both permanent and current addresses.- If the current address remains unaltered, input it in English, mirroring the left-side display.- If the current address differs, click 'No' and input the changed address in both Bengali (left side) and English (right side). Click 'Next' and 'OK' as before to proceed.
Read more: Bangladesh e-Passport Information Update: Step by Step Procedure, Related Costs
Attachment and Smart Card Distribution Information
- Attach scanned copies of the required documents collected earlier. Click 'Choose File' to upload and 'Save' to attach. Use the 'View' button to preview attachments.- The address for smart card delivery via post is auto-filled. Alternatively, select 'Others' to specify a different address, providing full details.- Click 'Submit' to verify the information one last time. Make any necessary changes or confirm if all is accurate. If everything is correct, click 'Fees Deposit.'
Fee Deposit
- Note that only the learner's driving license application fee is required here.- Click 'Submit Fee,' proceed to the 'Payment Confirmation' page, and provide payment details, including the method and mobile number.- Confirm the payment by ticking the box next to the payment terms and clicking 'Confirm.'- The page will display the successful fee deposit, and the user can print the learner's driving license or the payment receipt.
Application for Smart Card Driving License
Prior to applying online for the smart card driving license, the individual must successfully pass the driving proficiency test. Check the test result by accessing the 'Application for Driving License' menu on the customer dashboard within the BSP portal. The test result will also be conveyed to the mobile number provided during the application.
Read more: Bangladesh E-passport Error Correction Process
Attach Required Documents
- Click 'View & Next Step' to access the attachment page, where documents attached during the learner driving license application will be pre-loaded.- Upload the 'Pass Learner' certificate and proof of passing the driving proficiency test. Additionally, attach any other required documents where applicable.
Payment of Fees
- To pay the fee through a bank, click 'Deposit fee through the bank.' For online payment, choose 'Deposit the driving license fee online.'- For online payment, click 'Pay Now' on the online payment page.- For bank payments, collect the e-tracking number from the bank's receipt and enter it in the 'Enter e-tracking number' box. Click 'Verify e-tracking number' to confirm payment details.- Review all payment information and click 'Submit' to complete the final payment of the fee.
E-Paper Driving License
Upon successful application submission for the smart card driving license, the e-paper license form will be displayed on the dashboard once approved by BRTA. Download and print it for use as a valid driving license until the physical smart card arrives. The dashboard will also display the latest license status.
Read more: Highway Robbery Prevention Tips while Driving at Night
Getting the Smart Card Driving License in Hand
Once the entire smart card driving license preparation process is finished, it will be displayed on the dashboard. The smart card driving license will then be sent by post to the address specified in your application.
BRTA Smart Card Driving License Fees
Learner driving license fees are to be paid exclusively through the BSP portal. The fee for one motor vehicle is BDT 518, while for two motor vehicles, it is BDT 748. For a 10-year non-professional license during the smart card driving license application, the cost is BDT 4,557. The 5-year professional license costs BDT 2,832.
Summing Up
There are actually two main phases, summarizing the methods for obtaining a BRTA Smart Card Driving License described above. The first phase precedes the driving skills test, primarily dealing with the procedure for acquiring a learner's driving license. The second phase of obtaining BRTA e-driving license emphasizes the digitization aspects associated with its transformation into smart cards.
Read more: How to Get a Trade License in Bangladesh?
Spain Travel Guide: Top 10 Must-Visit Places
The ancient European peninsula which the Romans used to call Hispania is today’s Spain. A country of just 47 million people is home to a rich history, cultural diversity, and tons of attractions. From the streets of Barcelona, and alleyways of Seville to the majestic landscape of Granada, this southwestern European country is sure to enthrall travellers. Let’s go on a journey of the top 10 must-visit places and attractions in Spain to plan the perfect itinerary. Vamos!
Top 10 Places to Visit in Spain
Barcelona
Home to the famous European club and the capital of the Catalonia region, Barcelona has a plethora of attractions. Start off the trip at the magnificent La Sagrada Familia which is still under construction. Head over to Park Güell to relax and unwind. Visit the Gothic Quarter on La Rambla for a spooky experience. Barcelona is famous for its Flamenco dances, so don’t miss out on it.
Top 10 Must-see Pyramids Around the World
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
Mumbai Travel Guide: Must-visit Places and Fun Activities
Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is a city packed with history and heritage on the west coast of India. The city is often dubbed the financial capital of India, owing to its business settlements and port. The iconic Hindi film industry, better known as Bollywood, is at the centre of Mumbai's popular culture.
This year, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai will host six games of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, including a home game and a semi-final. With the greatest cricket event on the horizon, let’s look at 10 of the best places to explore in Mumbai.
Top Places to Explore in Mumbai
Gateway of India
The Gateway of India is probably one of the most iconic landmarks in India. From paintings to notes to stamps, the Gateway of India is truly representative of India and its hospitality.
Getting to the Gateway of India is fairly easy. Either take a bus or taxi from anywhere in Mumbai and head over to Colaba, South Mumbai. On the far end of the edge of the Arabian Sea, the iconic monument stands tall.
Explore the surrounding areas on the rocky coast. There are numerous vendors selling delectable street food like vada pav, pav bhaji, and bhel puri. Visitors can also take boat rides to the nearby Elephanta Caves.
Read more: How to get an Indian Tourist Visa from Bangladesh - UNB
Marine Drive
Marine Drive connects the Gateway of India with downtown Mumbai with a 3.6 km long stretch along the boulevard on the south coast of Mumbai.
At night, the road lights up, which, when seen from above, looks like a string of pearls across the Mumbai coast.
The road also leads to the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, the crown jewel of the Taj Hotels and an iconic Indo-Saracenic architectural heritage of the city.
Chennai Travel Guide: Amazing Places to See and Fun Things to Do
Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is the capital city of the Southern Indian state Tamil Nadu. The city is known for its ancient temples, natural wonders, thriving arts, and culinary traditions. The city has a rich history that dates back around a thousand years. Over the centuries, Chennai stood tall, being at the center of South Indian dynasties. The city attracts tourists from all over the world who wish to take a peek at the ancient history of India. This year, Chennai will also host several games of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, making it the perfect time to visit the city. Let’s look at 11 of the top tourist attractions in Chennai and things to consider before going there.
Top 11 Must-Visit Places in Chennai
Marina Beach
While Chennai is mostly a heritage tourism city, it also offers a relaxing retreat at the heart of the city in Marina Beach. Being a southern city on the edge of the Bay of Bengal, the 3.7 km-long Marina Beach is easily accessible by bus and taxi from the city center. It will cost about 100 to 200 INR (BDT 132 to 264.60, at 1 INR = 1.32 BDT) based on bargaining ability (make sure to bargain about everything while in Chennai!).
Take a walk along the sea to experience the gentle breeze on a hot summer day. There are vendors all over the beach selling different items — from foods to trinkets to even massage on the go. Make sure to explore the lighthouse on the southern end of the beach for a fabulous view of the sunset.
Read more: Best Rustic Resorts and Campsites near Dhaka
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is located in Mylapore of Chennai. Getting to Mylapore is quite easy on either an auto-rickshaw or a public bus.
Best Rustic Resorts and Campsites near Dhaka
Being the capital city and the major administrative centre of Bangladesh, Dhaka can be considered anything but natural and scenic. Unplanned urbanisation has seen the destruction of natural open spaces which are now reduced to a few parks scattered across the city. In such a scenario, the resorts and campsites just on the outskirts of the city are a breath of fresh air for many. They offer an escape from the concrete jungle into somewhere peaceful and serene. Let’s look at the best natural campsite resorts in and around Dhaka for you to explore.
Top 8 Rustic Resorts and Campsites Near Dhaka
Dhaleshwari Camping and Kayaking
The first on the list is the Dhaleshwari Camping and Kayaking situated on the bank of the Dhaleshwari river at Kalatia in Keraniganj. The retreat offers natural camping and kayaking in the serene waters of the river.
Read more: Best Honeymoon Resorts and Hotels in and around Dhaka
Thai Airways to operate double daily flights on Dhaka-Bangkok route from July 16
Thai Airways will be operating double daily flights on Dhaka-Bangkok route from July 16.
Thai Airways Managing Director Ahmed Yusuf Walid disclosed this at a function at Lakeshore Hotel in Gulshan on Monday morning. The event was organized by Air Galaxy.
With the introduction of the new double daily flights, passengers can now enjoy nighttime flights to reach Bangkok from Dhaka.
Tk 32.46cr due: Govt confiscates Regent Airways’ bank account
Thai Airways is celebrating the launch of double daily flights on the route during the summer holiday season by offering special discounts under the“Happy July” promotion for return flights departing Dhaka.
Two people travelling together will get 30 kilograms free luggage carrying facility. They will, however, receive this benefit if they go via Asia, North Asia, Europe, or Australia, said Ahmed Yusuf Walid, Managing Director of Thai Airways.
One flight will leave Bangkok in the morning and land at Dhaka Airport at 12:10 pm (local time), while the return flight will depart Dhaka at 01:35 pm (local time) for Bangkok.
Qatar Airways scores Airline of the Year Award for 7th time
The airline will be utilising its Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Boeing 777-200 with 30 Business Class and 262 Economy Class seats to operate the two aforementioned flights.
The new flight will arrive at Dhaka Airport at 01:25 am (local time), while the return flight from Dhaka will leave for Bangkok at 02:45 am (local time).
Etihad Airways asked to pay Tk2 crore to two Bangladeshis for harassment
Best Honeymoon Resorts and Hotels in and around Dhaka
Dhaka being a concrete jungle, does not really have much of a natural retreat or staycation options. That is especially true for newlyweds looking to get away from all the noise and traffic of the city and spend some quality time with each other. Though such options might be scarce in the city centre, if one opts for just an hour's drive away from the city, there are beautiful honeymoon resorts and hotels set in nature. Here are our top 10 picks among them.
Top Resorts and Hotels in and around Dhaka for Staycation
This list includes the existing hotels in Dhaka and resorts within an hour or two drive away. For a great experience, this list will consider 3-star and above hotels with at least 4-star and above aggregate ratings from Tripadvisor and Booking.com.
Dhali’s Amber Nivaas
Dhali’s Amber Nivaas recently became quite popular due to its location, modern design, and amenities. The resort is situated in Sirajdikhan, Munshiganj, a one-hour drive from Dhaka.
The resort is completely family-friendly, with beautiful gardens and terraces, a long swimming pool on the perimeter of the cottages, and beautifully designed modern structures.
Currently, the resort still has two offers: the day long package and the full board package. The day-long package will cover entry, lunch, and swimming pool access for 2500 BDT per person. The full board package is specially designed for couples looking to stay the night. It comes with a deluxe room, lunch, dinner, and breakfast, along with all the other standard amenities, for 12,999 BDT per couple.
Read more: Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in Europe
CCULB Resort
CCULB Resort is situated in Kaliganj near Purbachal, around 40 minutes drive from the city on weekends. This pristine staycation resort is established on a vast expanse of land complete with gardens, artificial lakes, cottage homes, deluxe boarding rooms, outdoor restaurant, and recreational centres.
The resort currently has a package for honeymooners looking to stay the night called 'Soul Mate'. Within this package, the couples will get a super deluxe room, access to all the amenities and complimentary services, special dinner and lunch, and breakfast buffet all for 9500 BDT per couple. Vacationers can also opt to take a 10-minute ride around Purbachal on a Helicopter for 5,500 BDT per person.
RASS Resort
Looking for something with a more budget-friendly option? Then RASS Resort can be a good option. Located in Sreepur, Gazipur, this luxurious yet budget-friendly resort is nestled in nature with all the modern amenities.
From beautifully constructed cottages to charming decor and a swimming pool, RASS resort has everything to escape the crowded megacity and get lost in a natural environment. They currently have an ongoing offer that would cost around 10,000 BDT for an arch cottage and 11,000 BDT for a premium bungalow stay overnight with complementary foods and services. There is another staycation opportunity at 5000 BDT per couple, with just breakfast included in the service. But this offer will last till July 10, 2023, so better hurry up.
Read more: Romantic Beach Honeymoon Destinations in Asia
Subarna Bhumi Resort
A great staycation option in Gazaria Munshiganj is the Subarna Bhumi Resort. The resort comprises a vast area near the adjoining river. The long riverbank is complete with a stretch of Kaashful too.
Top 10 Dhaka Restaurants with Outdoor Seating
Dhaka, being a concrete jungle, has an acute shortage of open spaces — places where one can relax and unwind with friends and family under the sky. This shortage of open recreational spaces makes us appreciate restaurants with outdoor seating all the more. Today we look at 10 of the best such restaurants and cafes in Dhaka city.
10 Best Restaurants in Dhaka Offering Outdoor Seating
For this list, restaurants and cafes are mentioned based on reviews and ratings and not on the specific type of food they are offering. This list also includes rooftop restaurants with sufficient open space and outdoor seating.
Cielo Rooftop
Cielo Rooftop situated in Paribagh is another café offering an outdoor experience. The café has both inner and outdoor seating comprising the entire rooftop. Being situated on the 24th floor, Cielo Rooftop provides a mesmerizing bird’s eye view of Paribagh and the adjoining Shahbagh and Eskaton areas. The restaurant mainly serves coffee and patisserie but there is a gourmet menu available as well.
Read more: Top Instagrammable rooftop restaurants in Banani
Rivendell by Gotcha
Gotcha has become quite popular since its inception thanks to its unique bubble tea menu. This international retail chain is now expanding its horizon in Dhaka with the introduction of its first restaurant.
Rivendell by Gotcha is situated in House 8, Road 28 of Gulshan 1. The restaurant has beautiful outdoor seating on artificial turf designed to look like genuine grass. The spacious seating area makes for a compelling experience for those looking to relax over a sip of tea. In addition to their wide range of tea by Gotcha, Rivendell also offers eastern and oriental menus for diners.
Butlers Chocolate Café
Looking for the best chocolate in Dhaka? Butlers should be the go-to destination. This international chain is a self-proclaimed chocolate expert who has a branch in Gulshan 2.
Read more: Instagrammable Rooftop Restaurants in Uttara
The outdoor seating area of Butlers isn’t that large but it is sizeable to accommodate a few groups together. The restaurant has a wide range of menus from English breakfast to pizza to continental main courses. But as the name suggests, their chocolate and dairy products, especially the signature milkshakes are a must-try item.
Café Eden
Situated near Gulshan Lake Park, Café Eden is an upscale diner specializing in Asian and oriental dishes. Their outdoor seating area seems like something straight out of a Ghibli movie. There is a fountain in one corner with wooden tables spread across the garden. The mix of real and faux plants creates an enchanting environment that becomes even more magical under the sodium lights in the evening.
Villa Azzure
Villa Azzure is one of the most picturesque restaurants that you will come across in Banani. In their own words, the theme of the restaurant is to bring in the South of France experience with Parisian decadence.
Read more: Project Hilsa: Largest restaurant in Bangladesh with elegant interior, pricey food.