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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.
Khulna and Bagerhat Travel Guide: Best Places to See, Exciting Things to Do
Khulna is Bangladesh's 3rd largest city after Dhaka and Chattogram. It serves as the administrative centre of Khulna district and division. Khulna is located on the Rupsha and Bhairab rivers. The city is served by the Mongla port, the country's second-largest seaport. Khulna's rich history is evident in its oldest and busiest river port. Bagerhat is another district in Khulna division that can’t be ignored while travelling in Khulna. These two districts share a few historically and culturally significant places. This article explores the ten most interesting places to see in Khulna and Bagerhat, and things to do there.
How to Reach Khulna from Dhaka
The easiest way to reach Khulna from Dhaka is by bus or train. You can take Sundarbans, or Chitra Express trains from Kamalapur Station in Dhaka to go to Khulna. You have to pay Tk. 550-1400 per seat, depending on the class. You can also take a bus from Syedabad, Malibagh, or Gulistan bus station. Generally, bus tickets will cost you around Tk 650-1400 per seat.
How to Reach Bagerhat from Dhaka
You can reach Bagerhat from Dhaka in two ways. First, you can take a direct bus from Syedabad, Malibagh, or Gulistan bus station to Bagerhat. It will cost around Tk 500 to 1000. The other way is to reach Khulna by train and, from there, reach the Shonadanga Bus Stand. There you will find buses for Bagerhat for Tk 100-150 per seat.
Read more: 11 Cool Places in and around Dhaka to Visit on Eid Day with Family, Children
Top 16 Tourist Attractions in Khulna and Bagerhat
Khulna Divisional Museum
The Khulna Divisional Museum, established on September 12, 1998, is the second-largest museum in Bangladesh's Khulna division. Located near Shivbari Mor in the city's Public Hall area, the museum showcases photographs of heritage sites and essential structures from the southern region. It houses rare artifacts unearthed at various excavations, including Bharat Bhayana in Jashore, Barobazar in Jhenaidah, and Khan Jahan Ali Samadhi Soudho in Bagerhat.
Visitors can explore antiquities from the Gupta, Pal, Sen, Mughal, and British periods, along with terracotta, stone and black stone statues, gold and silver coins, and diverse artifacts representing the Khulna division. Managed by the Bangladesh Archaeology department, the museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Saturday (10 am to 6 pm in summer, 9 am to 5 pm in winter), for an entry fee of Tk 20 for children under five. Foreign tourists (from the SAARC region) have to pay Tk 50, and those from other nations have to pay Tk 100.
The museum is a mere 4 km away from Khulna city and is easily accessible by local transport.
Read more: These are the top 25 hotels in Asia, according to Tripadvisor
Khan Jahan Ali Bridge
Khan Jahan Ali Bridge is a prominent attraction in Khulna, drawing couples, families, and schoolchildren. It goes over the Rupsha river and is the primary entry point to Khulna city, connecting the southern districts and Mongla seaport. This Japanese-funded bridge is especially popular during festivals and weekends, offering separate lanes for pedestrians and vehicles and staircases for easy access. The bridge's western end attracts a lively crowd, while the nighttime view of Khulna city is truly mesmerizing.
11 Cool Places in and around Dhaka to Visit on Eid Day with Family, Children
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.
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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
Top 25 hotels in Asia, according to Tripadvisor
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.
Island Paradise: The Bahamas Travel Guide
Often considered the tropical paradise of the Atlantic, the Bahamas is an archipelago chain consisting of over 700 small islands and cays. The islands offer pristine beaches, serene turquoise water, and a thriving flora and fauna. The Bahamas is known for being the perfect tropical getaway, attracting millions of tourists each year. Let’s look at 10 of the most interesting places to visit and exciting things to do in this Atlantic archipelago.
10 Best Places to Visit in the Bahamas
Nassau
You can start the retreat from the capital of the Bahamas itself, Nassau. Nassau City is known for its history and untainted natural beauty. Almost all major airlines fly into the Lynden Pindling International Airport, located in the heart of Nassau.
Nassau is one of the more crowded destinations in the Bahamas. As a result, the vibrant straw market and the cable beach attract tourists from different countries around the world. From vibrant parties to late-night shenanigans, Nassau has it all. To explore the historic side of things, head over to Fort Charlotte.
Read more: These are the countries you can visit visa-free with a Bangladeshi passport in 2023
Accommodation in Nassau will range between 150 to 400 USD per night, depending on the guesthouse or luxury resort.
Bangladesh passport visa free countries for 2023
As global tourism finally normalizes after the pandemic, there is a natural rush for travel abroad, and Bangladeshis are no different. Now is the time to check where Bangladeshi passport holders can travel visa-free, or with visa on arrival, or with an eTA. Here’s a detailed list.
Bangladeshi Passport and its Types
Bangladeshi passport has historically not had a very good global score since independence. According to the Henley Passport Index for 2023, Bangladesh ranks 99th globally with a mobility score of 40. The mobility score estimates that with a Bangladeshi passport, a person will have a world reach of about 24% which is significantly lower than a lot of countries.
These rankings apply to the ordinary Bangladeshi passports only. There are a total of three types of passports active in Bangladesh. These are:
Ordinary Passport
The ordinary passport is issued to any general civilian with Bangladeshi citizenship. The right to a passport has been promulgated in the constitution, and any legal citizen of the country can avail the service for personal use such as study trips, medical needs, vacations, or business trips.
Read more: How to Get E-Passport in Bangladesh: Things you need to know
Official Passport
The official passport of Bangladesh is issued to government employees of the state. The passport is issued as a special designation for individuals representing Bangladesh in any kind of official capacity. The features of the official passport are similar to those of the ordinary passport. Except in certain cases, many visa requirements in different countries are waived for official passport holders. A person holding an official passport will also need to have an NOC from their respective government authority before traveling.
What to see in Vietnam: Amazing places and exciting things to do
Vietnam is a land of stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities that offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity. From busy cities to the serene countryside, Vietnam has something to offer travelers from diverse backgrounds and age groups. Whether you are seeking breathtaking natural beauty, cultural experiences, or mouthwatering cuisine, Vietnam has it all. Let's dive into the highlights and wonders that await you in this Southeast Asian country.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions to Visit and Things to Do in Vietnam
Ha Long Bay - A Natural Wonder
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (recognized in 1994 and 2000), is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Gulf of Tonkin. With its bright green waters and thousands of towering limestone karsts, this enchanting bay offers a surreal and magical experience. Embark on a cruise and sail through the stunning landscapes of 1,600 islands and islets, explore hidden caves like the famous Sung Sot Cave, and kayak around the limestone formations. Experiencing a night in a traditional junk boat and witnessing the mesmerizing sunset or sunrise over the bay can be an unforgettable adventure.
Read more: Cambodia Travel Guide: Best Places to See and Amazing Things to Do
Hanoi - Vietnam's Capital City
The vibrant city of Hanoi has century-old architecture and a rich culture. It is a perfect blend of old charm and modern energy. Start your exploration by visiting the historic Old Quarter, where you can wander through narrow streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, traditional shops, and busy markets.
Don't miss the chance to explore the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and the nearby Ngoc Son Temple. For history enthusiasts, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Thiên Trù Pagoda at Hương Temple complex, and the Temple of Literature are must-visit attractions.
Read more: 10 Affordable Travel Destinations Abroad for Eid Holidaymakers
Cambodia Travel Guide: Best Places to See and Amazing Things to Do
Located around the edge of Southeast Asia, Cambodia is a country bestowed with natural beauty and archaeological heritage. This small country has a mix of everything from luscious beaches down south to the ethereal jungle temples in the north. It’s a maze of amazements waiting to be explored. Let's take a look at the 10 most amazing tourist attractions in Cambida.
10 Most Popular Tourist Destinations in Cambodia
The Temple of Angkor Wat
It's difficult to find someone who hasn’t heard of the legendary temple of Angkor Wat. This UNESCO world heritage site was built in the 12th Century by the Khmer Empire. There’s a lot to explore other than the main temple of Angkor Wat. The temple of Bayon and Ta Prohm gets a special mention in this regard.
Motorcycle Helmet Buyer's Guide with Price Ranges in Bangladesh
Motorcycle riding is an exciting experience, providing freedom and adventure on the open road. However, it's crucial to prioritize safety while enjoying this thrilling mode of transportation. A motorcycle helmet is one of the most essential safety gears for any rider. This comprehensive buyer's guide will explore the key factors to consider while choosing a motorcycle helmet in Bangladesh. From safety features to price ranges, this guide will equip you with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision and protect yourself while riding.
Things to Consider When Buying a Motorcycle Helmet
When purchasing a motorcycle helmet, it's crucial to consider several important factors to ensure you make the right choice. Here are the most critical ones:
Safety Features
While choosing motorbike safety gears, the rider should check for helmets that meet international safety standards, such as DOT (Department of Transportation) or ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) certifications. These certifications ensure that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing for safety.
Read more: 8 Safe Motorcycle Riding Tips for Women
It is also recommended to pick a motorcycle helmet that offers robust safety features such as a sturdy shell made from durable materials like fiberglass, polycarbonate, or carbon fiber. These materials offer excellent impact resistance. Additionally, helmets with an inner liner made of EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam are designed to absorb and disperse impact energy, minimizing the risk of head injuries.
Fit and Comfort
Motorbike helmets come in different sizes and shapes to accommodate various head shapes and sizes. Therefore, the rider needs to find the helmet of the right size and shape before purchasing. The rider can measure his or her head circumference accurately and try on helmets to find the best fit.
It is also advised to choose helmets featuring removable and washable padding, as it ensures freshness and hygiene. The padding should provide a snug yet comfortable fit around the cheeks and head.
Read more: Motorcycle Accident Prevention: Tips to Reduce the Risk of a Crash
Adequate ventilation is another important feature that prevents overheating and reduces fogging. Furthermore, the rider needs to choose helmets constructed using lightweight materials without compromising safety.
Visibility and Shield
Some helmets offer different visor options, such as clear, tinted, or photochromic visors. The rider needs to consider his or her riding conditions and preferences to select the most suitable visor type. Anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings on the visor enhance visibility and ensure a clear line of sight in various weather conditions.
If the rider frequently rides in bright sunlight, motorcycle helmets with tinted shields or built-in sun visors can provide added protection against glare and harmful UV rays.
Read more: Safety Gears for Motorcycle Riders: Necessity and Types
Style and Design
Helmets come in a wide range of designs, colors, and graphics. The motorbike rider can select a design that reflects his or her personality and enhances visibility on the road.
Moreover, the rider needs to consider the reputation of the helmet brand. Well-established brands often have a proven track record of quality and safety. Research different brands and read customer reviews to make an informed choice.
Price Range of Motorcycle Helmets in Bangladesh - Features with Price
Motorcycle Helmets Under BDT 7000
Axor Apex Racer DV
The AXOR APEX RACER DV is a high-performance, full-face helmet from Italy. It boasts excellent ventilation with an air intake vent and integrated pc spoiler for optimal airflow. The visor is optically correct, and changing it is quick and toolless. Safety features include a dual EPS liner, a double D-ring for a secure fit, and ABS material for high protection.
Read more: Motorcycle Categories: Different Types of Motorbikes Explained
The helmet meets ECE, DOT, and ISI safety standards. It also has an integrated spoiler for stability at high speeds. Available in clear and smoke variants, the AXOR APEX RACER DV is priced at 4994 BDT.