United News of Bangladesh

Strange, contorted trees stretch toward a sky so vast it feels unworldly. Bare, jagged cliffs rise from a stark, wind-blasted terrain that seems untouched by time or civilisation. Crystalline waters border bizarre landforms, creating a surreal contrast. Among the world’s many awe-inspiring locations, from Africa’s endless sands to North America’s ancient canyons. Few evoke such profound disbelief as this remote island. Long whispered about in niche travel circles, it now draws increasing global attention. The name? Socotra, locally known as Saqatri. Let’s uncover what's behind this alien-looking island in the Indian Ocean that draws modern explorers. Geography of Socotra Tucked between the Guardafui Channel and the Arabian Sea, Socotra forms the largest island in a six-island archipelago. While it falls under Yemen's political boundary, its proximity to Africa gives it a different geographic rhythm. Just 236 miles south of the Arabian Peninsula, this closeness shapes its distinct character. This remote outpost stands among the most isolated continental landmasses on Earth. It parted ways with the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana millions of years ago. That deep-time isolation shaped its singular environment. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated The island is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity. Many species found here exist nowhere else on the planet, drawing scientific and ecological interest from across the globe. This exceptional natural wealth earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008, marking it as a vital ecological treasure. Unique Landscape and Discrete Demography The distinctiveness of this ancient island lies in its terrain, with Socotra shaped over millennia by time, climate, and isolation. Towering limestone plateaus stretch across the island, rising above arid plains and wind-carved dunes. At the heart of it all, a central mountain range climbs to nearly 5,000 feet. It offers an imposing backdrop to an otherwise barren interior. The terrain breaks into elevations that shift with the landscape. Dry mountains and scattered vegetation tell a stark story of nature’s endurance. This archipelago, over 25 million years old, balances contrasting features- coastal plains brushing against desert stretches, and rocky plateaus giving way to shrub-covered slopes. But what sets Socotra apart is its inimitable biological character. Nearly one-third of its plant species are endemic, including the most iconic locale- the Dragon’s Blood Tree. This umbrella-shaped marvel, known for its crimson resin, casts haunting silhouettes throughout the horizon, lending the landmass its surreal, alien quality. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte Despite its remoteness, Socotra is home to a modest community of approximately 60,000 people. The Socotrans speak Soqotri, a pre-Arabic language that survives only here. Their cultural fabric, enriched by centuries of isolation, is preserved through an annual poetry competition.

Often mistaken for scenes from a sci-fi simulation, Chongqing, a Chinese Megacity, stirs curiosity with its dramatic cityscapes. Rarely found on typical tourist routes, this sprawling urban area rises in layers, sparking comparisons to a real-world cyberpunk dream. Its towering structures, elevated highways, and surreal angles give it an almost AI-generated look. Let’s take a closer look at this enigmatic city, uncovering the layers of its futuristic vision. A Rich Urban Profile in Global Tourists’ Blind Spot Tucked in southeast China near the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, Chongqing emerges as a staggering urban force. With a population of over 32 million, it holds the title of the world’s largest city by population. Its footprint spans more than 31,800 square miles, comparable in size to an entire European country like Austria. Yet, despite its immense scale and significance, Chongqing remains a hidden gem on the global tourist map. Few international visitors set foot in this colossal city, even though its geography is breathtaking by all means. Towering mountains, steep valleys, and buildings perched along cliffs define its dramatic terrain. As a major economic and transport hub of China, Chongqing defies conventional urban planning. Roads twist through vertical landscapes. Highways loop over rooftops. Entire metro lines cut directly through residential towers. In recent years, these surreal visuals have captivated social media, leaving many to wonder whether this is an AI-generated city. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte History from Ancient Roots to Rapid Rise Chongqing’s roots run deep, with a history that spans more than 3,000 years. For much of that time, it remained a modest riverside settlement. But its transformation over the past four decades has been nothing short of extraordinary. Just 40 years ago, Chongqing was still a village in many parts. What now rises as a sprawling megacity has been built almost entirely within the last 30 years. Its rapid vertical expansion is a modern marvel. During the Second World War, the city served as a key base, and traces of that era still linger. Scattered beneath the surface are old wartime bunkers, once shelters from bombing raids. Today, many of them have been creatively repurposed into lively hotpot restaurants and atmospheric underground bars. Multi-layer City Architecture Often described as a city built in three dimensions, Chongqing earns that reputation with striking justification. Its layered urban layout can be disorienting, even for the most seasoned travelers. Visitors regularly emerge from stairwells only to find themselves on rooftops or staring down into deep valleys. Nothing here feels level. Gravity itself seems negotiable. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Set against the striking meeting point of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, the city clings to a landscape of jagged cliffs and steep mountainsides. Homes rest on bridges. Neighbourhoods stack one atop another. Metro lines cut through skyscrapers as if tunnelling through rock. It’s a vertical maze, engineered with remarkable ambition. The skyline speaks volumes. Chongqing is home to 298 skyscrapers soaring over 100 metres and 26 that breach the 200-metre mark. That places it among the world’s top cities for high-rises and sixth within mainland China. For tourists, this surreal, sky-layered cityscape feels like something out of science fiction. But for many residents, especially those in the lower reaches, living in the shadows is a daily reality. In some corners of Chongqing, sunlight doesn’t pour in. It peeks through momentarily before vanishing behind concrete giants. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh

Imagine standing on a balcony at night, the ground disappearing into a dark abyss below while a pattern of glittering stars stretches endlessly across the sky canvas above. This breathtaking scene is a reality at a cliffside hotel in east China. "It was a thrilling and romantic experience I'll never forget," said a guest surnamed Zhang, who recently stayed at the hotel located in the Wangxian Valley Scenic Spot in Jiangxi Province, Xinhua reports. Once a granite mining quarry where villagers had lived and worked, Wangxian Valley has been transformed into a popular tourist destination following a government ban on disorderly mining, with its natural cliffs creatively repurposed into attractions such as cliffside hotels, cliff skywalks and waterfalls. Venice broadens tourist tax to tackle overtourism Thanks to its ethereal and mystical views, this valley has garnered wide attention online. The hashtag "Wangxian Valley" has racked up approximately 3.23 billion views on the Chinese short-video sharing platform Douyin. In the first quarter of 2025, the valley hosted 615,800 visitors, generating 120 million yuan (about 16.71 million US dollars) in revenue. This tourism boom has also benefited surrounding villagers. Many of them have opened shops and restaurants within the scenic area, while others have found jobs such as waiters and cleaners. The success of Wangxian Valley exemplifies Jiangxi's efforts to tap into its rich mountainous and hilly landscapes -- accounting for over 70 per cent of the province's land area -- by developing distinctive "cliff" tourism.

Travelling during the summer in Bangladesh often comes with a major challenge: the persistent heat wave. Scorching temperatures, humidity, and overcrowded destinations make conventional holiday plans uncomfortable and exhausting. Amid such conditions, the need for cooler travel destinations becomes essential, especially during Eid vacation, when relaxation is a priority. Quiet retreats surrounded by greenery, water, or hill breezes offer a welcome break from the sweltering weather and festive rush. Let’s explore 10 peaceful Eid summer escapes across Bangladesh that offer both comfort and tranquillity. 10 Summer Getaways in Bangladesh for the Eid Celebration . Hill of China Clay, Netrokona Tucked away in Bijoypur, Durgapur, in the Netrokona District, ‘China Matir Pahar’ presents a rare geological charm in the northern part of Bangladesh. Positioned close to the Meghalayan border, the area offers scenic glimpses of distant Indian hills, enriching the visual appeal of the terrain. The hills themselves are modest in height but carry a distinct sense of adventure. Climbing to the top rewards visitors with a quiet, elevated view, simple yet striking. Nearby, the Blue Water Lake gently mirrors the surrounding slopes, its still waters tinted with a soft, soothing blue that adds to the tranquil setting. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte Unlike other Eid destinations, this retreat remains largely untouched by crowds, making it ideal for a peaceful holiday escape. It's well-suited for a single-day outing, with a timely return before nightfall. Regular train and bus services leaving Dhaka ensure convenient access, with train travel offering a more economical choice. New Zealand Para, Khagrachari A village called ‘Pankhaiya Para’ lies just within one and a half kilometres from the Khagrachari district headquarters. It blends seamlessly with parts of nearby Perachhara, creating what locals fondly refer to as ‘New Zealand Para.’ The road linking the two villages carries the fitting name New Zealand Road. This area presents the district’s sole stretch of true plain land, yet it rests in graceful harmony with surrounding emerald hills. Croplands ripple toward the horizon, while distant waterfalls and a murmuring river animate the scene. White clouds drift across a cobalt sky, and newly built homesteads nestle between slopes. They complete a panorama reminiscent of the South Pacific countryside. Khagrachari can be reached directly by bus from Dhaka. From the town centre, a short ride by CNG or auto-rickshaw can take visitors to the New Zealand Para. The celebrated Hazachhara waterfall lies close at hand and may be added to the same day’s excursion. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Niladri Lake, Sunamganj Sunamganj offers a magical combination of rewarding sights. Among these, Niladri Lake in Tekerghat, Tahirpur Upazila, stands out as a priority destination. Also known as Shaheed Siraj Lake, it captivates with still waters, scattered stone beds, and glimpses of Meghalaya’s hills on the horizon. Located close to the renowned Tanguar Haor, many visitors combine both sites into one seamless trip. The natural symmetry between the lake, hills, and haor creates a tranquil experience. Reaching the location is straightforward. A direct bus journey from the capital to Sunamganj and a short autorickshaw ride complete the journey to Niladri Lake. Boga Lake and Sangu River, Bandarban Tucked into the hills of Bandarban, both Boga Lake and the Sangu River present landscapes that blend silence with spectacle. Sangu, with its ever-winding course through dense green hills, offers one of the most captivating river journeys in the country. A boat ride across its glassy surface feels almost surreal, as if chasing a hill that never arrives. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh Boga Lake, resting at 1,246 feet above sea level, contrasts with its stillness and myth. Encircled by deep green highlands, the lake draws attention not just for its beauty but also for local legends surrounding a mythical dragon. Reaching this remote lake involves a rugged ride on a 'Chander Gari.' Cottages near Boga Lake offer lodging options, making overnight stays feasible. A lakeside barbecue amid the hills is a popular Eid activity. For those seeking more, a trek to Keokradong, one of Bangladesh’s highest peaks, awaits, provided time and stamina align. Bichnakandi, Sylhet Gowainghat's Bichnakandi presents a spellbinding travel destination, located about 40 km from Sylhet City. Here cascading waters meet rocky riverbeds in a serene embrace. One stream flows from the base of India’s Khasi Hills into the Piain River, while another has carved its own natural course. Small river islands, dotted with houses, add an ethereal layer to the already surreal landscape. Distant mountains seem to shield this little paradise, enhancing its seclusion. Passing through the Sylhet Airport Road bypass, you can reach Hadarpar within about two and a half hours. A one-hour boat ride from there leads to Bichnakandi. To experience the area in full, nearby sites like Barahil, Panthumai Falls, and Lakshanachara are worth including. Read more: City Guide to Bangkok, Thailand for Bangladeshis Khoiyachora Falls, Mirsharai Hidden deep within the folds of Mirsharai, Khoiyachora Waterfall flows through nine distinct cascades, each echoing its rhythm. The sound of rushing water reaches as far as Thakurda Dighi, while the journey leading to it unfolds like a living landscape. The enthralling village trails, narrow bamboo bridges, and forest-carved paths will gradually lead you upward across four hills. Every step forward feels like stepping away from the noise of modernity. The soothing murmur of water blending with chirping cicadas and rustling leaves can remove your stress from routined life. Bathing beneath the falls offers a sense of renewal, while a night in a tent under firefly light and full moon glow will leave lasting impressions in the travellers' minds. Access begins with a bus from Dhaka to Chittagong, getting off at Baratakia Bazar near Khoiyachora Ideal School. Alternatively, intercity trains can drop travellers at Feni station. From Mahipal, local buses take visitors to the school, where a CNG ride marks the final approach to Jhiri, the beginning of the trek. Read more: City Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal for Bangladeshis Tea Garden and Lawachhara, Moulvibazar Sreemangal and Kamalganj Upazilas hold a distinct charm, enriched by the Manipuri community and their traditions. Nature and heritage seamlessly coexist here. Kamalganj, a tourism hotspot, houses Lawachhara National Park, one of Bangladesh’s few evergreen forest reserves. Its wild trails lead to the remote Hamham waterfall, while the tranquil Madhabpur Lake and Adampur forest showcase the region’s biodiversity. The surrounding region boasts Hakaluki Haor, Madhabkunda Falls, Baikkabil bird sanctuary, Gagan Thila, and the floating village of Antehari. From tea gardens in Mathiura to the iconic seven-layer tea in Sreemangal, the area is layered in diversity. Travellers can reach Sreemangal by bus or train originating in Dhaka. From there, Kamalganj is accessible via local transport. Kaptai Lake in Rangamati As the largest man-made lake in South Asia, Kaptai Lake appears like a stretch of sky trapped in water. Surrounded by green hills and dotted with waterfalls, the lake offers quiet grandeur. Read more: Safety Precautions for Traveling on Buses or Public Transport at Night A boat ride across its vast expanse becomes a meditative experience. With nothing but sky above and deep green below, the stillness feels infinite. The famed suspension bridge and the cascading Shuvolong waterfall mark its signature sights. After reaching Chittagong from Dhaka, travellers can take a Kaptai-bound bus from Baddarhat Bus Stand to reach Rangamati. Chalan Beel, Natore Spanning parts of Natore, Sirajganj, and Pabna, Chalan Beel stands as Bangladesh’s largest pond (beel). It is a combination of small wetlands that merge into one vast sheet during the monsoon. The true beauty of this wetland emerges during the rainy season. The journey begins in the heart of the capital, with a Rajshahi-bound bus best exited at Kachikata in Natore. From there, Khubjipur village near Chachkoir Bazar offers the most vivid view of this sprawling beel. The Chalan Beel Museum, located nearby, adds context to the region’s ecological and cultural depth. Read more: Top Reasons Why London Is Tripadvisor's Best Travel Destination for 2025 Don't miss Natore’s signature Kachgolla. Here you can experience an exclusive local sweet treat and create an unforgettable memory. Nikli Haor, Kishoreganj Scattered settlements resemble floating islands, while boat rides reveal scenes of fishing nets, shimmering water, and wetlands brimming with natural beauty. The Nikli Upazila of Kishoreganj is a heavenly place where the haor becomes a stage for bringing sky, water, and village life together. Visitors often spot nightshade groves rising gently from the water. Freshly caught fish from the haor are a culinary highlight for many. Trains from Dhaka reach Manikkhali or Gachihata stations, just before Kishoreganj Sadar. From either of these points, Nikli is about 14 kilometres away. You can reach there by local transport like a bike or CNG. Read more: Visa-free Travel for Bangladeshi Passport Holders in 2025: Top Destinations to Explore Alternatively, you can reach Katiadi Upazila by bus. Arriving at the Katiadi bus stand, it will take about a 22km ride by CNG to reach the haor’s gateway at Nikli Sadar. Bottom Line Ten stunning travel destinations promise serene summer escapes for peaceful Eid celebrations across Bangladesh. China Clay Hill, New Zealand Para, Bichnakandi, and the serene trails of Tea Gardens and Lawachhara whisper nature’s calm. Niladri Lake shimmers beside the rugged charm of Boga Lake and the winding Sangu River. Khoiyachora Falls roars through hills, while Kaptai Lake reflects a vast green silence. Chalan Beel stretches in monsoon glory, and Nikli Haor floats in still, watery wonder. These exotic tourist spots within Bangladesh can offer quiet, scenic, and mysterious experiences during the Eid vacation. Read more: Langkawi Travel Guide 2025: Top Things to Do in Malaysia’s Jewel of Kedah

A British mountain guide has scaled Mount Everest Sunday for the 19th time breaking his own record for the most ascents of the world’s highest mountain by a non-Sherpa guide. Kenton Cool, 51, from southwest England, scaled the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) peak on Sunday along with several other climbers and he was doing well and on way down from the summit, said Iswari Paudel of Himalayan Guides Nepal, which equipped his expedition. Cool first climbed Mount Everest in 2004 and has been doing it almost every year since then. He was unable to climb Everest in 2014 because the season was canceled after 16 Sherpa guides were killed in an avalanche, and again in 2015 when an earthquake triggered an avalanche that killed 19 people. The 2020 climbing season was canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Hundreds of climbers and their guides are at the mountain during the popular spring climbing season, hoping to scale the world's highest peak. Top 10 Countries Offering Post-Study Work Visas for International Students Many of them have already succeeded while more are expected to make their attempt before the climbing season closes at the end of this month when weather condition deteriorates with the coming of the rainy monsoon season making climbing difficult. Only Nepali Sherpa guides have scaled the peak more times than Cool. The highest number of climbs of Mount Everest is 30 times by Nepali Sherpa guide Kami Rita, who is also on the mountain currently and expected to make the climb in the next few days.

Rising high above the Dee Valley in Northeast Wales under the United Kingdom, a remarkable structure stretches across the landscape, both graceful and bold. Known as the 'Stream in the Sky,' the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct stands as the tallest navigable aqueduct in the world. This awe-inspiring engineering marvel has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts travellers worldwide. Let’s explore the waterway that defies gravity. Architect of Elevation: The Visionary Behind This Specialty Suspended high above the River Dee, this aqueduct invites a rare encounter with both nature and ingenuity. At 38 metres above the ground and stretching 307 metres in length, this 'Stream in the Sky' appears to defy gravity. Its presence is as serene as it is commanding, an elevated ribbon of water slicing through the skies of North Wales. Completed in 1805 after a decade of construction, the aqueduct stands as a masterpiece of the Industrial Revolution. Its creator, Thomas Telford, a visionary known as "The Colossus of Roads", combined structural brilliance with poetic ambition. The result: an enduring monument to progress, elevated quite literally. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Comprising 18 massive stone arches, the sky-bound channel carries the Llangollen Canal across the Dee Valley, linking England to Wales. Nestled within an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this engineering marvel remains as functional as it is breathtaking. Crossing Heights: Breathtaking Experiences Adventuring over the span of the waterway demands more than curiosity; it calls for composure at elevation. Kayakers, paddle boarders, and narrowboat passengers all share the same breathtaking route. Each navigates a narrow channel flanked by open air and far-reaching countryside views. For those who prefer their feet on solid ground, walking the aqueduct provides a steadier yet equally rewarding perspective. The gentle sway of the towpath and uninterrupted vistas make for a contemplative journey. At day’s end, the nearby visitor centre offers insight into its construction, detailing the techniques and vision behind its creation. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh Just steps away, the Pontcysyllte Tea Rooms present a peaceful retreat. Whether after a skyward adventure or a valley walk, this welcoming stop completes the experience. From Global Heritage to Viral Wonder Since being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 27 June 2009, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct has steadily grown into one of the most visited landmarks in Wales. Each year, it draws over half a million visitors. They are captivated by its towering design, engineering significance, and sweeping views over the Dee Valley. In recent years, the historic structure has also found fame in the digital sphere. Social media platforms have been flooded with posts capturing the experience of walking, kayaking, or boating across its narrow expanse. Its videos amassed over 1.8 million views, sparking widespread fascination across the internet. The structure’s sheer height and dramatic setting have made it a favourite subject for reels, travel vlogs, and scenic montages. Read more: City Guide to Bangkok, Thailand for Bangladeshis Reactions in the comment sections reveal a mix of awe, nostalgia, and personal connections. Some praised it as one of the most exciting adventures in North Wales. Others recounted family ties to its maintenance or restoration. A few expressed a sense of vertigo while admiring the beauty, describing the railings as unnerving yet the surroundings as unforgettable.

Quokkas, adorable and, most notably, remarkably photogenic animals, roam across the southwestern corner of Australia. With its perpetual grin and friendly demeanour, this small marsupial, about the size of a domestic cat, has turned an island into a hotspot for wildlife lovers and selfie seekers. A large number of quokkas are found on Rottnest Island, nestled off the coast of Perth, a sun-soaked sanctuary. This quokka haven is now popular for selfies. Let’s unravel how the quokka’s smile shaped Rottnest Island into a popular tourist hotspot. Naming of Rottnest Island The name of this island has an unusual origin, tracing back to a 17th-century Dutch explorer, Willem de Vlamingh. When he arrived on the coast, he was struck by the strange, furry animals hopping through the underbrush. Mistaking the quokkas for giant rats, he dubbed the place 't Eylandt 't Rottnest, Dutch for ‘rat’s nest island.’ But despite the unflattering name, de Vlamingh saw something more. In his journal, he described the landscape as nothing short of ‘paradise on Earth.’ Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh The Global Rise of the Quokka Selfie In the age of social media, few animals have captured global attention like quokkas. Native to southwestern Australia, this tiny marsupial became a sensation not through conservation efforts, but through its smile. The viral trend began when tourists visiting Rottnest Island began snapping photos of the cheerful-looking creatures. In 2013, the Huffington Post dubbed the quokka ‘the world’s happiest animal’, sparking worldwide interest. With their naturally upturned mouths, quokkas became the perfect subject for selfies. High-profile celebrities like Chris Hemsworth and Roger Federer helped solidify their fame. The result was a surge in visitors here, the Paradise on Earth. What was once a quiet retreat transformed into one of Australia’s most photographed destinations. Tourists flock there not only for the beaches but for the chance to share a moment with a quokka. Read more: City Guide to Bangkok, Thailand for Bangladeshis

Starting Friday, Venice is reintroducing its day-tripper fee for a second consecutive year, aiming to address the pressures of overtourism that once jeopardized its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. UNESCO ultimately decided not to list Venice among endangered heritage sites after the city announced this tourist tax. Still, critics argue that the fee hasn’t significantly curbed the influx of visitors, even during peak times. Here’s a breakdown of how Venice is confronting overtourism through this initiative: This is the fee non-overnight visitors must pay to access Venice’s historic center. Those who register at least three days in advance pay €5, the same as last year’s pilot rate. Last-minute visitors, however, are charged €10. Entry points such as the Santa Lucia train station, Piazzale Roma bus terminal, and Tronchetto parking garage require QR code verification between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. 49 DaysThis is the number of days in 2025 when the access fee applies — mainly weekends and holidays between April 18 and July 27. That’s an increase from 29 days in 2024. The updated schedule now includes entire holiday weeks and expands the weekend period to start on Fridays. €2.4 MillionVenice collected €2.4 million in 2024 from the tax, though implementation costs reached €2.7 million, resulting in a shortfall. This year, budget official Michele Zuin expects a €1–1.5 million surplus, which will help fund essential services like waste collection. 450,000 VisitorsThat’s how many day-trippers paid the entry fee in 2024. On Friday alone, 12,744 visitors paid — including 7,173 at the higher €10 rate. So far this year, 77,000 people have registered to visit, with another 117,000 granted exemptions, including local residents, workers, students, and those with property in Venice or in the surrounding Veneto region. 75,000This is the average number of daily visitors over the first 11 days of the 2024 fee period — roughly 10,000 more per day than the highest holiday peaks recorded the year before. City councilor Giovanni Andrea Martini, who opposes the measure, believes this proves the tax isn’t deterring tourists. 48,283 ResidentsThat’s the current population of Venice’s historic center, a dramatic drop from 174,000 in 1951. As industries declined and modern amenities became more accessible on the mainland, many Venetians relocated. Activists also blame tourism’s dominance for the decline, as basic services like grocery stores and medical facilities have dwindled. 51,129 Tourist BedsAs of April, there are more places for tourists to stay in Venice’s historic center than there are residents — including over 12,000 beds in unregulated short-term rentals, according to the activist group Ocio. Overnight visitors pay a separate lodging tax and are exempt from the day-tripper fee. 25–30 Million Annual VisitorsCell phone tracking data from Venice’s Smart Control Room shows that between 25 and 30 million people visit the city each year, including both day-trippers and overnight guests.

Bangladesh, a land rich in culture and history, proudly hosts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that reflect its diverse heritage and natural wonders. From the serene Sundarbans—the world’s largest mangrove forest—to the ancient architectural marvels of Bagerhat and Paharpur, these sites are globally recognised for their cultural and ecological significance.  Each heritage site tells a unique story of the country’s past, offering a glimpse into its spiritual, artistic, and environmental legacy. As tourism grows and conservation becomes crucial, these treasures not only attract global admiration but also highlight the importance of preserving history for future generations.  List of World UNESCO Heritage Sites in Bangladesh Here is a closer look at Bangladesh’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat Located in the Bagerhat District in the southwestern region of Bangladesh, the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat is one of the country's most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Recognised in 1985 under UNESCO's cultural heritage list, this ancient city offers a fascinating glimpse into the Islamic architectural legacy of the Bengal Sultanate era.  Originally known as Khalifatabad, the city was founded in the 15th century by a revered Turkic general and Sufi saint, Ulugh Khan Jahan, who was appointed governor by Sultan Mahmud Shah. Spread across nearly 50 square kilometres, the city flourished along the banks of the Bhairab River near the edge of the Sundarbans and became an urban masterpiece of its time. Read more: Top 15 Heritage Sites of Bangladesh Bagerhat is especially renowned for its incredible brick architecture, with the iconic Sixty Dome Mosque (Shat Gombuj Masjid) standing as the centrepiece. Built using baked bricks, the mosque features 77 domes supported by 60 stone pillars and showcases a distinctive blend of Persian, Arab, and Bengali architectural influences. Beyond its religious function, it also served as a madrasa and assembly hall. 

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a dream destination for many travellers, including Bangladeshis. Known for its dazzling temples, bustling street markets, incredible nightlife, and mouthwatering cuisine, Bangkok offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity.  Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this travel guide will help you explore the best attractions, food, shopping destinations, and travel tips to make your trip from Bangladesh to Bangkok smooth and enjoyable.  Best Things to Do . Explore Chinatown One of the most energetic areas in Bangkok, Chinatown is a paradise for food lovers and photographers. Walk along Yaowarat Road, where you will find sizzling street food, gold shops, and vibrant temples. At night, Chinatown transforms into a lively dining hotspot with vendors selling everything from dim sum to roasted duck. Read more: City Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal for Bangladeshis