Bangladesh - Tourism [Archive] - Page 3

tanzirian

April 20th, 2007, 02:42 AM

Personally I would prefer them not to start building large tourist infrastructure on St. Martin's. Rather I would prefer they build the hotels along the mainland coast and ferry passengers there. This would keep the island cleaner and less crowded, so preserving the qualities which make it nice today. If they had to build anything I would favor an environmentally friendly "eco resort." That might even attract some foreign tourists.

If it were up to me, I would make sure that the main beauty spots like Inani, Himchhari, and St. Martin's are all kept free of development as national parks or the like. That would still leave more than a hundred miles of beach for hotels.

I like that last pic the best, it captures the "blueness" of the water. The water in Cox's Bazar is not so blue, probably (I'm guessing) because of the silt of the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta emptying into the Bay. The further south one goes, the more blue it gets.

Dhakaiya

April 20th, 2007, 06:22 AM

How about an underwater hotel like one at Dubai, not in here before 2020 I guess...but would love to see one some day....

clearsky

April 20th, 2007, 08:31 PM

How about an underwater hotel like one at Dubai, not in here before 2020 I guess...but would love to see one some day....

That would be wishful thinking.:ohno: We are having quite a bit of hard time building hotels above the water, let alone under it! Continental and Holiday Inn in ZIA is in unfinished state for the last few years. We will never be like Dubai because Dubai has a very different demographic and economic condition than us.

I think UAE's percapita income is more than that of Canada and they are trying to increase it significantly.

Dhakaiya

April 21st, 2007, 10:01 AM

Yeah, definitely not before 2020....

Tmac

April 24th, 2007, 08:30 AM

Paharpur

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/paharpur30.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/paharpur33.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/paharpur34.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/paharpur31.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/paharpur32.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/paharpur35.jpg

Skyprince

April 25th, 2007, 07:34 AM

^^OMG Paharpur is sooooo nice place !! Anyway, a bit late but, Shuwo Noborboshi to all !!

tanzirian

April 25th, 2007, 08:28 AM

Those are some crystal clear pics of Paharpur, Tmac. Compliments to the photographer.

I doubt too many people in Bangladesh have thought about this, but I think it is not a very good idea to leave our archaeological sites like Paharpur exposed to the elements. One of the reasons these sites, built from brick, have managed to survive so long in this subtropical land of floods, is that they were buried under the soil for many centuries. But now the forces of hudmidty, rainfall, etc can again take their toll. If it were up to me I enclose the whole structure with a modern climate controlled building. This may spoil these views of the site but that way it would be preserved for future generations. Otherwise I am fearful about how long they can last in this manner.

Dhakaiya

April 25th, 2007, 02:32 PM

Stunning quality of pics.

tareq79

April 25th, 2007, 05:28 PM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3NYPMSf7IU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nb0VKKUNadE

Just thought some may like... some men on boat on Padma

Tmac

April 26th, 2007, 09:19 PM

Recent tourism news

The government is considering massive projects to attract more tourists in Coxsbazar, Banderban, Rangamati and Kuakata areas. Foreign investors might be given the opportunity of constructing various amusement projects along with luxurious hotels and motels on BOO (build-operate-own) basis. Special programs are also under active consideration for converting St. Martin Island into a true holiday rendezvous in South Asia. In that case, government might also welcome foreign investments in St. Martin for building various tourism related establishments along with starting luxurious ship services between St. Martin and Kuakata. A number of tourism consultants have suggested the government to have amusement facilities like night clubs, pubs, bars, discotheques, slot gaming machines and other facilities which are very much expected by the global tourists. Maldives, being a Muslim country already adopted similar policy and present country’s main income comes from tourism sector. Experts feel that, Bangladesh also has the absolute potentials of turning into a new destination of international tourists, once it could change it’s decade old thoughts and policies banning bars, night clubs, discotheques etc. “Muslim nation like UAE even has adopted a tourist-friendly policy and now they earn lots of money from this sector. On the other hand, Bangladesh continues to behave like orthodox fanatic country. Such attitude is totally against the theme of attracting tourists”, says an experts.

It may be mentioned here that, several individuals already acquired property in St. Martin Island while large section of its land went into grips of illegal occupants. Once proper tourism plan for the Island is finalized, the government might enter into specific deals with the existing owners of properties in St. Martin for participating in government’s tourism program. Illegal occupants might also face eviction. In addition, the government is also considering deployment of special security forces in the entire Island area in order to ensure proper safety and security for the foreign tourists.

Government is also planning three more golf courses in the country. Moreover, luxurious cottages will also be built at Moinamati, Tamabil, Jaflong, Madhabkundo, Foyslake, Banderban, Khagrachari and eight more tourism points. Private companies will be awarded contracts of BOO basis for implementation of such projects. In order to expedite tourism sector, special desks will be set in Bangladeshi missions abroad as well at the Zia International Airport and other major airports, in order to simplify visa issuance procedure to the tourists. A year-long program titled ‘Beautiful Bangladesh’ will be held in 2009 with a target of earning at least US$ 500 million from tourism industry during one year period. Large variety of colorful and entertaining programs will take place within the entire year in order to get maximum exposure as the most demanded country by the tourists around the world. Attractive features and advertisements shall be published on the in flight magazine of Biman Bangladesh Airlines as well other major airlines in the world. Special airfare will also be offered to the prospective tourists by Biman and other private airline companies. Radisson, Pan Pacific, Sheraton and other international hotel chains in Bangladesh along with luxurious local hotels will also offer special package for the tourists.

http://www.weeklyblitz.net/index.php?subaction=showfull&id=1177572730&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&

Banglabir

April 26th, 2007, 10:12 PM

tanzirian

April 27th, 2007, 03:35 AM

Hopefully all this comes to fruition. Facilities in many places are still pretty threadbare. They also need to work on better transportation infrastructure and better protection from dacoits etc especially in the more remote areas.

clearsky

April 28th, 2007, 07:09 PM

Tmac

April 28th, 2007, 08:05 PM

Tmac

April 29th, 2007, 07:44 PM

Bangladesh-Myanmar border area

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/bangladesh-myanmarborder.jpg

Tmac

April 29th, 2007, 07:46 PM

Murapara Jaminder House

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/muraparajaminderhouse.jpg

Tmac

April 29th, 2007, 07:47 PM

Temple of Puthia

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/templeofputhia14.jpg

Tmac

April 29th, 2007, 07:48 PM

beautiful Rangamati

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/rangamatihangingbridge14.jpg

Tmac

April 30th, 2007, 12:58 AM

Cox's Bazar Marina Drive, you can see the 5 star Hotel Sea Gull in the distance

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/coxsbazarmarinadrive8.jpg

mirzazeehan

April 30th, 2007, 07:09 PM

Thats a good looking border area...does that part in the pic fall under Bangladeshi territory?

Tmac

April 30th, 2007, 07:50 PM

Thats a good looking border area...does that part in the pic fall under Bangladeshi territory?

ya that's Bangladesh.

Banglabir

May 1st, 2007, 04:59 AM

Cox's Bazar Marina Drive, you can see the 5 star Hotel Sea Gull in the distance

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/coxsbazarmarinadrive8.jpg

damn!!!is that bangladesh? oh allah, this looks more like Rio, brazil.

Aasif

May 1st, 2007, 09:43 AM

^^ Speechless

Skyprince

May 1st, 2007, 01:01 PM

We want to make money for sure. But how we make money is very important as well. We have to remember that we are Muslims and we have religious and cultural limitations. Our main focus should NOT be opening up more bars or dance clubs. As such infrastructures will bring significant social problems along with money. We don't want a Bangkok like society. Our main focus should be developing infrastructures and providing good services at reasonable price. We can't copy exactly what UAE or any other country is doing simply because we are different in many ways.

I am very happy to hear such a remark, my fren ! Inshallah Bangladesh will become successful in its tourism campaign :) I am really astonished by the latest pics of Bangladesh-Myanmar border areas and the striking beaches. Bangladesh has a lot of potentials . Your government should make a target and have a clear vision. For example, Bangladeshi leaders could set 10-year vision to attract at least 5 million tourists by the year 2017, and so on. We really need a Muslim country with strong and hardworking populations like Bangladesh to lead the way ( while preserving the rights of its non-Muslim populations to profess their religions ). If everything goes well, I plan to visit Bangladesh this August :banana:

Dhakaiya

May 1st, 2007, 01:21 PM

Insha Allah Skyprince. Lets all hope South and South-East Asia will be the new powerhouse of the Muslim world (treating people of all religions equally as well).

gohorns

May 1st, 2007, 03:38 PM

Cox's Bazar Marina Drive, you can see the 5 star Hotel Sea Gull in the distance

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/coxsbazarmarinadrive8.jpg

All the pics are really beautiful. My only complaint here is....why are there trees blocking the view of the beach/sea from the road? If they want to plant trees that's a great idea but some thought needs to go into what type of tree would best suit the area. In this case, maybe palm trees would work the best (as long as they're compatible) because they have narrow trunks and leaves at the top so the leaves/branches would not block the view.

gohorns

May 1st, 2007, 04:42 PM

There are some truly amazing pictures in this thread. There is just so much natural beauty in the country and the old palaces/mansions/temples all have stories to tell. Makes me wish I could see how their lives were like. Also, look at the architecture and stuff....I don't know if we have people today that are as creative and skilled as those in the decades/centuries past. It seems that we had some pretty old civilizations too...I remember going to that site as a child but obviously I didn't appreciate it as much as I do now.

If anyone knows, how safe and accessible are these sites? I'd love to go around to some of those places someday. I think as part of the tourism campaign, some agencies could offer good bus service to some of these places and have some packages that cover a number of these sites.

I can picture a flyer/brochure with a map of Bangladesh split into different sections in various colors. Tourists can select a region and the map will show the spots covered in that region. Then they can go on a 3-5 day tour of those sites and then be back in their central location (Dhaka) and then choose to go to a different region. The package should have around 5 sections (i.e. the country could be split into 5 regions) so the tourists could cover the country, or at least most of it, in around 2-3 weeks. That would work with most people's vacation schedule (usually a month). There'd also be an option to skip coming back to the central location and just moving on another section of choice. Any takers? :)

Oh, another thing: The package should give the tourists the option to tour the 5 different sections or, instead of going to all 5, tourists will have the option to tour the same area twice (in case they like it a lot). For example, Western tourists may want to spend extra time at Cox's Bazaar or St. Martin's Island or some other beaches...they can chose to skip touring Dhaka or another region.

tanzirian

May 1st, 2007, 08:08 PM

All the pics are really beautiful. My only complaint here is....why are there trees blocking the view of the beach/sea from the road? If they want to plant trees that's a great idea but some thought needs to go into what type of tree would best suit the area. In this case, maybe palm trees would work the best (as long as they're compatible) because they have narrow trunks and leaves at the top so the leaves/branches would not block the view.

Myself I like the trees since they help insulate the beach a little bit from the traffic. Personally if I go to a beach I like it nice and peaceful, not with lots of cars going by.

Back when I used to live in BD one thing I liked was that the good hotels like Shaibal were set several hundred feet back from the beach, with the trees in the intermediate space left intact. This gave a more natural feel to the beach which I like...as opposed to a bunch of hotels towering overhead.

tanzirian

May 2nd, 2007, 06:24 AM

A few more pics from southeast Bangladesh:

Chittagong beach:
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r94/tanzirian/chit1.jpg

Cox's Bazar beach:
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r94/tanzirian/chit2.jpg

Kaptai Lake:
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r94/tanzirian/chit3.jpg
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r94/tanzirian/chit4.jpg

Chittagong Hill Tracts:
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r94/tanzirian/chit5.jpg

Tmac

May 2nd, 2007, 08:59 PM

I love the last 2 pics you posted Tan. Very nice!

zayiaf62089

May 2nd, 2007, 11:50 PM

Bangladesh-Myanmar border area

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/bangladesh-myanmarborder.jpg

That's a very nice picture of the Bangladesh-Myanmar border area. I think that road is new because I visited the Rohingya people the last time I've been in Bangladesh and there were only dirt roads. I'm glad to see infrastructure development even in the rural areas.

tanzirian

May 3rd, 2007, 03:01 AM

I love the last 2 pics you posted Tan. Very nice!

Thanks Tmac. Unfortunately I closed the window before I intended to and now cannot find my way back to the site. I wanted to see if they had more photos. You know it's rather difficult to find photos that you haven't posted yet ;) !

Zaki

May 3rd, 2007, 03:46 AM

This region of Bangladesh is truly breath taking. What it needs most i think right now is better road, rail and air connections with Dhaka to get the tourists there quickly. I remember going to cox bazaar from Dhaka by bus and it took me more than 10 hours believe when such a distance shouldn't take more than 5. The major air connections to Bangladesh are going to be in Dhaka for a while yet so we need good infrastructure to get the tourists to where they want quickly. It would be best if they built a high speed first class rail connection between Dhaka to Cox bazaar. I think such an investment could be extremely profitable.

tanzirian

May 3rd, 2007, 04:06 AM

Zaki

May 3rd, 2007, 04:10 AM

^^ I think in the US the same drive would probably take 2 - 3 hours. One of the reasons the journey used to take that long is because the only bridge and ferry across the Meghna were at Bhairab, which meant going several hours north and then backtracking several hours south. I remember the rail trips would take about half a day when I lived in BD. I hope they are careful about how they develop this area of BD, otherwise they will spoil some of the natural beauty which makes it attractive today.

I went there last summer and we didn't go on any ferries. It was bridges all the way and i am pretty sure we didn't backtrack. The main reason it took so long was because the highway connecting Dhaka and Chittagong only had one lane on each side (connection between the countries two most important cities should have atleast 3 lanes) and hence the traffic was slow.

tanzirian

May 3rd, 2007, 04:13 AM

Yeah, there is no need ferries today because a bridge for auto traffic over the Meghna was built about ten years ago. Before that you would have to go all the way north to Bhairab to cross. The only bridge over the Meghna back then was the colonial-era rail bridge at Bhairab.

Tmac

May 3rd, 2007, 09:00 PM

BPC now starts exploration of new tourist spots

Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) has recently initiated a programme to “Explore the New Tourist Attractions.” The new Chairman of BPC Mohammad Hafizur Rahman Bhuiyan is the main sponsor of the programme. Other members of the team are : Director Department of Environment, General Manager and Executive Officer of BPC Marketing department, a team for shooting video, two reporters from Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha and Channel i TV and photographer and physician from BPC.

The programme has no separate budget. The exploration work will be carried out by using BPC transport and with the help of respective local administration, a BPC source disclosed.

The exploration of first spot started on April 18 and concluded on April 24. The spot Sherpur is located at the foot of Garo Hill-- the entry point of the River Brahamapurta in Bangladesh . It ended in Dhaka after traveling though places like Baksiganj- MymensinghRajibpur-Jhainaigathi-Nalitabari-Haluaghat-Khubaura—Kamalakandha- Netrakona-Dhaka.

There will be five other tours between May and December starting on May 7, June 7, August 7, October 7 and November-December. These so called explorations will cover (2) Dhaka-Moulavibazar-Madhab-kunda-Sylhet-Dhaka; (3) Dhaka -Jamuna Bridge-Bogra-Paharpur-Bogra-Mahastangarh-Rangpur-Dinajpur-Kantaji's Temple-Dhaka; (4) Dhaka-Sunamganj—Tanguar hoar- Sunamganj-Dhaka; (5) Dhaka-Jessore-Sagardari-Khulna-Sundarbans-Dhaka and (6) Dhaka-Khagrachari-Panchari-Khagrachari-Rangamati—Bandarban-Dhaka.

The purpose of the programme as stated in press release of BPC is to “discover least known and unknown attractive tourist spots to expand tourism industry of Bangladesh ”. Through this programme “efforts would be made to project archaeology and history of the country; natural beauty; life style and tradition of local people”, the press release mentioned.

The press release expressed the hope that the programme would reach domestic and international tourists through writing the TV screen. This would also create opportunity for young generation to know the prospect of the country as well as formulation overall plan for the tourism industry.

http://www.bangladeshmonitor.net/aviation_story.php?recordID=935

clearsky

May 3rd, 2007, 11:38 PM

Good to see that something is being done to increase tourists. Nepal attracts over 100000 tourists from BD each year and now they are trying to attract more. We gotta do something fast!

tanzirian

May 3rd, 2007, 11:54 PM

A few random pics:

Moonlight on Kaptai Lake:
http://www.cs.toronto.edu/~zmhasan/BD/pictures/moon_river.gif

View across Naf River:
http://www.cs.toronto.edu/~zmhasan/BD/pictures/tree_river.gif

Sunset on the Jamuna:
http://www.cs.toronto.edu/~zmhasan/BD/pictures/sunset_river.gif

Random rivulet:
http://www.cs.toronto.edu/~zmhasan/BD/pictures/river_boat.gif

zayiaf62089

May 4th, 2007, 12:02 AM

Good to see that something is being done to increase tourists. Nepal attracts over 100000 tourists from BD each year and now they are trying to attract more. We gotta do something fast!

That is a big issue, looks like competiton is going to be fierce.

tanzirian

May 4th, 2007, 12:13 AM

^^ I'm all for promoting tourism in BD but it's unrealistic to think we will get more than Nepal. There is no natural wonder like Mt. Everest here. And Katmandu's old section has many beautiful temples and buildings...whereas most of our heritage is in decay.

Tmac

May 4th, 2007, 01:13 AM

The Dulahazara Safari Park near Cox's Bazar

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/195/480467293_c851f975e4_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/18/69957453_1ee84354a7_o.jpg

Tmac

May 4th, 2007, 06:49 PM

Paharpur

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/paharpur71.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/paharpur70.jpg

Tmac

May 4th, 2007, 06:50 PM

yet another photo of the Kantazir Temple

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/kantazirtemple25.jpg

Tmac

May 4th, 2007, 06:52 PM

Michael Madhusudan Dutt Museum near Jessore

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/mmodhushudhon.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/mmodhushudhon2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v457/Dhaka/mmodhushudhon3.jpg

clearsky

May 4th, 2007, 08:48 PM

I am very happy to hear such a remark, my fren ! Inshallah Bangladesh will become successful in its tourism campaign :) I am really astonished by the latest pics of Bangladesh-Myanmar border areas and the striking beaches. Bangladesh has a lot of potentials . Your government should make a target and have a clear vision. For example, Bangladeshi leaders could set 10-year vision to attract at least 5 million tourists by the year 2017, and so on. We really need a Muslim country with strong and hardworking populations like Bangladesh to lead the way ( while preserving the rights of its non-Muslim populations to profess their religions ). If everything goes well, I plan to visit Bangladesh this August :banana:

Thank you for your comments. One of the main obstacles of our tourism sector is complete lack of government support, let alone having a 10 year plan. Our government is severely restricted in providing the very basic needs of a vast population with very little resources. So, they are always preoccupied with important national issues and don't have a vision for helping the tourism sector.

Last week we celebrated Travel Mart (Travel extravaganza) here in Dhaka. I was watching the inaugural session live on the local TV. I saw many important government and non-government speakers speaking in the session. Not a single speaker said anything about the future plan, how we think we will execute the plan and the outcome of that plan. Everyone gave a speech but no one said anything that will change anything. Quite frankly we are pretty much stuck at the first step, figuring out what we want.

Skyprince

May 5th, 2007, 09:23 AM

^^ Considering Bangladesh's tourism potentials, it is very unbelievable that it only attracted 300 000 visitors last year. Bangladesh is rich and diversed in natural heritage and fantastic traditions, not to mention locally popular attractions like St Martin Island, Paharpur etc, so at least it should succeeded in bringing in 10 million tourists. There is no time to postpone any tourism infrastructure projects-- today I read in news that 30% of Dubai's GDP is generated by tourism. Dubai is a city of only 1 million but last year it received 6.5 million visitors. Bangladesh has to speed up. There is no more time to wait. Globalization is moving very fast. Anyway, iinshllah this August I will visit my Bangladeshi friend in Dhaka and looking forward to visit many places there :)

meghnarmajhi

May 5th, 2007, 04:23 PM

tanzirian

May 5th, 2007, 05:10 PM

Zaki

May 5th, 2007, 06:22 PM

I don't think that 300,000 is the number of tourists - more likely the number of foreigners who visited Bangladesh for one reason or another. The number of people visiting for tourism purposes is probably no greater than a few thousand.

Actually i don't think so. Many expatriate Bangladeshi's have foreign passports and use foreign passports when they enter Bangladesh so i would think that if they are tallying the number of foreigners, it would be much higher due to the number of ex pats.

I do however think that number for tourism is quite exagerated and sadly the real number may be a lot lower. The only reason why Bangladesh's tourim is lacking so far behnd other countries is due to the government's lack of interest. I stil don't know why but the government seems to believe that tourism is not an important industry and seems t fail to realize that it can significantly aid in reduction of poverty and forward development. The lack of government suport not only creates and unnoticed Bangladesh in foreign countries, it also creates a lack of proper infrastructure inside Bangladesh to support tourism. And suddenly even this current government seems to be fialing when it comes to realizing the significance of tourism.

Tmac

May 5th, 2007, 06:26 PM

imagine if only we can get at least 5% of the tourists who go to India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand to drop by Bangladesh?

tanzirian

May 5th, 2007, 06:46 PM

Or maybe adopt a South Korean attitude. I saw a nice episode of Globe Trekker a few weeks ago...it said that though they have nice places to visit, they aren't worried whether tourists come or not.

My attitude...don't worry about tourism campaigns to attract foreigners. Preserve our heritage sites from decay and destruction; protect our natural sites from overdevelopment. Build modern facilities to serve the local population and improve safety and infrastructure at touristy sites. Do all that, and the number of foreign tourists will increase automatically.

zayiaf62089

May 5th, 2007, 11:32 PM

Tourism iin BD is an industry that the government has been neglecting. But you have to see this from another perspective though. It's not like the government isn't trying to get more toursits. You have to filter out the good investments and the bad. In 2005, there was a foreign company from the EU whose name I think was TUI AG, specifically was interested in investing in St. Martin's Island and Cox Bazar to develop hotels and Bangladesh's first ever waterfront. However, BNP had rejected the proposal even before it was brought to the table because the plan included the building of casino which as you of course know goes against Islamic practices of no gambling.

Tmac

May 6th, 2007, 09:00 PM

Tk 10cr project for Kuakata tourism zone

The government has taken up a two-year project involving Tk 10 crore for infrastructure development in the Kuakata tourism zone under the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation.

The project includes the development of two Buddhist temples, construction of a motel and a youth tourist centre and purchase of vehicles. The government is also considering another project involving Tk 60 crore for the construction of three bidges and a motel at the Barisal link point.

The tourism zone at Kalapra in Patuakhali is 108km off the Barisal city. But people need to use five ferries to go to Kuakata from Barisal. Three of the ferries are in service along a 22km of stretch at Kalapara.

Mojibul Alam, general manager (words) of the corporation said the project work was expected to be completed by June 2009. Tender procedures have already been completed. The Public Works Department will develop the Buddhist temples at Kuakatta and Mistripara at a cost of Tk 1.2 crore.

The tourism corporation will carry out the remaining jobs, including the construction of a 50-bed motel, a 200-bed tourist centre and purchase of two air-conditioned luxury coach, he said.

A Parjatan Corporation holiday home was set up at the place at a cost of Tk 1.2 crore during 1995–1996 financial year. The home was inaugurated in 1997 and the prime minister of the time declared Kuakata an exclusive tourism zone. In 1995, a high-level meeting of the ministries concerned at Kuakata decided to make some infrastructure development in the area. But the plan was later dropped.

The proposal for the construction of three bridges and a motel in Barisal at a cost of Tk 60 crore was later cancelled.

http://www.newagebd.com/nat.html

tanzirian

May 6th, 2007, 11:09 PM

^^ Good to hear. I am curious about the history of Buddhism in Kuakata. I understand Buddhism in Chittagong, being next to Myanmar, but why is there a concentration in Kuakata? Perhaps at some point Buddhists sailed from Chittagong or Arakan area to Kuakata?

tanzirian

May 8th, 2007, 07:32 AM

Some old paintings of Chhotta Shona Masjid (Little Golden Mosque). The second is a cross section of the interior. Chhotta Shona Masjid is considered by many to be the most perfect example of the uniquely Bengali architectural style that was developed under the rule of the independent Sultans (1300s - 1500s). The mosque initially looked rather different from its austere appearance today. The walls were covered with enameled tilework and the domes were gilded with gold - hence the name. The mosque is located in Gaud (aka Gaur), the main medieval capital of Bengal in the 15th and 16th centuries. Sadly the way the border was drawn split this archaeological site between India and Bangladesh. The counterpart to this mosque, the Bara Shona Masjid (Big Golden Mosque), is on the Indian side of the border. As implied by its name Bara Shona Masjid is the larger of the two and more impressive sizewise, but is less elegantly proportioned and not as well preserved.

http://www.collectbritain.com/mediastore/019/000/019WZZ000003481U00006000[SVC2].JPG
http://www.collectbritain.com/mediastore/019/000/019WZZ000003481U00007000[SVC2].JPG

Tmac

May 8th, 2007, 09:11 AM

meghnarmajhi

May 8th, 2007, 09:57 AM

Zaki

May 8th, 2007, 03:36 PM

wow I didn't even realize that this thread has exceeded 500 replies. Usually after 500 replies I open a new thread, ie Dhaka Skyscrapers, Dhaka Skyscrapers part 2 and Metro Dhaka part 3. I think we should open a new thread titled "Beautiful Bangladesh" or something. What do you guys think? What should we call it? We can post any pretty picture of any part of Bangladesh in it. It will be a continuation of the tourism thread. We can also post all palaces photos in the palaces thread, Sunderban in Sunderban thread, Paharpur in the Paharpur thread etc.

Well since now we have our own subforum and an entire section on tourism, i think it would be best if we create different threads for the different sites for example one for cox bazaar tourism, one for sylhet tourism, etc. Also if there are any new projects we can open seperate threads for that too. This would make it easier to find things and would avoid one massive thread.

Tmac

May 8th, 2007, 03:44 PM

we should also have a thread "Historic mosques, temples and churches".

tanzirian

May 8th, 2007, 04:53 PM

Woww. Source of the paintings and/or artist's name - if you have them.

They are dated 1817, painted by Henry Creighton and engraved by Thomas Metland. Copywright is probably owned by British Library so reproduce them at your own peril :) .

tanzirian

May 8th, 2007, 05:14 PM

Also, if anyone is interested in old paintings of buildings on the Indian side of Gaud, here is a link:

http://www.columbia.edu/itc/mealac/pritchett/00routesdata/1200_1299/delhisultanate_early/bengal_gaur/bengal_gaur.html

Tmac

May 9th, 2007, 07:49 PM

Please use the "Beautiful Bangladesh" thread under Tourism, Heritage and Infrastructure from now on for tourism related photos, news, etc.

DhakaDockyard

October 19th, 2007, 12:14 AM

http://rapidshare.com/files/63528726/IMG_1016.jpg.htmlDhaka Dockyard & Engineering Works

Dhaka Dockyard & Engineering Works is one of the leading shipyard in Bangladesh, Southeast Asia. Providing shipbuilding and repair services at a competitive price within the shortest time period to the highest quality standards from a company that understands and cares for its customers. Our services offer a complete range of design, build and after sales support packages to meet the requirements of the most discerning clients.

http://rapidshare.com/files/63527612/image02.jpg.html

The First time Deep Sea Fishing Trawler with dual freezing System Build In Bangladesh.

http://WWW.DHAKADOCKYARD.COM

Tmac

October 19th, 2007, 12:18 AM

what does this have anything to do woth Bangladesh Tourism?

alladin212

March 17th, 2008, 01:38 AM

same topic

Tmac

March 17th, 2008, 01:39 AM

same topic

check post # 563

asharif110

June 14th, 2008, 06:51 PM

Please remove the two pictures of Kantaji's Palace from this page. You are in violation of copyright laws. The two pictures were "re-uploaded" and re-published here without knowledge of the copyright holder. This picture doesn't have any identifying marks on it that can distinguish it. Now these pictures can be found in Google search ahead of the original pics. So, if someone downloads the pics from here and uses them for commercial purpose, you have now way of stopping them. Please respect the rights of the copyright holder. You are promoting Bangladesh, but unknowingly, you are hurting the very people who helped you with these nice glimpses of Bangladesh.

Sharif

dopekhor

June 15th, 2008, 12:32 AM

asharif110

June 15th, 2008, 09:34 AM

what you reppin the MPA?
Sorry, didn't get you.

Tmac

June 15th, 2008, 04:01 PM

Tmac

June 15th, 2008, 04:12 PM

someone please tell me where two photos were posted. I can't find them.

tanzirian

June 15th, 2008, 05:42 PM

Which organisation are these pictures copyrighted with? And how does one verify such a copyright? I am curious why someone who is so concerned with copyright would post his pictures on a public image sharing site.

A few years ago I asked Mr. Sharif permission to post some of his pictures (of a Rangamati trip) here...since he has "copyright" written on some of them. He said he would like to post them himself...then didn't...but found two photos of his and asked that he be given credit for them. Now, I generally try to give credit for the pictures I post here...and which I prompty did for the two he pointed out...and let him know that no one was trying to take credit for his pictures. But Mr. Sharif never acknowledged this nor ever posted his Rangamati pics himself. He is a very talented photographer but clearly very uptight on his photos. Sad that his first post on this site would be to resurrect a thread that no one has posted on in a long time, for reasons as above.

manbil777

June 15th, 2008, 09:11 PM

Generally -- photographers can use several options to copyright images. Owning a copyright means he holds the right to any 'commercial' use for his works -- which is possible given this was uploaded here. He should have watermarked it using his name -- which was not done. Now how are we responsible? It's up to him to do it. If he doesn't -- like Dopekhor says -- it's better if he 'not be repping (representing) the MPA' (Media Publishers Association).

BTW -- I did not take up the job yet for translating Dopekhor's 'urban lingo' -- yet :)

Of course we welcome Sharif Shaheb here -- along with any other talented Bangladeshi Photographers to publicize their talent. On the side -- we get to enjoy their work.

But the responsibility lies with the photographer himself first to protect their own work. There are plenty of software choices available.

And TMAC will do his thing I'm sure (Thanks TMAC).

Here's a link to the different image licenses according to wikipedia. Link (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Image_copyright_tags/Displayed_and_ranked).

Here are to FREE software packages to protect images (I have not tested these),

PICMARKR (http://picmarkr.com/)

WaterMarkFactory (http://www.watermarkfactory.com/)

Link to a whole bunch of these, could have spyware (Users abroad beware) (http://www.freedownloadscenter.com/Best/free-watermark.html)

amar11372

June 15th, 2008, 09:21 PM

someone please tell me where two photos were posted. I can't find them.

Post #37

manbil777

June 15th, 2008, 09:24 PM

someone please tell me where two photos were posted. I can't find them.

well I did a bit of looking -- and apparently Mr. Sharif's Photobucket album (where these images are traced back to) is not public anymore -- which is understandable.

Link
(http://s223.photobucket.com/albums/dd252/asharif/)

I think if we remove the images from here -- then we're all set.

Mr. Sharif can post the watermarked images here later.

manbil777

June 15th, 2008, 09:26 PM

Post #37

Post # 574 has the images quoted as well.

amar11372

June 15th, 2008, 09:38 PM

National Tourism Authority to be set up by July

FE Report

The government is planning to set up a 'National Tourism Authority' by July this year to develop the country's potential tourism sector.

"This will be an independent and autonomous body," said Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser for the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism Mahbub Jamil at a round table on Saturday night.

The report recommending the establishment of such an independent authority has already been submitted," he said speaking at the roundtable on "Immediate Need for the Development of Bangladesh Tourism" at a city hotel. A meeting is scheduled to be held with the major stakeholders of the tourism sector tomorrow (Tuesday), he added.

"Following the meeting, a law ratifying the establishment of an independent and autonomous National Tourism Authority for the development of tourism sector in the country is expected to be enacted by the next month," Mahbub Jamil affirmed.

He also informed that the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism has taken proactive steps to facilitate two lucrative investment proposals in Cox's Bazar tourism which could be a real boost for one of the major tourist hubs of the country.

Ras Al Khaimah, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is going to invest around US$ 1.5 to 2.0 billion for the development of tourism in the Sonadia island of Cox' Bazar, Mahbub said. On the other hand, he said, China is also likely to invest around US$ 2.0 billion in Cox's Bazar tourism including the development of its airport because of its sea beach's proximity from the southwestern provinces of that country.

Citing examples of some other countries, he also focused on the need for better coordination between the tourism and cultural sector under a single ministry.

Expressing an optimistic view about the country's tourism prospect, Mahbub Jamil said if necessary measures are implemented, the number of tourists visiting the country can reach two million within two years.

Secretary for the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism Syed Mohammad Zobaer, Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs Abdul Karim, Chairman of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation Shafique Alam Mehdi and Managing Director of Biman Bangladesh Airlines M A Momen also addressed the occasion.

Earlier the speakers outlined the need for establishing an independent national tourism organisation as well as the product development and country branding for tourism in line with 'Incredible India' and 'Malaysia Truly Asia'.

Raquib Siddiqi, Chief Editor of The Bangladesh Monitor presented the keynote paper while Abed Khan, Editor of the daily Samakal moderated the discussion.

The discussants also stressed on exploring different facades of tourism sector like ecotourism, religious tourism and transit tourism utilising the nature, history, tradition, geographical advantage and cultural heritage of the country.

They also pointed at the need for simplifying the visa processing for the tourists visiting Bangladesh and identified the 8.0 million non-resident Bangladeshis living overseas as potential clients for such tourism.

Managing Director of GMG Airlines Shahab Sattar, Chairman of Best Air Ltd M Haider Uzzaman, Executive Director of Centre for Development Communication Mohammad Jahangir and Area Manager of Emirates Bangladesh Hanif Jakaria also spoke in the meeting.

http://www.thefinancialexpress-bd.info/search_index.php?page=detail_news&news_id=36851

asharif110

June 15th, 2008, 10:58 PM

Please check the following links from where these pics were downloaded and then re-uploaded here rather than providing proper links:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/desherchobi/254957231/
this is one of the original images (without watermark) that I've uploaded long before. The other one I've removed from Flickr. But its still at another site (with watermark):
http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2986110970101287251qKsxwM

Because of this ugly culture of "re-uploading", we photographers have to put ugly watermarks on them. I specifically told that I would upload the pics myself, whereas I could keep the original link and you wouldn't have to worry about any violation of whatsoever. But rather than waiting for me to do that, you downloaded the pics and "re-uploaded" them as if you've taken the pics yourself. And after seeing the first violation, I simply lost interest and decided not to upload any pics here.

I have no problem showing off my photos in World Wide Web, because that promotes my country. But when you re-upload photos taking it from another site, a third person will download the pic from your site as if the pic was born without any parents. This happened to me and other photographers in recent times, whereby "re-uploaded" pics were used for "commercial benefits" and there was no way to catch them; as they downloaded the pics from sites who don't keep any ownership!

I will ask you politely to help me out. Please do not help destroy other people's work. They promote Bangladesh the same way you want to. You can do a fabulous job here without hindering anyone else's rights. Please be rational and think.

tanzirian

June 16th, 2008, 12:43 AM

Because of this ugly culture of "re-uploading", we photographers have to put ugly watermarks on them. I specifically told that I would upload the pics myself, whereas I could keep the original link and you wouldn't have to worry about any violation of whatsoever. But rather than waiting for me to do that, you downloaded the pics and "re-uploaded" them as if you've taken the pics yourself. And after seeing the first violation, I simply lost interest and decided not to upload any pics here.

Are you talking about me? I had the decency to ask you for permission, when I saw a photo with "copyright" written on it. Most people would not have done that. After you said you wanted to post the pictures yourself, I never posted any of your pictures afterwards, though I have seen many of them on Webshots. The images you pointed out to me...two of Muktagachha Palace I found by randomly searching on the web...were posted weeks or months before I contacted you...and had no mention of copyright. Now you are here complaining about pictures that were posted by someone else several years ago. Please just point out all the photos, posts, etc. that you want removed...then, if you've nothing further to contribute here, please leave us in peace.

Tmac

June 16th, 2008, 04:06 AM

asharif110

June 16th, 2008, 06:18 AM

Are you talking about me? I had the decency to ask you for permission, when I saw a photo with "copyright" written on it. Most people would not have done that. After you said you wanted to post the pictures yourself, I never posted any of your pictures afterwards, though I have seen many of them on Webshots. The images you pointed out to me...two of Muktagachha Palace I found by randomly searching on the web...were posted weeks or months before I contacted you...and had no mention of copyright. Now you are here complaining about pictures that were posted by someone else several years ago. Please just point out all the photos, posts, etc. that you want removed...then, if you've nothing further to contribute here, please leave us in peace.

I think its unfortunate that you are taking this too personally....... I told you that I was asking for a basic decency of recognizing the original owner....... you asked for that and I was happy about it....... I was a little too busy then to upload the pics right away; but then, when I came to upload, I already found pics "re-uploaded" here........ that discouraged me to upload any more.......

if you stop recognising art, you'll kill the artist and there won't be any art to support your cause........ Pics uploaded in the World Wide Web have copyright info on the same page where they are located, not necessarily "on" the pic itself........ writings "on" the pics are required for people who tend to ignore the copyright info displayed in the same page........ you can look for this in Wikipedia too; they have copyright info posted at the bottom of the pics, not on the pics...... for example, have a look at the following link and find the copyright info:
http://www.michaelyamashita.com/
no markings on the pics, but the photographer keeps all rights......
and I have not uploaded my pics in any website where there's no copyright info displayed........

my earliest uploads in Flickr were without watermarks and quite a few were "re-uploaded" by others and thus, found in different places...... this helped the broadcast media to download pics and use commercially.......

The Kantaji's Palace pics were taken on 28 July 2006 and uploaded on 07 October 2006. The Muktagachha pics were taken on 05 Jan 2007 and uploaded in Jan and Feb of 2007. I got your first mail on 12 August 2007. I had a problem regarding membership, but when I became member, this is what I mailed on 16 August 2007:
"At last I've become a member of SkyscraperCity.......... I've just
discovered the thread on Heritage (Palaces and Zaminder's Mansions in
Bangladesh......... nice collection of pics!!....... some pics from my
collection too (www.flickr.com/photos/desherchobi/)............. but
unfortunately no mention of my name on it!!............ a little link
would've sufficed.......... its a good effort, but an acknowledgement can
enrich the forum and make more people interested in it!!..........

Just take this example.......... you asked me for the pics and thats why I
became a member!!......... do you think I should mention this in the forum?"

Sorry to say that I lost interst and left my membership where it remained. I suddenly got interested because another of my friend's photo was used commercially after "re-uploading"...... then I searched the Net and found that my Kantaji pics from this site came on this first page....... which is why I had to bother you people again........

I have contributed pics to many places without any commercial benefits...... I've travelled far and wide and given travel advice to many; again, without any commercial benefits........ this promotes my country and I'm proud doing it.......... but I also don't want vultures (commerical media) coming in and profiteer........ I'm not a professional photographer and only do photography as a hobby....... when I take photos, commercial benefit is the least that concerns me........ If I didn't want to contribute here, then why do you think I got a membership...... its unfortunate that I failed to contribute to such a growing forum.......

Thanks a lot to Tmac for removing the photos........ there are so many pics here and they are of so high resolution that it may take some time before one can find any single pic...... if I find one, I'll let you know........

sorry to bother you ppl with so many words and requests........ but I don't think they were illogical requests....... if you are ever hurt by my words try to forget this event........ I hope not to bother you again.......... but if you try to explore Bangladesh, you may find me here:
http://desherchobi.blogspot.com/

all the best wishes........

Sharif

Tmac

June 16th, 2008, 06:29 AM

Sharif, why did you ask us to remove the photos? Why not ask us to give you credit and still keep the photos posted in this thread? Anyways...they are your photos and you can do whatever you want with them. We will make sure we never ever post your photos here. If anyone by mistake posts any of your photos then please remind me via personal message, and I will gladly remove them. You do not need to write a long message about it. Just send me a PM. Once again I do apologize for posting your photos here. It wasn't our intention to hurt your feelings.

manbil777

June 16th, 2008, 01:05 PM

Why not ask us to give you credit and still keep the photos posted in this thread?

My points exactly TMAC -- I think artists need publicity too. And I don't mind a watermark -- nor do I think they're ugly. Nobody around here is into forfeiting copyrights willingly, as far as I can tell. We're all decent mature people...

Is it only a few of us who see things negatively? Let's hope so.

manbil777

June 18th, 2008, 11:14 AM

There is an interesting 25000 acre Hill station town being developed between Mumbai and Pune called Lavasa. The town is being built around a winding lakeshore formed by a Dam and is up at 2000~3000 ft. level.

HOK architects (and India's biggest Hafeez Contractor Architects) have planned it to develop it as a medical resort -- which is to say that Medical students will get training at various hospitals within town while well off people will fly in via helicopter and get treatment.

I think this offers an excellent model on how to develop Cox's Bazaar. Why develop it just for tourism and why not medical tourism?

Here's the link (http://www.lavasa.com/MediaBuzz/current.html). There are a lot of pages on this site (and images).

amar11372

June 21st, 2008, 08:54 PM

Gulf cos likely to invest in country's tourism sector

FE Report

The companies of the Gulf states are likely to invest their windfall profits from the oil boom in the country's tourism sector, a senior official said Friday.

Oil prices has risen to record 139.12 per barrel or 40 per cent so far this year, relentlessly boosted by fears of tight supplies, and weakness in the US dollar.

The official said a number of companies from oil rich countries including United Arab Emirate (UAE) and Saudi Arabia are now in touch with the government's high ups to discuss their investment proposals in the country's tourism industry.

He said the companies from the Arab states were seeing Bangladesh's tourism sector as one of the most potential and untapped areas for investment as there are natural spots like Cox's Bazaar and Kuakata sea beaches and Chittagong hill tract trails which would be able to attract foreign tourists.

Secretary of the Syed Md Jubair, secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism said: "We are now working to formulate the right policy to develop the country's tourism industry."

He said the process is underway to turn the BPC into a national tourism authority or board by changing its structure for making the organisation time-befitting, dynamic and effective.

Officials said investors from the Middle Eastern countries are coming to the country as the state-run Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) has decided that it will no longer indulge in business activities but rather perform as a facilitator and regulator.

The state run organisation has handed over 15 of its business organisations out of 37 to the private sector in line with the government's privatisation policy to develop and flourish the country's tourism industry.

The process for handing over the rest of the BPC organisations is in the pipeline, said BPC chairman Shafique Alam Mehedi on Wednesday

Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism said: "We are examining a proposal given by the Rass-Al-Khaima government of the UAE for setting up an exclusive tourist zone (ETZ) at Sonadia Island in Chittagong."

"There is also proposal from some prospective companies of Saudi Arabia, UAE," said a senior official and adding, "Our plan is to make tourism a strong earning arm of the country."

According to BPC sources, a record high of 2,89,000 tourists from different countries visited Bangladesh last year while in 2008 the country attracted 200,000 foreign tourists, earning about $89 million.

http://www.thefinancialexpress-bd.info/search_index.php?page=detail_news&news_id=37436

G2G

June 22nd, 2008, 05:34 AM

Good decision from BPC. But will it actually see the light and prospect!! I am still in doubt abt it.

amar11372

July 18th, 2008, 06:44 AM

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1216356039-clip-205kb.jpg
http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1216356188-clip-506kb.jpg
http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1216356309-clip-400kb.jpg

manbil777

July 18th, 2008, 09:52 AM

Enjoyed the story Amar -- Thanks!

amar11372

August 2nd, 2008, 09:02 PM

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1217703613-clip-233kb.jpg
http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1217703669-clip-307kb.jpg
http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1217703720-clip-166kb.jpg

amar11372

August 2nd, 2008, 09:04 PM

Parjatan Corpn to develop first-ever cable car
Sayeda Akter

http://www.thedailystar.net/photo/2008/08/03/2008-08-03__b2.jpg

The photo shows a cable car on the move between two hill tops. Bangladesh Parjatan Cotporation (BPC) is to develop the country's first-ever cable car, connecting slopes of two hills at Mirinza in Banderban district by the year- end. The concept of cable car comes at a time when Cox's Bazar is in a hard contest for the first place in the list of the seven natural wonders of the world with the world's longest beach remaining at the top of the nomination in recent weeks.

Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) is to develop the country's first-ever cable car, connecting two slopes at Mirinza in Banderban district, by the year-end.

Kazi Wahidul Alam, tourism analyst and editor of travel magazine Bangladesh Monitor, hoped that the number of tourists in the region will be doubled on the launch of the cable car.

A cable car is any variety of transportation systems relying on cables to pull vehicles along or lower at a steady rate.

The popular variety of cable car in South Asian countries is a ropeway conveyor that is a subtype of gondola lift, from which containers for goods rather than passenger cars are suspended in the air.

The concept of cable car comes at a time when Cox's Bazar is in a hard contest for the first place in the list of the seven natural wonders of the world with the world's longest sea beach remaining at the top of the nomination in recent weeks.

Shafique Alam Mehdi, chairman of BPC, said the cable car would attract the domestic tourists as well as the foreign tourists, helping the sector to grow.

“It will be a wonderful thing for the domestic tourists, as many of them have never been on a cable car and the foreign tourists would be able to have fun in the area as well,” he said.

He said the advertisement concerning the building of the cable car has already appeared in national dailies.

“It is primarily a project of the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs and the cost of the project is approximately Tk 5 crore,” said the BPC chief.

The cable car will run over more than one kilometre connecting two hills at Mirinza under Lama upazila in Banderban.

The cable car will be built as part of a BPC project titled Mirinza Tourist Complex Project, under which an internal road between the two hills and a restaurant in Banderban have already been developed.

Nazrul Islam, head of the project and project engineer of Mirinza Tourist Complex, said building of the cable car would take six to eight months for completion.

He said BPC has already established a power substation at Mirinza as part of the infrastructure for launching the cable car.

http://www.thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=48668

tanzirian

August 2nd, 2008, 09:51 PM

Thanks for the articles Amar. That cable car will surely be a big hit.

Skyprince

August 2nd, 2008, 10:00 PM

That is definitely a hit news . A good reason to pay second visit to Bandarban!

amar11372

August 11th, 2008, 08:54 PM

http://edailystar.com/contents/2008/2008_08_12/content_zoom/2008_08_12_20_0_b.jpg
http://edailystar.com/contents/2008/2008_08_12/content_zoom/2008_08_12_20_2_b.jpg

Nitesurfer1

August 12th, 2008, 04:06 AM

dopekhor

August 12th, 2008, 08:51 PM

UAE firm to build exclusive tourist zone at Sonadia
Unb, Dhaka

A United Arab Emirates (UAE) investment group has expressed interest in building an exclusive tourist zone only for foreigners at Sonadia Island in Cox's Bazar, as world's longest unbroken sea beach in the district holds huge untapped tourism prospects.

Investment Authority of Ras Al Khaimah, an emirate of the United Arab Emirates, has set its sights on the panoramic site on the beach of the Bay of Bengal.

Following the proposal from the investment group of the oil-rich Gulf state, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism is now conducting a feasibility study.

“Few days back, a representative of Ras Al Khaimah authority made a visit to Sonadia Island. They want to build an exclusive tourist zone at the Island. After that, the Tourism Ministry has asked the Parjatan Corporation to conduct a feasibility study,” Syed Mohammad Zobaer, secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, told UNB.

Sonadia Island is about seven kilometers off Cox's Bazar and about nine-square-kilometer in area in the embrace of the Bay. The western side of the island is sandy and different kinds of shells are found on the beach. Off the northern part of the island, there are beds of windowpane oysters.

During winter, fishermen set up temporary camps on the island and dry their catches of sea fish.

The secretary said the Ras Al Khaimah group has a plan to develop the tourist zone with all modern facilities and arrangements maintaining global standards.

Asked about the feasibility of the proposed Sonadia Exclusive Tourist Zone, he said in terms of natural beauty, the island is very much full of prospects. But the main concern is the environmental aspect of the island.

http://thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=50200

amar11372

August 12th, 2008, 10:04 PM

Hello All. I've literally gone through all 30 pgs of this nice Thread. I was wondering if there are any preferred Tour Operators to visit these places. I've googled and found tons. When members when to cities, did you trek on your own? I plan to go in Dec iA and want to go w/ a tour operator. And not one of those "Oh bengali-Foreigner, Charge Triple". Are there any recommended?

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1218571373-clip-98kb.jpg
http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1218571391-clip-82kb.jpg

Try contacting Galaxy Holidays, I read about them a lot in other visitor's blogs when they came to Bangladesh. Good Luck. :cheers:

amar11372

August 12th, 2008, 10:06 PM

UAE firm to build exclusive tourist zone at Sonadia
Unb, Dhaka

Great News. :)

G2G

August 13th, 2008, 05:07 AM

Excellent news!!.. I reallly hope, parjatan performs feasibility study correctly and quickly. Also, fisherman's settlement should also be provided so that those fisherman can use this to their advantage.

nayeem007

August 23rd, 2008, 08:17 PM

Tk260cr resort planned for business travellers
Jasim Uddin Khan

http://www.thedailystar.net/photo/2008/08/24/2008-08-24__b05.jpg

The photo shows a model of a cottage of the planned Tk 260 crore luxury resort to be built by a local developer, Rose Valley, in Savar. Photo: Rose Valley
A local developer will build a Tk 260 crore luxury resort in Savar mainly to accommodate readymade garment business travellers, an official of the company said.

The company, Rose Valley, has acquired 26 acres of land to build a 10-storey complex with 120 rooms, 50 duplex cottages and a business centre to entertain around 250 guests at a time.

The local firm has already submitted its project plan to Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) for approval and expects that the project will be completed by 2012 if the plan is approved.

“We want to accommodate the foreigners who visit Savar and Gazipur where over 500 garment factories are located," said Md Shahid Ullah, managing director of Rose Valley.

Buyers, chief executives and other officials of different firms, who frequently visit factories, spend a lot of time to travel from Dhaka.

RMG plant owners have long been underlining the need for such a resort in the busy industrial belt as the city thoroughfares are often gridlocked.

"It becomes a matter of embarrassment for the local businesspeople when their foreign guests are exhausted with the city's acute traffic jam,” Shahid Ullah said.

Also, the city's existing five-star and other luxury hotels lack proper facilities, whereas Rose Valley plans to arrange all types of entertainment to attract the businesspeople, he added.

“We will construct a spacious swimming pool with sauna, steam bath and other facilities. A Thai massage parlour and spa, and jogging, rowing and horse ridding facilities will be there. The resort will also showcase a big aquarium, bird cage and fountain, and greeneries,” Shahid Ullah said.

Standard tennis, badminton and squash courts, modern gym, snooker table, children's playground and a modern theatre are also the parts of the plan.

The company has already signed a deal with a private bank to get a fund of around Tk 60 crore for the project.

The firm has also introduced a unique membership system incorporating non-resident Bangladeshis to arrange a fund of about Tk 125 crore.

The company has plan to get about 5,000 members among which 3,000 will be NRBs who will contribute the amount in the next four years.

The company will sign a memorandum of understanding with the president of NRB Association of Bangladesh in this regard.

Each member will have to pay Tk 10,000 in booking money and Tk 4,000 each month in 60 instalments.

The company also established a safari park in Bhaluka, Mymensingh.
http://www.thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=51611

normandb

August 23rd, 2008, 09:38 PM

tanzirian

August 24th, 2008, 01:03 AM

Why is it exclusive only for foreigners? How about local Bangladeshi who can afford such amenities/facilities? they should also stimulate local tourism.

I agree, that doesn't sound right. Self-discrimination is ridiculous.

TIslam

August 24th, 2008, 02:42 AM

Tk260cr resort planned for business travellers
Jasim Uddin Khan

.....................

The local firm has already submitted its project plan to Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) for approval and expects that the project will be completed by 2012 if the plan is approved.

“We want to accommodate the foreigners who visit Savar and Gazipur where over 500 garment factories are located," said Md Shahid Ullah, managing director of Rose Valley.

Not a bright idea to set limits on eligibility of buyers (foreigners)
........................

"It becomes a matter of embarrassment for the local businesspeople when their foreign guests are exhausted with the city's acute traffic jam,” Shahid Ullah said.

What is the "embarrassment" for? As if other cities around the world does not suffer from gridlock.

Dhakaiya

August 24th, 2008, 06:44 AM

Not allowing Bangladeshis? Maybe its got gambling and drinking stuff.....thats why it may be exclusively for foreign nationals.

akbar1

August 24th, 2008, 08:48 AM

amar11372

August 24th, 2008, 09:25 AM

Hi all,

does this venture have a web site????

http://www.rosevalleybd.com/rvalley/index.html

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1219562675-clip-87kb.jpg

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1219562584-clip-188kb.jpg

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1219562619-clip-201kb.jpg

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1219562548-clip-235kb.jpg

http://www.rosevalleybd.com/rvalley/images/p22.gif

http://www.rosevalleybd.com/rvalley/images/p11.gif

manbil777

August 24th, 2008, 10:39 AM

-- snip--

Obviously the pics have been lifted off from a European lifestyle mag somewhere but my comment is they should've waited (before coming up with a proper plan and renderings) instead of publishing these completely unrelated set of copied pictures.

dopekhor

August 24th, 2008, 11:21 PM

Why is it exclusive only for foreigners? How about local Bangladeshi who can afford such amenities/facilities? they should also stimulate local tourism.
what do you expect from desis?

dopekhor

August 24th, 2008, 11:26 PM

http://www.rosevalleybd.com/rvalley/index.html

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1219562675-clip-87kb.jpg

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1219562584-clip-188kb.jpg

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1219562619-clip-201kb.jpg

http://clip2net.com/clip/m7984/1219562548-clip-235kb.jpg

http://www.rosevalleybd.com/rvalley/images/p22.gif

http://www.rosevalleybd.com/rvalley/images/p11.gif
lol a company that rips off never produces good quality esp a desi one!

normandb

August 25th, 2008, 11:02 AM

what do you expect from desis?

I don't know how to respond to your question I'm afraid :)

mirzazeehan

September 28th, 2008, 03:11 AM

This is great news:cheers:

Seagull plans Tk600cr hotel in Teknaf
Refayet Ullah Mirdha

The management of Seagull Hotels Limited plans to set up another five-star hotel in Teknaf.
Seagull Hotels Ltd, the owning company of five-star Seagull Hotel in Cox's Bazar, is going to set up another five-star hotel in Teknaf, a southern resort and coastal area, 500 kilometres away from Dhaka.

The company management has already initiated process to purchase land in Teknaf to set up the hotel to be completed within next three years at a cost of around Tk 600 crore, said Managing Director of Seagull Hotels Masoom Iqbal.

Seagull Hotel started its journey in 2002 and reached the break-even point last year.

"We have a target of buying a stretch of 60 bighas land in Teknaf for the hotel as the number of foreign and local visitors is increasing rapidly there," he said.

Masoom said the proposed hotel will have golf course, theme park, ropeway, marine aquarium and marine drive facilities.

He urged the government to formulate a befitting policy for the important tourist spots so the places in the coastal districts can be used properly as tourist spots.

He also called upon the government for making available an air landing space, bus and good railway communication facilities near Teknaf so that tourists can go there easily at cheaper costs.

Many small hotels are springing up in Teknaf and some other important tourist spots in the southern coastal districts, which will not be helpful for sustainable tourism development, Masoom said.

Development of hotels and motels in an unplanned and scattered manner will not help grow tourism business, as this will evolve a chance of damaging greenery, which is the main attraction of the tourist spots, he added.

"We have the potential of US$5-10 billion worth tourism business a year from Cox's Bazar, Teknaf, Sonadia and St Martin's coral island," he said.

The flow of local and foreign visitors increased manifold over the last few years as people are increasingly becoming aware of the scenic beauty of Cox's Bazar, Kuakata, Sonadia, St Martin's and Teknaf, the Seagull MD said.

According to unofficial statistics reported in media, in 2007 arrivals of foreign tourists in Bangladesh grew by 35 percent over the previous year.

In 2007, 2.7 lakh tourists came to Bangladesh, while the number was 2 lakh in 2006. However, the number of visitors was 2.8 lakh in 2003.

Source:http://www.thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=56825

tanzirian

September 29th, 2008, 08:14 AM

^^ Good news indeed. Will be nice base to for Naf River / St. Martin's.

nayeem007

December 6th, 2009, 07:46 PM

Tourism on a roll as funds pour

http://www.thedailystar.net/photo/2009/12/07/2009-12-07__bus01.jpg
A view of Padma Resort, located in a shoal on the mighty river. Over the last five years, new investors have entered the tourism sector with a lot of funds. The private sector has emerged as the driver of the hospitality industry in Bangladesh.

The hospitality industry witnessed rapid growth, receiving Tk 5,000 crore in 2005-2009, said the civil aviation and tourism ministry.

The funds went mostly into the development of hotels, motels, resorts, amusement parks and restaurants at popular tourist destinations.

From 2005 to 2009, around 500 hotels have been built at popular tourist destinations, including Dhaka, Cox's Bazar, Chittagong, Sylhet, Bogra and Khulna that created around 40,000 new jobs. At the same time, around 40 resorts and 15 amusement parks were also built across the country in the same period.

Most investment came from the private sector to tap the growing trend of travelling to tourist destinations by the urban middle class, according to the ministry.

The government spent around Tk 30 crore in the same period to build accommodation facilities, increase product quality, renovate tourist destinations and identify new tourist spots.

Most hotels and motels were built in Cox's Bazar. Around 180 hotels were built there in the last five years. Industry insiders said the investment flow started to grow from 2001, with many new investors entering the sector.

Hasan Mansur, managing director of Guide Tours Ltd, the oldest private tour operator in the country, said better accommodation at different tourist spots played a major role in increasing the number of domestic tourists.

"The first and foremost concern of a tourist is accommodation, which improved a lot in the last five years. The increasing number of new hotels, motels and resorts across the country played a role in boosting domestic tourism," he said.

"The new hotels, motels and other entertainment facilities catered to the needs of both tourists and local entrepreneurs. It increased revenue for the sector. Simultaneously, employment was also generated for many locals," he added.

However, Mansur stressed the need for government monitoring to ensure environment-friendly construction and better sewerage system.

Despite intense competition, business is brisk for different hotels and motels.

Abul Kashem Chowdhury, owner of Honeymoon Cottage in Cox's Bazar, said he began operations in 2006 and is now thinking about opening another small hotel next to his present establishment.

"When I started, there were only 40-50 hotels operating in Cox's Bazar. Now the number is more than 250, which increases competition in the sector," he said. "We have to think about improving our services, as many real estate companies are now coming here."

"At the same time, business is never dull here anymore, so I am thinking about opening another small hotel," said Chowdhury.

He said business is satisfactory, as occupancy remains full during the peak season and at least 60 percent in the off-peak season.

Apart from Cox's Bazar, business at other destinations is also promising. One example is Nazim Gahr, built on a hillock in Sylhet.

It started operations in October 2007 and achieved more than 90 percent occupancy during the peak season, according to owners.

“When we started off in our native village, we were inspired by an observation that people are now comfortable travelling inside the country, instead of going to Malaysia or Singapore,” said Nazim Farhan Choudhury, owner of the resort.

Starting with only 14 rooms, the resort has recently completed a major renovation and added 30 more rooms to enhance occupancy and revenue.

"I don't think we will lose out in this business, as we are getting more guests and more investors in the sector. The future is bright,” added Choudhury.

Along with private investment, the government is trying to take policy and budgetary measures to further give a boost to the tourism industry, said Shafique Alam Mehedi, acting secretary of the civil aviation and tourism ministry.

He said the government is now investing in several projects at different destinations.

http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=116693

Skyprince

December 7th, 2009, 04:31 AM

^^ Great news.

Bangladeshi people are extremely hospitable, cost is relatively low, public transpo is frequent and Bengali food is great for me those are far bigger attractions than theme parks, city skylines, technology, historical sites etc that most other countries can offer. It's time to build strong tourism identity for BD. Visa requirement should not be imposed for most nationalities. English signs must always be displayed in buses, train stations and streets.

nayeem007

December 7th, 2009, 07:36 PM

$22m ADB fund for tourism, bridge design

Star Business DeskThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Bangladesh yesterday signed two agreements for $22 million in soft loans to help promote tourism and complete the Padma Bridge design, the lending agency said in a statement.

M Musharraf Hossain Bhuiyan, secretary of the Economic Relations Division (ERD), and Paul J Heytens, country director of ADB's Bangladesh Resident Mission, signed the deals at a ceremony in Dhaka.

Around $12 million in loans for tourism development in Bangladesh will come from the South Asia Tourism Infrastructure Development Project.

The supplementary assistance of $10 million for the Padma Bridge design will help complete the design work of the vital infrastructure, ADB said.

http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=116827

salvibd

February 4th, 2010, 07:11 PM

http://www.bangladeshtourism.blogspot.com/

www.amazingbd.com (http://www.amazingbd.com)
Please suggest in this forum about how can i develop this site.

mirzazeehan

March 18th, 2010, 11:45 PM

This is excellent news!The Bangladesh private sector rocks!:cheers:

Luxury on railway tracks ready to roll
-A Monitor Report

Dhaka : with the increase of tourists, domestic and foreign, different modes of transport have risen to meet the challenge. Railway sector has improved but has still left much to be desired.

The number of luxurious road transports has increased but trains still remain a major means of transport for most of the people. So, an entrepreneur of the railway town of Pakshey dreams of operating trains which will become not only favourite of the tourists but also for corporate executives.

"The public private partnership (PPP) concept has imbued me to go into such an effort to improve services of Bangla-desh Railway,Akram Ali Khan, Chair-man, Musk Group said. He went into his " TourBangla Trains" endeavour in right earnest in May last year, brought in experts from abroad and contacted suppliers in China and India.
Akram Ali Khan at first planned to take three carriages on lease from Bangladesh Railway and refurbish them with one meant for corporate travellers, another for tourists and so on. But as the decision making process in Bangladesh Railway and relevant ministry was not fast enough, he has gone for an entire train with own locomotive to offer premium Dhaka-Chittagong services from either end and then expanding such services across the main routes of Bangladesh Railway network.

The well-appointed interior of the carriages of TourBangla Trains will not only have plush upholstery and seats as in aircrafts but also facilities to offer Internet and secretarial services at the business centre on board. From the very start, there will be e-ticketing. The food will also be of high standard.

As corporate executives need to look at their best at the end of their journey, there will be men's care and women's care facilities on board the train. Children are not forgotten - there will be a kid's zone on wheels, too.

Before or after their journey, the travellers will be able to rest at the special lounges of the train at the stations where it will have its stoppages.

Akram Ali Khan hopes to receive the go ahead from Bangladesh Railway soon and get TourBangla Trains rolling on the track on January 1, 2011 - the very first day of "Visit Bangladesh Year 2011."

Source:http://www.bangladeshmonitor.net/news_detail.php?nhid=1298&CID=4