Transportation in Bangladesh:
Many roads in Bangladesh are highly congested with vehicles of all types – cars, trucks, rickshaws, motorbikes and bicycles. At first glance there seems to be no road rules at all, yet somehow, seemingly through an almost constant ‘harmony’ of horns and bells, it all works. Undoubtedly it is confronting to the first time traveller, and this is why we recommend using a reserved vehicle for first time travellers to Bangladesh. Taxicabs and app based service provider such as UBER are available in Dhaka and other major cities, Taxicabs are identified by their yellow tops. More experienced travellers may wish to use public transportation such as buses, CNG`s and bicycle rickshaws for getting around the cities. Buses, trains and flights are all widely available in Dhaka for travelling to the other major cities.
Language
Bangla is the national language of Bangladesh and English is commonly spoken everywhere too. Interpreters for other languages are readily available.
Food and Drink in Bangladesh
Food is an adventure in Bangladesh and there is something for everyone. Bangladeshis are proud of their recipes as most have been passed down through generations. Not everything is spicy or hot, on the contrary. Many dishes are mild yet very tasty.Lunch can be as little as USD $3-5 and dinner often not more than USD $10 for a decent meal. But, alcohol is restricted in Bangladesh and can only be purchased from government approved bars in Dhaka and other major cities. Bars are available in all 3/5 star hotels in Dhaka.
Water – it is advisable to drink only bottled water.
Accommodation
Standard accommodation varies in price between $30 and $70 per night. Nonetheless, luxury accommodation varies in price between $80 and 270 per night.
Mosques, Temples &Holy Places
Shoes must be removed before entering a mosque, temple or place of religious significance. For women it is also recommended you wear a head scarf and dress modestly as a measure of respect. Taking photographs at a death ceremony, religious ceremony or of people bathing may cause offence and is not recommended.
Internet and mobile phone service
The telephone Country Code for Bangladesh is +880. Mobile telephone coverage is good in Bangladesh and some operators have more than 90% network coverage. We recommend purchasing a sim card from the company `Grameenphone` as they have the best network coverage . However, internet and E-mail is accessible from an increasing number of hotels and from internet cafes across the country.
Changing money
The currency of Bangladesh is the Bangladesh Taka. Please Check OANDA for the latest exchange rates. US Dollars, Pound Sterling or other major currencies will need to be exchanged locally, as the Taka is not traded internationally. Therefore, this also means you should spend all your Taka before you leave Bangladesh. There are plenty of money changers in Dhaka and other major cities, at the airport, in the street and at hotels. A growing number of ATMs in Dhaka and other cities accept foreign cards. Credit cards are widely accepted for all purchases.
Health &Vaccinations
If you take any regular medication, bring double your needs, as although local pharmacies stock a reasonable range (often dispensed without a prescription) the exact combination may not be available. Dhaka city has pollution and excessive dust due to low rain in the winter. Visitors with respiratory problems and allergies should likewise bring a supply of suitable medication. Face masks can be purchased locally. Bring a good supply of DEET based insect repellent – effective against a range of flying insects and leeches. Doxycycline is useful as a broad spectrum antibiotic effective against a range of diseases. Seek specialised advice from your doctor or travel clinic regarding which vaccinations should be administered. See also the following websites:
World Health Organization () Information is revised annually.
Visa information
Please visit the following link for full details. //visalink.com.au/Bangladesh-visa
Important links and articles:
MD Travel Health Travel health recommendations, updated daily
Centre for Disease Control & Prevention Good general information.