United News of Bangladesh

The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, stands as a vital natural barrier along the coast, protecting millions of people from cyclones, storm surges, and rising sea levels. Often likened to a nurturing mother, this unique ecosystem not only endures harsh environmental conditions but also shields vulnerable communities from the increasing threats of climate change. Beyond its protective role, the Sundarbans supports rich biodiversity and sustains local livelihoods, making its preservation crucial for both people and nature. Recently, I have been to the Sundarbans with my grandsons, Tanzif and Tawfeeq, and their parents, Shahrin and Asif, and came back on the 26th instant. It took me quite a while to convince my daughter that it’s much more rewarding to visit the Sundarbans than Cox’s Bazar! I was referring to her perceptions of people who have visited the Sundarbans. I was wondering what the Sundarbans meant to our younger generations and discovered Samia Jahan Shefa ([email protected]), a student of the Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, between her lines. Samia, on June 3, 2024, wrote to the editor of the Financial Express: “The Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is like our mother who endures adversity but protects us. It safeguards the coastal areas, offering protection from Nature's fury. In recent memory, two of the deadliest super cyclones—Sidr in 2007 and Aila in 2009—hit the coastal areas of Bangladesh. After these devastating cyclones, other severe storms made landfall, including Fani and Bulbul in 2019, Amphan in 2020, and Yaas in 2021. Each time, the protective Sundarbans played the role of a saviour against Nature's ferocity. It was no different at the time of Remal. The Sundarbans, our first line of defence against natural disasters, once again safeguarded the nation from Cyclone Remal. It saves us but pays a heavy price in terms of the forest's ecosystem, wildlife, and biodiversity. The flora and fauna of the forest sacrifice their lives to save us. ……………….. If the Sundarbans survive, Bangladesh will survive, as it takes care of us. But who will take care of it? Bangladesh aims to be a developed country by 2041. What will be the condition of the Sundarbans then? Will it become a scapegoat for ‘development’? We don't want a developed Bangladesh at the cost of destroying our ‘saviour mother,’ the Sundarbans.”  

Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, has become a global icon since its inauguration in 2010, symbolising the United Arab Emirates’ ambition, growth, and architectural prowess. Soaring 828 metres into the sky, the building has redefined luxury and remains a magnet for both tourists and locals, with observation decks on levels 124, 125, and 148 offering panoramic views of Dubai. Purpose behind Burj KhalifaThe primary goal of constructing Burj Khalifa was to create a landmark for Downtown Dubai that would attract tourists and investors while serving as a hub for economic activity. The vision was to design a vertical city encompassing residences, luxury hotels, tourist attractions, and corporate offices. By doing so, Dubai aimed to diversify its economy beyond oil, drawing global investment into real estate, business, and tourism. Backed by the UAE government, the project was intended as both an architectural and economic statement. Construction journeyConstruction began in 2004, led by architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), with Adrian Smith as the chief architect and Bill Baker as the structural engineer. The design process involved rigorous studies on wind resistance, material strength, and temperature variations along the building’s height, pushing engineering boundaries. The tower was completed in October 2009, just over five years after construction began. Among its remarkable features are the 26,000 exterior glass panels, each weighing 362 kg, installed by more than 300 Chinese cladding specialists — a world record for aluminium and glass façade installation at 512 metres. The telescopic spire, the building’s crowning feature, contains 4,000 tonnes of structural steel and houses communication equipment, with xenon lights flashing 40 times per minute to prevent collisions. How Dubai’s Burj Al Arab became the world’s ‘only 7-Star Hotel’ amid Iran strikes Burj Khalifa’s infrastructure is equally impressive, with 57 elevators, eight escalators, the world’s tallest service elevator capable of carrying 5,000 kg, stairways reinforced with fireproof concrete, and a water system supplying an average of 946,000 litres daily. Economic impactThe project cost $1.4 billion and was officially opened in January 2010. Named in honour of former UAE president Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan as a gesture of gratitude for financing, Burj Khalifa has since become a major economic driver. Entry ticket sales alone generate $621 million annually, and the residential units have earned $2.18 billion since 2010, with over 76% priced above $1 million. The tower draws millions of visitors and investors, significantly boosting Dubai’s economy. What’s inside Burj KhalifaBurj Khalifa combines luxury, business, and lifestyle under one roof. It houses the Armani Hotel on floors 1 to 8 and over 900 private Armani residences from levels 9 to 108, designed by Giorgio Armani. Corporate suites, observation decks, spas, gyms, and swimming pools extend up to level 154. For dining, Atmosphere on level 122 is the world’s highest restaurant from ground level, offering spectacular views alongside fine cuisine. Beyond its height, the tower features the most floors, the highest elevators, the tallest habitable floor, and the highest residential apartments in any building worldwide — truly embodying the concept of a vertical city. Burj Khalifa remains a landmark of ambition, luxury, and innovation, cementing Dubai’s place on the global stage.

India’s varied landscapes continue to fascinate travellers, from the snow-covered Himalayas to the sunlit beaches of Goa. Among these attractions is a striking road in western India that feels almost unreal. Known as the Road to Heaven, the nearly 30-kilometre-long stretch links mainland Kutch with the historic village of Dholavira in Gujarat. The road is celebrated for its rare geography and breathtaking views. For almost half the year, water stretches out on both sides, while during the remaining months the surroundings turn into vast white salt pans. Depending on the season, travellers often feel as if they are driving across water or through an endless salt desert. This dramatic setting has made the route hugely popular on social media and a visual symbol of Kutch’s natural beauty. The journey also leads to Dholavira, a globally significant archaeological site recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond its scenic appeal, the Road to Heaven carries cultural importance as it connects the craft village of Khavda, located near the White Rann, with Dholavira. The route gained national attention after being featured during the G20 Summit, after which authorities opened it to the public. Since then, it has become a favourite drive for tourists. Travel influencer Arihant Baid recently shared a viral Instagram video showcasing the road’s mesmerising landscapes. In his post, he described it as one of India’s most beautiful roads, located close to the Pakistan border and leading to Khadir Bet island, home to ancient Dholavira. Peru airport near Machu Picchu raises overtourism fears Best time to visit The ideal time to experience the Road to Heaven is between November and February. Winter brings cool, dry weather, clear skies and comfortable conditions, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the views of the salt desert. How to get there By air, travellers can fly to Bhuj Airport and hire a cab for the roughly 80-kilometre journey. By train, Bhuj Junction is the nearest railhead, with taxis and private vehicles available onward. For many visitors, however, a road trip remains the best option, as the route is well connected with major cities across Gujarat. For those seeking a unique and dreamlike driving experience, the Road to Heaven in Kutch stands out as a destination that truly lives up to its name.

A long-delayed airport project in Peru’s Sacred Valley is fuelling fresh debate over tourism growth and heritage protection, as critics warn that the development could permanently alter the landscape surrounding the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. The Chinchero International Airport, under construction on the outskirts of the historic Andean town of Chinchero, is expected to significantly reduce travel time for visitors by allowing them to bypass Lima and Cusco. Designed to handle up to eight million passengers a year, the airport could boost visitor numbers to the region by as much as 200%, according to Peruvian authorities. Supporters argue the project will provide an economic boost to one of Peru’s less-developed regions. The Ministry of Transport and Communications says the airport, which has already cost an estimated 2.3 trillion Peruvian soles, has created more than 5,000 construction jobs and could benefit around one million people linked directly or indirectly to tourism. However, Indigenous groups, archaeologists, environmentalists and local tourism operators have raised concerns about cultural loss, environmental damage and unchecked development. The Sacred Valley, carved by the Urubamba River and surrounded by the Andes, was the spiritual and administrative heart of the Incan empire and still contains functioning pre-Incan and Incan infrastructure, including roads, irrigation systems and agricultural terraces. Opponents warn the airport threatens watersheds, wildlife habitats and archaeological sites. Local guide Luis Flores said agricultural land around Chinchero has already been sold off since the project was announced more than a decade ago, replacing traditional corn and potato fields with housing and commercial development. He fears intensified construction to support mass tourism will further reduce farmland. Tourism professionals acknowledge potential economic benefits but stress the need for proper planning. Machu Picchu guide Lizbeth Lopez Becerra said the region’s infrastructure is already under strain, citing traffic congestion, water shortages and inadequate waste management. A comprehensive heritage impact assessment, she noted, remains incomplete. The airport project, first proposed in 1978, has been repeatedly delayed by funding problems, construction setbacks and allegations of corruption. Officials now estimate it will be completed in late 2027, though some residents doubt it will ever open. Concerns have also been raised about overtourism. Unesco has warned that poor management and rising visitor numbers could threaten Machu Picchu’s World Heritage status. Peru’s Ministry of Culture currently caps daily visitors at between 4,500 and 5,600, depending on the season, but a sharp rise in arrivals could place further pressure on the fragile site. Veteran guide Efrain Valles Morales said the key issue is not visitor numbers alone, but how tourism is managed. He urged authorities to invest in guide training and diversify attractions to spread visitors beyond Machu Picchu, highlighting lesser-known nearby sites such as Chonta Canyon and ancient agricultural terraces at Surite. Hotel owner and philanthropist Petit Miribel said while Cusco’s existing airport is overcrowded and new infrastructure is needed, development must be carefully controlled. She warned that rapid, unplanned construction is already changing the character of towns like Urubamba, adding that long-term impacts on future generations must be considered. Although the airport has yet to open, residents say its effects are already being felt. “The damage is already there,” Miribel said, reflecting a growing concern that transformation of the Sacred Valley is underway even before the first plane lands.   With inputs from BBC

The Siwa Salt Lakes in Egypt’s Siwa Oasis are known for their striking turquoise water and for a rare experience: in many of the pools, it is extremely difficult to sink. Unlike some viral travel locations that disappoint in real life, these desert pools often look much like the photos shared online. Located near Egypt’s border with Libya, the pools are shaped by the area’s geology and by salt extraction. As minerals are excavated from dried salt lakes, some basins later fill naturally with water from underground springs. In the intense desert climate, water evaporates quickly, leaving behind very high concentrations of mineral salts. That salinity makes the water denser, creating strong buoyancy, so swimmers tend to float on the surface soon after entering. Some accounts say salt levels in certain pools can rise to extremely high concentrations — far higher than seawater — which further increases buoyancy and makes sinking unlikely. Beyond their appearance, the Siwa lakes are also linked to the oasis’s long history. Reports note archaeological finds in the region dating back thousands of years. Locally, salt and salt-rich materials have traditionally been used in construction, including in structures such as the historic Shali Fortress. Bali named world’s top travel destination for 2026 by TripAdvisor Today, salt taken from the lakes and ponds is used in a range of products and in wellness practices. Many visitors and locals believe the mineral-rich water can help with skin and sinus problems, though these claims are largely based on tradition and personal experience. Visitors are commonly advised to be cautious: avoid getting the water into your eyes and avoid shaving right before swimming to reduce irritation. Why Mount Damavand, Asia’s tallest volcano, is so famous To reach the lakes, travelers typically book day tours from Cairo or Alexandria or use local transport such as tuk-tuks for shorter trips. Alongside floating in the salt pools, tourists often visit Cleopatra’s Pool, the Oracle Temple, the Shali Fortress area and the Mountain of the Dead tombs. Siwa became more accessible after a highway opened in the 1980s, bringing the once-isolated oasis onto Egypt’s travel map.   #With inputs from  NDTV

Bali has been crowned the world’s best travel destination for 2026 in TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best, beating a list of global favourites including London, Dubai, Hanoi, Paris and Rome. The ranking is based on the volume and quality of traveller reviews collected throughout 2025, reflecting feedback from real visitors across the globe. Bali Governor Wayan Koster said the recognition highlights the island’s enduring appeal despite challenges such as waste management, traffic congestion and fluctuations in visitor numbers. “Bali has secured the highest position in the world, proving that these issues cannot weaken its standing as a top global destination,” he said in Denpasar, according to Antara. Why Mount Damavand, Asia’s tallest volcano, is so famous Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said the award shows continued confidence among international travellers. “Being chosen as the world’s best destination by TripAdvisor proves that Bali remains a major magnet for global tourism,” he said in a statement. TripAdvisor described Bali as a “living postcard”, known for its white sand beaches, coral reefs and historic World War II shipwrecks. Along with the top global ranking, Bali also earned several other honours. It was ranked first among the best honeymoon destinations, placed in the top 10 for cultural destinations and solo travel, and listed among the world’s top 20 trendiest cities. The island is popular for its diverse attractions, from the green rice terraces and art markets of Ubud to the calm beaches of Seminyak and Nusa Dua. Adventure lovers often hike Mount Batur for sunrise views, while visitors explore iconic temples such as Tanah Lot and Uluwatu. Greenland in winter and summer: A land of ice, adventure, and stunning landscapes Snorkelling and diving hotspots like Amed and Nusa Penida also draw travellers with their clear waters, coral reefs and rich marine life. With its blend of natural beauty, culture and relaxation, Bali continues to attract travellers from every corner of the world.   #With inputs from NDTV

Mountains rarely dominate headlines. They remain unchanged while empires rise and fall, borders move, and history reshapes nations. But Mount Damavand, Iran’s towering, snow-covered giant, refuses to remain merely a silent landmark. Standing at 5,609 metres, Damavand is officially Asia’s tallest volcano. Unofficially, it represents far more: a geological mystery, a cultural symbol, a mountaineer’s challenge and, more recently, a backdrop to modern conflict. Few natural monuments combine poetry, politics, science and survival so seamlessly into a single silhouette. A peak that is more than just a mountain Rising from Iran’s Alborz mountain range near the southern edge of the Caspian Sea, Damavand commands the landscape with its almost perfect cone and permanent snowcap, making it one of West Asia’s most recognisable peaks. It is Iran’s highest mountain, Asia’s tallest volcano and one of the world’s most prominent peaks. Yet its significance extends far beyond geography. Its snow-covered summit appears in poetry, folklore and even on Iranian currency. In the epic Shahnameh, Damavand is described as the prison of Zahhak, the tyrant king whose defeat symbolised justice triumphing over cruelty. Other legends place the mythical Simorgh, the bird of wisdom, atop its peak. For centuries, writers and poets have used Damavand as a symbol of resistance, endurance and national pride, a reputation so powerful that the mountain features on Iranian banknotes.

Greenland, an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, is the world’s largest island. Nestled between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans, it primarily experiences two distinct seasons: long, dark winters from October to May and bright, sunlit summers from June to August. Many also describe spring as occurring between March and May and autumn between September and October. Regardless of the season, Greenland is known for its stunning landscapes and picturesque skies, which remain a constant attraction throughout the year. According to a December 2024 report by The Guardian, 92,673 tourists visited Greenland in 2022, rising to 131,767 in 2023. A CNN report noted that the island welcomed 141,000 visitors in 2024, with figures for 2025 yet to be released. Despite past US President Donald Trump’s interest in acquiring Arctic territories, Greenland remains a highly sought-after destination for travelers. Visitors are drawn not only to its dramatic scenery but also to experiences such as viewing the Northern Lights, exploring Inuit culture, witnessing the midnight sun during summer, and taking part in adventure activities. What visitors should know as Louvre ticket prices jump by 45% for many tourists Here’s a look at how Greenland appears during its winter and summer seasons. Greenland in winter For those seeking a true winter wonderland, Greenland offers a chilly paradise from October through May, with temperatures ranging from -9°C to -30°C. The northern regions experience polar nights, where the sun does not rise from November to January, while the southern areas receive some daylight. Despite the freezing conditions, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as Arctic ice tours, dog sledding, skiing, and snowshoeing. The northern polar nights also provide an opportunity to witness the aurora borealis, along with experiencing local life in small towns. Spring begins in March, bringing daylight to both northern and southern regions. With sunlight reflecting off vast expanses of snow and ice, tourists are advised to wear sunscreen and sunglasses. This season also offers unique experiences such as polar plunges into icy waters, combining winter fun with bright, photogenic landscapes. Winter storms dump snow and ice across New England Greenland in summer Though brief, summer in Greenland is enchanting, particularly north of the Arctic Circle, where the Midnight Sun keeps daylight constant for 24 hours. Temperatures are milder, ranging from 5°C to 15°C, allowing visitors to wear lighter clothing. As snow melts, it unveils cascading waterfalls, green tundra, and vibrant wildflowers. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot musk ox, whales, birds, arctic hares, and reindeer. Adventure seekers can enjoy kayaking, hiking, and sailing through fjords, while icebergs, misty mornings, and local cuisine add to the charm of the season. Summer gradually gives way to autumn, with shorter days and the return of aurora sightings. Visitors can continue camping, water activities, and outdoor exploration as long as sunlight permits, making Greenland a year-round destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. #With inputs from NDTV

Queues stretching beneath I.M. Pei’s iconic glass pyramid have long been a defining part of a visit to the Louvre, rivaling even the draw of the Mona Lisa. Now, the world’s most visited museum is raising the cost of entry for many travelers as it seeks funds to address mounting challenges—from overcrowding and security needs to labor unrest and the fallout from October’s high-profile theft of the French Crown Jewels. The museum was forced to close again on Monday following a staff walkout. Beginning Wednesday, the Paris landmark will implement a two-tier pricing system, increasing ticket prices for most non-European visitors to 32 euros ($37), up from 22 euros ($26). The overnight rise amounts to a 45% increase. The new rate applies to visitors from most countries outside the European Union, including the United States, which traditionally accounts for the largest share of foreign visitors to the museum. The decision has drawn criticism from French labor unions, who argue that the move runs counter to the Louvre’s universal cultural mission. Who still gets free entryAccording to the museum, the higher fee will be charged to visitors who are neither citizens nor residents of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway. The Louvre has long struggled with surging visitor numbers, an aging facility, recurring strikes and escalating security and maintenance costs—pressures faced by many of France’s major museums. France’s CGT Culture union has condemned the tiered pricing system, saying it turns cultural access into a “commercial product” and creates unequal access to national heritage. However, the Louvre notes that several groups will continue to enjoy free admission, including visitors under 18 and certain young residents of European countries. The previous ticket increase took effect in January 2024, when standard admission rose from 17 euros to 22. Impact of the Crown Jewels theftEven before the Oct. 19 daytime robbery that saw French Crown Jewels worth an estimated 88 million euros ($102 million) stolen from the Louvre, discussions were underway about raising fees for visitors from outside Europe. The swift heist intensified concerns over the protection of priceless cultural treasures and fueled debate over how major museums should finance necessary upgrades—and whether tourists should shoulder more of the cost. The Louvre has not explicitly linked the ticket increase to the theft. By comparison, standard entry to Rome’s Colosseum, including the Forum and Palatine Hill, costs 18 euros ($20), while adult admission to Athens’ Acropolis stands at 30 euros ($33). Repeated labor unrestThe museum has repeatedly faced public disruptions due to internal tensions. In June, an unannounced strike by gallery attendants, ticket sellers and security personnel delayed the museum’s opening, leaving thousands of visitors waiting outside beneath the pyramid. Staff members say mass tourism has overwhelmed the institution, pointing to excessive crowding, staff shortages and worsening working conditions. Paris showcases royal jewels as city still reels from Louvre heist By December, unions said the jewel theft and the deteriorating state of the historic former royal palace had elevated their long-standing concerns into a national issue. Louvre employees have since voted to continue striking until they see what they consider meaningful reforms.         

A new tourist centre, Ala Mi Tlang Eco Resort, is being constructed at an altitude of about 2,100 feet above sea level at the foot of Keokradong, one of the country’s highest mountain peaks, in Susuang Para of Bandarban. “Ala Mi Tlang,” which means Song of the Distant Mountains in Bengali, is being developed with financial assistance from the Bangladesh Army to help improve the livelihoods of the economically backward Bom community. The scenic Susuang Para, located around 90 kilometres from Bandarban district town, is known for its vast natural beauty. A Bangladesh Army camp is situated adjacent to the resort site. The foundation stone of the eco resort was laid on Saturday noon by Brigadier General SM Rakib Ibn Rezwan, Commander of the 69 Infantry Brigade and Bandarban Army Region Commander.