Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital, is a shopper’s paradise that offers high-end malls as well as traditional markets. Whether you are looking for luxury goods or affordable trinkets, Bangkok has something for every taste and budget.  Most Popular Shopping Malls in Bangkok Siam Paragon Siam Paragon, located at 991/1 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, is Bangkok’s premier luxury shopping destination. Its European-inspired design houses luxury brands like Hermes, Prada, and Versace. Visitors can enjoy attractions like Siam Ocean World, an I-MAX Cinema, and even Madame Tussauds Museum, offering a complete shopping and entertainment experience.  Read more: Shopping in Hong Kong: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Central World Central World, located at 999/9 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, is one of Bangkok’s largest malls, featuring over 600 stores across seven floors. From international brands like Uniqlo and H&M to local gems like Naraya, this mall offers a combination of versatile brands. Highlights include the SF World Cinema, The Rink, and the trendy GROOVE dining zone. 

Moulvibazar is a serene gem in northeastern Bangladesh. It offers sprawling tea gardens, picturesque waterfalls, mesmerising beauty of haors (wetlands), historical sites, swamp areas, etc. Its natural diversity, paired with rich cultural heritage, offers an unforgettable travel experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Let’s look at the best travel destinations in Moulvibazar. Location of Moulvibazar Moulvibazar district is nestled within the Sylhet division in Bangladesh. It is about 200 km northeast of Dhaka, the capital city. It shares borders with the Indian states of Tripura to the south and Assam to the east, while being surrounded by the Bangladeshi districts of Habiganj to the west and Sylhet to the north. This district is renowned for its scenic tea gardens, dense forests, and culturally significant landmarks.  How to Visit Moulvibazar from Dhaka By Air  The fastest route is by flight. You can catch a direct flight to Sylhet Osmani International Airport, which is about 60 km from Moulvibazar. Frequent domestic flights are available, with prices ranging from 3,600 BDT to 10,000 BDT, and the journey lasts approximately 45 minutes. From Sylhet, you can hire a car or take a local bus to reach the district centre. Read more: How to Visit Dinajpur's Kantajew Temple By Road  Travelling by bus or car takes about 6 hours. Many AC and non-AC buses depart regularly from Dhaka to Moulvibazar, making road travel a budget-friendly and flexible option. The fares range from 570 BDT to 800 BDT. By Train  The train journey from Dhaka to Sreemangal (a nearby station) takes about 5 hours. Options include the Parabat Express, Upaban Express, and Kalni Express, with prices between 275 and 938 BDT. From Sreemangal, Moulvibazar town is only a short drive away, accessible by car or bus.  What to See in Moulvibazar: Top Tourist Places Hakaluki Haor Hakaluki Haor, one of Bangladesh's largest marsh wetlands, is a must-visit destination in Moulvibazar. Known for its stunning natural beauty and biodiversity, this vast water body is home to 558 species of animals and birds, including several endangered species.  Visitors can explore the haor by boat, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking reflections of the sky on the water's surface. Located within Barlekha Upazila, it is also part of Kulaura and Juri upazilas.  Read more: How to Visit Ramsagar Lake, National Park at Dinajpur To reach Hakaluki Haor from Moulvibazar town, you can take a bus or hire a private car, making it an easy and scenic trip.  Madhabkunda Waterfall Madhabkunda Waterfall, one of Bangladesh's largest waterfalls, stands 162 feet tall. Located in Barlekha Upazila of Moulvibazar District, it is a favourite destination for hikers. It is also a great picnic spot for the tourists. The breathtaking sight of the waterfall, surrounded by lush hills and forests, makes it an ideal place for photography and relaxation.  There are two routes available to visit Madhabkunda Falls. First, you can reserve a CNG or microbus from Moulvibazar. You can also take a bus from Moulvibazar to Baralekha and stop at Kanthaltali Bazaar, just before Baralekha. From there, you can reach Madhabkunda Eco Park by hiring a local or reserved CNG.   Read more: Madhabkunda Waterfall: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

If you are craving a trip to a lush green paradise with breathtaking waterfalls, serene lakes, and expansive tea gardens, look no further than Sreemangal. This small town in northeastern Bangladesh offers a blend of natural beauty, rich wildlife, and unique eco-tourism experiences.  Whether you want to relax in an eco-resort or explore forests, Sreemangal promises unforgettable adventures. Let’s dive into the top destinations and experiences that this captivating place has to offer. Location of Sreemangal Sreemangal is located in the northeastern part of Bangladesh, in the Moulvibazar District under the Sylhet Division. Known as the tea capital of Bangladesh, it boasts tea gardens, hills, and forests. The region's high rainfall, fertile soil, and tropical climate make it a biodiversity hotspot, rich with flora and fauna.  Sreemangal is about 191 kilometres away from Dhaka which makes it accessible for both short getaways and extended vacations. Read more: How to Visit Kotka Beach at Sundarbans How to Visit Sreemangal from Dhaka By Air While Sreemangal does not have its own airport, you can fly from Dhaka to the nearby Sylhet Osmani International Airport. Domestic airlines offer frequent flights ranging between 3,600 BDT to 10,000 BDT, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. From Sylhet, Sreemangal is just a two-hour drive.  By Road  One of the most common ways to reach Sreemangal is by road. Regular bus services connect Dhaka with Sreemangal, with the journey taking around 7 hours depending on traffic. You can choose between luxury buses or more budget-friendly options. The fare ranges from 570 BDT to 800 BDT. The drive is scenic, with views of tea estates and green landscapes along the way. By Train For a more leisurely travel experience, opt for a train ride from Dhaka to Sreemangal. The journey takes about 5 hours, and trains like Parabat Express, Upaban Express, and Kalni Express offer a comfortable ride. The ticket fare is between 275 BDT and 938 BDT. The best part is you will get to enjoy the countryside views of villages, rivers, and tea gardens throughout the trip. Read more: Discover Bisnakandi: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Sylhet’s Tourism Hotspot What to See in Sreemangal Baikka Beel Wetlands Baikka Beel Wetlands is a paradise for bird watchers, especially during the winter months when migratory birds flock here. It is situated halfway between Sreemangal and Moulvibazar. The tranquil environment, combined with sightings of species like the Purple Heron and Pallas’ Fish Eagle, makes it a peaceful spot to appreciate the region’s natural beauty. To reach Baikka Beel from Sreemangal, you can hire a CNG, autorickshaw, or microbus. The wetland is located about 17 kilometres away from Sreemangal, and the journey takes around 40 minutes.  Read more: Madhabkunda Waterfall: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Bangladesh has numerous historical temples reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. Among the most prominent is the Kantajew Temple in Dinajpur, renowned for its magnificent terracotta architecture. Kantajew Temple is also known as Kantaji Temple or Kantanagar Temple. Constructed in the 18th century, this Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is one of the country’s finest examples of art. Location of Kantajew Temple This temple is situated at Kantanagar village in Kaharole upazila of Dinajpur district, approximately 20 kilometres from the main town in northern Bangladesh. The name derives from "Kantaji," a form of the Hindu god Kanta or Krishna. This 18th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his wife, Rukmini. Maharaja Prannath began the temple's construction in 1704, and it was completed by his son, Maharaja Ramnath, in 1752. Kantajew Temple is especially revered by Krishna devotees in Bengal. Read more: Top 10 Historic Places, Landmarks in Dhaka How to Visit Kantaji Temple from Dhaka From Dhaka to Dinajpur  By Air  Flying is the quickest way to reach Dinajpur. Daily flights operate between Dhaka and Sayedpur, the nearest airport, about 60 kilometres from Dinajpur. You can hire a car from Sayedpur or take a local bus to Dinajpur town, which takes approximately an hour. Airfare typically ranges between 2,800 and 9,500 BDT, depending on the airline and booking time. By Train  If you prefer a more scenic and affordable option, taking a train from Dhaka to Dinajpur is a great choice. Trains are available and the journey times range from 7 to 9 hours. Tickets are available from 575 BDT for a non-AC seat and can go up to 1,978 BDT for AC berths.  By Bus  For budget travellers, buses are the most economical option. Direct buses leave from Dhaka’s bus terminals heading to Dinajpur, with the journey taking around 10 hours. The ticket price ranges between 800 and 1,500 BDT, depending on the bus type.  Read more: Buddha Dhatu Jadi: The sacred tourist spot and its trouble From Dinajpur to Kantajew Temple After reaching Dinajpur town, travelling to Kantajew Temple is straightforward. You can hire a local CNG (auto-rickshaw), a private car, or even a rickshaw to cover the 20-kilometer journey. It will typically take about 30 to 40 minutes. The roads are fairly well-maintained, and the ride gives you a chance to enjoy views of rural Bangladeshi life. Construction and Architecture Kantajew Temple is an iconic example of terracotta architecture in Bangladesh. Originally constructed in the navaratna (nine-spired) style, the spires were destroyed by an earthquake in 1897, leaving the base of the temple intact. The temple’s design features four-centred, wide multi-cusped arches, semi-octagonal mihirabs, and intricate rectangular and square panelling. Its plastered walls are adorned with ornamental turrets and the domes, once bulbous and majestic, sat on octagonal drums with lotus and kalasa finials. The temple's exterior is covered with terracotta panels, depicting mythological and everyday scenes, skillfully crafted by local artisans from Krisnanagar. Read more: Day Trips from Dhaka: 5 Affordable Tourist Spots near Dhaka Notable murals show Krishna plucking coconuts, Radha-Krishna dancing on an elephant, and charming Bengali wedding scenes. These portrayals blend deities with familiar social scenes, offering a glimpse of 18th-century rural Bengal. The Persian-inspired muqarnas work in stucco inside the half-domes over the entrance arches and mihirab niches further highlights the temple’s blend of cultural and architectural elements. 

Travelling solo as a woman is an empowering experience. More and more women are embracing freedom and adventure through solo travel experiences. However, with all the excitement, safety remains a significant concern. Whether you want to explore new places abroad or heading off on a local trip, prioritising your safety is essential. Let’s dive into some practical and effective safety tips that can help you enjoy solo adventures with confidence and peace of mind. Tips to Stay Safe As a Solo Female Traveller . Research Your Destination Thoroughly Before your trip, thoroughly research your destination’s culture, customs, and laws. Understanding dress codes and behavioural norms is essential, especially in more conservative regions. Identify safe areas for solo female travellers and note places to avoid.  Additionally, you should save local emergency contacts, hospitals, and your country’s embassy information to ensure you are well-prepared for any situation.  Plan Your Accommodation Carefully When booking accommodation, prioritise safety and comfort. It is recommended to pick places that are centrally located, well-reviewed, and cater to female travellers.  Read more: Essential Snake Safety Tips for Hiking, Trekking, Camping, and Traveling Staying in female-only dorms or hotels with secure entry systems can provide peace of mind. Also, avoid accommodations in isolated or poorly lit areas which ensures you can walk to your destination or access transport safely. Travel Insurance It would be wise to have comprehensive travel insurance, especially when travelling solo. Make sure your insurance covers medical expenses, lost belongings, and trip cancellations. In case of an accident or unexpected event, this will give you peace of mind, knowing that you are covered. Research policies and opt for one that suits your travel style and needs. Get a Local SIM Having a local SIM card makes it easier to stay connected with family and friends, as well as navigate unfamiliar areas. A local SIM allows you to access data, make emergency calls, and use local apps without relying on potentially expensive roaming charges. It is also useful for communicating with locals or booking services such as taxis or tours. Stay Connected Keeping in touch with family and friends is crucial for your safety. Share your itinerary with them and keep them updated on any changes. Using tracking apps like Google Maps or other location-sharing apps will allow someone to monitor your whereabouts.  Read more: How to Travel Safely During Heat Waves Regular communication through messaging apps ensures that someone knows where you are, even if you are exploring more remote areas. VPNs are useful for securing your internet access, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi. Pack Smart and Light Packing light makes travel more convenient and also safer. Avoid carrying expensive or flashy items that might attract attention. Travellers should invest in anti-theft backpacks or money belts to secure their valuables. This will help you stay mobile, making it easier to move swiftly if needed and reduce the risk of being targeted by thieves. First Aid Kit Carrying a compact first aid kit ensures you are prepared for minor health issues on the go. Include essentials like band-aids, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. Being able to treat minor injuries or discomforts without delay is an important part of solo travel journeys, as you might not always have immediate access to medical care. Trust Your Instincts One of the most important safety tips for solo female travellers is to trust your instincts. If a situation or person makes you feel uncomfortable, trust that feeling. Do not hesitate to remove yourself from potentially unsafe environments. Developing assertive behaviour and projecting confidence through body language can also deter unwanted attention or interactions. Read more: How to Avoid Scams During Travel Bookings Blend In With the Locals Adapting to the local culture by blending in is a smart way to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Dress in a way that reflects local customs, especially in more conservative countries. Learning basic local phrases can help you navigate better and show respect for the local culture. Additionally, it signals that you are not an easy target.  Use Reliable Transportation When travelling alone, it is important to use trusted transportation services like Uber. These apps allow you to track your route and share your location. Public transportation can be safe, but it is best to avoid late-night travel when possible. Plan your routes ahead of time to avoid appearing lost, and try to sit in safer areas, such as near the driver. Inform Friends and Family Letting loved ones know your travel plans is crucial for peace of mind. Share your accommodation details, daily itinerary, and contact information. Regularly update them on your location and any changes in your plans. This communication ensures that someone knows your whereabouts and can respond if something goes wrong, especially in emergency situations. Keep Your Documents and Money Safe Keeping your passport, visa, and other essential documents safe is crucial to avoid being stranded in a foreign country. It would be wise to have digital copies and paper photocopies of your documents.  Read more: Solo Trip: Tips for Travelling Alone for the First Time Use multiple forms of payment, such as cash, credit cards, and travel cards, and keep them in different locations to minimise the impact if something is lost or stolen. Be Cautious With Strangers  Interacting with locals can enrich your travel experience, but it is essential to maintain boundaries. Avoid sharing too much personal information or your travel plans with strangers. While friendliness is important, prioritise your safety by politely disengaging from conversations that make you uncomfortable. Always trust your instincts when assessing people’s intentions. Stay Alert in Social Situations While socialising can be fun, extra caution is necessary when you are alone. If you feel uneasy, have an exit strategy in place. Stick to well-lit, populated venues and avoid heading off with someone you have just met, especially in unfamiliar locations. Know Self-Defense Basics Taking a basic self-defence class before your trip can provide extra confidence. Learn simple techniques that are easy to remember and practical. Additionally, carrying small safety items like a personal alarm, whistle, or pepper spray can help in emergencies. These tools act as a deterrent and provide extra security during unsettling encounters. Read more: Tips to Prevent Food Poisoning while Travelling Closing Lines Travelling solo can be a rewarding and life-changing experience for any female outdoor enthusiast. While safety is a legitimate concern, with the right preparation and cautiousness, women tourists can explore the world confidently.  If you are a solo female traveller, trust your instincts, stay informed, and use technology to your advantage. Remember, the goal is to enjoy your travels while staying safe—and with these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for any adventure that comes your way. Read more: Shopping in Dubai: What to Buy, Where to Buy from

Ramsagar, located in Dinajpur, Bangladesh, is a Spectacular destination known for its large freshwater lake and lush surroundings. A perfect getaway for nature lovers, Ramsagar offers scenic views, historical significance, and peaceful vibes. All these make it a must-visit for both tourists and locals.  Location  Ramsagar is situated in the Dinajpur district of northern Bangladesh. It is located in the village of Tejpur, about 8 kilometres south of Dinajpur town. The name “Ramsagar” refers to King Ram Nath, who commissioned the creation of this vast man-made lake in the mid-1750s. Spanning 1,079 metres in length and 192.6 metres in width, Ramsagar Lake is the largest man-made water body in Bangladesh.  Around 1.5 million labourers participated in digging the lake, with a total cost of 30,000 taka at the time. It was originally built to provide water for the local population and wildlife. The surrounding area now features Ramsagar National Park, making it a popular tourist destination. Read more: Baklai Waterfall in Bandarban: How to Get to One of the Tallest Waterfalls in Bangladesh Ways to Reach Ramsagar from Dhaka From Dhaka to Dinajpur Travelling by Air The fastest way to reach Ramsagar from Dhaka is by flying to Saidpur Airport, which is located around 60 kilometres from Dinajpur. There are regular flights from Dhaka to Saidpur, with an average flight duration of about one hour.  A one-way ticket costs from BDT 4,000 to BDT 5,000, depending on the season and availability. You can hire a private car from Saidpur or take public transport to reach Dinajpur, which usually takes another 1.5 to 2 hours. Travelling by Train Another popular way to reach Dinajpur is by train. Trains from Dhaka to Dinajpur are available daily, and the journey typically takes around 8 to 9 hours, depending on the train service. There are several classes of tickets, ranging from BDT 575 to BDT 1,978, depending on whether you choose a regular seat or an air-conditioned cabin. The train ride is scenic and makes it an enjoyable journey. Read more: Lawachara National Park Travel Guide: Evergreen forest in northeastern Bangladesh Travelling by Bus Travelling by bus is the most budget-friendly option for visiting Ramsagar. Buses depart regularly from Dhaka to Dinajpur, and the journey usually takes around 10 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Ticket prices range between BDT 800 and BDT 1,500 for non-AC and AC buses. While it may be the longest option in terms of travel time, buses offer frequent schedules and are accessible for most travellers. From Dinajpur to Ramsagar To travel from Dinajpur to Ramsagar, you can use local transport options. From Dinajpur town, you can hire a rickshaw van or take a ride on a ‘Nosimon’ (a local motorised vehicle). The ride typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes to reach Ramsagar.  What to See and Do at Ramsagar Exploring the Historic Temples  At the northern end of Ramsagar Lake, you will find two ancient temples, known as Dev Mandir, Baroduari, and Hazarduari. These structures, built during the 17th or 18th century, add a touch of history and spirituality to the area. Their traditional architecture makes them a must-see for history buffs and those interested in cultural heritage. Read more: Tazing Dong Trekking: In-Depth Travel Guide and Cost Details Stroll Through Ramsagar National Park The lush Ramsagar National Park, covering around 60 hectares, is perfect for nature lovers. The forest, planted with a variety of ornamental and fruit trees by the Forest Department, provides a peaceful retreat. The park is home to several animals, including deer, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, and even blue bulls. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting species such as white-breasted water hens, jacanas, and purple herons.

The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a mangrove forest known for its rich biodiversity, unique ecosystem, and serene waterways. Among its many treasures is the Kotka Sea Beach, a tranquil coastal retreat where the forest meets the Bay of Bengal. Visiting this natural haven will let you witness the untouched beauty of the forest and the sea. Location of Kotka Sea Beach Kotka holds a special appeal for tourists among the many captivating spots in the Sundarbans. Located in the southeastern corner of the Sundarbans, Kotka Beach is around 90 km from Mongla Port in Khulna. It serves as the heart of the Sundarbans Eastern Sanctuary.  Renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, Kotka offers a pristine beach and lush greenery. This picturesque destination allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the untouched wilderness of the Sundarbans, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. ead more: Lawachara National Park Travel Guide: Evergreen forest in northeastern Bangladesh Ways to Reach Kotka Sea Beach from Dhaka: A Detailed Travel Guide Dhaka to Bagerhat By Air  The fastest route is a flight from Dhaka to Jashore Airport which takes around 45 minutes. Several flights operate daily, with costs ranging from 4000 to 5,250 BDT. It is a 3-4 hour journey from Jessore to Bagerhat by bus or car. By Train  Alternatively, you can take a train from Dhaka’s Kamalapur Station to Khulna. The fares range from 625 to 2,200 BDT. The trip lasts around 8-10 hours, followed by a 1-2 hour journey by bus or car to Bagerhat.  By Bus  Direct buses from Dhaka to Bagerhat are available, costing between 650 and 700 BDT. The bus journey takes about 6-8 hours. There are also buses to Khulna from Gabtoli or Sayedabad with fares 650 to 1,600 BDT and a further 1-2 hour trip to Bagerhat. Read more: Sylhet’s Jaflong Travel Guide: Where Nature’s Beauty Blooms From Bagerhat to Kotka Sea Beach To visit Kotka in the Sundarbans, permission from the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in Khulna is required. The main transport to Kotka is by water, usually via a launch. You can board a launch from Rupsa in Khulna or Mongla Port in Bagerhat.  Alternatively, boats can be rented from Morelganj or Sharankhola. Private motor launches, speedboats, and vessels are available. It is recommended to book through a local tour operator for guided services and permit arrangements. Cost of Visiting Kotka The daily travel fee for domestic tourists in the Sundarbans Sanctuary is BDT 150, and BDT 30 for students. Foreign tourists pay BDT 1,500. Outside the sanctuary, fees are BDT 70 for locals and BDT 20 for students.  Read more: Tinap Saitar Waterfall Travel Guide: Visit a pristine natural fountain in Bandarban In Karamjal, the fee is BDT 20 for locals and BDT 300 for foreigners. Additional charges include BDT 500 per day for guides, BDT 300 for security, BDT 70 for launch crew, and BDT 200 for telecommunication. Video camera fees are BDT 200 for locals and BDT 300 for foreigners.  What to See and Do in Kotka Sea Beach Wildlife Safari  Kotka is famous for its rich wildlife. You can also spot majestic herds of deer gracefully roaming the area. During the winter season, tiger paw prints become visible. Early morning safaris offer the chance to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger, monkeys, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Bird Watching  Kotka has over 50 species of birds, including rare and migratory ones. All these together make Kotka a haven for bird lovers and photographers. Read more: Manpura Island Travel Guide: Breathtaking Paradise in Southern Bangladesh Trekking  The grassy meadows between Katka and Kachikhali (Tiger Point) offer scenic trekking routes for adventure seekers. It provides a closer look at the Sundarbans’ unique ecosystem. Watchtower Visit  You can climb the watchtower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Sundarbans mangrove forest, Kotka Sea Beach, and the Bay of Bengal. This is an excellent spot for birdwatching and enjoying the sunset.

Snakes play a crucial role in our environment and ecosystem. However, when enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, camping, and traveling, encounters with snakes can pose significant risks, including dangerous bites. Understanding how to stay safe from snakes during these adventures is essential to prevent incidents and ensure enjoyable experiences. Tips to Stay Safe During Outdoor Adventures Follow Designated Paths Snakes often inhabit areas with dense vegetation and rocky terrain. Sticking to marked trails reduces your chances of encountering them. Trails are usually well-maintained and provide a clear view of the path ahead, allowing you to spot snakes from a distance. Venturing off the beaten path can lead you into a snake’s natural habitat, increasing the likelihood of an unwanted encounter. Wear Protective Attire When hiking or trekking, it's crucial to dress appropriately. Wearing long pants, thick socks, and high boots can help protect your legs and feet from snake bites. Snakes typically strike at lower extremities, so covering these areas can offer significant protection. Choose clothing made from sturdy material to create an effective barrier between your skin and a snake’s fangs. Be Aware of Your Surroundings Constant vigilance is key to avoiding snake encounters. Always watch where you step, especially in areas with tall grass, under rocks, or near logs, where snakes like to hide. Using a walking stick to probe the ground ahead of you can help detect snakes before you get too close. Additionally, be cautious when sitting down or reaching for something on the ground, as snakes can be difficult to spot and may be hidden in the underbrush. Read more: Madhabkunda Waterfall: A Comprehensive Travel Guide Avoid Handling Snakes It is crucial to resist the temptation to touch or handle a snake, even if it seems dead. Some snakes can still bite reflexively after death, posing a significant risk. Snakes play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations and maintaining balance. Observing them from a safe distance is the best way to appreciate these fascinating creatures without putting yourself in danger.

The cost of your next flight is likely to go up. That's the word from the International Air Transport Association, which held its annual meeting Monday in Dubai, home to the long-haul carrier Emirates. Airlines operating in Bangladesh must determine airfare in taka instead of dollar from July 1 While carriers recover from the groundings worldwide from the coronavirus pandemic, industry leaders told journalists that there are several costs likely to push those ticket prices ever higher. Part of that comes from worldwide inflation, an ongoing problem since the pandemic started. Jet fuel costs, roughly a third of all airline expenses, remain high. Meanwhile, a global push for the aviation industry to decarbonize has more carriers fighting for the little amount of so-called sustainable aviation fuel, or SAF, available in the market. Hike in airfare during Eid rush irks TIB “The airlines will continue to do everything they can to keep costs in control as much as possible for the benefit of consumers," said Willie Walsh, the director-general of the the International Air Transport Association, an industry-trade group. "But I think it’s unrealistic to expect that airlines can continue to absorb all of the costs. ... It's not something we like to do, but it's something we have to do.” Also pressuring the industry is a pandemic hangover in aircraft production as well, they say. Carriers now keep older planes that burn more fuel flying longer. There also aren't enough new aircraft to expand routes and increase supply to bring down overall prices. That warning comes as the IATA estimates globally, airline revenue will reach nearly $1 trillion in 2024, a record high. There will be 4.96 billion travelers on airplanes this year, with total expenses for carriers reaching $936 billion — another record high. Reduce airfare on Middle East routes: Baira But industry profits also are expected to be nearly $60 billion this year. In particular, Emirates, a main driver for Dubai's economy, saw record profits of $4.7 billion in 2023 off revenues of $33 billion. The Emirates’ results track with those for its base, Dubai International Airport. The world’s busiest airport for international travelers had 86.9 million passengers last year, surpassing numbers for 2019 just before the coronavirus pandemic grounded global aviation. The airport now plans to move to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches in the next 10 years in a project worth nearly $35 billion. Tim Clark, the airline's president, obliquely acknowledged that Monday by saying that he didn't want people to “get boxes of tissues out and play the violins” when warning that the industry's profit margins sit in the low single digits. However, he contended that as airlines have grown larger and carriers consolidated, cost savings have quietly been passed onto consumers now able to book flights across the world. “It is quite amazing that ticket prices are where they are today," Clark said. "I think the value-for-money proposition that the consumers have had the benefit from for many decades is something that is one of those hidden bits of the narrative.” Yvonne Manzi Makolo, the CEO of RwandAir, also highlighted the taxes and fees imposed on carriers by the countries they operate in. She specifically cited those paid by carriers flying out of African nations as “already ridiculous.”

Traveling during the rainy season in Bangladesh can be a unique and enriching experience. Bisnakandi, one of the top tourist destinations during the monsoon, is known for its picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, and cascading waterfalls. This tourism hotspot in Sylhet offers an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. Let’s take a detailed look at what Bisnakandi has to offer. Location of Bisnakandi Bisnakandi, or Bichnakandi, is a village located in the Rustampur union of Gowainghat upazila in Sylhet district of Bangladesh. The name Bichnakandi is derived from two Bengali words: "Bichhana" (or "Bisna" in Sylheti), meaning bed, and "kandi," meaning dam or cluster. This name reflects the area's distinctive landscape, where an abundance of stones stacked together, resembles a bed. Read more: Madhabkunda Waterfall: A Comprehensive Travel Guide