Travelling is an exciting adventure that exposes us to new cultures, cuisines, and experiences. However, amidst the excitement, one must be vigilant about food safety to ensure a healthy trip. Food poisoning can quickly turn a dream vacation into a nightmare. In this article, we will delve into useful tips to safeguard the tourists against food borne illnesses while on the move. Practical Ways to Prevent Food Borne Illness While Travelling Research Local Cuisine Before journey, travellers need to delve into the local culinary scene and customary food safety protocols of their destination. This preliminary research equips them to make the right decisions about dining options. Understanding the local food landscape helps to anticipate what is in store and make choices that align with your own preferences and safety. It ensures a more enjoyable and worry-free gastronomic experience. Choose Reputable Restaurants It is better to select well-established, reputable restaurants renowned for their commitment to hygiene and patron safety. These dining venues adhere to rigorous cleanliness standards. This certifies a secure and pleasant dining environment. By choosing such establishments, a traveller not only guarantees a delightful culinary experience but also prioritises his or her health and well-being. In this case, the traveller knows that the food served is prepared and handled with the highest regard for safety and quality. Read more: 7 Comforting Soups for Upset Stomach Avoid Street Vendors with Poor Hygiene Indulging in street food is tempting, but be discerning—steer clear of vendors with questionable hygiene. Instead, one may opt for those who maintain visible cleanliness and serve a steady stream of customers. Prioritising hygiene in street food adventures makes sure a safer culinary experience. It allows one to relish local flavours without compromising well-being during travels. Drink Bottled Water In certain regions, it is always suggested to opt for bottled water to guarantee safe consumption. It is safe to prioritise bottles with an unbroken seal, verifying their authenticity. This cautious approach ensures traveller’s hydration is clean and secure. It safeguards their health during travels. They should always try to make an informed choice to keep themselves refreshed and well, no matter where they go. Wash Fruits and Vegetables Thoroughly Before consuming raw fruits and vegetables, it is essential to wash them meticulously with clean water. This process helps eliminate any potential contaminants, including dirt, pesticides, or bacteria. It guarantees that what one eats is fresh, safe, and free of harmful substances. Taking this simple precaution significantly contributes to a healthy and enjoyable dining experience. Read more: Upset Stomach Remedies: What to eat, drink and avoid

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a traveller's paradise. This city offers a perfect blend of rich cultural experiences and excellent shopping opportunities. The city is known for its diverse markets and traditional bazaars that showcase the unique essence of Nepali culture. When in Kathmandu, shopping becomes an integral part of the travel experience, and it is worth exploring the local markets to find extraordinary items. Best Souvenirs to Buy in Kathmandu On the bustling streets of Kathmandu, travellers can discover a captivating array of souvenirs. Each one encapsulates the rich culture and traditions of Nepal. Pashmina shawls are a must-buy, renowned for their luxurious softness and warmth. Made from the fine wool of Himalayan goats, they embody not only exquisite craftsmanship but also symbolise Nepali elegance. For adventure enthusiasts and trekkers, Kathmandu stands as a hub for top-quality trekking gear.  Moreover, immersing yourself in the local culture becomes possible through unique items like ayurvedic soaps, Tibetan juniper incense, and handicrafts made from natural fibres and intricately hand-carved woodwork. These items showcase Nepal's artistry and add a touch of its heritage. Read more: 8 Best Winter Travel destinations in Bangladesh Tea and coffee in Nepal have distinct flavours and are delightful purchases. It is perfect as either a personal indulgence or a thoughtful gift. The markets in Kathmandu offer a stunning variety of jewellery, ranging from traditional silver pieces to modern designs. These jewelleries provide a perfect piece to adorn yourself or a loved one.  Lastly, for culinary enthusiasts, spices from Kathmandu are a must. From fiery chilli to aromatic herbs, these spices add a dash of Nepali flavour to your cooking. Additionally, Gurkha knives (Kukri) and honey sourced from skilled honey hunters in the Nepali mountains are distinctive souvenirs, reflecting Nepal's rich heritage. Each unique item you purchase will not only serve as a reminder of your time in Nepal but also contribute to supporting local artisans and preserving Nepal's cultural heritage. Read more: Best Hotels and Resorts in Kuakata

Bangladesh being on the tropical spectrum of the climate, experiences a moderate winter season. Apart from the northern regions of the country, the mild winter season makes for a perfect time to go for a vacation and explore the diverse landscape of the country. With that said, here are the 8 top popular tourist destinations in Bangladesh for spending winter vacation.  Top Place to Visit in Bangladesh During Winter  Saint Martin’s Island  One of the prime attractions of winter travel is Saint Martin’s island. This Bea coral island is situated in the south of Bangladesh off the coast of Cox’s Bazar. The ship operation to St. Martin remains closed from April to October. It begins in early November and runs through March for the winter and spring seasons.  Every year, millions of tourists flock to the island to experience the serene landscape and the blue lagoon all around. Getting to St. Martin Island is also easy. There are direct bus services from Dhaka to Teknaf. From Teknaf, there is an abundance of ships and launches going to St. Martin. It takes about two and a half to three hours by ship to get to the island.  Read more: Bandarban Tourist Spots – Best Places to See and Craziest Things to Do To protect the biodiversity and environment of this coral island, the government of Bangladesh has taken some initiatives. Tourists are required to take permission before visiting this island. Make sure to take ample winter clothes as nights can get pretty cold. Take note of the tides to experience the unobstructed beach along the coast of the island.  Kuakata  Kuakata is famous for being the only place in Bangladesh where one can enjoy both sunrise and sunset. Often referred to as the “Daughter of the Sea”, Kuakata is comparatively less crowded than Cox’s Bazar during the peak travel season.  Read more: Best Places for Honeymoon in Bangladesh

Kuakata, often referred to as the "Daughter of the Sea," is a picturesque coastal town nestled along the stunning shores of the Bay of Bengal in southern Bangladesh. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and serene ambiance, Kuakata has earned its place as one of the country's most sought-after tourist destinations. Naturally, several staycations have been developed here to accommodate the influx of tourists in every season. Let’s take a look at the most renowned hotels and resorts in Kuakata to spend vacations. Top Resorts and Hotels in Kuakata Sikder Resort and Villas Sikder Resort and Villas is one of the largest and most luxurious seafront resorts in Kuakata. The resort is situated opposite to the Eco Park. It is strategically positioned to provide easy access to the beach at any time of the day.  Sikder Resorts has three different accommodation options. Visitors can choose to stay either in the Lake View tower, the Villas, or the Sunrise and Sunset tower. If you don’t want to miss the sunrise and sunset Kuakata is so famous for, we suggest booking the Sunrise and Sunset Tower.  Currently, the resort is offering a monsoon special offer. Visitors can book from several options ranging from deluxe, superior, premier, and royal suites which cost 7590 BDT, 10,626 BDT, 12,144 BDT, and 34,155 BDT for two people per day. Services like buffet breakfast, swimming pool, jacuzzi, car parking, internet, and gym are complementary.  Read more: Khulna and Bagerhat Travel Guide: Best Places to See, Exciting Things to Do Somudra Bari Resort, Kuakata  Somudra Bari Resort is situated in Kalapara, opposite the Sikder market. The resort is within walking distance from the Kuakata Sea beachfront. Somudra Bari can be a perfect accommodation choice for those looking for economic options.  The resort is situated right beside the lake which provides an exceptional view of the horizon from their lake view suites. Visitors can even go on a boat ride in the lake at an additional charge. There are two types of rooms for couples -/ Deluxe AC Lake View and Deluxe AC Garden View. Additionally, single rooms are also available. Services like buffet breakfast, in-room tea, and parking facilities come as complementary with the stay. Last month, Somudra Bari was offering a 2-day 2-night stay package at 5,550 BDT for two. This month they are offering a 50% discount on all their rooms and services. Booking details are available on this resort's Facebook Page. Read more: 11 Cool Places in and around Dhaka to Visit on Eid Day with Family, Children Rose Valley Motel and Resort Rose Valley Motel and Resort is situated on the Kuakata main road, a bit away from the sea beach. While it's not very far from the beaches, it brings a sense of calm and quietness all around as there aren’t bustling people everywhere.  The resort can be a perfect vacation accommodation for budget travellers. There are five different room options ranging from Luxury suite, Superior deluxe to VIP suite. The cost ranges between 2500 BDT to 6500 BDT per night for two.  Room services, parking facilities, and wife come as complementary with the stay. Visitors can dine in-resort or choose from the several local restaurants nearby.  Read more: Top 25 hotels in Asia, according to Tripadvisor

When it comes to driving from one place to another, having a driving license is not just a privilege but a necessity. But when it makes that transition time-consuming, the journey becomes downright painful. Unfortunately, it has been a regular scenario in Bangladesh. However, thanks to the Smart Card Driving Licence, the possibilities in the road transport sector are beginning to unfold. This is going to be a signature service of BRTA (Bangladesh Road Transport Authority). Let’s discuss the steps to get a BRTA Smart Card Driving License hassle-free. What is the BRTA Smart Card Driving License? The BRTA's Smart Card Driving License streamlines the license acquisition process, storing driver information and expediting police verification. Previously, applicants needed to apply separately for learner and smart card licenses through BSP (BRTA Service Portal). Later on November 16, 2022, a merged online form was launched, simplifying this. It, even, comes with some new benefits. New Benefits of BRTA Smart Card Driving License - Single visit to the examination center for biometric, written, oral, and practical tests.- BSP portal registrants receive a learner license with an online QR code for temporary nationwide driving.- Services also include fee payment, exam results, application submission, and status tracking.- Smart card licenses are sent by post. Read more: Smart NID Card in Bangladesh: Online Application Process, Documents Needed, Fees Prerequisites for BRTA Smart Card Driving License It includes mental and physical qualifications, education up to at least class 8, and minimum ages of 21 for professional and 18 for non-professional drivers. Importantly, passing the learner’s test is mandatory to apply for a smart card license. How to Apply for the BRTA Smart Card E-Driving License Required Documents Most documents needed for a learner’s driving license application also apply here, including:- Recent passport-sized photograph of the applicant (300/300 pixels)- Medical certificate from a registered doctor. Applicant's NID - One utility bill (gas/electricity/water) if the current address differs from the NID- Certificate of educational qualification- Proof of passing learner’s driving license test- Refer to the provided links for police investigation reports, where applicable. http://www.brta.gov.bd/site/page/511a7af4-20c8-4450-b4a6-5f92dde1b23f/- http://www.brta.gov.bd/site/page/4258fc8f-8aec-4895-b11d-a0b33b489af2/- Please ensure that all documents are scanned and prepared before applying online. The scanned passport-sized photo file should not exceed 150 KB (kilobyte), while other files should stay within 600 KB. Read more: Bangladesh Smart National ID Card Correction Process: Payments and Necessary Documents Online Application Process To apply online, visit the BSP portal at https://bsp.brta.gov.bd/. Begin by creating an account on the portal through registration, which will store all the driving-related information. Let's proceed step by step through the application process. Registration - Click on the 'Registration' menu at the top right of the BSP portal.- Complete the registration by providing the date of birth, NID, and mobile number.- Verify the mobile number through the OTP (one-time-password) sent to it.- Finish the registration by setting a password. Access the BSP portal using the mobile number and password. Those who have already registered can enter their accounts directly by clicking on the 'Login' menu on the site. Application for Learner’s Driving License - After logging in, the user will encounter their customer dashboard. On the left-hand side, they should navigate to the 'Driving Licence' sub-menu and select 'Application for Driving Licence.'- The next page displays the required documents. Download the Medical Certificate form via the 'Click Here' link.- Obtain a medical certificate from a registered doctor or medical officer based on this form.- Follow the terms on the page and click 'I agree' to proceed to the next step. Read more: Where to Learn Car Driving in Dhaka? NID Information This step initializes the 5-step driving license application process. The NID number will auto-fill, considering it was provided earlier. Click 'Next' to proceed to the 2nd step. Driving License Information - Choose the driving license language, type, class of motor vehicle, and type of applicant (Learner and Smart Driving License).- Click 'Next,' and a popup message confirms the successful saving of information. Click 'OK' to proceed. Basic Applicant Information - Some information will be pre-populated based on the NID. Additional data needs to be input.- Complete mandatory fields, including educational qualification, blood group, occupation, marital status, nationality, and dual citizenship. Click 'Next,' then 'OK' as before. Address and Contact Information - Provide emergency contact details, including both permanent and current addresses.- If the current address remains unaltered, input it in English, mirroring the left-side display.- If the current address differs, click 'No' and input the changed address in both Bengali (left side) and English (right side). Click 'Next' and 'OK' as before to proceed. Read more: Bangladesh e-Passport Information Update: Step by Step Procedure, Related Costs Attachment and Smart Card Distribution Information - Attach scanned copies of the required documents collected earlier. Click 'Choose File' to upload and 'Save' to attach. Use the 'View' button to preview attachments.- The address for smart card delivery via post is auto-filled. Alternatively, select 'Others' to specify a different address, providing full details.- Click 'Submit' to verify the information one last time. Make any necessary changes or confirm if all is accurate. If everything is correct, click 'Fees Deposit.' Fee Deposit - Note that only the learner's driving license application fee is required here.- Click 'Submit Fee,' proceed to the 'Payment Confirmation' page, and provide payment details, including the method and mobile number.- Confirm the payment by ticking the box next to the payment terms and clicking 'Confirm.'- The page will display the successful fee deposit, and the user can print the learner's driving license or the payment receipt. Application for Smart Card Driving License Prior to applying online for the smart card driving license, the individual must successfully pass the driving proficiency test. Check the test result by accessing the 'Application for Driving License' menu on the customer dashboard within the BSP portal. The test result will also be conveyed to the mobile number provided during the application. Read more: Bangladesh E-passport Error Correction Process Attach Required Documents - Click 'View & Next Step' to access the attachment page, where documents attached during the learner driving license application will be pre-loaded.- Upload the 'Pass Learner' certificate and proof of passing the driving proficiency test. Additionally, attach any other required documents where applicable. Payment of Fees - To pay the fee through a bank, click 'Deposit fee through the bank.' For online payment, choose 'Deposit the driving license fee online.'- For online payment, click 'Pay Now' on the online payment page.- For bank payments, collect the e-tracking number from the bank's receipt and enter it in the 'Enter e-tracking number' box. Click 'Verify e-tracking number' to confirm payment details.- Review all payment information and click 'Submit' to complete the final payment of the fee. E-Paper Driving License Upon successful application submission for the smart card driving license, the e-paper license form will be displayed on the dashboard once approved by BRTA. Download and print it for use as a valid driving license until the physical smart card arrives. The dashboard will also display the latest license status. Read more: Highway Robbery Prevention Tips while Driving at Night Getting the Smart Card Driving License in Hand Once the entire smart card driving license preparation process is finished, it will be displayed on the dashboard. The smart card driving license will then be sent by post to the address specified in your application. BRTA Smart Card Driving License Fees Learner driving license fees are to be paid exclusively through the BSP portal. The fee for one motor vehicle is BDT 518, while for two motor vehicles, it is BDT 748. For a 10-year non-professional license during the smart card driving license application, the cost is BDT 4,557. The 5-year professional license costs BDT 2,832. Summing Up There are actually two main phases, summarizing the methods for obtaining a BRTA Smart Card Driving License described above. The first phase precedes the driving skills test, primarily dealing with the procedure for acquiring a learner's driving license. The second phase of obtaining BRTA e-driving license emphasizes the digitization aspects associated with its transformation into smart cards. Read more: How to Get a Trade License in Bangladesh?

The ancient European peninsula which the Romans used to call Hispania is today’s Spain. A country of just 47 million people is home to a rich history, cultural diversity, and tons of attractions. From the streets of Barcelona, and alleyways of Seville to the majestic landscape of Granada, this southwestern European country is sure to enthrall travellers. Let’s go on a journey of the top 10 must-visit places and attractions in Spain to plan the perfect itinerary. Vamos! Top 10 Places to Visit in Spain  Barcelona  Home to the famous European club and the capital of the Catalonia region, Barcelona has a plethora of attractions. Start off the trip at the magnificent La Sagrada Familia which is still under construction. Head over to Park Güell to relax and unwind. Visit the Gothic Quarter on La Rambla for a spooky experience. Barcelona is famous for its Flamenco dances, so don’t miss out on it. 

The word pyramid is often associated with the three large triangular structures in Egypt. These iconic tombs of the Egyptian Pharaohs are a testament to the glorious history and ancient culture of the country. However, beyond the borders of Egypt, there are other pyramids scattered across the globe. Each of these structures has their own history and purpose. Let’s look at 10 of the most famous pyramids that put visitors under a spell.  Top 10 Notable Pyramids Across the World  Most of the noteworthy pyramids are located in Egypt. However, pyramids were also discovered in Mexico which are similar to the ones in Egypt with a distinctive design. This list comprises the pyramids in Egypt and Mexico as they are the most iconic ones with deep-rooted history.  The Great Pyramid of Giza The Great Pyramid of Giza is located in the pyramid complex of Giza Valley in Egypt along with two other pyramids. The Great Pyramid stands tall as the largest one among the three. It is the tomb of Pharaoh Khufu of the fourth Egyptian Dynasty.  The pyramid was built in 2570 BCE by royal patronage before the death of Khufu. At its center, the tip of the pyramid is 146.6 meter long from the base. Initially, the pyramid was constructed with 2.3 million blocks of smooth limestone and granite which have mostly eroded over time.  Read more: Top 15 Heritage Sites of Bangladesh The inside of the pyramid has three chambers: the king’s chamber, the queen's chamber, and a subterranean chamber which was never finished.  Pyramid of Khafre  The Pyramid of Khafre is the second largest pyramid in the Giza complex. The Pyramid of Khafre was also built during the fourth dynasty by Pharaoh Khafre, son of Khufu, and was intended to be his burial site. The construction started sometime in 2570 BCE.  The top of the pyramid still retains some of the original limestones. The height of the pyramid is 136.4 meters at its peak. However, it looks taller compared to the Great Pyramid because of its position on a higher base structure.  Read more: Top 10 Historical Mosques in Bangladesh

Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is a city packed with history and heritage on the west coast of India. The city is often dubbed the financial capital of India, owing to its business settlements and port. The iconic Hindi film industry, better known as Bollywood, is at the centre of Mumbai's popular culture.  This year, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai will host six games of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, including a home game and a semi-final. With the greatest cricket event on the horizon, let’s look at 10 of the best places to explore in Mumbai.  Top Places to Explore in Mumbai  Gateway of India  The Gateway of India is probably one of the most iconic landmarks in India. From paintings to notes to stamps, the Gateway of India is truly representative of India and its hospitality.  Getting to the Gateway of India is fairly easy. Either take a bus or taxi from anywhere in Mumbai and head over to Colaba, South Mumbai. On the far end of the edge of the Arabian Sea, the iconic monument stands tall.  Explore the surrounding areas on the rocky coast. There are numerous vendors selling delectable street food like vada pav, pav bhaji, and bhel puri. Visitors can also take boat rides to the nearby Elephanta Caves. Read more: How to get an Indian Tourist Visa from Bangladesh - UNB Marine Drive  Marine Drive connects the Gateway of India with downtown Mumbai with a 3.6 km long stretch along the boulevard on the south coast of Mumbai.  At night, the road lights up, which, when seen from above, looks like a string of pearls across the Mumbai coast.  The road also leads to the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, the crown jewel of the Taj Hotels and an iconic Indo-Saracenic architectural heritage of the city. 

Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is the capital city of the Southern Indian state Tamil Nadu. The city is known for its ancient temples, natural wonders, thriving arts, and culinary traditions. The city has a rich history that dates back around a thousand years. Over the centuries, Chennai stood tall, being at the center of South Indian dynasties. The city attracts tourists from all over the world who wish to take a peek at the ancient history of India. This year, Chennai will also host several games of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, making it the perfect time to visit the city. Let’s look at 11 of the top tourist attractions in Chennai and things to consider before going there.  Top 11 Must-Visit Places in Chennai  Marina Beach  While Chennai is mostly a heritage tourism city, it also offers a relaxing retreat at the heart of the city in Marina Beach. Being a southern city on the edge of the Bay of Bengal, the 3.7 km-long Marina Beach is easily accessible by bus and taxi from the city center. It will cost about 100 to 200 INR (BDT 132 to 264.60, at 1 INR = 1.32 BDT) based on bargaining ability (make sure to bargain about everything while in Chennai!).  Take a walk along the sea to experience the gentle breeze on a hot summer day. There are vendors all over the beach selling different items — from foods to trinkets to even massage on the go. Make sure to explore the lighthouse on the southern end of the beach for a fabulous view of the sunset.  Read more: Best Rustic Resorts and Campsites near Dhaka Kapaleeshwarar Temple  Kapaleeshwarar Temple is located in Mylapore of Chennai. Getting to Mylapore is quite easy on either an auto-rickshaw or a public bus. 

Being the capital city and the major administrative centre of Bangladesh, Dhaka can be considered anything but natural and scenic. Unplanned urbanisation has seen the destruction of natural open spaces which are now reduced to a few parks scattered across the city. In such a scenario, the resorts and campsites just on the outskirts of the city are a breath of fresh air for many. They offer an escape from the concrete jungle into somewhere peaceful and serene. Let’s look at the best natural campsite resorts in and around Dhaka for you to explore.  Top 8 Rustic Resorts and Campsites Near Dhaka Dhaleshwari Camping and Kayaking  The first on the list is the Dhaleshwari Camping and Kayaking situated on the bank of the Dhaleshwari river at Kalatia in Keraniganj. The retreat offers natural camping and kayaking in the serene waters of the river.  Read more: Best Honeymoon Resorts and Hotels in and around Dhaka