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Sunday, June 8, 2025

Ultimate Guide to Flight Booking: Save Money, Time & Travel Smart

Title: The Ultimate Guide to Flight Booking: Save Money, Time & Travel Smart

Booking a flight is often the first and most crucial step in planning a trip. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, finding the best flights at the lowest prices can be both time-consuming and overwhelming. Fortunately, with the right strategies and tools, booking a flight can be simple, stress-free, and even enjoyable.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about flight booking: when to book, how to find the best deals, top flight booking websites, insider tips, and common mistakes to avoid. Let’s help you become a savvy traveler!

Why Flight Booking is So Important

Flights often represent the most significant portion of travel expenses. Smart flight booking can help you:

Save hundreds of dollars
Avoid inconvenient layovers
Enjoy better seats and airline services
Travel at optimal times

The key lies in knowing where and how to search for the best options.

When is the Best Time to Book Flights?

1. Domestic Flights

Book 1 to 3 months in advance. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually the cheapest days to book.

2. International Flights

Book 2 to 6 months ahead. Consider booking mid-week for better deals.

3. Avoid Peak Seasons

Holiday periods and summer vacation months are usually more expensive. Try flying during the shoulder season (spring or fall).

4. Time of Day Matters

Early morning and late-night flights tend to be cheaper and less crowded.

Best Flight Booking Websites in 2025

1. Skyscanner

Searches hundreds of airlines and travel sites to find the best prices. Offers flexible date search.

2. Google Flights

Great for comparing prices and viewing date-based fare trends. Fast and reliable.

3. Momondo

Popular for budget travelers. Includes lesser-known airlines and booking sites.

4. Kayak

Provides price alerts, fare forecasts, and trip planning tools.

5. Expedia / Orbitz / Travelocity

Good for bundling flights with hotels and rental cars for additional savings.

How to Get the Best Flight Deals

1. Be Flexible with Dates and Airports

A day or two can make a big difference. Also, check alternate nearby airports.

2. Set Fare Alerts

Use tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner to monitor price changes.

3. Use Incognito Mode

Flight prices may increase based on search history. Use private browsing to avoid this.

4. Book One-Way Tickets Separately

Sometimes booking two one-way flights is cheaper than a round trip.

5. Use Points or Miles

Common Flight Booking Mistakes to Avoid

Booking too late or too early
Ignoring budget airlines
Not reading baggage policies
Skipping travel insurance
Falling for fake discount websites

Budget Airlines vs. Full-Service Airlines

Budget Airlines:

Cheaper base fare
Extra fees for baggage, food, and seat selection

Full-Service Airlines:

Meals, baggage, and in-flight entertainment often included
Better service and more comfortable seating

Always compare the total cost (including extras) before booking.

Tips for Booking International Flights

Check visa and entry requirements first
Consider stopovers to explore another city
Look for multi-city or open-jaw flights
Use local versions of booking sites for better regional deals

Travel Apps to Help with Flight Booking

Hopper: Predicts the best time to book
Kiwi.com: Smart routing and unique flight combinations
TripIt: Organizes travel plans in one place
Airfarewatchdog: Finds and alerts on low fares

How to Use Travel Credit Cards for Flight Savings

Earn points/miles on every purchase
Redeem for free or discounted flights
Enjoy perks like lounge access, priority boarding, and free bags
Some cards offer travel insurance and fraud protection

Top cards include:

Chase Sapphire Preferred
Capital One Venture
American Express Platinum

Should You Book Directly with the Airline?

Booking directly with the airline can offer:

Better customer service in case of issues
Easier changes or cancellations
More loyalty rewards

However, third-party sites sometimes offer better deals or extra bonuses. Always compare both before deciding.

Final Thoughts

Flight booking doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. By understanding the best times to book, using trusted tools, and staying flexible, you can save money and enjoy better travel experiences. Whether you’re planning a business trip, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, smart flight booking is the key to smooth travel.

Take the time to research, sign up for alerts, and explore different platforms. The sky isn’t the limit—it’s just the beginning!

20 SEO Hashtags for Flight Booking

#FlightBooking #CheapFlights #TravelTips #BestFlightDeals #BookFlightsOnline #AirfareDeals #FlightHacks #FlightComparison #SkyscannerTips #GoogleFlights #BudgetTravel #TravelSmart #AirfareWatch #FlexibleTravel #AirlineDeals #TravelPlanning #TravelBooking #FlightSearch #InternationalFlights #TravelSavings

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Saturday, June 7, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Travel Insurance: Why Every Traveler Needs It

Title: The Ultimate Guide to Travel Insurance: Why Every Traveler Needs It

Traveling opens the door to adventure, new cultures, and unforgettable experiences. But what happens if something goes wrong? From trip cancellations and lost luggage to medical emergencies in foreign countries, unexpected events can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. That’s where travel insurance comes in.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about travel insurance, including why it’s important, what it covers, how to choose the right plan, and tips to save money while staying protected.

What is Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is a type of insurance designed to cover the costs and losses associated with traveling. It offers protection against various travel-related issues such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost or delayed luggage, flight delays, and more.

Depending on the plan, travel insurance can provide peace of mind whether you're traveling domestically or internationally.

Why Do You Need Travel Insurance?

1. Medical Emergencies Abroad

Healthcare systems vary across the world. A simple emergency room visit in the U.S. or Europe could cost thousands of dollars. Travel insurance helps cover these medical costs, including emergency evacuations.

2. Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Life is unpredictable. Illness, injury, or even a global pandemic can force you to cancel or cut short your trip. Travel insurance reimburses prepaid expenses in such cases.

3. Lost, Stolen, or Delayed Baggage

Imagine arriving at your destination only to find your luggage missing. Travel insurance can help replace essentials while your baggage is recovered.

4. Flight Delays or Missed Connections

If you miss a flight due to delays or other covered reasons, travel insurance can reimburse additional accommodation and travel expenses.

5. Peace of Mind

Knowing you're protected allows you to enjoy your trip without constant worry.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Travel insurance plans vary, but most include the following coverages:

Trip Cancellation
Trip Interruption
Emergency Medical and Dental
Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation
Baggage Loss or Delay
Flight Delay
Accidental Death and Dismemberment
Travel Assistance Services

Optional add-ons may include:

Adventure sports coverage
Rental car insurance
Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR)

How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance Plan

1. Assess Your Needs

Are you going on a short domestic trip or a long international journey? Will you be participating in risky activities like skiing or scuba diving?

2. Compare Providers

Look into reputable providers like:

SafetyWing
World Nomads
Allianz Travel
Travelex
IMG

3. Understand the Policy

Read the fine print. Know what’s included, what’s excluded, and the claim process.

4. Check Your Existing Coverage

Some credit cards and health plans offer partial travel insurance. Review them before purchasing a new plan.

5. Read Reviews

Customer reviews and ratings provide insight into claim responsiveness and overall satisfaction.

Top Travel Insurance Providers in 2025

Here are some of the best travel insurance companies for 2025:

1. SafetyWing

Perfect for digital nomads and long-term travelers. Monthly plans and COVID-19 coverage included.

2. World Nomads

Great for adventure travelers. Covers more than 200 adventure activities.

3. Allianz Global Assistance

Reliable provider with extensive global coverage and 24/7 support.

4. Travelex Insurance Services

Offers customizable plans and high medical limits.

5. IMG Global

Known for flexible travel medical plans and strong customer service.

Travel Insurance Tips to Save Money

Buy early: Purchase insurance as soon as you book your trip.
Bundle policies: Get family or group coverage to save more.
Compare quotes: Use comparison websites like Squaremouth or InsureMyTrip.
Avoid duplicate coverage: Don’t pay for coverage you already have.
Only get what you need: Skip extras unless truly necessary.

Common Travel Insurance Myths

Myth 1: It’s too expensive. Fact: Travel insurance typically costs 4-10% of your total trip cost.

Myth 2: Healthy travelers don’t need it. Fact: Accidents and illnesses can happen to anyone, anywhere.

Myth 3: My credit card covers everything. Fact: Most credit cards offer limited coverage.

Myth 4: It’s only for international trips. Fact: Domestic trips can also be interrupted or canceled.

Final Thoughts

Travel insurance is a small investment that can make a big difference. It provides security, helps manage unexpected situations, and ensures your journey stays enjoyable. Whether you’re planning a backpacking trip across Europe or a luxury vacation in the Maldives, travel insurance should always be on your checklist.

Take the time to research and pick a plan that fits your travel style. Safe travels!

20 SEO Hashtags for Travel Insurance

#TravelInsurance #TravelSmart #SafeTravels #TravelTips #InsuranceForTravelers #TravelProtection #TripInsurance #TravelSafety #AdventureTravelInsurance #BackpackerInsurance #MedicalInsuranceAbroad #FlightDelayCoverage #TravelCoverage #TripProtection #LostLuggage #EmergencyTravelInsurance #InsuranceForNomads #DigitalNomadTips #BudgetTravelTips #InsureYourTrip

10 Countries Where Locals Love Tourists

Portugal: A Warm Welcome Awaits

Portugal’s charm doesn’t just come from its cobblestone streets or golden beaches—it radiates from its people. In 2024, the European Travel Commission reported that an impressive 85% of tourists had positive interactions with Portuguese locals.

It’s not rare to see a resident pause their day to help a lost traveler in Lisbon or offer a friendly recommendation in Porto. The Portuguese reputation for hospitality is so strong that many visitors return just for the sense of belonging they feel.

With tourism contributing about €20 billion to the Portuguese economy in 2023, locals recognize its value and treat visitors like honored guests. Annual festivals, like the Festa de São João in Porto, actively encourage tourist participation.

This openness isn’t just a marketing trick—it’s a heartfelt way of life, visible in the everyday kindness extended to strangers.

New Zealand: Manaakitanga in Action

New Zealanders, or “Kiwis,” have a word—manaakitanga—that sums up their approach to visitors: hospitality, generosity, and care. According to a 2025 Tourism New Zealand report, a remarkable 90% of tourists felt genuinely welcomed.

This figure isn’t surprising for anyone who’s been greeted by a friendly “Kia ora!” in Auckland or offered local tips by a guide in Queenstown. The country’s 15% surge in international visitors in 2024 shows how much travelers value this kindness.

Local businesses often invite tourists into their homes or onto their farms for authentic experiences. Maori cultural welcomes, called pōwhiri, regularly include tourists, letting them share in traditions that are centuries old.

Hospitality here isn’t just a custom—it’s a point of national pride.

Japan: Politeness Woven into Everyday Life

Japan might be best known for its cherry blossoms and neon lights, but it’s the respectfulness of its people that often leaves the deepest impression. In 2023, the Japan National Tourism Organization found that 80% of visitors felt locals were eager to assist them, whether that meant guiding someone in a busy Tokyo subway or helping with a tricky vending machine.

The country’s cultural emphasis on politeness makes every interaction smooth and pleasant. Major cities have invested heavily in making tourism easy, with tourist-friendly signs and multilingual staff.

In 2024, tourist satisfaction rose by 10%, reflecting these efforts. Festivals like Gion Matsuri in Kyoto invite tourists to join in, blurring the line between visitor and local.

Japan’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, paired with its warmth, makes it stand out on any traveler’s list.

Costa Rica: Pura Vida, Pure Hospitality

Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” lifestyle—meaning “pure life”—extends to everyone who enters its borders. In 2024, the Costa Rican Tourism Board reported that 88% of tourists felt welcomed by locals, a testament to the country’s easygoing, friendly spirit.

From rainforest lodges to surf towns, residents go out of their way to make visitors feel at home. The tourism sector, accounting for 8.2% of the national GDP in 2023, is vital, so hospitality is taken seriously.

Community-run eco-tours are common, with locals sharing their deep knowledge of nature and wildlife. Whether sipping coffee in San José or hiking in Monteverde, visitors are often treated like family.

This openness is more than just a business strategy—it’s a way of life.

Thailand: The Land of Smiles Lives Up to Its Name

Thailand’s nickname—the “Land of Smiles”—is more than just clever branding. According to a 2025 report by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, a stunning 92% of foreign visitors felt welcomed.

Thais are famous for their gentle approach, eager to share their culture and cuisine with outsiders. The country’s $60 billion tourism industry in 2023 means that many livelihoods depend on tourism, further encouraging locals to be gracious hosts.

In cities and small towns alike, visitors are invited to join in festivals like Songkran, where everyone becomes part of the celebration. Street vendors, hotel staff, and even strangers on the street often go out of their way to help a lost or confused traveler.

Smiling isn’t just common in Thailand—it’s practically a national pastime.

Iceland: Small Population, Huge Heart

Iceland’s appeal isn’t limited to its volcanic landscapes and northern lights. A 2024 survey by Visit Iceland revealed that 87% of tourists enjoyed positive interactions with locals.

With a population of just under 400,000, Icelanders are used to seeing visitors and often treat them like friends, not strangers. Tourism’s 10% contribution to national GDP in 2023 underscores its importance, and residents readily share their folklore and traditions.

It’s common for guides to tell personal stories or for hosts to invite guests for homemade meals. The 20% rise in visitors in 2023 hasn’t diminished this friendliness—if anything, it’s reinforced the national pride in sharing Iceland’s wonders.

Even in remote villages, warmth and hospitality are never in short supply.

Canada: Friendly Faces from Coast to Coast

Canada’s reputation for politeness isn’t exaggerated. In 2023, Destination Canada found that 85% of foreign tourists felt welcomed by locals.

Whether in bustling Toronto or scenic Vancouver, visitors experience a mosaic of cultures that makes everyone feel at home. Investments in tourism infrastructure led to a 12% increase in visitor satisfaction in 2024, according to the same study.

Canadians are known for their helpfulness—don’t be surprised if someone offers directions before you even ask. Local festivals, such as Montreal’s Jazz Festival, encourage mingling between residents and visitors.

This open, friendly attitude is part of what keeps Canada near the top of global tourism rankings year after year.

Greece: Hospitality Woven into History

Greek hospitality, or “philoxenia,” is legendary and dates back to ancient times. According to a 2025 Greek National Tourism Organization report, 90% of tourists said locals made them feel truly welcome.

Tourism is a cornerstone of the Greek economy, bringing in around €18 billion in 2023, and locals embrace their role as cultural ambassadors. Visitors are often invited to family meals or traditional celebrations, especially in smaller towns and villages.

Major festivals, such as Athens’ Epidaurus Festival, integrate tourists into the local community. The generosity and open-heartedness of Greeks leave many travelers with lifelong memories—and a desire to return.

Mexico: Fiesta Spirit and Open Arms

Mexico’s vibrant culture is matched only by the warmth of its people. The Mexican Tourism Board’s 2024 survey showed that 88% of international visitors felt genuinely welcomed.

With tourism contributing over $40 billion to the economy in 2023, it’s no wonder locals are eager to show off their country. In places like Oaxaca or Mérida, it’s common for residents to invite travelers to join in local fiestas or meals.

Festivals like Día de los Muertos aren’t just for show—tourists are encouraged to participate, deepening their connection to the community. Even in busy cities, the kindness of locals shines through, making Mexico a favorite for repeat travelers.

South Africa: Rainbow Nation, Open Hearts

South Africa’s nickname, the “Rainbow Nation,” reflects its diversity—and its hospitality. In 2025, South African Tourism reported that 82% of visitors felt welcomed by residents.

Tourism’s 9% contribution to GDP in 2023 highlights its importance. From Cape Town’s cosmopolitan vibe to Johannesburg’s dynamic energy, locals are eager to share their stories and culture.

Guided township tours and traditional braais (barbecues) often turn tourists into friends. Festivals celebrating everything from jazz to heritage invite visitors to immerse themselves fully.

The genuine interest in connecting with outsiders makes South Africa stand out as a destination with heart.

France: A Mixed Bag of Hospitality

France’s global popularity as a tourist magnet is complicated by mixed reports of local attitudes. A 2024 study indicated only 60% of tourists found Parisians particularly welcoming, compared to other French regions.

Language barriers and cultural differences often play a role, with some visitors feeling snubbed in the capital. However, outside Paris, regions like Provence, Normandy, and Brittany are renowned for their warmth and openness to foreigners.

Local tourism boards have made efforts to improve visitor experiences, but the contrast between urban and rural hospitality remains noticeable. Travelers often find that a few words of French and a smile go a long way in breaking the ice.

Italy: Beauty (and Tourist Fatigue) in the Eye of the Beholder

Italy’s breathtaking scenery and culinary delights attract millions, but not all locals are thrilled about the ongoing influx. A 2023 study revealed that 55% of residents in heavily visited cities like Venice and Florence felt overwhelmed by tourists.

This “tourist fatigue” can result in less welcoming attitudes, especially during peak travel seasons. Nonetheless, in less crowded regions such as Sicily or Umbria, visitors often experience genuine warmth and hospitality.

The disconnect between major tourist hubs and rural areas is growing, with local governments exploring ways to balance tourism and community well-being. Italian hospitality is still alive and well—you just might have to venture off the beaten path to find it.

Spain: Contrasts Across the Country

Spain’s allure is undeniable, but attitudes toward tourists can vary widely by region. According to a 2025 tourism report, only 65% of visitors felt that locals in major tourist hotspots like Barcelona were friendly, a figure lower than in quieter areas.

Overcrowding and rising living costs have stirred local resentment in some cities, fueling anti-tourism protests in recent years. However, regions like Andalusia and Galicia buck the trend with their famed hospitality and welcoming spirit.

The disparity makes it clear that travelers looking for authentic Spanish warmth should consider exploring lesser-known destinations.

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Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Top 5 safest countries to visit in the world

Which countries are the safest to visit?

Hellosafe, a Belgian platform for comparing financial products such as insurance, loans and investments, has published a list of the safest countries to visit in 2025.

Index based on 35 criteria

The HelloSafe Index is calculated based on a range of 35 criteria, divided into the categories of natural disasters, societal violence, involvement in (internal or external) armed conflicts, health infrastructure and militarisation.

Iceland

According to Hellosafe, Iceland is currently the safest country in the world, with a score of 18.23 points out of 100.

Singapore

Singapore (19.99 points) occupies second place among the safest countries to visit in 2025.

Denmark

Denmark (20.05 points) completes the podium of safest countries.

Austria

In fourth place is Austria (20.31).

Switzerland

Switzerland (20.51) takes fifth place.

Index on safety and security

This index is not intended to reflect a country's tourist appeal. Rather, it is a general index of safety and security, based on as many objective criteria as possible.

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Sunday, June 1, 2025

টাঙ্গুয়ার হাওর ভ্রমণ: এক অপার প্রকৃতির টানে

বাংলাদেশের উত্তর-পূর্বাঞ্চলে সুনামগঞ্জ জেলায় অবস্থিত টাঙ্গুয়ার হাওর (Tanguar Haor) শুধু একটি জলাভূমি নয়, বরং এটি প্রকৃতি ও জীববৈচিত্র্যের এক সমৃদ্ধ আধার, যা ভ্রমণপিপাসুদের জন্য এক স্বর্গীয় গন্তব্য। প্রায় ১০০ বর্গকিলোমিটার জুড়ে বিস্তৃত এই হাওর শুধু সৌন্দর্যের জন্যই নয়, পরিবেশগত গুরুত্বেও অনন্য। এটি দেশের দ্বিতীয় রামসার সাইট (Ramsar Site) হিসেবে স্বীকৃত একটি আন্তর্জাতিকভাবে গুরুত্বপূর্ণ জলাভূমি।

টাঙ্গুয়ার হাওরের ইতিহাস ও গুরুত্ব

টাঙ্গুয়ার হাওর এক সময় স্থানীয়দের জীবিকা নির্বাহের একটি প্রধান উৎস ছিল। ২০০০ সালে এটিকে রামসার সাইট ঘোষণা করার মাধ্যমে এর জীববৈচিত্র্য সংরক্ষণের পদক্ষেপ নেওয়া হয়। এখানে প্রায় ১৪০ প্রজাতির মাছ এবং ২০০ প্রজাতির পাখির বসবাস রয়েছে, যার মধ্যে অনেক অতিথি পাখিও আছে, যারা শীতে দূর দূরান্ত থেকে এখানে আসে। বর্ষাকালে পুরো এলাকা এক বিশাল জলরাশিতে পরিণত হয়, আর শীতে তা রূপ নেয় এক অনন্য সৌন্দর্যমন্ডিত জলজ অভয়ারণ্যে।

কিভাবে যাবেন টাঙ্গুয়ার হাওরে?

ঢাকা থেকে সুনামগঞ্জ:

সড়কপথে সরাসরি সুনামগঞ্জ যাওয়ার জন্য ঢাকার সায়েদাবাদ বা মহাখালী বাসস্ট্যান্ড থেকে বাস পাওয়া যায়। সময় লাগে প্রায় ৭-৮ ঘণ্টা।
অথবা ঢাকা থেকে ট্রেনে শ্রীমঙ্গল বা সিলেট হয়ে সুনামগঞ্জ যাওয়া যায়।

সুনামগঞ্জ থেকে তাহিরপুর:

সুনামগঞ্জ শহর থেকে তাহিরপুর উপজেলা টাঙ্গুয়ার হাওরের মূল প্রবেশদ্বার। লোকাল বাস বা সিএনজি/অটোরিকশা নিয়ে ২-৩ ঘণ্টায় পৌঁছানো যায়।

তাহিরপুর থেকে হাওরের মধ্যে:

এখান থেকেই নৌকাভ্রমণের শুরু। ছোট ডিঙ্গি নৌকা, মাঝারি ট্রলার বা হাউসবোট ভাড়া করে হাওর ঘোরা যায়।

কখন যাবেন?

ভ্রমণের সেরা সময় দুইটি মৌসুম:

বর্ষাকাল (জুন-সেপ্টেম্বর):
- তখন পুরো হাওর পানিতে ভরা থাকে।
- নৌকায় ভাসতে ভাসতে সবুজ পাহাড়, নীল আকাশ আর পানির রাজ্যে হারিয়ে যাওয়ার এক দুর্দান্ত অভিজ্ঞতা।
শীতকাল (নভেম্বর-ফেব্রুয়ারি):
- অতিথি পাখির কলকাকলিতে মুখর থাকে হাওর।
- আকাশ পরিষ্কার, নৌকাভ্রমণ নিরাপদ এবং ক্যাম্পিংয়ের জন্য উপযুক্ত সময়।

কী দেখবেন টাঙ্গুয়ার হাওরে?

১. টাঙ্গুয়ার হাওর ভ্রমণ (নৌকায় দিন-রাত):

সবচেয়ে বড় আকর্ষণ হলো নৌকায় ভেসে থাকা। আপনি চাইলে হাউসবোটে রাত কাটাতেও পারেন।

২. বারিক টিলা ও শিমুল বাগান:

শিমুল বাগান বসন্তকালে দারুণ সুন্দর দেখায়, আর বারিক টিলা থেকে হাওরের অপার সৌন্দর্য উপভোগ করা যায়।

৩. নীলাদ্রি লেক ও লাউড়ের গড়:

ভারতের মেঘালয়ের সীমান্তঘেঁষা এই এলাকা আপনাকে পাহাড় ও লেকের মিশ্র সৌন্দর্য উপহার দেবে।

৪. জলজ পাখি ও অতিথি পাখি দেখা:

শীতে হাজারো পাখি আসে – যেমন সরালি, পাতি হাঁস, জলমুরগি, কালেম।

৫. স্থানীয় গ্রাম ও সংস্কৃতি:

মাছ ধরা, চরের জীবন, হাওরবাসীদের কষ্ট-সুখ—সবকিছুই একটি আলাদা অভিজ্ঞতা।

থাকার ব্যবস্থা

হাউসবোট বা ট্রলার:

অনেকেই ১-২ দিনের জন্য ট্রলার ভাড়া করে রাত কাটান হাওরের বুকে।
ট্রলারে খাবার রান্না ও টয়লেটের ব্যবস্থাও থাকে।

হোটেল:

সুনামগঞ্জ শহরে কিছু সাধারণ মানের হোটেল আছে।
তাহিরপুর বাজারেও কিছু স্থানীয় গেস্ট হাউস বা লজ পাওয়া যায়।

খরচ

ব্যয় নির্ভর করে:

আপনি কজন যাচ্ছেন,
ট্রলার/নৌকা কত দিনের জন্য ভাড়া করছেন,
কোন মৌসুমে যাচ্ছেন।

প্রায় আনুমানিক খরচ:

ট্রলার ভাড়া: ৪,০০০–১০,০০০ টাকা (একদিন/রাত),
খাবার: ট্রলারে রান্না করলে সাশ্রয়ী,
বাসভাড়া (ঢাকা-সুনামগঞ্জ): ৫০০–৭০০ টাকা (প্রতি পাশে)।

করণীয় ও সতর্কতা

✅ পরিবেশ সচেতন হোন: প্লাস্টিক বা অপচনশীল কিছু ফেলে যাবেন না।
✅ লাইফ জ্যাকেট ব্যবহার করুন: বিশেষ করে যাঁরা সাঁতার জানেন না।
✅ স্থানীয় নিয়ম মেনে চলুন: হাওরের জীববৈচিত্র্য রক্ষা আমাদের সকলের দায়িত্ব।
✅ খাবার ও প্রয়োজনীয় ওষুধ সঙ্গে রাখুন: হাওরের মাঝে দোকান পাওয়া যায় না।

উপসংহার

টাঙ্গুয়ার হাওর একটি জীবন্ত প্রকৃতির নাট্যমঞ্চ—যেখানে জল, পাহাড়, আকাশ আর মানুষের জীবন এক সুরে গাঁথা। যারা প্রকৃতি ভালোবাসেন, যারা ভিন্নধর্মী ভ্রমণ খুঁজছেন, তাদের জন্য টাঙ্গুয়ার হাওর একটি আদর্শ গন্তব্য। এখানে গেলে আপনি প্রকৃতির কাছে নিজেকে হারিয়ে ফেলবেন এবং ফিরে যাবেন এক নতুন অনুভূতি নিয়ে।

Tanguar Haor: A Hidden Paradise in Bangladesh You Must Explore

🌿 Tanguar Haor: A Hidden Paradise in Bangladesh You Must Explore – Ghurtecholo

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Monday, May 12, 2025

Where the Romans go? not the tourist crowds!

When in Rome... go where the Romans go? not the tourist crowds

One of the earliest European printed books was a tourist guide to Rome. Ranging from information on ancient ruins, fallen temples and classical bathhouses to the place where an emperor “saw a vision in the sky”, Mirabilia Urbis Romae (Marvels of the City of Rome) was written in Latin in the early 12th century. The popular text was reproduced in dozens of manuscripts and was printed and published in the mid-1470s, a mere two decades after the Gutenberg Bible. As with many a menu in modern-day Rome, English, French, German and Italian versions were available.

Later, the Grand Tour brought throngs to the Eternal City of monuments and museums. Beguiled by its beauty, its mixture of terracotta and mocha colours, the galleries of renaissance sculpture and dark chapels full of old masters, many thought it a heaven on Earth. Dickens had mixed feelings. Recollecting the Piazza di Spagna, where artists’ models gathered in public to be hired, he wrote: “They started up before me, in Rome, in the broad day, like so many saddled and bridled nightmares.”

This long-loved city does not give up its secrets easily. But sometimes, in its quieter places, you feel the old stories shake themselves down and come to life

James Joyce, another literary genius given nightmares by Rome, lived and worked here as a bank clerk. In a letter to his brother, Stanislaus, he singled out tourism as public enemy number one. The Romans were like “a man who lives by exhibiting to travellers his grandmother’s corpse”, Joyce said, and wished the locals would “let the ruins rot”.

Harsh judgments, but even lovers of Rome will admit there are times when you need to find a place of peacefulness. Living there, I found the city’s riot of glories grew lovelier when stepped out of for a while.

Once the grand and glorious park attached to a palazzo, the Orto Botanico, the botanic gardens, are now owned by Sapienza university. They’re an extraordinarily restful oasis of rare plants, exotic flowers and almost extinct species of trees, with walkways spreading up into the slopes above Trastevere. Ruined temples, toppled statues, terraced fountains and the calls of wild parrots create an otherworld that is hard to forget.

Beneath palm trees, the medicinal herb garden seems a place of ancient secrets and stories. At the summit, a back gate leads to the terrace by the church of San Pietro in Montorio, from which there is a panoramic view of the domes and steeples of Rome. A stroll along the nearby leafy avenues leads to plush-gardened embassies, the American Foundation and the convent where Jews and other refugees were hidden during the Nazi occupation of the city. A grain store nearby was the hideout for escaped Allied prisoners of war. Any view of Rome contains more than it seems.

In 1997 an exhibition entitled Le Macchine e gli dei (The Machines and the Gods) was staged at the site of the disused Centrale Montemartini, Rome’s first electrical substation. The show led to a remarkable reimagining of this former industrial building from the fascist era into a classical sculpture gallery like no other.

Busts of classical goddesses and stone-eyed Etruscan warriors are placed in boiler rooms among turbines, pumps, pistons and diesel tanks and seem even more beautiful in such a defamiliarising setting, as do the redundant engines and gyroscopes. This hall of machines and gods pays moving homage to both.

What for many years was the Protestant Cemetery is now renamed the Non-Catholic Cemetery. A hideaway of tranquillity, shadows and umbrella-like Roman pines, it’s the final resting place of a ghost army of rebels and dreamers, including Shelley, Gregory Corso, Antonio Gramsci and Keats, whose epitaph “Here lies one whose name was writ in water” bows a brow to the indifference of time. In this sanctuary of mausoleums and monuments, statues stare at the sky or sink into stony regret. Street cats, sleek and curious, wander between the tombstones. Over the boundary fence, Rome’s last surviving pyramid, the tomb of Cestius, adds to the otherworldly restfulness of a place that seems a field of dreams.

Some of Rome’s museums have been in business for hundreds of years, a long time to build up popularity. Palazzo Altemps is a relative newcomer. Built in the 15th century by the Riario family and refurbished a century later under the orders of Cardinal Marco Sittico Altemps, the Altemps opened its doors to the public in 1997 as part of the National Museum of Rome. It is only a few steps away from the gobsmacking Piazza Navona but somehow escapes the fleets of tourist coaches, armies of buskers and living statues dressed as centurions or emperors. Instead, this small and lovely palazzo offers leafy peacefulness and spacious halls of statuary.

The most beautifully organised museum in Rome, the Altemps’s airy old rooms are uncrowded, its treasures given space. Glance down a long corridor and a marble huntsman stares back, his elegant chalk-coloured hands stretching his invisible bow and arrow. You can walk right up to the exhibits, see delicate chisel marks on a torso, incredibly subtle carvings of musculature or hair. Several rooms are given over to the story of the collector Evan Gorga, who amassed two house-loads of archaeological finds and bequeathed them to the state. A remarkable man, he was a gifted tenor and sang the role of Rodolfo in the original production of La Bohème in 1896. Faded murals in the backstreets add to the sense of the past’s closeness. In Palazzo Altemps, absence becomes presence.

Antique shops and restaurants have appeared in recent years, but blink and there’s a cowled monk stepping slowly from a doorway, head bowed

Running parallel to the river near the Ponte Sisto, Via Giulia is one of the oldest streets in an ancient city and was a pilgrimage route for centuries. The via is a mere kilometre in length, yet you could spend a week exploring the shadowy back streets and cobbled lanes. Antique shops and restaurants have appeared in recent years, but blink and there’s a cowled monk stepping slowly from a doorway, head bowed. Fountains chuckle slyly. An engraved skeleton adorns the front of a crumbling church.

One of Michelangelo’s doomed dreams was a bridge commissioned by Pope Paul III to cross the Tiber, connecting Palazzo Farnese and Villa Farnesina. Building began but was abandoned due to the fantastic expense. You can still see the haunting unfinished structure of the Arco dei Farnesi high above Via Giulia, swathed in encroaching ivy.

Francis Darcy Osborne, British ambassador to the Vatican during the Nazi occupation, a war hero who helped to save thousands of fugitives, retired to an apartment in an old palazzo on this street and often walked the riverbank nearby. A close friend of the Queen Mother, Osborne was a brilliant diarist, a cunning activist, a lover of Rome and an inveterate art collector. He appears as a character in my novels My Father’s House and The Ghosts of Rome. Via Giulia was his favourite Roman street.

The basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, once known as Our Lady of the Snows, is less frequently visited than the great if somewhat forbidding bastion of St Peter’s but in many ways is more impressive and charming. One of its delights, viewable by private tour for only a couple of euros, is the Loggia, the arched balcony adorning the basilica’s facade, home of the mosaic of the miracle of the snow.

This sumptuous but endearing artwork has its roots in a story from the fourth century, after Christianity had been decriminalised by Emperor Constantine. Among the converts were a Roman nobleman, Giovanni, and his wife. The Madonna appeared in a dream to the couple, instructing them to pay for the building of a new church on the Esquiline Hill. She would show them the precise site by causing snow to fall there, despite it being high summer.

Going out into the sweltering midnight to find the place, Giovanni met Pope Liberius, who had experienced the same dream. Snow fell, the basilica was built, and every August the miracle is commemorated by a snowfall of white petals at the church. The mosaic, guarded by golden-winged angels, tells the magic realist tale in storyboard form. It’s a glorious if relatively rarely visited artwork. Nearby, off the loggia, is a breathtaking triumph of interior architecture, Bernini’s spiral staircase. To this day, experts aren’t quite certain how it was built.

This long-loved city does not give up its secrets easily. But sometimes, in its quieter places, far from the queues, you feel the old stories shake themselves down and come to life.

Story by Joseph O'Connor

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