Travelling is fun. It comes with new experiences, thus broadening one’s mind and knowledge. Over the recent years, the people of Bangladesh are showing a greater tendency towards tourism and travelling. Tourism within our country has bloomed for sure but not as much as one would expect.

Lately, there has been a rise in the number of tourists travelling from Bangladesh to other countries, which is fine, but there are plenty of reasons to travel within our own country.

Photo: Mohiuddin Ahmed Sagor

There’s plenty to see

The Cox’s Bazar Sea beach is the longest in the world and the Sundarbans is another magnificent site of natural beauty where one gets to see the rivers and swamps; a unique natural setting that is quite enthralling and admired all over the world. If you have already visited these spots, there’s still plenty to explore within the country. Whether you prefer natural spectacles or historical points of interest, if one were to research a bit, there are interesting tourist spots in almost every district.

Photo: Mohiuddin Ahmed Sagor

Support local economy

Another reason to visit within the country is that it supports the local economy. The shutki trade or the mango trade in Bangladesh are set in separate places. Travelling to these districts in full season can be an experience in itself. On top of that, if you decide to indulge yourself, then you can contribute to the local business. Besides, wherever you travel, the local hotels, restaurants and shops are there to serve you and by taking their service, you are also playing a role in the local economy.

Chance to know your country

Travelling anywhere has the upside of increasing your knowledge and experience. Travelling within the country will allow you the opportunity to see the different cultures and heritages scattered all across the country. The differences in the community and society, the different food habits and norms and the accents; all of these can be an opportunity to learn more about your own country.

Photo: Mohiuddin Ahmed Sagor

Financially convenient

Travelling across the border is never cheap. There are transportation expenses, documentation expenses, and food and lodging costs. Travelling in a foreign country is never kind to the wallet. On the other hand, one can easily travel to most places within the country on a budget. This can be an important factor when you are planning a trip.

Easier for groups

Happiness increases when it is shared. Fond memories of tours can be memorable if you travel with your friends and family. Travelling abroad with larger groups can be difficult. There can be a lot of issues and finances can be tricky. Group plans within the country are executable without much trouble. Consider travelling within the country the next time you are making plans for a group trip.

Photo: Mohiuddin Ahmed Sagor

Out of the blue? No problem

Unless you are planning to travel on the eve of Eid, it should not be an issue to get a ticket to anywhere within the country. Regardless of how sudden your plans are, if you are determined to go somewhere, it’s very much possible. Do you have two days off from work and want to take a quick trip to Khulna for a taste of mutton-chuijhal? It’s easily doable. The same cannot be said for travelling out of the country, which comes at the cost of long hours spent in planning and making arrangements.

Easier to pack

Packing for a tour can be a challenge especially if you are travelling to another country. What to carry and what to leave? It’s a question that plagues most. But travelling within the country, you can rely on lighter baggage and for a traveller, that is a blessing.

Of course, one should travel abroad when the chance presents itself because it means new experiences, but travelling locally should also be considered on a serious note. It supports our local tourism and it offers new perspectives about your own country. So, the next time you are planning a trip, consider Bangladesh before you consider another country.