Bangladesh is one of the world’s most densely populated countries. There are 1,283
people per square mile – a figure that rises to 1,700 per square mile when the land unsuitable for
habitation because of flooding is removed. If ever there was a people who have had to learn to
apply the maxim “Be tolerant with your neighbor” it is the Bangladeshis.
Bangladeshis endure famine, flood, pestilence, cyclone, humidity, and baking sun with
fortitude and a smile. Those who have jobs are industrious and hard-working because they want
to improve themselves and the quality of life for their families. The extended family is
extremely important and respect amongst family members is strong.
The Muslim religion affects all aspects of life in Bangladesh. Dhaka has been called by
many “The City of Mosques.” So it is important for visitors to have a general understanding of
Islamic history and law, especially since there are some aspects which may affect the traveler.
Islam is all-pervading. It governs a Muslim’s daily habits and his/her social, political, and
religious life. The Quran forbids alcohol, pork, gambling, lending money at interest, and
describes the rules for marriage and divorce. It also forbids religious images or depictions,
which is why there are none in Bangladesh. Instead, mosques and other important buildings are
decorated with Islamic art such as calligraphy. Many older Bangladeshi women still wear the
burkha or veil, especially in rural areas, thereby being “in purdah.” Even women not wearing the
veil may well cover their heads with part of their sarees as a symbolic act, and women do not
generally shake hands with men.
The Bangladeshi people are also quite friendly and hospitable. Visitors are often
surprised by their willingness to share whatever they have with their new friends, even if they do
not have much of their own. This openness should not be mistaken as a fake friendship with
ulterior motives. Most genuine Bangladeshis are as curious to learn about you as you are to
them. Take advantage of your opportunities to bond with real Bangladeshi folk, and do not
forget to return the favor to your friends.
Some Handy Tips (con’t)
• Other Information
• Hartals- These general strikes will be a unique part of your stay in Bangladesh.
Political parties generally call hartals in advance. In most cities and towns,
businesses simply close down for the day (usually from dawn to noon or till dusk).
Enjoy the clear, quiet streets, but for your own safety try to avoid large
demonstrations.
• Getting Around- Local transportation consists of buses, taxis, baby taxis, autorickshaws,
and the famous rickshaws. Taxis and buses have proven to be the safest.
Rickshaws are unstable and often dangerous. If you must try this local pastime, or
the auto-rickshaws, avoid doing so after dusk for your own protection. Westerners
have been robbed and attacked after being set-up in this way.
• Tips & Begging- Formal welfare is almost non-existent for most Bangladeshis that
are struggling with poverty. Tips and begging have become a part of the culture. It is
up to you if you wish to give hand-outs or money to the poor, and who you chose to
give it to.
• Currency- The local ‘Taka’ is approximately valued at 60Tk = $1. The notes come
in One, Two, Five, Ten, Twenty, Fifty, One Hundred and Five Hundred Taka
denominations. There are smaller denomination coins, but except for the one and five
Taka coins, most are out of circulation. The notes generally have English numerals
on them, but to make things more exciting, same denomination notes may be printed
in different sizes, designs, and colors. Avoid accepting excessively old, torn, or
mended notes as you it may be difficult for you to convince shopkeepers to accept
them.
people per square mile – a figure that rises to 1,700 per square mile when the land unsuitable for
habitation because of flooding is removed. If ever there was a people who have had to learn to
apply the maxim “Be tolerant with your neighbor” it is the Bangladeshis.
Bangladeshis endure famine, flood, pestilence, cyclone, humidity, and baking sun with
fortitude and a smile. Those who have jobs are industrious and hard-working because they want
to improve themselves and the quality of life for their families. The extended family is
extremely important and respect amongst family members is strong.
The Muslim religion affects all aspects of life in Bangladesh. Dhaka has been called by
many “The City of Mosques.” So it is important for visitors to have a general understanding of
Islamic history and law, especially since there are some aspects which may affect the traveler.
Islam is all-pervading. It governs a Muslim’s daily habits and his/her social, political, and
religious life. The Quran forbids alcohol, pork, gambling, lending money at interest, and
describes the rules for marriage and divorce. It also forbids religious images or depictions,
which is why there are none in Bangladesh. Instead, mosques and other important buildings are
decorated with Islamic art such as calligraphy. Many older Bangladeshi women still wear the
burkha or veil, especially in rural areas, thereby being “in purdah.” Even women not wearing the
veil may well cover their heads with part of their sarees as a symbolic act, and women do not
generally shake hands with men.
The Bangladeshi people are also quite friendly and hospitable. Visitors are often
surprised by their willingness to share whatever they have with their new friends, even if they do
not have much of their own. This openness should not be mistaken as a fake friendship with
ulterior motives. Most genuine Bangladeshis are as curious to learn about you as you are to
them. Take advantage of your opportunities to bond with real Bangladeshi folk, and do not
forget to return the favor to your friends.
What to Bring…
Clothing
In Bangladesh, both men and women tend to dress conservatively. One should dress modestly in
all locations outside of the home and international clubs in accordance with the culture. Leave
behind your winter clothes unless you plan on traveling to cooler parts of Asia. Excellent quality
clothes may be tailored and purchased locally to your liking. Most Bangladeshis wear sandals as
a result of the heat and rain, and you’ll find this especially appropriate in the monsoon season of
mid-June to mid-October. Streets often flood and your trail will be muddy. It is wise to bring a
few dependable pairs that you do not mind damaging, along with your other shoes and sneakers
for daily activities.
For Women
• In general, women should dress conservatively in public as most Bangladeshi women
do. The more inconspicuous and conservative the clothing, the less attention that will
be drawn.
• Women will be more comfortable in public wearing sleeves and modest length
dresses or long pants.
• Many wear a combination of the local shalwar kameez and western dress, depending
on what they are doing that day. Shalwar kameez tends to be cooler in this hot,
muggy climate, and also covers all of body.
• “Dressing more conservatively in shalwar kameez has proven to be a good gesture
and it is rather fun to have clothes tailed to your size and liking also!” – a former
participant
• It is a good idea to check with your workplace for dress requirements beforehand as
some have specific regulations.
For Men
• Most Bangladeshi men wear Western dress at home and work, including everything
from suits to business casual or jeans.
• The traditional dress for most occasions (from business to formal) is the white
punjabi pajama (long white tunic-like shirt worn over close-fitting or baggy white
pants). The Punjabi is particularly visible on Friday, the Muslim holiday.
• In general almost all men refrain from wearing shorts. Wearing them will be very
noticeable.
• At home Bangladeshi men will generally wear a lungi (sarong-like garment) and
punjabi or shirt.
General Information…
Purchasing Goods
Other than any special needs such as prescribed medicines, almost everything else, including
bottled water is locally available. This includes other medical supplies, toiletries, and cosmetics.
Of course, if you have a particular brand or type that you prefer be sure to bring it along with
you. If not, try the local varieties and dive right in!
Camera & Tape Recorder
You will definitely want to bring a camera with extra film and batteries. Alkaline batteries are
available but are expensive. Also think about bringing a good quality, small tape recorder as has
been suggested by many participants. Taping music programs, lectures, street sounds,
conversation with people and a myriad of other things adds that quality of authentic sound to any
tape presentation you may make.
Gifts for Special People
Many people have suggested bringing a few gifts for special people that you will meet during
your stay. Bangladeshis are very hospitable and friendly. You will surely make new friends
during your stay, and perhaps want to return the favor. Since you will also be visiting schools
and other social sites, a group gift could be appropriate. Small gifts are also a wonderful way to
spread goodwill. Perhaps handicrafts or things you have made, music, memorabilia and lapel
pins, sports buttons, art work and small U.S. flags on desk stands are all suggestions.
Participants have brought both major and minor gifts in the past, it is entirely up to you.
Shopping
While this trip is not a buying excursion, shopping is one of the great experiences of visiting
another country. Try to visit the non-tourist market areas, the small single-purpose shops, and
those that allow the visitor a glimpse of the ‘real’ culture. Many items are worth a look, such as
woven textiles and clothing, local jewelry, bamboo or cane basket ware, shell-crafts, traditional
pottery, unique musical instruments, pink pearls, and beautiful Bengali art.
Most Bangladeshi shopkeepers do not have fixed prices, so be prepared to barter unless you are
shopping at a larger commercial store. Prices initially offered to you will be significantly higher,
if not twice the price for non-foreigners. Try offering what you think the product is worth and
negotiate from there.
In Bangladesh, both men and women tend to dress conservatively. One should dress modestly in
all locations outside of the home and international clubs in accordance with the culture. Leave
behind your winter clothes unless you plan on traveling to cooler parts of Asia. Excellent quality
clothes may be tailored and purchased locally to your liking. Most Bangladeshis wear sandals as
a result of the heat and rain, and you’ll find this especially appropriate in the monsoon season of
mid-June to mid-October. Streets often flood and your trail will be muddy. It is wise to bring a
few dependable pairs that you do not mind damaging, along with your other shoes and sneakers
for daily activities.
For Women
• In general, women should dress conservatively in public as most Bangladeshi women
do. The more inconspicuous and conservative the clothing, the less attention that will
be drawn.
• Women will be more comfortable in public wearing sleeves and modest length
dresses or long pants.
• Many wear a combination of the local shalwar kameez and western dress, depending
on what they are doing that day. Shalwar kameez tends to be cooler in this hot,
muggy climate, and also covers all of body.
• “Dressing more conservatively in shalwar kameez has proven to be a good gesture
and it is rather fun to have clothes tailed to your size and liking also!” – a former
participant
• It is a good idea to check with your workplace for dress requirements beforehand as
some have specific regulations.
For Men
• Most Bangladeshi men wear Western dress at home and work, including everything
from suits to business casual or jeans.
• The traditional dress for most occasions (from business to formal) is the white
punjabi pajama (long white tunic-like shirt worn over close-fitting or baggy white
pants). The Punjabi is particularly visible on Friday, the Muslim holiday.
• In general almost all men refrain from wearing shorts. Wearing them will be very
noticeable.
• At home Bangladeshi men will generally wear a lungi (sarong-like garment) and
punjabi or shirt.
General Information…
Purchasing Goods
Other than any special needs such as prescribed medicines, almost everything else, including
bottled water is locally available. This includes other medical supplies, toiletries, and cosmetics.
Of course, if you have a particular brand or type that you prefer be sure to bring it along with
you. If not, try the local varieties and dive right in!
Camera & Tape Recorder
You will definitely want to bring a camera with extra film and batteries. Alkaline batteries are
available but are expensive. Also think about bringing a good quality, small tape recorder as has
been suggested by many participants. Taping music programs, lectures, street sounds,
conversation with people and a myriad of other things adds that quality of authentic sound to any
tape presentation you may make.
Gifts for Special People
Many people have suggested bringing a few gifts for special people that you will meet during
your stay. Bangladeshis are very hospitable and friendly. You will surely make new friends
during your stay, and perhaps want to return the favor. Since you will also be visiting schools
and other social sites, a group gift could be appropriate. Small gifts are also a wonderful way to
spread goodwill. Perhaps handicrafts or things you have made, music, memorabilia and lapel
pins, sports buttons, art work and small U.S. flags on desk stands are all suggestions.
Participants have brought both major and minor gifts in the past, it is entirely up to you.
Shopping
While this trip is not a buying excursion, shopping is one of the great experiences of visiting
another country. Try to visit the non-tourist market areas, the small single-purpose shops, and
those that allow the visitor a glimpse of the ‘real’ culture. Many items are worth a look, such as
woven textiles and clothing, local jewelry, bamboo or cane basket ware, shell-crafts, traditional
pottery, unique musical instruments, pink pearls, and beautiful Bengali art.
Most Bangladeshi shopkeepers do not have fixed prices, so be prepared to barter unless you are
shopping at a larger commercial store. Prices initially offered to you will be significantly higher,
if not twice the price for non-foreigners. Try offering what you think the product is worth and
negotiate from there.
Some Handy Tips (con’t)
• Other Information
• Hartals- These general strikes will be a unique part of your stay in Bangladesh.
Political parties generally call hartals in advance. In most cities and towns,
businesses simply close down for the day (usually from dawn to noon or till dusk).
Enjoy the clear, quiet streets, but for your own safety try to avoid large
demonstrations.
• Getting Around- Local transportation consists of buses, taxis, baby taxis, autorickshaws,
and the famous rickshaws. Taxis and buses have proven to be the safest.
Rickshaws are unstable and often dangerous. If you must try this local pastime, or
the auto-rickshaws, avoid doing so after dusk for your own protection. Westerners
have been robbed and attacked after being set-up in this way.
• Tips & Begging- Formal welfare is almost non-existent for most Bangladeshis that
are struggling with poverty. Tips and begging have become a part of the culture. It is
up to you if you wish to give hand-outs or money to the poor, and who you chose to
give it to.
• Currency- The local ‘Taka’ is approximately valued at 60Tk = $1. The notes come
in One, Two, Five, Ten, Twenty, Fifty, One Hundred and Five Hundred Taka
denominations. There are smaller denomination coins, but except for the one and five
Taka coins, most are out of circulation. The notes generally have English numerals
on them, but to make things more exciting, same denomination notes may be printed
in different sizes, designs, and colors. Avoid accepting excessively old, torn, or
mended notes as you it may be difficult for you to convince shopkeepers to accept
them.
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