Experience in Dhaka, Bangladesh by Neaz

What is it like to live in Dhaka? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Dhaka is the Capital City of Bangladesh and One of the oldest megacity of Southasia. At the height of its medieval glory, Dhaka was regarded as one of the wealthiest and most prosperous cities in the world. It served as the capital of the Bengal province of the Mughal Empire twice (1608–39 and 1660–1704).Dhaka is home to most of the local business conglomerate. Many multinational companies also maintain offices in the city.Geographically Dhaka is located in central Bangladesh. There are many parks within Dhaka city, including Ramna Park, Suhrawardy Udyan, Shishu Park, National Botanical Garden, Baldha Garden, Chandrima Uddan, Gulshan Park and Dhaka Zoo. There are lakes within city, such as Crescent lake, Dhanmondi lake, Baridhara-Gulshan lake, Banani lake, Uttara lake and Hatirjheel-Begunbari lake.

It is known as the “City of Mosques,” Dhaka is located on the banks of the Buriganga River, near the Ganges Delta. The city’s beautifully-landscaped setting embraces mostly tropical vegetation growing above very moist soil. Located at sea level, Dhaka is also sensitive to floods during the monsoon season. It is really a unique country and I recommend giving it a try if you find yourself in South Asia. My best and final piece of advice that I’ll give you is to go in with an open mind and get ready to experience something brand new.

What is the student lifestyle like in Dhaka?

There are about 50 private and public universities in Dhaka. Only public universities offers dormitory facilities for a number of students, rest of them stay attened claases from home or rent a house beside university campus. Allmost all universities has indoor or outdoor playground and sports management. Moreover it is very easy to find a place in Dhaka to have some quality time with friend, can be a open spot, lake, park or any historical place.

How much does it cost to live in Dhaka?

Dhaka is not an expensive city at all. you can find all the international chain resturant and lifestyle brand. To lead an average life you need to spend about 500 USD a month to cover you living and Food in a private 3 bed appartment. It can be varies for différent location.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Dhaka? Is there any advice you can give?

For foreigner , it will be better if you book in advance to get an appartment. It will be difficult to find a suitable accomodation inshtant. rather, You can check in into a hotel anytime.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

There are many kinds of food varieties in Dhaka, You will be surprised to see how much food can be offered in Dhaka! Not only Bangladeshi food, but so many chains that I recognized from the U.S. such as KFC and Burger King. There were loads of Korean, Japanese and Thai restaurants as well. Bangladeshi food is similar to Indian food. Lots of curry-based dishes, soups, vegetables, roti and chai. Although contrary to in India, Bangladeshis eat a lot of meat (mutton, chicken, beef).

What places would you recommend visiting in Dhaka?

Dhaka is home to over 2000 buildings built between the 16th and 19th centuries, which form an integral part of Dhaka's cultural heritage. Such as Binat Bibi Mosque, Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, Tara Mosque, Chawk Mosque, Hussaini Dalan, Armenian Church, Curzon Hall, Dhaka Gate, Dhanmondi Shahi Eidgah, Rose Garden Palace, Choto Katra, Bara Katra, Dhakeshwari Temple, Swami Bagh Temple, Ramna Kali Mandir, Holy Rosary Church, Pogose School and so on. Besides National assembly, National Monument and Many interesting places are located in Dhaka. I will recommend for all of them.

Is it good to eat out in Dhaka? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

AAH, To be very specific, It depends on the resturant where you want to eat. It will not be good to allow street foods from every corner except some selected places like, Gulshan, Banani,Uttara, Mirpur and Old Dhaka.

Is the nightlife good in Dhaka? Where is good to go?

Its not very popular there, but you have, The downstairs bar at the Radisson hotel is a "non-family friendly" one with a Filipino band . There is also live music at the Westin, but not much dancing. Else go to the American Club for a drink or two. Since Dhaka is a Muslim city, it can be difficult to get your hands on alcohol. However, if you know where to look, you can obtain illicit alcohol.

What advice would you give future students heading to Dhaka?

Bangladesh is without doubt the friendliest place. You will find the majority of people speaking (or understanding) English. This broke down cultural barriers and made it easier to make friends and do daily activities like ordering in a restaurant or riding in a taxi. You will never feel harassed or unsafe. You will really enjoy the kind hospitality of Bangladeshi people.Good luck.