Ali Carlos, an adventurous traveler originally from Iraq, has explored nine countries in the past three years. Among them, Bangladesh holds a special place, as his journey began with a heartfelt invitation from a close friend to celebrate Eid. In this candid interview, Ali shares his experiences, from discovering the vibrant streets of Dhaka to savoring traditional delicacies like Beef kalabhuna. His reflections offer a fresh perspective on Bangladesh, challenging misconceptions and highlighting its rich culture, warm hospitality, and hidden gems.
Intro
Q. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your connection to traveling within Bangladesh?
I’m Ali originally from Iraq. I love traveling and for the last three years. I have been in 9 countries. Including now Bangladesh. And i came first time to Bangladesh through my friend invitation to spend Eid with him in Bangladesh
Q. Why did you choose to visit Bangladesh while most travelers do not visit it?
Well since one of my good friends from Bangladesh he inspired me through food and culture to visit his origin country and meet with people and the culture there.
Q. How did your friends and family react when they heard your plan about visiting Bangladesh?
Most of my friends and family have the wrong impression about Bangladesh, that it is a mess country and so poor and can be also quite dangerous for travelers. So they had a scary reaction for me being here!
Exploring the Beauty of Bangladesh
Q. Which destinations in Bangladesh have left the biggest impression on you, and why?
Well i would say Dhaka because i enjoy so much the people company here specially my close friends here and trying the different food around and riding the ricksha and free speaking English around.
Q. Bangladesh has a rich cultural and natural heritage. Do you prefer exploring the countryside, historic cities, or natural wonders?
Well I love the country side and the beauty of nature here but I always prefer the crowded places full of life. Like the capital Dhaka.
Q. What’s a hidden gem in Bangladesh you’d recommend to fellow travelers?
I would recommend any traveler to start his trip with Dhaka making friends and discovering the beautiful sides of the culture from the very real angel of local people and that’s how you can discover the hidden beauty and the real picture of Bangladesh.
Memorable Experiences
Q. Can you share a memorable experience from your travels in Bangladesh?
I have quit many unforgettable moments and memories from my current visits to Bangladesh and one of my favorite experiences is the wedding of one of my best friends here and going through all the culture actions between the husband and the pride and partying between the two families it was quit pleasure to be part of it and live every moment of it.
Q. Have you experienced any of Bangladesh’s unique festivals?
Yes, it was a food festival not long ago, including many people tasting different type of foods and enjoy party of many friends of mine.
Cultural and Natural Connections
Q. Bangladeshis are known for their hospitality. Have you had any meaningful interactions with locals during your trips?
Aww through my trip i had so so many invitations and had many beautiful invitations for lunch and dinners served by so kind and generous local people enjoying having me tasting their food and enjoying their company! Even though many of them we met for the first time.
Q. What’s your favorite traditional Bangladeshi food or dish that you discovered while traveling?
I would say since I have tasted beef kalabhuna till now I’m addicted to that dish and i advice all travelers to try it whenever they are around.
Challenges and Lessons
Q. What challenges have you faced traveling within Bangladesh, and how have you navigated them?
I would say mostly is the traffic and changes of weather and language gab and i got lucky most of my friends. I made here they speak well English and they transport me and show me around from time to time so i faced less trouble than other travelers.
Q. What lessons have you learned about the country or yourself while traveling across Bangladesh?
Well I learned many lessons through my traveling here and most important lesson that very little things can make us so happy no matter how small and simple it is.
Tips for Travelers in Bangladesh
Q. What’s your advice for travelers exploring Bangladesh for the first time?
As I said previously i advice everybody to start with the capital and approach the culture with local people and make friends since people so friendly here and can easily have access and information about everything around from them.
Q. Are there any safety or cultural tips you’d like to share for tourists visiting rural areas or indigenous communities?
For me Alhamdulillah, I had no any bad experience not even once faced robbing or criminal behavior and i think Bangladesh quite safe and as traveler you should just be a ‘bit careful just in case something might happen.
Future Travel in Bangladesh
Q. Are there any places in Bangladesh you haven’t been to yet but dream of visiting?
Yes, there is so many cities. I did not visit yet and hopefully in the soon future ill cover the rest of them.
Q. Do you think traveling in Bangladesh has helped you connect more deeply with its history, people, or culture?
Sure, I have explained previously it is so important to connect with country and people to open the door for the real picture of Bangladesh.
Wrap-Up
Q. What’s one thing you wish people knew about traveling in Bangladesh?
That it is safer and cleaner than what most of people outside think.
Q. How do you think tourism in Bangladesh can be improved to attract more visitors, both local and international?
Simply improving the roads and transportation and also the country advertisement for the rest of the world about Bangladesh and what does the country can offer for us as travelers.
Q. What’s your favorite memory that will always remind you of your travels in Bangladesh?
Riding rickshaw to my favorite restaurant at late night to eat my favorite dish when I am So so hungry at night.
Ending
Thank you, Ali Carlos, for sharing your inspiring journey and heartfelt experiences in Bangladesh. This insightful conversation with Ali Carlos sheds light on the beauty, culture, and warmth of Bangladesh through the eyes of a passionate traveler. His experiences and reflections remind us of the country’s potential to captivate those willing to explore it with an open heart.
Interview conducted by Md. Mahbub Ullah.