Even though we often take pride in the abundance and richness of our natural beauties, it is discouraging to note that still we have not been able to tap the full potential of our tourism sector. Consequently, despite having a number of new but potential tourist zones, we usually go to the Sundarbans, Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin’s. But beyond these popular and familiar ones, there are a number of new and potential tourist spots that have remained undeveloped. Moreover, no remarkable plans have been integrated for the development and promotion of these potential tourist zones.
A number of new tourist spots are emerging in the hill and beach areas of Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar, vast forest areas of Sylhet and the Sundarbans, thanks to the social media that is constantly helping us explore new tourist spots. But most of these spots remain untapped due to lack of proper tourist guidelines and catalogues to promote division-wise potential tourist spots. Also, there is no concrete plan and target to encourage foreign tourists to visit and explore new tourist spots in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Tourism Board and Tourism Ministry
should work hand in hand to identify, develop and
promote new and potential tourist spots
Youths and adventure-loving people are getting attracted to new places like Thanchi, Remakri, Nafakhum, Amiakhum, Sandwip, Ratargul, Bichhnakandi, etc; rather than to the traditional ones. Most of these zones are non-traditional and the government should develop and promote those to attract more tourists. Also necessary interventions, coupled with concrete plans to provide necessary logistical support like improving connectivity, and ensuring food, residential and other facilities for the tourists, should be devised immediately. Most tourists consider safety and security, accommodation, transportation, adventure, wildlife, natural attraction, etc the most important issues. Therefore, sound infrastructure should be built in the new and potential tourist spots to encourage tourists.
It is good to note that many private tourist agencies and social media groups are working to revive the country’s tourist industry, and popularise new tourist zones. To this end, departments concerned, including Bangladesh Tourism Board and Tourism Ministry, should work hand in hand to identify, develop and promote new and potential tourist spots. We believe that the tourism industry of Bangladesh can play a significant role in boosting the country’s economy.