United News of Bangladesh

What started as a small effort by a few parents to make cycling to school safer has turned into a joyful weekly ritual in Montclair, New Jersey, where more than 350 children and parents now ride together in what’s known as a “bike bus.” On Friday mornings, families gather in a neighborhood shopping area before setting off on a 5-mile group ride to two local elementary schools. Volunteers in bright safety vests help coordinate the route, while cars stop to let the long line of cyclists pass. “It was so fun,” said 7-year-old second grader Gigi Drucker after arriving at Nishuane Elementary School. “The best way to get to school is by bike because it gives you more exercise. It’s healthier for the Earth.” Organizer Jessica Tillyer said the initiative began with just five parents who wanted to ride with their children but felt unsafe cycling alone. “Now, we can have up to 400 people riding together,” she said, adding that the weekly ride builds community and healthy habits. Nutritionist warns: 5 protein-rich foods that may actually cause weight gain The “bike bus” trend is spreading worldwide, with more than 400 similar routes across the U.S., Europe, Australia, and Asia, according to the nonprofit Bike Bus World. Co-founder Sam Balto, who started one in Portland, Oregon, said families are drawn to “something super joyful and community-driven” instead of long car lines. The Montclair group maintains enthusiasm through themed rides, social media coordination, and weather-ready planning. Organizers stress consistency — rain or shine — and encourage others to start small. “Don’t ask for permission. Just get on your bikes and ride,” Tillyer said. “Once people experience it, they’ll want to join.” Source: AP 

Saint Martin’s Island is a marvellous blessing of nature on the Bay of Bengal. This heavenly island bestows a cherished retreat for both domestic and foreign visitors drawn to its calm, coral-fringed shores. Despite recent travel restrictions and environmental limitations, tourists still find their way to the country's only coral island. The transport system, however, remains limited; only a few authorised ships operate on fixed schedules. Ticketing and travel pass regulations are now more stringent, with tied permits for visits and overnight stays. Let’s unravel all the necessary details of how tourists can visit Saint Martin in the tourist season (2025–26). Saint Martin Visiting Time This Winter Considering the weather conditions and safety protocols, passenger ships to Saint Martin’s Island are permitted to operate only upon approval from the concerned administration. For the ongoing open season, travel is allowed from November 1, 2025, to January 2026. Read more: Visit Saint Martin, Coral Island, Bangladesh: Piece of Paradise on Bay of Bengal During November, visitors must complete their trips within the same day, as overnight stays are restricted. However, from December through January, night halts are authorised, enabling short-term accommodation under regulated supervision. BIWTA Jetty, Cox's Bazar: The Only Departure for Saint Martin Trip For security and administrative reasons, all authorised tourist vessels to the coral island will operate solely from Cox’s Bazar. The Teknaf and Ukhia Inani routes remain legally prohibited. Only authorised passenger ships are allowed to operate; small boats, trawlers, and speedboats remain strictly prohibited under current regulations. Ships will depart from the Nuniya Chhara BIWTA Ghat between 7:00 and 10:00 a.m., their schedules aligned with the low tide. Return journeys from the island are set between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m., also based on tidal conditions. Depending on weather and sea currents, the voyage typically takes five to five and a half hours each way. Read more: St Martin’s reopens, but no ships sail as overnight stays banned Visitors may remain on the island without a fixed time limit during December and January, when night stays are allowed.

Call it a new kind of medical advice: find a shady tree, breathe deeply and check back tomorrow. Healthcare providers in the United States have long encouraged patients to spend more time outside. Now, hundreds of them are formalizing that guidance by issuing prescriptions for nature outings, as stress fueled by social media, politics and global conflict continues to weigh on Americans. No one needs a doctor’s note to step outdoors, but some practitioners say the written prescription helps people treat the advice as a priority rather than a luxury. “When I bring it up, it’s almost like granting permission to do something they may think is frivolous at a time when everything feels serious and stressful,” said Dr. Suzanne Hackenmiller, a gynecologist from Waterloo, Iowa. She began prescribing nature after finding comfort outside following her husband’s death. Research shows benefits in natureStudies have consistently found that time in natural environments can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones and strengthen the immune system. “Study after study says we’re wired to be out in nature,” said Dr. Brent Bauer, director of the Mayo Clinic’s complementary and integrative medicine program in Minnesota. The program explores treatments such as meditation, massage, acupuncture and nutrition. “There’s real science behind it.” Making the advice stickTurning suggestions into prescriptions began gaining momentum around a decade ago. Dr. Robert Zarr, also a certified nature guide, founded Park Rx America in 2016 to help doctors incorporate outdoor time into treatment plans. A cheese lover’s guide to choosing the right mozzarella for every dish The group’s guidelines encourage providers to discuss a patient’s interests, how often they can get outdoors and nearby parks to visit. The details are written into a prescription, and patients receive reminders. Nearly 2,000 providers worldwide have joined Park Rx America, including in Australia, Brazil, Cameroon and Spain, and more than 7,000 nature prescriptions have been issued since 2019, said Dr. Stacy Beller Stryer, the group’s associate medical director. About 100 similar programs have emerged in the U.S. For some, the prescription itself is motivation. Bauer, who treats business executives, said he writes about 30 nature prescriptions each year. “When someone hands me a piece of paper telling me to take a medication, I’m more likely to act on it,” he said. “The same idea works here.” Nature as a refugeHackenmiller said more patients are searching for breaks from a world filled with constant crisis. “When so many things are out of our control, it can help to step away from the media and immerse ourselves in nature,” she said. “People often reconnect with moments when nature brought them comfort before.” Proper timing key to successful shrub transplants, experts advise Measuring impact still underwayA 2020 study by the U.S. Forest Service and researchers from two universities found more research is needed to assess how often patients follow through and what long-term health results emerge. Still, experts agree that getting outdoors is beneficial unless conditions like smoke or insects pose a hazard. At William & Mary in Virginia, students prescribe outdoor time to fellow students through an online system. Applicants list when they can go outside, how far they’re willing to travel and what activities they enjoy. The program issued an average of 22 prescriptions per month in 2025, up from 12 in 2020. Senior Kelsey Wakiyama, from Villanova, Pennsylvania, said she relied on nature prescriptions after arriving on campus and not knowing the local trails. “I love the greenery,” she said. “When you’re indoors for hours, the fresh air feels incredible. It calms my nervous system and brings back good memories.” Source: AP

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, has become one of the most sought-after destinations for European families, retirees, and investors looking to buy property overseas. With its scenic beaches, rich culture, pleasant year-round weather, and welcoming Thai hospitality, the island offers an appealing escape from Europe’s cold winters, economic challenges, and urban stress. Improved connectivity has made Phuket even more accessible for European travelers, with expanded direct flights from London, Frankfurt, Paris, Zurich, Vienna, and other major cities, along with convenient transit options through the Middle East, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The island’s affordability, tranquil lifestyle, and safety have also boosted its reputation as a prime spot for long-term stays. Compared to popular European coastal destinations such as Spain’s Costa del Sol or Italy’s Amalfi Coast, property prices in Phuket remain considerably lower. Buyers can choose from a wide range of condominiums, from affordable units to premium branded residences offering strong investment value. Phuket’s appeal goes beyond real estate. The island offers a vibrant lifestyle with world-class golf courses, marinas, shopping centers, diverse dining options, and numerous outdoor activities. Reliable internet connectivity, international schools, and advanced healthcare facilities make it an attractive place for families, professionals, and retirees alike. At the forefront of Phuket’s property boom is the Banyan Group, best known for its luxury Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts. Recognized as Asia’s leading developer of branded residences and ranked fifth globally, the group emphasizes sustainability, comfort, and wellness. European buyers, who traditionally represent about one-third of its customers, value Banyan’s reputation and high-quality after-sales service. The company recently won 15 top honors at the International Property Awards — the highest number achieved by any Asian developer. How to shop secondhand sustainably and stay stylish A major highlight of the island’s development is Laguna Phuket, a 1,000-acre integrated resort by the Banyan Group situated along a three-kilometer stretch of Bang Tao Beach. This lakeside and woodland community includes seven luxury hotels, an award-winning golf course, and more than 3,000 branded condominiums, all linked by complimentary shuttle buses and boats. Laguna Phuket now houses residents from over 50 nationalities, supported by comprehensive infrastructure that includes a kindergarten, wellness centers, diverse leisure facilities, and the new Rava Beach Club — the largest on the island. “Laguna Phuket has evolved into a thriving residential community. It offers a safe, world-class environment where families, retirees, and professionals can flourish,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. Source: AP

Beyond the hum-drum of hectic cities, Bangladesh is home to several wildlife sanctuaries that conserve endangered species, maintain ecological balance, and offer natural habitats for wildlife and migratory birds. The Habiganj district, located in the northeastern part of Bangladesh, is blessed with natural greenery, featuring lush forests, tea gardens, hills, and wildlife. Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary was created in 1982 in Habiganj and was enlarged in 1996. Besides abounding in many rare plants and animal species, its scenic landscapes provide fresh air, biodiversity, and a peaceful environment for visitors and locals. Here is a detailed travel guide to Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary.  Location The Rema–Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary is located at Chunarughat Upazila of Habiganj District in the Sylhet Division. It lies next to India's Tripura border and close to Srimangal in the Moulvibazar district. Approximately 130 km northeast of Dhaka, the city, lies the wildlife reserve. It includes the Kalenga, Rema, Chanbari, and Rashidpur portions of the Habiganj District's Kalenga Forest Range. Significance The Rema–Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected forest and wildlife reserve in Bangladesh. It is a dry and evergreen forest, and after the Sundarbans, it is the largest natural forest in Bangladesh. It is also the country’s second-largest wildlife sanctuary and one of the richest areas in terms of biodiversity. The sanctuary covers an area of 1,795.54 hectares. Among the few natural forests in Bangladesh that have survived in relatively good condition, Rema–Kalenga is one of the most notable. Read more: International Air Flights with Connecting Flights: Beginner’s Guide for Transfer-transit Passengers Among Bangladesh's natural forests, this sanctuary is still in good condition. However, the refuge is threatened by deforestation and careless tree theft. Flora The sanctuary is home to 638 species of plants, trees, and vines. Some of the most notable among them include Awal, Teak, Kakra, Neur, Hargaza, Gandharoi, Haritaki, Bohera, Jamun, Fig, Jackfruit, Champa Jackfruit, Kau, Kadam, Rata, Chikrashi, Chapalish, Neem, Bonmala, etc.

Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong is set to request a 700 million baht (S$27.6 million) budget from the Cabinet for a domestic flight giveaway programme aimed at drawing at least 200,000 international tourists to destinations across the country. Sorawong on Wednesday said the Ministry of Tourism and Sports plans to submit a proposal to the Cabinet next week for the budget allocation to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The programme, titled “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights,” is designed to encourage foreign visitors to explore locations beyond Thailand’s main tourist cities. Foreign couples rush to marry in Denmark, Copenhagen moves to prioritize locals The TAT will work with six domestic airlines—Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Airways International (Thai), Thai Lion Air, and Thai VietJet—on joint promotional campaigns to strengthen Thailand’s tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth. “The government will support domestic flight tickets priced at 1,750 baht per one-way trip and 3,500 baht for round trips. The initiative aims to attract at least 200,000 foreign tourists, covering destinations across Thailand, with a particular focus on Unesco-designated cities, popular tourist spots, and key destinations nationwide,” Sorawong explained. “The total budget for this project is 700 million baht, which will run from August to December, with travel to take place from September to November.” Italy's Cala Goloritze Ranks Top among the World's 50 Best Beaches in 2025 International visitors purchasing standard airfares to Thailand—either through airline websites, multi-city options from Thai and Bangkok Airways, or fly-thru/check-through services from Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, and Thai, or via online travel agents (OTAs)—will receive free round-trip domestic tickets along with a 20kg luggage allowance. The programme is expected to generate at least 8.81 billion baht in direct revenue from foreign tourist spending, with total economic benefits projected at 21.80 billion baht. The initiative is inspired by Japan’s “free domestic flights” campaign, which seeks to spread tourist traffic from major cities to secondary destinations. It supports the Thai government’s designation of 2025 as the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year.”

International air flights connecting flights offer broader route options and competitive fares. However, for first-time flyers, navigating unfamiliar airports and managing transit procedures can be overwhelming. From booking to baggage, every step demands informed choices. This guide aims to simplify that journey by covering all essential aspects of multi-leg flights for beginners. Here’s a professional walkthrough for travelling globally through international air travel with connecting flights and layovers. Essential Tips for Connecting International Flights with Layovers . Pre-Booking Considerations Selecting the right flight involves more than just picking the lowest fare. Direct flights offer convenience and time savings but are often more expensive. Connecting flights, on the other hand, open access to competitive pricing and flexible routes, though they demand careful planning. Always prioritise a safe buffer between flights, preferably 2 to 4 hours for international connections. It's helpful to be proactive about potential delays, immigration checks, and terminal changes. Understanding visa and transit requirements is equally vital. In certain countries, a transit visa may be required even when the traveller remains within the airport's international zone. European hubs under the Schengen Zone often have specific rules that can surprise unprepared travellers. Read more: Shopping in Dubai: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Use tools like Skyscanner for price comparisons, FlightConnections for route mapping, and SeatGuru for aircraft layouts. For first-time travellers, airports with efficient signage and clear terminal layouts, such as Changi, Doha, or Munich, can make a noticeable difference. Booking Tips and Smart Planning When booking international flights with connections, the platform you use matters significantly. Direct airline websites often provide greater reliability, transparent policies, and easier support in case of delays or changes. While third-party portals may offer marginal savings, they can complicate refund or rescheduling processes. Most importantly, always ensure all legs of your journey are issued under a single ticket to secure your connection rights if a delay occurs. Your seat choice can also influence your transit ease. If your layover is short, seats near the front of the aircraft can reduce disembarking time. For critical schedules, business class may offer faster immigration clearance, priority boarding, and lounge access. Avoid tightly scheduled layovers, particularly during peak hours or late-night slots when airport services may be limited. Larger airports with complex terminal systems require longer transit windows. Read more: Shopping in Hong Kong: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Offline Assistance: Local Airline Offices For beginners, visiting the local office of an airline can provide clarity that online platforms often lack. These offices offer face-to-face guidance on booking complexities, baggage allowances, and layover arrangements. Printed itineraries, verified baggage details, and tailored layover advice make these visits particularly useful for first-time international travellers. Staff can also explain stopover hotel eligibility and suggest suitable travel insurance. They can even walk travellers through rechecking procedures during connections. Before visiting, travellers should prepare specific questions in advance on layover durations, visa implications, baggage handling, and airline-provided accommodations. Airport Navigation During Connection Upon arrival at a layover airport, following signage marked “Connecting Flights” is essential to maintaining the scheduled transfer. Depending on the airport's infrastructure, an additional security screening may be required even if the traveller remains within the international zone. Terminal changes are a critical aspect of many large hub connections. Identifying the mode of terminal transfer is best achieved through official airport apps or terminal maps. It usually applies particularly in complex airports such as Heathrow, Dubai, or Changi. Read more: Trip to Bali: A Comprehensive Travel Guide Transit procedures vary by location. In some cases, international passengers may be required to clear immigration before proceeding to the next gate, even without exiting the airport. A clear understanding of these processes contributes significantly to a smooth onwards journey. Baggage Transfer Rules Understanding baggage transfer protocols is essential when planning journeys involving connecting flights. When tickets are issued under a single booking, baggage is typically through-checked to the final destination. This eliminates the need to collect and recheck luggage during transit. However, bookings involving separate airlines, particularly those outside major alliances, often require travellers to claim and reprocess their bags at each stop. Given such uncertainties, a well-packed carry-on becomes crucial. Essential items such as medications, travel documents, a change of clothes, and valuables should remain easily accessible. Additionally, international regulations must be observed – liquid limits, electronic device screenings, and prohibited items vary by region. Strategic packing prepares for baggage mishandling while ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. Dealing with Flight Delays and Missed Connections In the event of delays, rebooking and compensation depend on jurisdiction and ticket structure. Under regulations, passengers are entitled to assistance and compensation when delays or missed connections result from the airline’s fault. However, when connections are missed due to short layovers or separately booked itineraries, responsibility often shifts to the traveller. Read more: Thai e-Visa for Bangladeshis: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online Comprehensive travel insurance can significantly mitigate these risks. Coverage for delays, missed onwards flights, and baggage issues offers both financial protection and access to emergency support. Familiarity with policy terms and claim procedures ensures timely assistance when disruptions occur. Punctuality and Being Concerned Efficient time management is fundamental to successful transit. For domestic-to-domestic connections, a layover of at least 60–90 minutes is generally sufficient. However, international connections, especially those requiring terminal changes, demand a minimum of 2 to 4 hours. Upon landing, adjusting the phone or watch to the local time zone helps maintain alignment with airport schedules and departure times. Information desks, real-time flight display monitors, and airport Wi-Fi services can provide critical updates and assistance. Boarding gates are occasionally changed, and announcements may not always be repeated. Maintaining personal well-being and safety enhances comfort during longer waits. Many major airports offer lounges, rest zones, and prayer facilities. Valuables, passports, and essential documents should never be left unattended, particularly during overnight layovers or crowded peak hours. Read more: Top 10 Online Platforms to Book International Flights from Bangladesh Wrap Up This beginner’s guide to international air travel with connecting flights has covered every critical phase. It spans from pre-booking decisions and offline assistance to baggage handling, transit procedures, and time management. Each step presents unique challenges, but with structured preparation, even complex itineraries can unfold with confidence. Staying informed about airline rules, visa requirements, and airport layouts can significantly reduce stress. A well-packed carry-on, timely bookings, and awareness of passenger rights further support smoother travel experiences.

When faced with overwhelming bureaucracy in Poland, Magdalena Kujawińska and her Colombian fiancé Heinner Valenzuela turned to Denmark for a simpler solution — and tied the knot in a 10-minute ceremony at Copenhagen’s historic City Hall. “We realized that it’s not that easy to get married in Poland,” said Kujawińska. The couple, who reside in Krakow, struggled with document delays, especially the certificate of non-marriage from Colombia, which expires in three months and couldn’t arrive in time. Instead, they turned to an online wedding planner who helped them secure approval to wed in Denmark within just four days. Copenhagen has become a magnet for international couples — mixed-nationality and same-sex alike — earning the nickname “Las Vegas of Europe” for its streamlined wedding procedures. According to Anita Okkels Birk Thomsen, head of the marriage office at Copenhagen City Hall, the capital hosted around 8,000 weddings last year, 5,400 of which involved couples with no Danish residency — nearly double the number from five years ago. But the popularity comes with a downside. Local couples are finding it harder to secure ceremony slots. Tea-loving Nepal is developing a taste for coffee “The significant rise in foreign couples getting married in the capital poses challenges for Copenhagen-based couples,” said Mia Nyegaard, the city official in charge of culture and leisure. Starting late October, City Hall will reserve 40% of wedding slots for residents. However, ceremonies via private registrars will not be affected. City lawmakers will also explore additional measures to relieve pressure on wedding services after the summer break. Denmark’s appeal lies in its liberal marriage laws. It was the first country in the world to recognize same-sex civil unions in 1989 and legalized same-sex marriage in 2012. The requirements are simple: no birth certificate or proof of single status is needed in most cases. Applications cost 2,100 kroner (about $326) and, if approved, couples receive a certificate within five working days. All that's typically required is a valid passport — and a visa, if necessary. “We get that thing like, ‘Are you sure we do not need a birth certificate?’ And we go, ‘Yes,’” said Rasmus Clarck Sørensen, director of Getting Married in Denmark, an online wedding planning company. His firm helped over 2,600 couples last year through its €875 ($1,014) “Complete Service” package. For Kujawińska and Valenzuela, Denmark offered more than convenience — it fulfilled a long-delayed dream. “It means a lot for us because we’ve been waiting a lot for this,” said Kujawińska. “We’re really happy.” Source: Agency 

Online booking systems have turned once-complicated air flight arrangements into seamless digital experiences. All Bangladeshi airlines now operate official websites for ticketing convenience. A major leap forward has been the rise of flight search engines that integrate nearly all airlines under one virtual platform. Let’s explore some renowned international flight booking sites leading the country’s air travel revolution. Some Popular Sites for Booking International Air Flights from Bangladesh Here are some renowned websites where people can book air flights depending on their schedule, requirements, and budget plans.  Biman Bangladesh Airlines Link: https://www.biman-airlines.com/ The state-owned airline introduced its online seat booking system in 2010. Through its official website, passengers can effortlessly complete the entire ticketing process from home. This includes selecting the destination, date, and class and providing detailed traveller information such as email address and mobile number. Payment can be made through digital banking or any preferred mobile payment platform. Upon successful payment, an e-ticket is sent directly to the passenger's email. For added convenience, Biman Bangladesh Airlines also offers a mobile application, Biman App, available for any smartphone users. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.BimanAirlines.Biman&hl=en&gl=US Apple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/biman/id6444130555 Read more: Online Ticket Booking in Bangladesh: Websites for Buying Train, Bus, Launch, Air Tickets Shohoz Link: https://www.shohoz.com/ A reliable platform for e-tickets across international and domestic transport, Shohoz has built a strong presence. Since its inception in 2014, it has brought buses, trains, launches, and flights under a single digital platform. On the Shohoz website, users can specify departure date, destinations, and travel dates separately for each transport mode. After completing payment via mobile wallet or bank card, users receive a link to download their ticket, either via email or SMS. The entire process is mobile-friendly, allowing seamless booking directly from a smartphone. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.shohoz.rides Apple App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/shohoz-app/id1354321445?ls=1 ShareTrip Link: https://sharetrip.net/ What began as a small Facebook page named Travel Booking BD in 2013, with a focus on selling plane tickets, evolved into ShareTrip the following year. ShareTrip became the country’s first platform to offer online ticketing for both domestic and international flights through a unified system. In addition to its website, ShareTrip provides dedicated apps for Android and iPhone users. All platforms feature real-time fare listings for available flights. Customers typically receive their e-ticket via email within one to two days after completing payment. It depends on the working day, weekend, or public holidays.  Booking requires account registration, and the account can later be used to manage cancellations or rescheduling requests. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.sharetrip&hl=en  IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sharetrip-flight-shop-voucher/id1469335892 GoZayaan Link: https://gozayaan.com/ Among Bangladesh’s foremost online travel agencies (OTAs), GoZayaan has been facilitating domestic and international air ticketing since 2017. Beyond e-ticketing, the platform also offers services related to hotel bookings, tour packages, and visa assistance. To place a booking, users must first create an account, which grants access to flight updates and ticket management. The website features both flight search and fare comparison tools across multiple airlines. With support for nearly all major mobile wallets and banking systems, the platform is easily accessible to a wide range of users. In addition, dedicated mobile apps are available for both iOS and Android users. IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/gozayaan/id1635126688 Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gozayaan.app&hl=en Read more: Air ticket syndicate back in Bangladesh as fares rise defying govt order Wego Link: https://www.wego.com.bd/ Founded in 2005, Wego is a dynamic multinational travel platform representing over 30 nationalities. Along with domestic routes, the company offers international flights with great deals on preferred airlines. A standout feature is Wego’s direct airline comparison tool, which lets users evaluate multiple carriers in real time. In addition, the platform integrates Airalo, its exclusive eSIM service, for effortless mobile connectivity abroad, as well as e-visa solutions for select destinations. Beyond flights, Wego is a proud partner of Airbnb. They operate ShopCash, a rewards platform for shoppers across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. With the advantage of multiple payment methods, customers conveniently afford this world-class service.  Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wego.android&hl=en IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/sg/app/wego-flights-hotels-booking/id751096907 US-Bangla Airlines Link: https://usbair.com/ With its inaugural flight launched on the Dhaka-Jashore route, US-Bangla Airlines began operations on July 17, 2014. It has since expanded its reach to major cities across Asia and the Middle East. The airline offers its frequent flyers the Sky Star Program, allowing passengers to accumulate Sky Star Miles. These can later be redeemed for flight tickets or other exclusive rewards. The website is known for its visually engaging interface and clear navigation. The platform also supports a wide range of payment options, making the entire booking experience accessible. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.stsbd.fahim.usbangla&hl=bn&gl=US iOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/us-bangla-airlines/id1519327703 Amy Link: https://www.amybd.com/ Since its establishment in 2015, Amy has earned a reputation as a trusted all-in-one travel platform. They streamline everything from flight bookings to hotel reservations and Umrah packages. Amy’s real-time booking system ensures instant confirmation via SMS and email, giving travelers peace of mind. With its advanced flight search, schedule updates, and price comparison features, users stay fully informed at every stage. The platform accepts a wide range of local and international banking cards and supports the most popular mobile financial services. They also offer a suite of smart tools, including the Amy Flight Tracker, live airport flight screens, and Amy Chat. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.amybd.amy IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/amy-bd/id1482481770 Read more: Why Are We Asked to Put Our Phones on Airplane Mode During Flights? Buy Tickets Link: https://buytickets.com.bd/ On August 19, 2018, Buy Tickets, an initiative of Airspan Ltd., began its domestic and international air ticketing operations. Today, it holds a notable position in Bangladesh’s growing travel sector. Like other leading OTAs, Buy Tickets offers a user-friendly interface for effortless flight booking. Customers receive their e-tickets via SMS or email after completing payment. The platform currently supports Android users through its dedicated mobile app. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.buytickets.bd&hl=en Firsttrip Link: https://firsttrip.com/ As an initiative of US-Bangla Airlines, Firsttrip has emerged as one of Bangladesh’s leading OTAs. It fuses travel and technology to streamline flight bookings and adapt to evolving traveller expectations. Functioning as a comprehensive flight search engine, it allows users to reserve tickets on the most prominent and trusted carriers. Each carrier covers both international and domestic routes. Their standout features are Open Flight Tracker, an intuitive interface, and flexible payment choices across mobile wallets and banking platforms. Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.firsttrip.user IOS App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/firsttrip/id6462388200 Final Words These popular international flight booking sites of Bangladesh reshape the experience of travelling abroad with ease, speed, and reliability. Biman Bangladesh and US-Bangla Airlines reflect the country’s aviation pride. Wego, Shohoz, ShareTrip, and Amy have emerged as trailblazers in the country’s flight search engine space. The latest OTAs, GoZayaan, Buy Tickets, and Firsttrip, blend modern travel tech with user-centric features. Altogether, these platforms reflect the evolving travel industry, where digital innovation meets global connectivity.

Popular reality show Love Island is once again under scrutiny for how it portrays and treats Black women, sparking renewed conversations about racial bias and colorism in modern dating, both on-screen and in real life. Now in its 12th season in the U.K. and having just wrapped its 7th U.S. season, the show has repeatedly drawn criticism for the consistent pattern of Black female contestants being picked last or eliminated early. Fans say the show highlights how darker-skinned women are often seen as less desirable, a reflection of broader societal biases. “I feel like the dark-skinned Black women on the U.S. version find partners who vibe with them and respect them,” said London-based content creator Oghosa Ovienrioba, while criticizing the U.K. edition for being “very anti-Black.” ‘The Salt Path’ faces backlash amid allegations of fabrication, delaying author’s next book Incidents like Alima Gagigo’s recent experience with a white contestant dismissing her as “not my type” reinforce fan concerns about implicit racial bias. Meanwhile, former U.S. contestant JaNa Craig recalled feeling overlooked due to her complexion, despite her popularity among viewers. Experts say these dynamics mirror real-world issues of misogynoir — the unique discrimination faced by Black women — and call for more diverse producers to help reshape narratives. Source: Agency