Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Day-Trippin’: In and Around Dhaka


Another holiday in the offing; another vacation to plan. However, instead of having to splurge on trips abroad and getting shepherded around when stuck with cheap, guided tours, it’s time to instead look around the city. Recent years have seen numerous resorts mushrooming all around the outskirts of the city making them perfect for a day trip. While some of them offer world class amenities, others fall behind. This week, Star Lifestyle directs you towards the best destinations around the city, for an easy and convenient vacation without having to drain too much of your resources.
Jamuna Resort
Close to Dhaka, with the trip taking around 3 hours if the traffic Gods smile upon you, Jamuna Resort has long been the weekend getaway spot. Scenic and charming, specially during the rainy season, the resort lies close to the Jamuna river and offers both trekking and boating activities. An added excitement is the presence of the famous Bengal Monitor Lizard, locally known as Gui Saap, a relatively harmless but exceptionally beautiful creature which nests right in the resort. Rooms consist of Bungalows and Deluxe Bungalows costing from 5,000-10,000 taka. Jamuna Resort also arranges transport for their visitors if asked beforehand. They can be contacted at their head office located in Pragati-RPR Centre (7th floor) 20-21, Kawran Bazar, Dhaka 1215, Bangladesh, tel: 8142971-3.
Nokkhottro Bari
Conceptualised by Bipasha Hayet and Taukir Ahmed , Nokkhottrobari recreates the romanticised notion of village life for city dwellers. The peace, tranquillity and greenery of rural surroundings merges with the urban solidity, reflecting in the architecture as thatched roofs lay atop concrete structures. There are numerous accommodations including complexes, bungalows and camping tents to select from. The option of a jacuzzi and swimming pool add another star to this serene resort. Lazing water-bodies and green fields surround the area, bringing the respite every vacation desires. All this on top of numerous other activities on offer. Nokkhottrobari is located at Sreepur, Gazipur. For more information check out their website: http://www.nokkhottro bari.com.bd. Room rates, as usual, depend on seasons and what’s on offer but usually cost 5000 taka and upwards.
Angana
Just an hour’s drive from Shahjalal Airport, nestled in the villages of Surjonarayanur in Kapashia lies Angana Resort. Angana, meaning a very beautiful woman, is different from other similar resorts in the attention it pays to blending creature comforts with the glories of Mother Nature. An elaborate fountain, spotted with pink flamingos greets you at the entrance. Ahead lies the sprawling complex, part villa and part old-school landlord bungalow. Angana is perfect for a day-trip given the variety of activities it provides. Pony rides, a deer park, badminton court and picnic facilities are all available. The quiet village setting provides a much needed break from the usual rural countryside dotted with factories. The resort also has high security and there is plenty of food to eat. Seventeen air-conditioned rooms are all available for selection in one huge area, making it a perfect for a family getaway. When boredom sets in, there’s always a boat trip to look forward if lazing around the pool isn’t what you rather prefer.
Keep in mind all of these places still need advance booking so make sure to do so. Carry plenty of snacks on you since resort food tends to be expensive. If time permits, grab a meal outside the resort in the one of the numerous local restaurants around. Take a few packs of Eno if you wish to indulge. It’s your holiday, so make the best of it.

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