Expatriates Living In Bangladesh
 

Bangladesh is an exciting and affordable place to live and visit. Historical and archaeological sites dot the countryside, some dating as far back as the third century, B.C. Today, Bangladesh is home to some of the major religions of the world. Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity are all found here. Owing to a long tradition of tolerance, there is no communal animosity or ethnic controversy in Bangladesh. the constitution of the country guarantees full freedom of religion and there is no discrimination based on race, religion, caste, sex or place of birth. Above all the Bangladeshi people are by nature very polite, courteous, friendly and hospitable.

For the expatriate, Bangladesh is affordable and comfortable to live in. Expatriate
accommodation is available in centrally located apartments and houses. In several suburban areas, much quiet, more secluded houses are also available for rent. For those visiting Bangladesh, Dhaka offers two international standard hotels-The Sheraton and The Sonargaon (Pan-Pacific Hotel). Both the hotels provide deluxe accommodation restaurants, health-club and entertainment facilities.

Bangladesh is endowed with enchanting scenic beauty, mighty rivers sunny beaches, historical relics and tribal life. Modern hotel, motels with recreational and other facilities rest houses and restaurants are available at well-known places of interest. Theses facilities coupled with improved communications, liberal customs and immigration rules continue to push up the number of tourists in Bangladesh.

An American International School for grades 1 to 12 is located near the residential area of Gulshan Dhaka. The 40 member teaching staffs follows the American School curriculum. The school library maintains a substantial collection. Tuition charges are reasonable. A Japanese school offering kindergarten and class one to class nine education in Japanese, is located in the residential area of Baridhara in Dhaka. The school is owned by the Japanese Association in Bangladesh. A Japanese hotel and restaurant named 'WAKANA' (M/S. Daichi Sangyo Ltd.) owned and operated by Japanese staff is located in the Gulshan residential area of Dhaka.

For recreation expatriates have access to three private clubs in Dhaka to play tennis squash, golf and billiards and to swim or dine. Local entertainment includes plays art exhibits films and instrumental and vocal music groups. Special occasions are often marked by folk or dance festivals.

Similar sports and recreational facilities are also available in Chittagong and Khulna. In addition, these two places have some special attractions for visitors. Chittagong, the second largest city is the gateway to the Bay of Bengal with a picturesque hinterland of large hills forests and lakes. Chittagong is a good vacation spot. Its green hills and forests, broad sandy beaches and fine temperate climate always attract holiday makers. It combines the humming of busy sea port with the pleasure of a charming hill town with undulating topography. Chittagong in the country's principal sea port and is the main site of heavy, medium and light industries. Chittagong is also close to other unique tourist spots like Cox's Bazar, Kaptai and Rangamati.

Khulna, the country's third largest city, serves as the gateway to the port of Mongla and the Sundarbans, the home of the Royal Bengal Tiger. A Journey by paddle steamer from Dhaka to Khulna along the southern river system running through the green countryside is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience for foreigners. Saint Khan Jahan Ali's Sixty domed ancient mosque (1459 A.D) and his mausoleum at Bagerhat about 32 kms. away from Khulna are the popular tourist attractions.
Basic health care needs can be met at any of the country's hospitals or clinics or by a visit of the American physician hired by the United States Embassy. There are in addition a good number of registered physicians engaged in various state owned and private hospitals and clinics. Most of them are highly qualified, well experienced and educated in U. S. A, Japan, U.K. and other European countries. There are also some international standard hospitals and clinics available in the country with modern diagnostic equipment and facilities.