Bangladesh

Tipping

• Tipping is not always expected but appreciated, especially in tourist
• oriented services
• Restaurants: 5
• 10% is common in upscale places, otherwise not expected
• Hotel porters: 50
• 100 BDT per bag
• Tour guides: 500
• 1000 BDT per day, depending on service
• Drivers: 200
• 500 BDT per day
• Rickshaw pullers: Small extra amount for longer rides, generally round up the fare
• No tipping for casual street vendors or local transport like buses

Money & Payments

• ATMs are available, especially in urban areas; however, they may not always be reliable or have sufficient cash, so it's advisable to have alternative options
• Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger shops in cities, but cash is king for most transactions, especially outside urban centers
• Bringing cash (USD is widely accepted for exchange) is recommended, but only exchange at authorized money changers or banks
• While not officially recognized, a grey market for currency exchange exists, but it's generally safer and more advisable to use official channels to avoid scams or legal issues

Cultural Norms

• Dress codes: Modest dress is recommended, especially for women, covering shoulders and knees
• This is particularly important when visiting religious sites
• Behaviors considered rude: Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon
• Pointing with your finger is considered rude; use your whole hand
• Showing the soles of your feet is also considered disrespectful
• Eating customs: It is customary to eat with your right hand
• Wash your hands before and after meals
• Food is often shared from communal dishes
• Do not waste food
• When greeting, use 'Assalamu Alaikum' (peace be upon you) and shake hands with people of the same gender
• A slight bow is also common
• Remove your shoes before entering homes, mosques, or temples
• Bargaining is common in local markets, but less so in fixed
• price shops

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. LGBTQ+ rights are not recognized in Bangladesh. Homosexuality is illegal under current laws, and there is significant social stigma.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

• The legal drinking age is 21 for non
• Muslims
• Muslims are prohibited from consuming alcohol
• Drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties including the death penalty for drug trafficking
• Even possession of small amounts can lead to lengthy prison sentences

Special Laws

• It is prohibited to take photographs of government buildings, military installations, and police stations
• Be mindful of public displays of affection, which are generally frowned upon
• Public consumption of alcohol for non
• Muslims should be discreet and within licensed establishments only