Barisal: The Venice of the East

• Helloহ্যালো
  [helo]
• Goodbyeবিদায়
  [bidae]
• Yesহাঁ
  [ha]
• Noনা
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomeঅনুগ্রহ করে
  [onugroh kore]
• Thank youধন্যবাদ
  [dhonno-bad]
• Excuse me/Sorryদুঃখিত
  [dukhit]
• How are you?তুমি কেমন আছো?
  [tumi kemon asho?]
• Fine. And you?ভালো। আর তুমি?
  [bhalo. ar tumi?]
• Do you speak English?তুমি ইংরেজি বলতে পারো?
  [tumi ingreji bolte paro?]
• I don't understandআমি বুঝিনা
  [ami bujhina]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseদয়া করে মেনু দেখাবেন
  [doya kore menu dekhaben]
• I don't eat meatআমি মাংস খাই না
  [ami mangsh khai na]
• Cheers!চিয়ার্স!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseদয়া করে টাকা দেব
  [doya kore taka deb]

• Help!বাঁচাও!
  [bachao!]
• Go away!চলে যাও!
  [chole jao!]
• Call the Police!পুলিশ কল করুন!
  [police kol korun!]
• Call a doctor!ডাক্তার কল করুন!
  [daktar kol korun!]
• I'm lostআমি হারানো গেছি
  [ami harano geshi]
• I'm illআমার অসুস্থ্য
  [amar osustho]

• I'd like to buy...আমি ... কিনতে চাই
  [ami ... kinte chai]
• I'm just lookingআমি শুধু দেখছি
  [ami shudhu dekhchhi]
• How much is it?এটা কত?
  [eta koto?]
• That's too expensiveএটা খুব বেশি দাম
  [eta khub beshi dam]
• Can you lower the price?দাম কমাতে পারবেন?
  [dam komate parben?]

• What time is it?এখন কত বাজে?
  [ekhon koto baje?]
• It's one o'clockএকটা বাজে
  [ekta baje]
• Half past (10)দশের অর্ধেক
  [dasher ordhek]
• Morningসকাল
  [shokal]
• Afternoonদুপুর
  [dupur]
• Eveningসন্ধ্যা
  [shondhya]
• Yesterdayগতকাল
  [gotkal]
• Todayআজ
  [aj]
• Tomorrowআগামীকাল
  [agamikal]
• 1এক
  [ek]
• 2দুই
  [dui]
• 3তিন
  [tin]
• 4চার
  [char]
• 5পাঁচ
  [pach]
• 6ছয়
  [chhoy]
• 7সাত
  [shat]
• 8আট
  [at]
• 9নয়
  [noy]
• 10দশ
  [dosh]

• Where's a/the...?... কোথায়?
  [... kothay?]
• What's the address?ঠিকানা কি?
  [thikana ki?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?মানে দেখাবেন?
  [mane dekhaben?]
• When's the next (bus)?পরবর্তী (বাস) কখন?
  [porbotri (bosh) kohon?]
• A ticket (to ....)একটি টিকিট (.... পর্যন্ত)
  [ekti ticket (.... porjonto)]

Barisal, located in the southern part of Bangladesh, is a picturesque city known for its rich history, lush green landscapes, and intricate river systems. As a major port city, Barisal has been a significant hub for trade and commerce, contributing to its diverse cultural tapestry.

The history of Barisal dates back to ancient times when it was part of the kingdom of Vanga. Archaeological evidence suggests that the region was inhabited by various indigenous groups before the arrival of Aryan settlers. The fertile land and strategic location made it a thriving center for agriculture and trade.

During the Mughal period, Barisal came under the administration of the Mughal Empire. The region saw significant development in terms of infrastructure and trade. The construction of forts and administrative buildings helped in establishing Mughal authority. The influence of Mughal architecture can still be seen in some of the old structures in Barisal.

Barisal was an important administrative region during British rule in India. It became part of the Bengal Presidency and saw various socio-economic changes. The British introduced modern education, healthcare, and infrastructure, which played a crucial role in the development of the city. The Barisal Cadet College, established during this period, is a notable educational institution that continues to thrive.

The partition of Bengal in 1947 had a profound impact on Barisal. The city became part of East Pakistan, and the socio-political landscape underwent significant changes. The influx of refugees and the division of resources posed challenges, but the resilient spirit of the people helped them adapt to the new circumstances.

Barisal played a vital role during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. The city witnessed several key battles and acts of resistance against Pakistani forces. The determination and bravery of the local freedom fighters contributed to the eventual victory and the establishment of Bangladesh as an independent nation.

Barisal is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the traditional 'Barisal Biswa Zakat' and 'Durga Puja.' The rich cultural practices, including folk music, dance, and craftsmanship, are a testament to the city's diverse and dynamic history.

Today, Barisal is a thriving urban center with a mix of modernity and tradition. The city has seen rapid development in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The University of Barisal, established in 2011, is a symbol of the city's commitment to education and progress. Despite modernization, Barisal retains its historical charm and cultural richness.

Barisal can be accessed by several means of transportation. The nearest airport is Barisal Airport, which has a few domestic flights mainly from Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. The airport is about 12 kilometers from the city center. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Dhaka to Barisal, which takes around 5-6 hours, or opt for a scenic river journey on a launch or steamer from Sadarghat in Dhaka, which can take around 8-10 hours.

Once in Barisal, various modes of local transportation are available. Rickshaws and auto-rickshaws are common for short distances within the city. For longer distances, you can hire taxis or use local bus services. Rental cars are also available but are less common. Bicycles can be rented for a more eco-friendly and immersive experience.

The official currency in Bangladesh is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Barisal, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in the city, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in major cities like Dhaka before traveling to Barisal.

Barisal is generally a safe destination for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, such as markets and public transport. Some areas with higher crime rates include the outskirts of the city and less populated areas. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Barisal. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a warm smile and a slight bow of the head. Shaking hands is common among men. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Barisal like a local, visit the local markets such as Bibir Pukur Bazar where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Bangladeshi goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the floating guava market in Swarupkathi, which is a unique experience. For a more relaxed experience, take a boat ride on the Kirtankhola River to enjoy the scenic beauty.