According to government officials, Bangladesh’s tourism sector may be on the verge of witnessing a breakthrough by next year. Reportedly, some special programs are to be launched, which would help attract more foreign tourists to our country. While the enthusiasm expressed by the government is appreciated, to see our country’s tourism industry truly prosper would require a lot more being done than what has been articulated.
It would not be an exaggeration to claim that there is some amount of xenophobia present in the mindset of many Bangladeshis, which makes fostering a prosperous tourism environment a difficult proposition. Tourists, or foreigners, are frequently discriminated against, or even harassed without any good reason.
It is also counterproductive to establishing a good tourism industry in that a lot of the facilities and opportunities which the average first-world tourist takes for granted are so difficult to avail in Bangladesh. We need to make tourists feel comfortable and safe, and for that we the hosts must be more tolerant to cultural differences.
Another major hindrance to Bangladesh becoming an ideal tourist destination is the matter of security. Foreign visitors coming to Bangladesh to get away from the humdrum of regular life should not have to worry about basic safety.
Improving the state of our tourism sector is a large subject that cannot be tackled without considering a multi-faceted approach. Combating discrimination and staving off threats cannot be accomplished simply through spending – our attitudes need to change.