As a foreign tourist you certainly don’t have to feel unsafe. It is important for women to watch their clothes. Bangladesh is an Islamic country and it is important to show respect for the culture. You don’t have to wear a headscarf, but as a woman make sure that your knees and shoulders are covered and don’t wear tight clothes. 

However, however you try your best to adapt, as a foreigner you will always and everywhere be the attraction of the day! There may be an elephant crossing the road next to you, still 30 children will run after you screaming and fighting for your attention. Furthermore, everyone stares at you and is asked 30 times a day: “Your country name?” All this is entirely well-intentioned curiosity and often quite funny.

Bangladesh is a country full of friendly and open-minded people. But just like any country with a high rate of poverty, there is an increased risk of people who could try to exploit you. Please, use the usual precaution and avoid walking alone after dark. If you find yourself in problems, try to make noise and draw the attention to others who will most likely come to help.

Most foreigners, especially those of caucasian descent, will be safe when they travel around. Be careful with your belongings when you travel with public transport, especially with your phone as snatching happens in the big cities.

As a female tourist it is not bad to wear a salwar kameez, but most of the people are open-minded towards foreigners, especially in the big cities. Try to dress modestly, cover shoulders and legs and avoid tight clothing.

Avoid any demonstrations and if you see large gatherings, try to get out as there are sometimes clashes between rival political groups. Try to get indoors.  

Be careful in traffic, especially when you use public transport. While public buses are a cheap means of transportation, they are also very dangerous. Road signs and traffic lights are often ignored by drivers. Be extra careful when you’re walkin and don’t be tempted to drive by yourself. Always get an experienced local driver. Going to Chittagong requires a special permit from the authorities, who may prohibit access to these areas or impose a police escort. It is strongly advised not to go to this region by most embassies. In this area, due to the absence of an important refugee camp, travelers may become involved in clashes between rival political or ethnic groups and/or between these groups and the authorities. Foreign tourists can be the chosen target of some criminals. The kidnapping risk is also high. Along the border with Myanmar, there are also risks associated with the presence of anti-personnel mines. Travelers who wish to make their way to the Chittagong Hills Tracts must notify the authorities 10 days in advance. A special permit is necessary. 

Health facilities are rudimentary, especially outside the major cities. It is necessary to take out good travel insurance, which covers sanitary repatriation, and to consult your doctor before your departure.

During the monsoon season (June to September), Bangladesh is regularly affected by flooding. The country is also located in a high risk area from seismic activities. During the thunderstorm season (thunderstorms are unpredictable, sudden and severe) from mid-April to late May, it is strongly advised not to use boats or ferries on the waterways, especially in the Bay of Bengal.