Bangladesh

This country is not a prime tourist destination, and for a good reason. It's poor, overcrowded and does not offer any real tourist attractions (child prostitution could be considered as one by some). After the partition of the sub-continent it got stuck under Pakistan's rule, the Pakistanis were very cruel masters. Since then Bangladesh went through a blood bath to gain it's independence and countless floods, both easily claming mega-millions of human lives. Little known fact in the west. We like it better that way.

Nonetheless, the Bangladeshis are a very friendly and hospitable people. Being a foreigner here is guaranteed to attract anything from beggars to newspaper reporters. Be prepared to be in the company of at least 2 other people wherever you go, the only sanctuary I've found was my hotel room. Prices are cheap, but there's nothing to buy. This country is about human survival and perseverance, these people went (and are still going) through a lot.

Highlights

Leaving the place I got thanked for visiting and the customs officials got me a cup of chai (tea) thank you guys.
Paddle boat ride from Dhaka to Khulna. Overnight trip with good food and interesting sights and company.
Being the center of attention.
Seeing what humans can put up with!

Low-lights

Putting up with masses of people wherever you go. Forget about being anonymous in a crowd! I met only one other westerner in my 3 weeks.
Learning that western pharmaceutical companies conduct their human trails here (?). I have been told that some people here are proud of the fact that Bangladesh gets the latest drugs, reason being no western nation will do human field trails!
Being the center of attention.
Not being able to get to the Chitagong Hills.

Rating

Try it if you dare. Not for the weak hearted. Definitely a must for the adventurous traveler.