THE HAWAII & ASIA SERIES PT9
BANGLADESH – DUBAI – BAHRAIN – QATAR – KUWAIT – ARMENIA – GEORGIA – KAZAKH – TAJIKI – KYRGYZ
After leaving Hawaii, I went back to the Philippines, that place will draw me back again and again! But because I was always busy, I forgot about my journal, so the only thing I have is photos, which might spark a few memories, but never as much as my journal would.
I WAS IMPRESSED WITH BANGLADESH
I decided to city hop a few of my next destinations, as I knew I would return to most, so I just wanted to get a flavour.
Bangladesh, The Persian Gulf, The Caucasus & The Stans
WHERE IS BANGLADESH?
Bangladesh, The Persian Gulf, The Caucasus & The Stans
BANGLADESH
My first stop was Bangladesh where I explored the city of Dhaka and was pleasantly surprised. It was nowhere near as chaotic as I had expected after having explored the streets of India. As with the rest of this region, people were very friendly and I always felt safe aimlessly walking around, something I enjoy doing in Asia.
What struck me most about my Bangladesh travel experience was how the city defied expectations. Dhaka has a heartbeat that is entirely its own: chaotic in the best possible way, layered with colour, sound, and warmth. Walking in Dhaka streets is how you truly get to know the city, one alley and tea stall at a time.
The Bangladesh travel experience is one that budget travellers and seasoned explorers alike tend to underrate. Beyond Dhaka, the country offers river deltas, the Sundarbans mangrove forest, and the ancient ruins of Mahasthangarh. But even on a short city stop, walking in the streets of Dhaka reveals a side of South Asia that feels distinct from its neighbours.
THE CAUCASUS
GEORGIA – ARMENIA
This brought about the biggest shock in this region. Armenia was just ok but a few years later, I would learn that the beauty of Armenia is outside of Yerevan. Tbilisi, however, was a huge shock, one of the nicest old towns I have visited and certainly one of the top 5 cheapest destinations so far. For such a small city, there was still quite a lot to see and do, hike up to Narikala Fortress, check out the Cathedral, or explore the old town. Can’t wait to return again!
Tbilisi rewards slow travel. The sulphur baths in the Abanotubani district are one of the city’s most distinctive experiences. Stepping into a domed bathhouse for a scrub and a soak is genuinely memorable. The Peace Bridge over the Mtkvari River, the cable car up to Narikala, and the panoramic view from the Kartlis Deda statue are all easy half-day adventures in a city that keeps giving.
RELATED READ: THE BIGGEST CANYON SWING IN THE WORLD
THE STANS
KAZAKH – TAJIKI – KYRGYZ
Although the Stans cover such a vast area, it remains one of the least visited regions in the world. I always wanted to do the Pamir Highway, but it’s a 2-week journey and one I will have to do on my return.
Central Asia is the kind of region that changes your sense of scale. Kazakhstan alone is the ninth largest country in the world, and the further you travel into Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, the more the landscape shifts into something almost otherworldly.
The Pamir Highway travel route — officially known as the M41 — is one of the highest and most remote roads on the planet, cutting through the Wakhan Corridor at altitudes that exceed 4,600 metres. It is not a casual weekend trip, which is exactly why it demands a return visit.
Bangladesh, The Persian Gulf, The Caucasus & The Stans
FINAL THOUGHTS
Now I see why Botswana is considered the best place to do a safari.
This stretch of the journey — from the Bangladesh travel experience all the way through the Gulf states, the Caucasus, and the Stans — is proof that city-hopping, done intentionally, gives you something a long stay often cannot: contrast.
Walking in Dhaka streets, standing in Tbilisi’s sulphur bath district, browsing the bazaars of Bishkek, and dreaming of Pamir Highway travel while eating kebabs in a mountain town — these are the moments that make the itinerary worth keeping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bangladesh safe for solo travellers?
Yes, for most travellers. Dhaka is a dense and busy city, but it is generally considered safe for tourists who exercise normal precautions. The Bangladesh travel experience is frequently described as welcoming by solo travellers, and walking in Dhaka streets in daylight is widely considered low risk.
What is the Pamir Highway, and how long does it take to travel?
Pamir Highway travel refers to the M41 highway, one of the highest altitude roads in the world. It runs through Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, with sections passing through the Wakhan Corridor near the Afghan border. A full end-to-end Pamir Highway travel journey typically takes 10 to 14 days depending on your pace, stops, and whether you arrange a shared jeep or private vehicle.
Is Tbilisi worth visiting as a budget destination?
Absolutely. Georgia’s capital is widely regarded as one of the most affordable cities in Europe and the Caucasus. Accommodation, food, wine, and transport are all significantly cheaper than Western European equivalents.
What is the best time of year to visit Bangladesh?
The best time for a Bangladesh travel experience is during the cool, dry season between November and February. Temperatures are more comfortable for walking in Dhaka streets and exploring the wider country. The monsoon season (June to October) brings heavy rainfall and flooding in low-lying areas, which can disrupt travel plans.
Are the Stans (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan) difficult to travel independently?
Independent travel in Central Asia is absolutely possible but requires preparation. Visa requirements vary by nationality and have been changing in recent years, so check current requirements before you travel. Tajikistan requires a GBAO permit if you plan to enter the Gorno-Badakhshan region.
NEXT UP
Nepal and getting scammed in Colombo. Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
95/229
This post is part of The Hawaii & Asia Series, click to explore or for episode 1 click here.
Question Time
- Have you been to any of these countries?
- What was your favourite?
- Where would you like to visit most?
Let me know in the comments below . . .
