A three-day tourism fair has begun in the port city of Chittagong on Friday, pulling in 16 local and foreign participants.
The Bangladesh Monitor, a travel publication, is organizing the fair, Chittagong Travel Mart-2013, for the fifth time in the port city.
M Monjur Alam, mayor of Chittagong city, inaugurated the fair at the Peninsula Chittagong hotel.
If projected properly, Chittagong with its natural beauty, biodiversity and historical heritage could become a sought-after-tourist destination, he said.
Mahbubul Alam, president of Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasised improving connectivity and hotel services in Chittagong.
Alam urged the government to build Chittagong and its neighbouring districts—Rangamati, Khagrachhari, Bandarban and Cox’s Bazar—into a special tourism zone.
Kazi Wahidul Alam, editor of the Bangladesh Monitor and also chairman of the fair, also spoke.
MA Malek, editor of Dainik Azadi, underscored the need to project cultural heritage and handicrafts in Chittagong.
The fair participants are offering special discounts for airline tickets, hotel and resort services and tour packages.
