Bangladesh

The region around Bangladesh was settled by ancient Dravidian, Indo-Aryan, Tibeto-Burman, and Austroasiatic peoples. You can study ancient and contemporary topics at the National Museum in the capital, which covers ethnography, art, history, and natural sciences. You can also visit tea estates, temples, beaches, or Old Dhaka. Did you know the largest mangrove forest in the world, the Sundarbans, is in Bangladesh?

Bangladeshi cuisine tends to be simple, focussed on fish, rice, and lentils. However you may be able to find French-style service, where each course is plated individually. A citrus fruit called hatkora is often served with meat. Achar or pickles are relishes often made with mustard oil or mustard seeds. Bhapa is steamed vegetables or fish with spices, and shak means any leafy green (including mustard greens) slightly wilted in oil and served with nigella seeds. Some fruits you’re likely to encounter are mango, watermelon, and quince. You can find organic Bengali and Indian food in the capital of Dhaka.