What’s Happening in Dhaka?

On July 2, 2016, the US Embassy in Dhaka updated its recommendations to Travelers in Dhaka/Bangladesh. Following the hostage event at Holey Bakery in Gulshan-2, Dhaka, the US Embassy recommends that all US citizens avoid the area around the restaurant (Road 79 in Gulshan-2) and remain vigilant in their movements and activities, both inside the diplomatic enclave and anywhere else in Bangladesh.

An attack and hostage situation in Dhaka on July 1, 2016, resulted in 20 hostage fatalities, mostly foreigners. The stand-off ended on July 2, 2016, after nearly 12 hours.

What Does This Mean for Travelers?

US citizens should take precautions, remain vigilant, and be alert to local security developments. The embassy encourages travelers to adopt similar security measures to those of US government personnel and avoid visiting many public places; traveling on foot, motorcycle, bike, rickshaw, or other uncovered means on public thoroughfares and sidewalks; and attending large gatherings in Bangladesh, including events at international hotels.

Check your government’s travel advisories for updates. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you can enroll in the government’s free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which allows users access to important safety information and updates about specific travel destinations in a timely manner, through email and text messages. It also allows the US Embassy to contact you in the case of an emergency.

— Viator Travel Team

Safety in Dhaka: What Travelers Need to Know by Viator Travel Team from Viator Travel Blog