Bangladesh’s only coral island, Saint Martin’s, is entering a new era of innovative and sustainable tourism.
The Teknaf Upazila administration has launched a new website — mysaintmartinbd.com — that brings together everything a visitor or local might need to know about the island.
From travel permits to accommodation details and government regulations — it’s all available in one place.
The platform also lists local homestays, offering names, contact numbers, and rent information for families who rent out rooms to tourists.
The website went live on November 4, initiated personally by Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin.
Currently, as per government policy, tourists are only allowed overnight stays on the island during December and January.
In other months, only government officials, researchers, and holders of special permits are permitted to visit.
The new site offers a digital permit system, allowing such visitors to apply online and receive approval within 24 hours — reducing the long-standing hassle of manual paperwork.
UNO Sheikh Ehsan Uddin explained, “Luxury resorts often overshadow small local hotels and homes. Through this initiative, we’re connecting visitors directly with island residents who can offer affordable stays and authentic local experiences. This way, tourism benefits flow directly to the community.”
He added that around 100 local homes and small guesthouses have already been listed, allowing travelers to book “home-stay” experiences — a concept inspired by community tourism, ensuring both cultural exchange and local income generation.
The UNO also mentioned that due to the two-month tourism season, many families face income drops.
To help them, Tk5.7 million has been distributed among 500 families verified by BRAC under the Climate Welfare Trust Fund.
The website also includes essential contact details, ranging from the Upazila administration, police, and health services to beach workers responsible for various zones of the island.
Tourists can even find ferry ticket links, sightseeing information, travel timings, rent details, and government instructions — all on one easy-to-use platform.
“We named it Home Stay from the spirit of community tourism,” said Sheikh Ehsan Uddin. “With this, tourists can explore Saint Martin’s more intimately while helping sustain the lives of the islanders.”
In the glow of the turquoise sea and coral sands, Saint Martin’s is not just preparing for another tourist season — it’s redefining how an island community can embrace technology to protect, promote, and prosper.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Collected
