Hi esben
Thank you very much for some kind word towards me ;) Now, let me give the answers of ur questions as under :
1) Is there anything particular to see or do in Bhola, or is it more about seeing what small-town Bangladesh is like? Is it a public ferry I will be taking?
- Nothing. This is just for viewing the river beauty. The boat goes small and big rivers. So, you can nejoy the river beauty through seating on the roof of the small boat.
But if u r not interestd, you can return Dhaka 1 day earlier and take Dhaka tour or Kolakopa daylong tour.
2) Nothing much seems to be mentioned about Barisal in the Lonely Planet. Any advice for what to see do in Barisal itself?
- In fact, if you want to see real Bangladesh, Barisal is the best. If you want, I will suggest you to go to a village, walk around the paddy filed, take small country boat trip, visit primary school..you will see how life is easy and slow here. This may be best part of ur BD trip. Even you can think for night staying in a local home in rural village of Barisal.
3) Is the trip Banaripari worthwhile (e.g. on 6 March before catching the Rocket)
- This place is busy river port and floating market. If you like, can visit this place. This is Banaripara not banaripai :)
4) Do you know about opportunities for exchanging Rupees for Taka in Agartala? Or could I easily exchange after crossing the border? I don't assume there will be an ATM there?
- You will find some money changers both side of the border. You will not find ATM unless you come Dhaka (may be theer are some in Akhaura but I am not sure abt their location)
5) And would anyone be able to help me with Bangladesh train tickets from Agartala?
- Difficult. Better you go directly to Station master of Akhaura (Bangladesh side) station and request him to arrange a ticket. He must help you as a foreigner.
Hoping you safe arrival in BD.
Mahmud