The warmth of the return both weather wise and the from the people has been wonderful and even though I have known people here for only a short time it is being back with good friends that know you well.
Dhaka has changed a bit over the months we were away. There has been considerable political turmoil so there are many more armed guards and soldiers on the street. Especially where we live as the embassies are all close by
But as you can see from the photos the soldiers are not very intimidating and the rifle is something to lean on especially when you are doing your shopping.
There has been a permanent 'hartal' since early January. This is supposed to close the streets and shops and no business is supposed to occur. In our area of Dhaka life goes as nearly normal.
There seems to be more buildings being constructed but the crazy way that computer cabling is done has not changed.
With spring there are even blossom trees in full display, and some important new messages.
The roads continue with their incredible chaos and the buses are just as ramshackle as ever. The rickshaws are just as plentiful and colorful.
The street stalls continue to sell their food and the bicycle repair shop on the side of the road continues to operate.
The children still want their photo taken and with the World Cup in full swing cricket matches spring up everywhere.
One thing that impresses about the people of Dhaka is their clothing. They are always immaculately dressed and the white is white even though that seems surprising given the grime of the city. The women are usually dressed in bright colours and even though it is 30 degrees no male ever wears shorts. Except me, of course.
Even Gulshan Lake (a smelly, polluted man-made lake) looks acceptable when the light is right.
