Tourism and the Attention Economy: What My Tour in Nepal Made Me Think
Last week I was in Pokhara, Nepal, and now as I reflect on my experience sitting here in Sylhet, one of the most beautiful cities in Bangladesh, one thought keeps popping: tourism isn’t just about what you see, it’s about how long you can keep people captivated. And Pokhara? It has mastered the art of attention. The connection between the attention economy and tourism industry is fascinating. Let me tell you what I mean.
Pokhara is a city that doesn’t let you go. There’s always something to see, something to experience, some new adventure to try. You can stay there for weeks without even realizing it. From paragliding over lakes to mountain treks, from boat rides on Phewa lake to sipping coffee at lakeside cafes that make you want to sit there for hours—Pokhara has nailed the art of grabbing a tourist’s attention. You stay, you spend, you fuel the local economy.
Now think of Sylhet. It is undeniably beautiful, with tourist spots like Bholagonj, Jaflong, Bichnakandi, and so on. But natural beauty alone isn’t enough. While these spots attract visitors, let’s face it, they don’t hold their interest for long. The attention fizzles out because there’s nothing else to do once you’ve seen the main attraction.
Tourists often find themselves hopping from one spot to another through the regular city traffic. This is never a good experience for someone who wants to feel close to nature and truly connect with the serene landscapes of Sylhet.
Tourism is about keeping people hooked, and staying long enough to spend money. That’s what Pokhara in Nepal gets, and that’s where Sylhet in Bangladesh falls short.
Pokhara thrives because it understands the attention economy. It keeps tourists engaged with diverse experiences for days on end. You’re constantly entertained, and as a result, you keep spending. Pokhara knows that the longer a tourist stays, the more they contribute to the local economy.
Sylhet, on the other hand, feels like it’s offering a glimpse but never delivering the full package. It’s the kind of place that could be so much more if only it knew how to craft the right narrative, to keep people not just visiting but staying.
The question is: how can Sylhet, or other cities of Bangladesh with natural beauty evolve to become a popular destination for tourists not just from home, but also abroad? The answer starts with diversifying experiences, adding layers to what’s already there, and ensuring that once a tourist arrives, they’re in no rush to leave.
Of course, this is just the initial step. For Bangladesh to truly enhance its tourism potential, other factors must also be addressed—like improving infrastructure, developing a welcoming attitude among locals, ensuring safety and security, and more. Until these factors are addressed, Bangladesh will miss out on the potential economic benefits of tourism.
