Hello fellow travelers!

I’m Sawon Dey, a traveler, host, and passionate advocate of community-based tourism from Juri, a peaceful village in the Sylhet Division of Bangladesh. Although I studied accounting, I followed my heart into tourism—and now I’m proudly working to support my region through meaningful travel experiences.

I run Charubala Homestay, which is the first government-recognized community-based homestay in Bangladesh, officially approved by the Bangladesh Tourism Board.
My goal is simple:
To empower my community through tourism by creating jobs, preserving culture, and connecting locals with the world. This is not just an idea—I’m actively working on it every day.

About My Home:

I live with my traditional Hindu family of 11 members—a warm, welcoming household that truly enjoys hosting travelers from all over the world.
Even though most of my family doesn’t speak English, they communicate with smiles, kindness, and genuine hospitality.

If you’re a solo female traveler, you can feel completely safe and comfortable here. We respect boundaries, we value guests as friends, and we love cultural exchange.

About Food:

We are a Hindu family, so beef is not served. Two members of my family are vegetarian, so whether you eat veg or non-veg, it’s absolutely no problem.
We prepare fresh, homemade Bangladeshi meals with care and love, and you’re always welcome to join us at the family table.

Explore My Region:

My village Juri is located in a stunning area full of natural and cultural diversity. Here’s what you can experience:

• Tea gardens and tea workers’ villages, where you can see how tea is grown and harvested
• Visits to Khasi and Manipuri tribal communities, known for their unique traditions, language, and craftsmanship
• The Madhabkunda Waterfall, the largest waterfall in Bangladesh
• The breathtaking Hakaluki Haor, one of Asia’s largest wetlands—great for boating, bird watching, and photography
• Peaceful countryside walks, scenic views, and slow village life

I also organize simple, local tours for guests who want to explore the area deeper—always with care, cultural respect, and sustainability in mind.

What You Can Expect:

What you can expect is a space that feels like home. You’ll have your own private room in a calm and respectful environment, where kindness and care are part of daily life.

There is no payment for anything—not for staying, not for meals. Everything we offer comes from the heart.

My family will cook for you with love, whether you prefer vegetarian or non-vegetarian food. We may not speak the same language fluently, but you'll feel the warmth in every smile and every shared moment. You won’t just visit—you’ll be part of something real. You’ll live like one of us, not just see a place, but truly feel it.

Hosting in Sylhet City:

📍 I divide my time between Sylhet City and Juri Village, so depending on my schedule, I may be able to host or meet you in either place.

If you are planning to explore Sylhet city, you are also welcome!

I have a shared flat in Sylhet City with my friends, where I host male travelers comfortably.

For female travelers, I can arrange a stay at my cousin sister’s home, where you’ll have a safe and private place to stay and explore the city comfortably.

Important Note for Staying:

If you would like to stay at my place, you must provide a scanned copy of your passport and a photo of your valid visa. This is required for registration and local safety regulations. I appreciate your understanding.

If you want to experience the real Bangladesh, connect with people, explore beautiful nature and unique cultures, and be part of a welcoming local family—I’d love to host you.

Feel free to read the reviews on my profile and send a message if you’re curious.

Warm regards,
Sawon
(WhatsApp: +8801796876201)

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I’m on Couchsurfing because I believe in the power of cultural exchange and meaningful connections. Hosting travelers from around the world allows me to share the beauty of my country, especially the hidden gems of my village and surrounding areas. It also gives me the chance to learn from others' experiences, which is invaluable as I work to promote community-based and eco-friendly tourism in my region.

By hosting guests, I not only provide a place to stay but also offer a deeper, more authentic experience of Bangladesh’s rich culture and natural beauty. Couchsurfing allows me to contribute to developing tourism in my area and make lifelong connections with like-minded travelers.

Interests

• traveling
• exploring
• helping others
• tour guide

Music, Movies, and Books

I have a deep love for local folk music and cultural tunes, especially the soulful Baul songs and folk fusion that capture the spirit of Bangladesh. There's something about the raw, authentic sound of these traditional melodies that resonates with me.

When it comes to movies, I’m drawn to adventure and thriller films—stories that keep you on the edge of your seat and take you on a journey.

As for books, I enjoy reading thrillers, travel stories, and suspense novels, with a bit of comedy thrown in to keep things light!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One of the most amazing things I’ve done is to be the first person in my region to start a homestay initiative. By opening my home to travelers from all over the world, I’ve not only promoted eco-friendly tourism but also created a platform for cultural exchange in my village. This initiative has inspired local communities, and I’m now working with the Bangladesh Tourism Board to further develop community-based tourism in the area.

Teach, Learn, Share

Teach: I love sharing insights about Bangladeshi culture, especially the diverse traditions of my village, including the lifestyles of tea garden workers and local tribal communities. I’m also passionate about sustainable tourism and enjoy teaching others how to explore in a way that respects local environments and cultures.

Learn: I’m always eager to learn about other cultures, new languages, and innovative approaches to tourism. I believe that every traveler has a unique perspective, and I’m constantly learning from the guests I host.

Share: I’m happy to share my experiences in developing community-based tourism and running a homestay. I can also share travel tips for exploring the hidden gems of Bangladesh, as well as my personal stories of adventure and hosting.

What I Can Share with Hosts

🏡 Homestay Experience: Immerse yourself in the heart of local life by opting for my unique home stay service. Experience the authenticity of a traditional village, surrounded by the beauty of tea gardens.

🍽️ Culinary Delights: Indulge in the flavors of Bangladesh with freshly prepared, authentic meals that showcase the richness of local cuisine.

📸 Guided Tours: Explore the intricacies of Bangladesh through personalized guided tours. Let me share the hidden gems and cultural treasures that only a local guide can reveal.

🌿 Nature Escapes: Immerse yourself in the serene landscapes of our village. Take leisurely strolls through tea gardens, connecting with nature's beauty.

🎶 Cultural Exchange: Join in traditional music and dance, experiencing the heart and soul of Bangladesh's culture firsthand.

🎉 Eventful Evenings: Participate in cultural events and gatherings, where you can engage with locals and fellow travelers in vibrant conversations.

📚 Insights & Learning: Engage in educational sessions about Bangladesh's rich history, traditions, and customs, making your visit not just a vacation, but a cultural exploration.

🛏️ Comfortable Accommodation

🤝 Hospitality & Warmth: Experience genuine Bangladeshi hospitality, where you'll be welcomed as family and leave with cherished memories.

Countries I’ve Visited

India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka

Countries I’ve Lived In

Bangladesh