Bangladesh, Oct. 17 -- More than 600,000 tourists are expected to visit Cox's Bazar during the five-day Durga Puja holidays from October 20 to 24, with advance bookings already reaching high levels at hotels, motels and resorts. PlanVacations

Tourism businesses estimate that nearly 70 percent of accommodation facilities have been booked ahead of the holiday rush. Preparations are also underway to expand transport services and strengthen arrangements for visitor safety and comfort.

Abul Kashem Sikder, president of the Cox's Bazar Hotel-Motel Owners Association, said more than 100,000 tourists could arrive daily during the period. The district has over 500 hotels, motels and cottages catering to different budgets.

Nazim Uddin, president...