OpenStreetMap
The Excitement Begins
When I first received the email confirming my scholarship to attend State of the Map Asia 2024 in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, I was overjoyed. It was my first international travel experience, and to make it even more special, it was my first time attending a State of the Map conference. The excitement was real, but so were the nerves. The initial thrill was soon followed by a whirlwind of preparations—official paperwork, visa applications, currency exchanges, and everything in between. At one point, I found myself wondering how I would manage this journey to a faraway country where I didn’t know anyone. But those thoughts soon eased when I knew that some of my friends would be traveling with me. Knowing I wouldn’t be alone made me feel calmer and even more excited for the adventure ahead.
The Journey
The trip to Bangladesh and the onward journey to Cox’s Bazar were incredible, thanks to the warm hospitality of our Bangladeshi friends. They ensured that everything went smoothly, making the entire experience comfortable and enjoyable. Cox’s Bazar was unlike anything I had ever seen before. Coming from a landlocked country, getting a close view of the sea for the first time was simply mesmerizing. The beaches stretched endlessly, and the beauty of the waves crashing against the shore left me in awe. Exploring the city and visiting tourist attractions added an unforgettable charm to my trip.
The Conference Experience
The State of the Map Asia 2024 conference was everything I had hoped for and more. The sessions were packed with valuable insights, showcasing the diverse ways OpenStreetMap (OSM) data is being used across Asia. I attended presentations that highlighted innovative projects from the private sector, government, and civil society, and learned about real-world applications of OSM in humanitarian efforts and disaster risk reduction. The attendees were of every age group from students to experts.