Originally well known to traders as a major harbour, Colombo today however is very well known to travellers for more than just its international trade and is no longer just an expansive city which provides a means to an end in terms of the most feasible way of entering and leaving the country.
With a rich colonial heritage, a very prominent trading history and its ever increasing diverse community, despite it’s relatively small size there is still quite a bit to enjoy whilst submerged in the Capital’s chaos. From a visit to the Fort, down to the town hall and museum, continuing through Cinnamon Gardens and finally back up for a wonder through the famous area of Pettah, this quick whistle stop tour really does give you a taste for its history, culture and diversity; but don’t forget moving around in a tuktuk really does top of it all off.
Undoubtedly, Galle Face is one of the best spots in the city to enjoy the sunset over the Indian Ocean. As a very popular spot with both the Locals and Tourists this large open green area which sits parallel with the ocean is lined with small stalls, Kiosks and makeshift restaurants. Unfortunately for us, being the time of year it was, the sunset was a little mundane as the thick bands of clouds which lined the horizon quickly dampened the evening rays and didn.t give us too much joy. An evening down by the water’s edge is still thoroughly enjoyable as we were able to enjoy a spicy local curry by the shore in amongst a very energetic local atmosphere.
Ceilao Villas
Professional, polite and at the same time very inviting; there isn’t much of a better combination when looking for a comfortable, enjoyable stay after a hectic day of exploring. Wanting somewhere unique and relaxing, Celiau Villas for us was exactly what we were after, leaving us with very fond memories. From a very inviting and comfortable room to an enjoyable variety in our breakfast selection, along with exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, there is little else we could have asked for.
The location in our opinion also provided the best of both worlds, away from the noisy, hectic hustle and bustle of Colombo’s centre but still only a stone throw away on a Tuk Tuk. Visiting Sri Lanka for the first time and loving the crazy journeys on Tuk Tuks, it meant we were guaranteed to experience a typical journey in amongst the mayhem of the capital’s traffic for no more than 300 ruppies.
Set back from the road, we were also able to enjoy the comforts and luxuries of the quaint boutique hotel and get away from the characteristic monotonous drone of the heavy traffic which surrounds the capital. As you enter the hotel, surrounded by greenery, flowing water and the overall boutique style of hotel that it is, the oozing tranquillity soon detached us from the outside world. With a garden full of life and colour along with a couple of small pools tucked into the limited spaces, a couple of hours in the elevated infinity pool was the perfect way to enjoy the strong Sri Lankan afternoon sun.
Sri Lanka's iconic train rides were undoubtedly one of the best ways to travel around the country. Being a 'must do', we hopped on the train at Colombo and travelled 3 hours to Southern Sri Lanka, our first stop being Galle and Unawatuna.
