With our lives revolving around a fixed schedule, there is a need to rejuvenate the body, mind and soul from time to time. The best way to expand the mind, relax the body and excite the soul, is to travel.
Sri Lanka had been on my travel list for the longest of times now. All my attempts at planning a trip to this wonderland were in vain. The reasons were the same -” It’s not that great a place. There is nothing much to do really. Go somewhere else if you can.” I actually cancelled my tickets once in September, all because of such advices I got! But something within me refused to believe that Sri Lanka was not worth visiting.
So, when in December my friends decided to go to Sri Lanka, I jumped at the opportunity and landed in this beautiful country.
Our first stop was Hikkadua, which to my surprise was a very clean and well maintained tourist spot. Buzzing with tourists, all the way from Australia and Russia, it took me hardly a minute to realise that all those reasons were baseless. The USP of this town is undoubtedly the sea food that ranges from live crabs and oysters. Their local Sri Lankan cuisine along with their parontha should be on the top of any food lover’s list!
The locals are very humble and down to earth and are always willing to help you .Our interaction with them opened our eyes to the aftermath of the tsunami, and how they did not let it deter their spirit and rose from their ashes.
About 20 Kms from Hikkadua, is a small city named Galle. It’s main tourist attraction is the Dutch fort, which now encapsulates almost the entire city. Cobbled streets, arches and open cafes will instantly transport you to a European city with delicious food and a great ambience. You can explore the entire city on foot in a day and eat to your heart’s content at the attractive open cafes.
My last stop for this trip was Colombo, which in my opinion will be the next investment capital of South East Asia. At par with any other modern city, Colombo is a hub of designer boutiques and all other amenities which one looks for in a city! I believe a special mention is imperative for Gallery cafe, located in a bungalow, near Havelock road. This place is a must visit for the food, ambience and drinks, that will take you on a different experience altogether!
The cherry on the cake is, however, the Casinos in Colombo. So gamble the night away and reach the airport directly, just like I did!