Joanna James
Now that the exam season is over, you deserve a good break, away from teachers and books. Plan an exciting (budget friendly) trip in Sri Lanka with your friends to get rid of that exam stress!
Unless you're dead set on where you want to go, make sure you do plenty of research before you pick a location. If you're looking for cold climates, head to Kandy or Nuwara Eliya. If you need a good dose of sun, head to the Galle or Hikkaduwa or other coastal cities in the south. Your destination should depend largely on what you want to do. Head over to the east of the island to Trincomalee or Arugam Bay if you want to check out the surf scene. Other popular tourist destinations on the island are Colombo, Mirissa, Ella, Dambulla, Weligama to name a few.
The next thing to get down is where you're going to stay. There are plenty of accommodation types around the country and depending on your budget; you can find a heap of places to suit you. From hostels to B&Bs and luxury hotels. When you're looking for accommodation in Sri Lanka, hotel booking sites generally make the process much easier and if you're looking for budget friendly properties, browse through Yoho Bed for some good options!
Although Sri Lanka's public transportation system is a less far from having a stellar rating, it is quite convenient and inexpensive, especially for budget travellers. Trains usually get you to most places around the country while giving you breathtaking scenic views, while buses might take twice as long but are more frequent. Buses and trains in Sri Lanka are the best way to travel if you're planning a budget friendly vacation as the roads in the city are usually congested and you'll want to avoid a running meter while you're stuck in traffic. The train ride to Nuwara Eliya, Kandy or Galle, in particular, is exceptionally beautiful. However do keep in mind that for long distance train rides, you will have to reserve your ticket well in advance. Highway buses connecting the south to the main city of Colombo are also convenient and always run on time; opt to travel on this if you're strapped for time!
A land where food can be found in abundance, and are usually drowning in flavours and spices, local cuisine is delicious and mouth-watering and will leave you begging for more. Popular street food includes kottu, hoppers, string hoppers, samosas and plenty of others. Be daring and try out the range of food options available on the island.
No matter which part of the country you're travelling to, sunscreen is a MUST. It's possible to get sun burnt even on gloomy days, as the radiation from the sun rays is still pretty strong. Flip flops, shorts and t-shirts will be your best friend in the country. Remember that the weather is warm and humid, and if you're planning to travel by public transport, you'll need comfortable cotton clothes to wear during the day. Swim wear is an absolute requirement as the beaches around the island are simply irresistible
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
