Joanna James
Located by the coast, Colombo is Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital and is one of the must-visit destinations in the country. From colourful culture and exotic foodie delights to retail therapy and options for laid-back recreation, this lively metropolis has much to offer.
If you are a foodie, then Colombo has many temptations for your taste buds! There is a popular street food culture here which features an eclectic array of dishes influenced by the country's multicultural communities. "Kottu roti", "hoppers" and "isso wade" are some of the popular local dishes worth trying not forgetting rice and (spicy) curry and seafood. Of course, if you are visiting from abroad and are craving for food from home not to worry; Colombo has a range of restaurants serving international cuisines too.
The city is also a great place to learn more about the country's culture. The Gangaramaya Temple is one of the well-known Buddhist temples in Colombo worth visiting and offers a fascinating insight into Sri Lanka's religious heritage. Another key attraction is the National Museum of Colombo with its diverse exhibits and artefacts, providing a more in-depth perspective of the island's history.
Colombo offers lots of shopping be it for international designer brands or distinctive local handicrafts. The newly opened Colombo City Centre mall features upmarket brands while the Majestic City and Crescat, and Arcade Independence Square malls have a wide range of items from fashion to electronics. For a unique shopping experience, there is the Pettah area within easy reach for those staying at a Colombo apartment or a hotel in Wattala the likes of Pegasus Reef Hotel. Pettah features a maze of streets with all manner of shops, roadside stalls and vendors on the pavements too. It's also the kind of place where those with good bargaining skills can get the price reduced!
When the sun sets, Colombo transforms into a dazzling nightlife metropolis with plenty of entertainment on offer. Silk, Rhythm and Blues and Disques are amongst the nightclubs where one can dance the night away. Streetside eateries often stay open till the wee hours so you can always stop by at one of them on your nighttime adventures; enjoy a quick snack, hearty meal or some much-needed hydration! There are many bars and pubs in the city too along with cinemas offering the latest Hollywood blockbusters. Suffice to say there's never a dull moment.
Colombo is also a city where you can enjoy lots of relaxation and recreation. Some hotels have their own spas, while you can find independent wellness centres and day spas too. There are also well-maintained public spaces ideal for families, couples or solo travellers looking for a place to unwind; Galle Face Green and Viharamahadevi Park are amongst the popular spots. Some areas have become popular for recreation as well. Once such place is Independence Square where one can enjoy jogging, biking, skateboarding and more.
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