Colombo Quickstep
First off, find out what the city has to offer. A tour is very easy to arrange through your hotel with the services of a friendly, local driver but let’s be honest, the only way to travel in Colombo is by tuk-tuk. These marvellously crazy little moped-cabs give you the full-on sensory experience of life on the streets of Colombo, but be warned, they’re not for the faint-hearted. In the midst of the buzz, there’s Gangaramaya Temple, part of which rests serenely on the jade-green waters of Beira Lake. Slip off your shoes to explore magnificent carvings and myriad statues of the Buddha, including a beautiful white jade Buddha. The museum stacked full of elaborate and unusual gifts left by devotees is also impressive. For a refreshing breath of sea air, head towards Galle Face Green for a stroll along the 500m promenade. Here, luxury hotels serving afternoon tea rub shoulders with super-fresh seafood stalls beside the azure Indian Ocean, and you’ll find yourselves in the company of kite flyers, courting couples and possibly even a military parade. It’s a heady combination which will prepare you well for the next stage of your journey.
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