Colombo is probably the only very "big" city in Sri Lanka. However, it still has only a population of half a million, which is quite small when compared to the metropolises of India. Its relatively small size does have its advantages : it's reasonably easy to get around the city, and most parts ... Read review
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Colombo is probably the only very "big" city in Sri Lanka. However, it still has only a population of half a million, which is quite small when compared to the metropolises of India. Its relatively small size does have its advantages : it's reasonably easy to get around the city, and most parts are quite clean.
Many of the major hotel chains can be found in the city, with many of the big hotels clustered together in the commercial ... ...and ships coming in to Colombo habour.
Some great bargains can be had especially when it comes to clothing. Shops like Odel unlimited and House of Fashion offer great quality original designer clothing (much of it made in Sri Lankan factories) and amzing prices. Other good places to shop are the Majestic City and Crescat Boulevard malls.
Colombo has of late also been fortunate (?) to attract the usual American fast-food ... more
Colombo is probably the only very "big" city in Sri Lanka. However, it still has only a population of half a million, which is quite small when compared to the metropolises of India. Its relatively small size does have its advantages : it's reasonably easy to get around the city, and most parts are quite clean.
Many of the major hotel chains can be found in the city, with many of the big hotels clustered together in the commercial heart of the city near the sea-front. These hotels have fantastic views of the Indian Ocean and ships coming in to Colombo habour.
Some great bargains can be had especially when it comes to clothing. Shops like Odel unlimited and House of Fashion offer great quality original designer clothing (much of it made in Sri Lankan factories) and amzing prices. Other good places to shop are the Majestic City and Crescat Boulevard malls.
Colombo has of late also been fortunate (?) to attract the usual American fast-food chains. You can therefore indulge yourself at Mcdonalds's, KFC, Pizza Hut, and Domino's Pizza to your heart's content. If you're feeling more adventurous, Colombo has numerous fine restaurants, with the Duplication Road in Colombo 3/4 having a very good selection. As it turns out, you could probably find very good restaurants serving food from the major cuisines of the world, but good quality Sri Lankan food is often hard to find.
The night-life in the city is confined mainly to the night-clubs in the five-star hotels mentioned earlier. Apart from these and bars in the hotels themselves, there is very little by way of quality night-life, though a stroll along the sea-front on Galle Face Green is highly recommended!
As far as sights go, you would probably be better off looking elsewhere in the country (and beleive me, there is a LOT to see). However, Colombo has got some very good examples of colonial architecture, mostly dating from the British period. The museum is also worth a visit, as is the Gangaramaya temple, built in the middle of a lake.
Driving in Colombo is not recommended for the novice, as it really is quite chaotic. A particular problem are the three-wheeler (auto/tuk-tuk) taxis. These are very handy for getting around the city, and if you're prepared to bargain with the driver, reasonably economical as well (note that these taxis do NOT have meters - it is advisable to agree on a fare with the driver before you get in). However, be prepared for the inevitable adrenaline rush, as your taxi weaves through the chaotic traffic of Colombo. Amazingly, more often than not, you do end up at your destination in one piece!
The weather in colombo is usually hot (around 30 degrees celsius), with sea-breezes helping to cool things down a bit. However, the humidity is often very oppressive. During the rainy season, Colombo can be a rather unpleasant, with localised flooding happening quite regularly.
Overall, Colombo is a great place to spend a few days in if you're visiting Sri Lanka. If you're experience of Asian cities is limited, have a wander around and experience a pretty chaotic world of sights and sounds...and don't forget to pick up some great deals while you're there
Advantages: good quality with good price Disadvantages: -
In 1993, in a market monopolized by Air India and Indian Airways (two airlines backed-up by New Delhi government), arrive a totally privately-owned airline: Air Sahara.
In an age of low-cost it was a surprise to see a new traditional airline, specially in a practically full market.
Today, after more than ten years, Air Sahara has strengthened its market quota offering to its customers services quite perfect.
Air Sahara flies to 22 cities within India as well as to Colombo (SriLanka) and Khatmandu, Nepal.
The fleet has an average age of 5 years and includes 13 Boeing 737 (300-400-700-800 series) and 7 Canadair CRJ-200.
The 737?s have two-class layout (Business, called Sahara Royal and Economy, called Sahara Special). The seat pitch is quite good (better than most of European airlines). The aircraft have small monitors, that fall ...
traveller55 06.02.2005
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Air Sahara
Advantages: Breathtaking sceneries Disadvantages: City become commercialised
Last week myself and few friends went on a trip to Hikkaduwa. The Hikkaduwa beach is situated 98km away from Colombo towards the South of SriLanka. Snorkelling and diving in the clear water are the major past time along this strech.This is the most environmentally friendly way to see the colourful fish that dart around. The coral sanctuary on the coast of Hikkaduwa is a large shallow expanse of water enclosed by a reef, decorated with layers of multi coloured corals which is a home to countless number of attractive fish.
There were tiny islets surrounded by beautiful coral formations off the beach. The main reason for many tourists to visit this coastal town is the reputation as the second best surf spot in SriLanka. However people of this area lost their jobs who involved in boat services because of the drop of tourist ...
Advantages: Cheap no frill airline covering the Middle East, N Africa and Sub-Continent Disadvantages: Taxes often more expensive than the flight
, such as Bahrain, has 2 flights daily from the UAE.
Destinations: Ahmedarbad (India), Aleppo (Syria), Alexandria (Egypt), Almaty (Kazakhstan), Amman (Jordan), Assuit (Egypt), Astana (Khazakhstan), Bahrain, Beirut (Lebanon), Chennai (India), Chittagong (Bangladesh), Colombo (SriLanka), Damascus (Syria), Damman (Saudi Arabia), Doha (Qatar), Istanbul (Turkey), Jaipur (India), Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), Karachi (Pakistan), Kathmandu (Nepal), Khartoum (Sudan), Kochi (India), Kuwait, Latakia (Syria), Luxor (Egypt), Mumbai (India), Nagpur (India), Peshawar (Pakistan), Muscat (Oman), Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Sana'a (Yemen), Tehran (Iran), Thiruvananthapuram (India) & Yerevan (Armenia)
Price: Like many of the no-frill airlines they advertise a flight for as little as 20 pounds, but of course that is a single and frequently the taxes are more then ...
lillygirl 18.07.2007
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Air Arabia
