Now you just might be in the middle of a business trip with a whole lot of meetings scheduled back to back, and an agenda too long to remember at the top of your head. But who says you can’t slip in a few hours of fun and relaxation in between?
For the busy traveler, heading towards Sri Lanka for business or pleasure; or even both, we have some ideas for you! Don’t let a beautiful sunny island pass you by without experiencing at least a sip of its delightful cup of fun, relaxation and rejuvenation.
If you are planning to be in Colombo during the whole stay, you most probably will be put up in a hotel, somewhere in the busy urban city. A wide selection is available from 5 star hotels to business and budget accommodation. It might be useful to familiarize yourself with locations that host some of the popular hotels, to plan something in line with your budget and purpose. Fort and Kolpetty sometimes called ‘Galle Face’, will find you at some of the famous 5 star hotels; Galle Face hotel, Cinnamon Grand, Shangrilla and the Hilton. This is perfect if you love waking up to a beautiful ocean view, or fancy a jog by the beach in the morning. Places like Mount Lavinia, Marine drive, Bambalapitiya and Colombo 7 are some places you might like to look up for hotels and restaurants.
So what can you do with a little time in between meetings? Site seeing of course. Sri Lanka has beautiful heritage sites, and yes many of them are outstation. But Colombo is not without its little treats. The Sri Lankan beach make for a beautiful oceanic back drop. Slot in some time in the morning or evening for a walk on the beach, and capture the sunset or sunrise, you will be glad you did! Might we suggest the Galle Face green, mount Lavinia beach and marine drive for some wave therapy!
You will also find some ancient buildings now renovated into recreational hubs, restaurants and elegant shopping stores. It captures the essence of old Sri Lanka and the influence of prevalent rulers. Check out the Dutch hospital in fort, Independence square, Independence arcade, the race course and the many walking paths. These are picture perfect backgrounds for selfies or groupies, or just memoires to carry back.
Food, is the taste of love in Sri Lanka. The foodie in you will be satisfied no doubt, and even if you are not one, just don’t take our word for it, indulge. Authentic Sri Lankan food, is spicy and full of flavor. Rice and curry is the main meal and it can be found everywhere. Clay pot food, with smoky flavors blended with spices are signature dishes and quite affordable too. Just dare yourself to try some ‘spice of paradise’. If you like street food, the main roads are lined with vendors offering a variety of meals, from Kottu, hoppers, string hoppers, burgers to submarines and wraps. If you are a meat lover, there are options but chicken is most popular.
However if you are a sea food lover. Now that is divine. Some of the best sea food dishes are from Sri Lanka. You will find fancy restaurants that serve elegant combinations, or cosy hangouts which are affordable where you can wear your bib and get your hands messy. Jaffna crab curry, pepper prawns, hot butter cuttlefish and fried fish are some mouth-watering dishes we recommend. But we guarantee you will be spoiled for choice, so brace yourself
For someone who wants to just relax and have some quiet time, never fear Sri Lanka is not all about adventure. Expert spas with well-trained therapists are a great choice for some rejuvenation and destressing. From foot rub to a full tension release massage or even an Ayurvedic treament, a healthy session will make you will feel good. Ask your hotel to recommend a good spa for best results.
These are just a few tips for some pleasure in between business, but there’s so much more to see and do, and you are going to find out soon.
Speak to an experienced travel agent or guide who can help you plan a perfect trip that will give you the real Sri Lankan experience. There is so much to see and so much to do, brace yourself for some adventure and excitement! The Sri Lankan smile will forever stay in your heart.
