As the country’s biggest city and capital Colombo is more than the bustling commercial and economic epicentre of Sri Lanka. Often the first point of contact for visitors landing in the island nation the city is a thriving melting pot of varied cultures and peoples that make up the most cosmopolitan landscape in the country. Littered with skyscrapers and iconic landmarks, visitors can not only enjoy the hospitality of the Colombo luxury apartments lining the coastline but also experience retail and recreational highlights from Shangri – La One Galle Face and other venues in some of the more centrally located precincts of the city.
Retail therapy is an integral part of life in Colombo due to the city’s reputation as the country’s fashion capital. Must-shop hotspots around the city include its many department stores and malls of which Majestic City, Liberty Plaza, Odel and Crescat Boulevard reign supreme. Fashion chains the likes of Beverly Street, Fashion Bug, No Limit and Cotton Collection have set up several stores in key locations across Colombo for the convenience of shoppers. When it comes to tasteful souvenirs and collector’s items Barefoot, Lakmedura and Lakpahana are the top pick boutiques in Colombo while exploring the labyrinth that is Pettah Market can also be an adventure for bargain hunters.
Health conscious visitors can jog in the paved walking paths and recreational hubs which are located among some of the city’s best known cultural landmarks. The Independence Square is one example while the Racecourse is another hotbed of activity during the weekend as cyclists and joggers alike congregate around the venue which also hosts the Good Market every Saturday.
Revered as a food lover’s dream destination, Colombo also houses the country’s best restaurants including iconic dining staples the likes of the Gallery Cafe, The Barefoot Cafe and Beach Wadiya. Other must-experience restaurants include The Cricket Club Cafe and Curry Leaf. Theatre fans and music lovers can find a lineup of engaging performances from musicals to adaptations of classics at the Lionel Wendt and the Nelum Pokuna Performance Art Centre.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
