Located towards the south of the island, Negombo is a booming fishing port that holds a large number of attractions for tourism. The number of foreigners and even locals that flock to the shores of this coastal city is vast and the tropical climate combined with the clean stretches of sands that offer perfect diving and sometimes even surfing opportunities, make this a perfect spot for a tropical island vacation. Only about 7 kilometers away from the Colombo International Airport, Negombo thrives in the fishing industry with effortless grace. If you take an early morning walk along the beaches of this little, yet fast developing city, you will be able to spot a multitude of fishermen getting ready to set off on their boats while others will be seen hauling in their catch of the day. The loading and unloading of boats, repairing of fishing nets, boats getting pushed out into the seas set against a golden sunrise is almost of surreal beauty. The scene also provided opportunities for photographers to capture some jaw-dropping scenes while the fisher-folk will willingly pose for a picture or two. Many a Negombo resort such as the Club Hotel Dolphin among many others offer direct access to the beach so that their guests could enjoy the beach as much as they want to.
The fishermen in the city have the advantage of either fishing in the sea, the lagoon or both which means that they have the capacity to expand the quantity and variety of their daily catch. The fish is sold off auction-style with the highest bidder winning them which most often tend to be one of the numerous hotels that are abundant in the area. Once the bulk is sold off to restaurants and hotels, the remainder is then sold off at the local fish market to people living around the area at prices which are much cheaper than usual.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.