The holiday in the perpetually sleepless city. – By Dr Harold Gunatillake
Cosmopolitan Colombo, the gateway to the wonders of Sri Lanka, boasts a rich colonial heritage and features a diverse convergence of races, religions, and cultures.
Hello everyone!
Today, I’d like to share some valuable insights from my recent visit to Colombo, our lively and colourful capital. If you haven’t been there in a while and decide to drop by after being overseas, you’ll be amazed by how much it’s transformed. Colombo now feels like a vibrant metropolis, reminiscent of New York, with soaring skyscrapers.
The city is buzzing with energy—traffic is bustling, streets are filled with stylish shoppers, and tour buses crowd the streets, underscoring its popularity and liveliness. All the hotels are bustling with activity, showcasing the intense business scene. As evening approaches, the city lights up beautifully, and the stunning Lotus Tower stands tall, adding a charming touch to the vibrant scene.
When choosing a place to stay, I was initially hesitant about the cost of a 5- star hotel. However, I discovered the charming Colombo City Hotel, a beautiful old colonial establishment. Its location is ideal, right in front of the Twin Towers and just a stone’s throw from the Hilton Hotel. Situated on Canal Road, it runs parallel to the famous Hospital Street, renowned for its delectable crab-and-rice dishes.
The hotel exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere, with a variety of tasty à la carte and buffet options to cater to different tastes. The rooms, with their vintage charm, are cosy and inviting, a stark contrast to the more modern amenities found in 5-star hotels. The only downside is the small bathrooms, but the overall experience more than makes up for it.
There’s an underground parking garage, and street parking is also available. Things get pretty busy by 9 a.m., so plan your morning accordingly. The friendly hotel manager is Gerard.
Next time you visit Sri Lanka, consider staying at this lovely hotel after getting down at Katunayake Airport, just about half an hour’s drive away.
Here’s my cheerful travel plan for exploring the lively, vibrant city of Colombo. I’m already looking forward to your visit and can’t wait to see
