Galle

Galle is an undeniably charming city on the south coast of Sri Lanka. At the centre of the city is the world famous and UNESCO protected Dutch Fort, around which a modern city has sprung into life providing the visitor with an interesting juxtaposition between new and old. Outside the fort is a modern Sri Lankan city, alive with the sound of Tuk Tuks and street vendors, but pass through the fort gates and you are transferred back in time to the Dutch colonial era. Inside, the fort is very much still housing a working community and the narrow streets are lined with shops, cafes and houses which all add to the atmosphere. A walk along the fort walls from the lighthouse allows you wonderful views out into the Indian Ocean, of the city behind it and into the famous Galle Cricket Ground, one of the most attractive of all international cricket venues. Galle has a good selection of interesting hotels, both inside and outside the fort, but is also easily reached as a day trip from the many surrounding south coast beach resorts such as Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa and Bentota.