November in Sri Lanka: What to do and see

Sri Lanka is a paradise of pleasant distractions and pursuits. The country offers many things to explore and discover. Every visitor to Sri Lanka can have a taste of local experience even from the simplest wayside tea kiosk or among the green bounty of paddy fields. 

Here is a guide to five things to do while traveling to Sri Lanka on November; get a feel of local entertainment, embark on a culture-voyage to the rhythmic beat of the drum, experience a spiritual carnival of piety and a journey in indulgence with nature.

• Get taste of Sri Lankan coffee

Colombo has been swept by a coffee culture that has a blend of Sri Lankan and international brands. Coffee is the most consumed beverage universally, it is not surprising that prime area of Colombo 3, 4, 5 and 7 are alight with many cosy coffee shops boasting international coffee blends and brands. The compulsory classics of espressos, cappuccinos and lattes are served in these coffee shops that often have separate breakfast, lunch and dinner menus and sweet dessert of brownies, tarts and cakes.

• Visit Gangaramaya Temple

One of the top 10 things to do in Sri Lanka is to visit the gorgeous Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. While all the temples in the country have something unique to offer in terms of art and architecture, the Gangaramaya Temple is one step ahead of them all. An epitome of artistic brilliance that has stood the test of time, this Buddhist temple reflects a fusion of Indian, Chinese, and Thai style of architecture.

• Get acquainted with Sri Lankan dance

The jingle and jangle of bells accompanied by the rhythmic and acrobatic prowess of the Sri Lankan dancers adorned with colourful costumes is another encounter with the country’s roots. The diverse dance forms of Up-country, Low-country and Sabaragamuwa have all originated from an elaborate ritualistic dance known as the ‘Kohomba Kankariya’.

Most Sri Lankans have learnt at least a few steps or dances as children and students, and the local dance traditions are very much alive as a form of leaning and entertainment, with many dance troupes and academies spread throughout the country. It is not difficult to master the movement and coordination of hands and feet in rhythm to the sound of the drum, in fact it will be another indulgence in Sri Lanka’s culture and ethos.

• Explore the tea hills

Sri Lanka is one of the most important tea producers in the world and its hill country is stunning.  Colonial towns dot the landscape surrounded by tea plantations. One of the best places to sip tea is in Nuwara Eliya and Kandy.

The vegetation is lush and green and the rolling hills make for an awesome site. Pretend you are in jolly old England for a few days.  Stay in old plantation homes, drink tea and eat baked goods.

Read more: Worth-trying dishes in Sri Lanka

• Take the train

One of the things you must things to do in Sri Lanka is to ride the trains. Sri Lanka's trains are like stepping back in time. They chug slowly along through hills and valleys. It is the slow journey that makes it special.

Looking out over the mountains and tea plantations rival any view in the world and the people that you meet on the train will be remembered forever. So if you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka make sure this makes your to do list and take the time to travel by train. It will be an experience you will remember and cherish forever.

Source Internet

Top 5 unique vehicles in the world

Buses, cabs, and trains might be too familiar with travelers. However, if you have a chance to visit Thailand, China or even Cuba, don't forget to experience in sitting on these most unique vehicles.

1. Tuk-tuk, Thailand

It practically as Thailand's national emblem, the humble tuk-tuk is at the heart of Thai people as well as visitors. These are little like the buzz of a spin around the Thai capital in one of these open-air and three-wheeled vehicles. The name "tuk-tuk" is from word "samlor", literally means "three wheels" and although riding in tuk-tuk can be described as more chaotic than comfortable, but it still a worth experience when traveling in Thailand.

2. Coco taxi, Cuba

Similar to the tuk-tuk, coco taxi is an auto rickshaw-type taxi vehicle in Cuba. The coco taxi is a yellow car with small dimensions, can be seen in big cities. The use of the coco taxi from Cuba began in Havana at the end of the 1990s. It was initially thought of as another way of transporting tourists. The coco taxi is mainly found in the cities of Havana, Varadero, and Trinidad.

3. Xích lô, Vietnam

Xích lô (or cyclo) was the most transportation means in Vietnam in the past, but now it is a representation of the Vietnamese way of life. In the past, cyclo was used as luxury transportation for French people in Vietnam and for a small number of Vietnamese noble at that time. People found that it was convenient for carrying up to 2 people and goods. It was cost effective and with its small size could fit perfectly on Vietnam city alleys and narrow streets.

4. Maglev train, China

Shanghai maglev train or Shanghai transrapid is a magnetic levitation train. Clean, green, quick and quiet are the best features of this maglev train. In addition, it is able to stop quickly and safely and glide off noiselessly on a cushion of air. Shanghai maglev train is currently the fastest train commercially operated in the world.

5. Camel, Dubai

Camels are known as the ship of the desert because of the ease at which they elegantly move across the desert sands. Getting out of the bustle of the Dubai city in the afternoon for this thrilling and amusing experience on an Arabian Desert Camel Safari. Ride on the traditional local "transport" - a camel, which is here called the God`s gift to the Bedouins. It`s a very calming experience.

Source Internet