Experience in Colombo, Sri Lanka by Akila

What is it like to live in Colombo? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka therefore it is a very buzzing city full of life. For a person who loves city life full of restaurants, bars, entertainment, partying Colombo will be an ideal city to live. Also there are all the facilities available to make like easier. For an individual who seeks a calm tranquil surrounding without commotion Colombo is a place to avoid

How much does it cost to live in Colombo?

The costs cannot be given exactly. It depends on how a person would spend. Most will go for accommodation and food. If the students take public transport such as buses and trains it is very cheap

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Colombo? Is there any advice you can give?

There are many accommodation options available for students. However the search could be a bit difficult. There are my online sites and pages on facebook to seek accommodation. There are many locals who like to give free home stay for foreign students, especially English speakers to practice the English language in return.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

There are various dishes of food. Mostly local food is spicy. Street food is also very popular in Colombo as there are many small street outlets for cheap prices

What places would you recommend visiting in Colombo?

There are few museums, cultural sites such as famous temples and churches, leisure parks, good restaurants, bars and night clubs present in Colombo

Is it good to eat out in Colombo? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

There are numerous restaurants specifically for Pizza Giovani's and Dolti Italia is very good, For rice and curry there are so many small shops, for kottu which is a popular steet food Pilawoos is the best place, for arabian food Arabian nights and August by Mama aida is excellent

Is the nightlife good in Colombo? Where is good to go?

There are many bars, karaoke parlours, sports bars, casinos and night clubs in Colombo. Some of the coolest places are love bar, berlin sky lounge, dutch hospital, Colombo courtyard, Uga escapes, Cafe francais, Park street Mews. R&B, Disque and Attic are some most visited night clubs. Mostly friday nights are full of people and happening

What advice would you give future students heading to Colombo?

best is to seek accommodation after you arrive in the country as its complicated to book online. Its better to learn a bit about the culture and lifestyle of people of Sri Lankan people before arriving in the country to avoid cultural shock.