Here Are The 10 Best Things To Do In Baltimore!

BY  Sibashree Mar 9, 2026

Almost a year ago, on 26th March 2025, Xinhua shared a photo of the fishing trawlers in Negombo. Those further gave us an idea about the lives of the fishermen in Negombo.   On a personal level, that photo took me back to my days in Negombo.  Now, many often miss the cultural insights Negombo offers. I mean, if you consider the Tamil culture in Jaffna, or the cultural things to do in Kandy, you also need to experience what Negombo has to offer.   Otherwise, you will not understand how it has kept the soul of a fishermen’s port city alive beyond the glitz and glamor of the prominent international hotels and shops.   Also, Negombo is very close to the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport. The distance is less than 9 km, and the travel time is around 20 minutes.   So, as expected, it has all the amenities for tourists. However, as always, luxurious facilities have never been the draw for me while visiting a place.   I am the happiest exploring the Ritigala Forest Monastery or climbing the Sigiriya Rock and finding the history at every corner.   So, my reason for a visit to Negombo was not what people usually think of. And in today’s blog, I will introduce Negombo to you through my lens.   How Did I Reach Negombo From Colombo?   I took a tuk-tuk to reach the Colombo Fort railway station from my hostel. Then, I got a train ticket for 80 LKR.   The train was not overly crowded, and traveling solo, and as a believer in the LowDownUnder travel philosophy, I quite enjoyed the train ride.   However, if you want to avoid the hassle, you can also take a bus from Colombo to Negombo.   Where Are The Things To Do In Negombo?   First, I want to highlight that traveling to Negombo has now become easier if you are traveling from India.   The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has started a package called “SHRI RAMAYANA YATRA EX MUMBAI.”   From 21st March 2026 to 27th March 2026, it will be a 6-Night and 7-day package.   The package tour conducted in association with the Sri Lankan Airlines will cover destinations such as Colombo, Dambulla, Trincomalee, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya.   This tourism package starts from Rs. 71,800/ for adults and Rs. 30,100/ for children.   Now, with traveling becoming easier, you can plan the things to do in Negombo better.  1. Exploring The Negombo Fish Market  I was up at 5 AM as I had to visit the local fish market.   I got into a minivan with my guide, and as we entered the market, the sight of bright silver fish and their smell occupied my senses.   My guide took me through the stalls of tuna, machete, and shark. Then, he drew my attention to the ships filled with fish reaching the market and the heavy bargaining game.   A fish market may not be the most attractive place to visit when you are in Negombo.   However, if you want a true cultural experience and understand the livelihood of the local people, it is the go-to place.   From the fish market, my guide took me to a beach used primarily for drying fish. The intense smell is not for everyone, but many times, I had a similar experience back home.   2. Visiting The Dutch Fort At Negombo  The Dutch Fort was close to the “fish drying beach.” Now, the Dutch Fort is used as a prison.   The fort is constructed with coral stone and granite.   And around the fort, I found many wildflowers blooming.   This simple scene was a moment of learning for me. I once again understood how the universe functions.   It does not matter whether it’s a prison or a temple. A flower can bloom anywhere, and it will always be beautiful.   However, I wanted to have a better view of the Dutch Fort. I climbed up the old clock tower and got a better perspective and better shots of the fort.   3. Visiting The Angurukaramulla Temple  After a trek to the Sigiriya Rock and the Pidurangala Rock, I visited the Angurukaramulla Temple. Like the Sigiriya Rock, for this Buddhist Temple, you also need to make an entry through the mouth of a lion.   The lion rests below the 6-meter-tall Buddha statue.   The temple has magnificent statues and beautiful murals. Also, it has a rich library with scriptures and murals.   So, it is a great place to visit in Negombo if someone is studying the Buddhist religion and literature.   However, walk carefully as you may come across snakes (rat snakes).   4. Birdwatching On The Dutch Canals  I ended my morning at the Dutch Canal. It was relaxing and enriching at the same time to look over the lagoons.   I decided to make more of the moment and got into a boat.   It was surprising to say the least. Also, I did not expect to meet so much wildlife immediately after leaving the dry land.   I saw a huge monitor lizard resting on the shoreline, and then kingfishers, cormorants, and herons in flocks kept accompanying me throughout the journey.   However, it was not just the wildlife. I saw a reflection of my home and country during the boat ride.   People were attending to livestock, children were bicycling, and some were even playing cricket.   Again, there were some abandoned hotels and buildings, standing as a witness to the civil unrest and the stories of human resilience in Sri Lanka.    5. Exploring The City On Foot  Negombo is very walkable, and it reminded me of my days in Jaffna. I used to randomly pick a direction along the main coastal road and just walk.   You may call wandering aimlessly in a lesser-known place unsafe. However, I think that you have not seen a city until you have walked through it.   Also, after visiting Jaffna and other places of historical and cultural significance, Sri Lanka felt like home to me.   They spoke a different language. However, they were warm and welcoming, just like anyone I would randomly come across in India.   Also, after years of experience, I can say that walking is the only way to find those hidden gems, the best bakery around the corner, or the eatery that has been around for around 100 years.   This was more evident during my Jaffna food tour.   Moreover, while walking across the streets of Negombo, I got to interact with the local fish sellers and food vendors. In addition, I found a big mosque near the backstreet. 

BY  Ankita Mar 27, 2024

Los Angeles is a bustling, multifaceted city that provides visitors with a wide range of activities to discover and relish. Everything from iconic parks to hidden gems, LA has something for everyone.  We'll look more closely at some of the must-do things in this article that should be on every traveler's itinerary when visiting the City of Angels. Best Activities For Travelers In LA 1. Visit The Hollywood Walk Of Fame No trip to LA is complete without a visit to the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. Stretching along Hollywood Boulevard, this iconic attraction features more than 2,600 brass stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring celebrities from the entertainment industry. Take a leisurely stroll along the Walk of Fame and see if you can spot the stars of your favorite actors, musicians, and entertainers. 2. Exploring LA Skatepark Adventures For skateboarding lovers and novices alike, exploring iconic LA skateparks is a quintessential experience. One such iconic destination is the Venice Beach Skatepark, nestled along the picturesque shores of Venice Beach. This sprawling concrete jungle features a diverse array of ramps, bowls, and rails, attracting skaters from around the globe. Whether you're perfecting your ollies or simply soaking in the vibrant skate culture, Venice Beach Skatepark promises an exhilarating experience against the backdrop of palm trees and ocean breezes. 3. Explore Griffith Observatory Griffith Observatory, located atop Mount Hollywood, provides stunning views of the Los Angeles cityscape and the renowned Hollywood sign. Visitors may explore interactive astronomy displays, view celestial objects through telescopes, and watch captivating planetarium programs. The observatory also acts as an entrance to Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, which has miles of hiking trails and breathtaking views. 4. Tennis Enthusiastic Tennis in Los Angeles offers the ideal combination of skill development and pleasure for those looking for a more sophisticated sporting experience. With an abundance of world-class facilities and professional coaches, LA provides an unmatched tennis experience in stunning surroundings. You can also take private tennis lessons to improve your abilities and techniques. 5. Exploring LA And Indulge In Culinary Delights At Grand Central Market Located in the heart of downtown LA, Grand Central Market is a culinary mecca that showcases the city's diverse food scene. From artisanal tacos to gourmet burgers and handcrafted ice cream, the market offers a tantalizing array of dining options to satisfy every palate. Grab a bite to eat, soak in the bustling atmosphere, and sample flavors from around the world. 6. Exploring LA Arts District Explore LA's lively Arts District, which is home to galleries, street art, and creative spaces. Stroll around the bright streets and enjoy the beautiful murals created by local and international artists. Don't miss the opportunity to see Hauser & Wirth, a contemporary art gallery built in a former flour mill that exhibits cutting-edge works by established and upcoming artists. 7. Hike To The Hollywood Sign For outdoor enthusiasts, a hike to the Hollywood Sign is a must-do activity in LA. Several trails lead to prime viewpoints where you can capture Instagram-worthy photos of the iconic landmark against the backdrop of the city skyline. Choose from routes ranging in difficulty, including the popular Hollyridge Trail or the more challenging Brush Canyon Trail, and enjoy panoramic vistas of Los Angeles along the way. 8. Experience The Magic Of Disneyland No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a visit to Disneyland, the Happiest Place on Earth.  Located in nearby Anaheim, this iconic theme park provides a fantastic experience for guests of all ages, with thrilling rides, fascinating attractions, and beloved Disney characters around every corner. Spend a day exploring the various themed lands, from Fantasyland to Tomorrowland, and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. 9. Exploring LA: Take A Studio Tour Get a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of Hollywood by taking a studio tour at one of LA's famed film studios. From Warner Bros. to Paramount Pictures, several studios offer guided tours that take visitors through iconic sets, soundstages, and backlots where some of the world's most beloved movies and TV shows were filmed. Learn about the history of filmmaking in Los Angeles and gain insight into the inner workings of the entertainment industry. 10. Catch A Sunset At Santa Monica Pier End your day in Los Angeles by visiting Santa Monica Pier, where you can watch the sun fall below the horizon in a blaze of color. Take a leisurely stroll down the landmark pier, enjoy a ride on the ancient carousel, and marvel at the magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. Santa Monica Pier, with its vibrant ambiance and breathtaking views, is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of a Southern California sunset. 11. Los Angeles Has Multiple City Inside  Los Angeles is a confluence of diverse cultures, and people from different places come and join there. There are different neighborhoods in these regions. Let us give a few examples. You have  Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and West Hollywood.  Even the same idea persists for some of the valley cities. There, you have the bustling Manhattan Beach and the different communities within the San Gabriel Valley, like Alhambra, Monterey Park, and others. There are areas where you can find far-flung spots like Malibu and Pasadena, which are part of Los Angeles. If you speak culturally, Los Angeles is a bustling city within the city.  12. Los Angeles Have Public Transit Option  The life of a thriving city is determined by its hustle, bustle, and movement of people from one corner of the city to the other. The same goes in for Los Angeles.  Though it does not have an extensive subway system like that of London, Paris, and New York, the city has six metro lines and many efficient bus routes, which builds a solid communication network in the city. Therefore, if you are visiting Los Angeles, do not think you can easily hover from one part of the city to another, meaning you will not find metro systems on the west side, except for St. Monica.  Read Also… Save Money On Your Next Trip How To Make The Most Of Your Trip To Rome How Do I Keep My Child Occupied When Traveling? Tips To Pack Your Dog’s CBD When Going On A Trip

BY  Abdul Aziz Aug 30, 2023

If you're someone who finds pleasure in getting your heart rate up while exploring new terrains and cultures, then Malaysia might just be your ultimate vacation spot. Known for its exotic wildlife, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities, this Southeast Asian country offers a plethora of activities for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. And you never know! The adrenaline rush and natural abundance can motivate you to get Malays residency by seeking employment or making investments in the country. You can get the residence permit within 3 to 12 months of your application.  But planning an adventurous trip can often be overwhelming—what to do, where to go, what to see? That’s why we’ve created this listicle to guide you through your dream Malaysia adventure. From jungle treks to urban escapades, here are our top picks for an active and thrilling getaway. 1. Explore The Wonders Of Bako National Park If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, Bako National Park is your go-to destination. As the oldest national park in Sarawak, Bako is a stunning tapestry of mangroves, dipterocarp forests, and delicate ecosystems. And let's not forget its famous residents: the proboscis monkeys. Given the surge in trips to Malaysia 2023, it is advisable to book your park permits and accommodations well in advance. Once you’re in the park, don’t miss the various trekking opportunities. With 16 color-coded jungle trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes, Bako is a hiker's paradise. Each trail unveils a new aspect of Bako's diversity, whether it’s spotting the rare flora and fauna or navigating through the rocky cliffs. 2. Take The Challenge At Batu Caves An iconic symbol just outside of Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves offer more than just a spiritual journey. This limestone hill is home to a series of caves and cave temples, but what catches the eye first is the towering, golden statue of Lord Murugan and the steep 272-step climb that leads to the cave's entrance. Many don't realize that Batu Caves is also a hotspot for rock climbing. With over 160 climbing routes on the towering limestone hills, it’s perfect for both beginners and experts. So, after you’ve soaked in the cultural vibe, strap on some climbing gear and go vertical! 3. Experience The Nightlife In Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur is not just a bustling metropolis during the day; it comes alive at night, offering countless experiences for the adventure-seeker. For those who love heights, the Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara KL) provides an open-air Sky Deck that lets you walk on a glass surface 300 meters above ground level. If you prefer speed to heights, why not try go-karting in the heart of the city? Tracks like City Karting offer a thrilling experience, allowing you to zoom around at speeds up to 50 mph. Just make sure to book in advance, especially on weekends. 4. Discover The Cultural Heritage Of Kuching Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, is a city that’s rich in history and local culture. But did you know that it’s also an excellent starting point for various adventure activities? Kayak down the Sarawak River, taking in views of the old palaces and modern skyscrapers. For cycling enthusiasts, a bike tour of Kuching provides an exhilarating way to explore the city. Cycle through the old streets, rich with colonial architecture, and make your way to local food markets where you can try exotic fruits and snacks. 6. Savor The Thrill Of Local Cuisine One often-overlooked avenue of adventure is the culinary landscape, and Malaysia doesn't disappoint in this regard. For the uninitiated, Malaysian cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, drawing influences from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures. This melting pot of culinary traditions offers a unique kind of adventure for your taste buds. Are you brave enough to try the pungent yet delicious Durian, often referred to as the "King of Fruits"? How about sampling "Sambal Belacan," a spicy shrimp paste that will give your senses a jolt? And let's not forget Malaysia's street food—perhaps nothing is more thrilling than navigating a busy food market, filled with unfamiliar but tantalizing aromas, each stall a new adventure waiting to happen. Conclusion Malaysia is a wonderland for adventurers, offering a smorgasbord of experiences that cater to all kinds of thrill-seekers. Whether it's the untamed beauty of Bako National Park, the vertical challenges of Batu Caves, the energetic pulse of Kuala Lumpur's nightlife, the cultural richness of Kuching, or the gastronomic adventures in local cuisine, each experience contributes to an unforgettable adventure. Your Malaysian escapade can be as diverse as you make it. It promises a rollercoaster of emotions, activities, and discoveries. So gear up, prepare your senses, and get ready to explore, taste, and feel your way through this extraordinary country. Read Also: Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers 8 Reasons To Spend Your Spring Vacation In Pigeon Forge Top Tips For A Terrific Vacation