Top 10 Airports In The USA: Navigating Excellence In Air Travel

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  Abdul Aziz Jan 3, 2024

Who isn’t fond of traveling? Most of us love to scrape out different parts of the world. But apart from selecting a dream destination, selecting a good hotel is another big headache.  When it comes to places like Manila, you need to enhance the overall travel experience. This is exactly why we recommend choosing a 5-star hotel in this vibrant city.  A hotel in Manila that offers you close proximity to major tourist destinations is always better. Check out this comprehensive guide till the end that carries all the necessary requirements for choosing a hotel.  So, let’s get started without further ado… Three Essential Considerations While Choosing A Manila Hotel Who likes to travel without any proper plans? And when it comes to hotels, there are a handful of things to consider. For example, some people prioritize the location, while others are much more thoughtful about the price. Here are the 3 major things everyone must address:  1. Choose An Appropriate Location For Your Hotel First things first, the location of your chosen 5-star hotel rooms! The location matters a lot when it comes to shaping your experience in any city. And Manila, particularly, is something else! Moreover, opting for a hotel in a prime location allows you to explore the city’s numerous attractions and landmarks conveniently.  The city is also quite popular for its rich history and cultural diversity, which shouldn’t go unnoticed. It has proximity to key destinations such as Intramuros, Rizal Park, and the vibrant Makati district.  Furthermore, a strategically located hotel can provide you with numerous benefits. From saving time on transportation to gaining easy access to both business and leisure activities- there’s so much more! 2. Range Of Amenities Secondly, the range of amenities that are offered by a 5-star hotel in Manila contributes to the overall comfort and satisfaction of your stay. Beyond the luxurious setting, it will also provide you with a diverse array of amenities for all your needs.  As a result, you must look for a hotel that boasts state-of-the-art fitness facilities, spa services, and a variety of dining options, ensuring that your stay is not only comfortable but also indulgent.  Regardless of whether you will be traveling to the city of Manila for business or leisure, a well-equipped hotel can enhance your overall experience. Get a seamless blend of relaxation and convenience within the confines of the accommodation. 3. Quality Of Customer Service Lastly, the quality of customer service is the final fundamental factor that distinguishes a good hotel from an exceptional one.  Similarly, a 5-star hotel in Manila will be able to go far beyond meeting your basic needs and expectations. It provides a personalized and attentive service.  From the moment you arrive until your departure, the hotel’s commitment to ensuring your satisfaction should be evident at all times.  Likewise, attentive concierges, along with prompt room service and a courteous reception team, also matter for a memorable experience. Sites and Attractions In Manila To Visit Now that we know the essential considerations of settling in for a great hotel in Manila, next comes the list of attractions. After all, it’s all about traveling and discovering new places. So, here it goes: Rizal Park Rizal Park is the biggest public park in the city, which owes tribute to national hero, Jose Rizal. The park is 140 acres in length and is ornamented with mesmerizing gardens.  It is also widely regarded as Luneta Park, and more than 5,000 tourists visit it every day.  Location: Manila, Malate, Roxas Blvd, 1000 Metro Manila Entry Charges: INR 26 (2024) Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM. Fort Santiago At Metro Manila, Fort Santiago is a must-visit. It is nestled in Intramuros’ ancient walled city, the construction of which ended in 1593. The fort will certainly give you a rich, historical vibe. If you are looking forward to a unique experience with your friends or family, make sure you visit it at least once.   Address: Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila Entry Charges: INR 100 Timings: 8 AM to 9 PM Manila Ocean Park Are you much of a marine lover? Hit the Manila Ocean Park if you wish to see the rich biodiversity underlying Manila’s water bodies. The Oceanarium creates all the hype since it boasts over 14,000 animals and 270+ marine species.  Get ready to see some exciting animal shows where Penguins, Birds, and Seal Lions perform various activities.  Address: 666 Behind Quirino Grandstand, Manila Entry Charges: Starting from INR 530 Timings: 10 AM to 8 PM.  San Agustin Church This Church, for a long time, has remained the center of attraction for all the good reasons. Not only is San Agustin the most primitive church in the Philippines, but it is also a UNESCO world heritage site.  Tourists come here to taste the authentic Filipino culture. And if you are lucky enough, you might get to see the traditional wedding process from your hotel in Manila.  Address: General Luna St, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila  Entry Charges: INR 132 When to visit: 8 AM to 6 PM. Casa Manila Casa Manila is a very old and popular museum in Intramuros. Imelda Marcos constructed the castle, keeping in mind the exquisite Spanish Colonial architecture.  It, more or less, replicated San Nicolas House, offering a detailed insight into the Filipino lifestyle.  Address: General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila Entry Charges: Free When to visit: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.  The Bottom Line With that, we slowly proceed towards the end of this itinerary. But make sure you carry the important tips with you while heading to Manila.  This fun-filled destination has a lot in store for you. All it takes to make the journey smoother is a set of rightful ideas. From location to hotels, there’s not much to worry about if you have read this through. When traveling to a strange land, do not forget to consider your safety. After all, no traveler should ever compromise that! Having said that, I wrap up my words. If there’s something you would like to share about your hotel experiences in Manila, do comment below and let us know! Thank you for reading. Learn More About: Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Anticipated As TSA Prepares For Busy Season! The Italian Train Group FS Will Launch A New “Night Train Like Hotel”: Rome To Dolomites Chinese And US Presidents Have Come To A Common Ground Regarding Tourism Facilitation!  

BY  Sibashree Jun 13, 2025

With Jekyll Island being named the best travel destination in Georgia by Travel+Leisure, the beach tourism industry in the state is once again grabbing all the attention. Furthermore, Tybee Island, the closest beach to Atlanta, has been in the news recently. Macey Rewis, an artist focused on marine life, is raising funds for the Tybee Island Marine Science Center’s conservation and educational programs. She has been working with Low Country Grit to offer support to the museum. “I shared with her what we were doing, and she said I already give a portion of my proceeds back to foster conservation and clean water on the coast. She was in. Tybee Marine Science Center was in. It was like a perfect partnership, and I found out her turtle was the original Ike that they had first rescued.” - Alexa Frame, Founder, Low Country Grit Additionally, Tybee Island is elevating its food scene a few notches with The Window. This grab-and-go window for breakfast and lunch opened by Ryan and Randy during the Memorial Day Weekend has become an instant hit. The Window is serving the best Chicken Biscuits, Bacon, Egg and Cheese, sausage egg, ham, and more. So, now you have more reasons to visit Tybee Island, the closest beach to Atlanta. However, Atlanta has many other nearby beaches, such as South Walton in Florida and Edisto Island in South Carolina. In this Tour and Travel Guide, let’s explore the best beaches near Atlanta. However, before that, let’s know what the perfect time is to plan a beach trip near Atlanta. What Is The Best Time To Visit The Closest Beach To Atlanta? Tybee Island, the closest Gulf beach to Atlanta, is a popular summer destination for many. However, high temperatures and surging crowds are the main challenges for a summer visit to Tybee Island. So, plan a trip during spring (April to May) or the fall season (September to November) to enjoy the island’s beauty and outdoor activities to the fullest. Do you want to visit the island in any other month? Here are the temperature and rainfall details of Tybee Island by month. MonthsHighest TemperatureLowest TemperatureDays of RainfallJanuary1565February1696March20117April22155May25214June29259July31259August302510September27247October25204November18145December16106 What Is The Closest Beach To Atlanta? Know The Best Beaches Near Atlanta For Planning The Perfect Coastal Getaway The nearby beaches are a major reason to visit Atlanta. So, let’s start with Tybee Island, the closest beach to Atlanta, and then explore other beach attractions. 1. Tybee Island, Georgia: The Closest Ocean Beach To Atlanta Distance from Atlanta: 265 Miles Travel Time: 4 Hours What is the easiest beach to get to from Atlanta? It’s Tybee Island. Located on the easternmost part of Georgia, Tybee Island has shopping, dining, and a vibrant nightlife vibe. Furthermore, this barrier island is known for its laid-back vibe. It also has a historic lighthouse, and when at Tybee Island, you must spend some time at the Marine Science Center. 2. South Walton, Florida: A Beach With A Unique Dune Lake Ecosystem Distance from Atlanta: 302 Miles Travel Time: 5 Hours South Walton is the closest beach to Atlanta in Florida by car. Visit Rosemary Beach in South Walton to indulge in the quintessential French Quarter feel. Grayton Beach, on the other hand, has an inimitable hippie vibe. However, the most happening feature is the dune lake ecosystem. 3. Jacksonville, Florida: The Closest Beach To Atlanta With An Intracoastal Eco Tour Distance from Atlanta: 346 Miles Travel Time: 5 Hours Jacksonville is one of the best Florida beaches close to Georgia. With Neptune and Atlantic Beaches, Jacksonville also offers a white sand stretch of 22 miles. Don’t miss the Intracoastal Eco-Tour here if you love spending time in nature. Further, explore the Shipwreck Island Waterpark for the ultimate family fun. Jacksonville also has a happening nightlife. 4. Jekyll Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Atlanta For Mini Golf Matches Distance from Atlanta: 422 Miles Travel Time: 4 Hours 40 Minutes Jekyll Island is a top attraction in Georgia if you think summer is the best time to visit Savannah beaches. Jekyll Island is peaceful and ideal for a family vacation. Furthermore, you will enjoy the mini golf matches and dolphin tours here. 5. Gulf Shores, Alabama: Explore 32 Miles Of White Sand Stretches Distance from Atlanta: 354 Miles Travel Time: 3 Hours Gulf Shores, combined with Orange Beach, features 32 miles of white sand stretches. The quartz from the Appalachian Mountains is used to create this sand. The beaches near the town center are busier, and you will find the quieter ones to the west. 6. Daytona Beach, Florida: The Original American Beach Distance from Atlanta: 433 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes Daytona Beach will be one of your top choices if you are looking for family-friendly beaches in Florida. It also has the nickname of the “Original American Beach.” You will find the tallest lighthouse in Florida here. The Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art and the Boardwalk & Pier are other popular attractions here. Moreover, the best outdoor activities here are playing golf and zip-lining. 7. Edisto Island, South Carolina: Closest Beach To Atlanta For Spotting Turtles Distance from Atlanta: 287 Miles Travel Time: 5 Hours If you love interacting with wildlife, Edisto Island will be your favorite beach closest to Atlanta. You will spot turtles, dolphins, and other wildlife on the island. Moreover, you can take a bike ride or a boat ride here for adventure. 8. New Smyrna Beach, Florida: Closest Beach To Atlanta With Traffic-Free Family Zones Distance from Atlanta: 450 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes With a stretch of 13 miles, New Smyrna Beach is a favorite of surfers. Further, it has traffic-free zones for families. River cruising, kayaking, and boating are other popular attractions on the beach. 9. Panama City Beach, Florida: The Spring Break Capital Of The World Panama City Beach, or the Spring Break Capital of the World, has close to 28 miles of sugar-white sand beaches. It is also one of the closest beaches to Chattanooga, Tennessee. Furthermore, the beach, where you can collect the most beautiful shells and spend the whole day swimming, becomes the most vibrant at night. Also, it has exciting theme parks, and the city authority is planning to establish it as the most family-friendly destination in Florida. 10. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Closest Beach To Atlanta For Dolphin Spotting Distance from Atlanta: 282 Miles Travel Time: 4 Hours 30 Minutes There are a lot of things to do in Hilton Head. It is especially a delightful location to explore marine life with kids. The dolphin-watching excursion or a zip-line ride over the waterways and forests are the best adventure activities here. Moreover, you will love kayaking, biking, and cruising here. 11. Ossabaw Island, Georgia: The Most Pristine And Closest Beach To Atlanta Distance from Atlanta: 247 Miles Travel Time: 5 Hours Ossabaw Island is the third-largest barrier island in Georgia. Further, around 13 miles of its seashore are underdeveloped. So, if you want to enjoy a pristine charm, Ossabaw Island will instantly become your favorite. The distance between Atlanta and Savannah is around 250 miles. You can take a boat ride for just 20 minutes to reach Ossabaw Island from Savannah. Also, if you have enough time, you must explore the unique things to do in Savannah to learn about the culture and history of Georgia and the USA.   12. Perdido Key, Florida: The Best Beach With Golf Areas Distance from Atlanta: 335 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours Perdido Key is one of the most family-friendly beaches near Atlanta. You will love the stretches of white sand here. Also, it has golf areas, recreation zones, and the Perdido Key State Park. 13. Wilmington, North Carolina: Home To 3 Beautiful Beaches Distance from Atlanta: 416 Miles Travel Time: 7 Hours Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach call Wilmington their home. Carolina Beach is the most happening among them, thanks to festivals and a beautiful boardwalk. Further, Wrightsville Beach is famous for watersports. Also, you will love the relaxed vibe of Kure Beach with the aquarium. What Are The Best Beaches Near Atlanta For Families? Are you planning a family trip to Atlanta? Visit the following family-friendly beaches near Atlanta. Tybee Island - Gentle waves, relaxed vibe, exploring wildlife at the Marine Science Center. Jekyll Island: Calm waters, dolphin tours, mini golf matches. Neptune Park on St. Simons Island: Mini golf course on the beachfront, hunting hidden tree spirits. Panama City Beach: Gulf World Marine Park and Shipwreck Island Waterpark. Hilton Head Island: Scenic beauty, The Sandbox Children's Museum. What Are The Best Pet-Friendly Beaches Near Atlanta? Morningside Nature Preserve is the best pet-friendly beach near Atlanta. It remains open from 6 AM to 11 PM every day. Your pawsome friends will love cooling off at the shallow creek zones. Also, this 33-acre place has a suspension bridge. Herbert Taylor Park & Daniel Johnson Park are other pet-friendly beaches near Atlanta. It is safe for pets in the gentle waves. The Closest Beach To Atlanta: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the closest beach to Atlanta. 1. What Cities Are 2 Hours From Atlanta? Chattanooga, Suches, and Blue Ridge are the cities located at a 2-hour distance from Atlanta. 2. What Beach Is 4 Hours Drive From Atlanta? Tybee Island is a 4-hour drive from Atlanta. It is also close to Savannah. 3. What Beach Is 1 Hour From Atlanta? There is no beach at a distance of 1 hour from Atlanta. Tybee Island is the closest beach to Atlanta, and it is located at a distance of 4 hours. 4. What Is The Closest Ocean Beach To Atlanta? Tybee Island is the closest ocean beach to Atlanta. The distance between these two places is 265 miles.