Viva Las Vegas: Your Ultimate Itinerary for an Unforgettable Trip

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  Sibashree Mar 26, 2024

Japan, a country steeped in tradition and culture, offers an array of sensory experiences that attract travelers from around the globe. Among these, the Japanese matsuri (festivals) stand out as a testament to the country's rich heritage, embodying the spirit of joy, community, and the spectacular interplay of light and color. For those embarking on Japan tours, the opportunity to participate in these festivals is not just a travel highlight; it's a deep dive into the heart of Japanese culture. The Essence Of Vibrant Matsuri Matsuri are integral to Japanese culture, with each festival having its unique significance, rooted in history, religion, and local lore. These events range from solemn traditional ceremonies to explosive celebrations of life, each painted with vibrant colors and illuminated by dazzling lights. The experience is a feast for the senses, offering insight into the communal spirit and the enduring traditions that define the Japanese way of life. A Kaleidoscope Of Festivals No Japan tour is complete without witnessing the spectacle of at least one matsuri. The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, renowned for its grand procession of floats, is a spectacle of craftsmanship and community spirit that dates back over a thousand years. The Sapporo Snow Festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland of intricate ice sculptures, blending artistry with the beauty of nature. Meanwhile, the Aomori Nebuta Festival captivates with its parade of enormous lantern floats, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow. Illuminating Experiences What sets these festivals apart is not just their visual appeal but the immersive experiences they offer. Participating in vibrant matsuri is to step into a living tapestry of history and tradition. Visitors can don traditional attire, partake in ancient rituals, and indulge in local delicacies. The warm welcome extended by the local communities adds to the charm, making every visitor feel part of the celebration. Seasonal Spectacles The beauty of Japan's festivals is their diversity throughout the year. Spring welcomes the cherry blossoms with hanami (flower viewing) parties, where the fleeting beauty of sakura serves as a backdrop for gatherings filled with food, drink, and song. Summer brings the explosive energy of fireworks and bon dances, while autumn and winter festivals, such as the Chichibu Night Festival, showcase breathtaking displays of light against the seasonal landscapes. Planning Your Japan Tour For travelers eager to immerse themselves in the magic of Japanese matsuri, planning is key. Many festivals occur on specific dates or seasons, and some of the most popular can draw large crowds. Engaging with a specialized Japan tours operator can provide invaluable insight, ensuring you not only witness these incredible events but also understand their cultural significance. Accommodations and logistics are also taken care of, allowing you to fully immerse in the experience without the hassle. A Journey Through Light and Color Japan's festivals are more than just events; they are a vibrant expression of life itself. They offer a unique window into the soul of Japan, where tradition and modernity dance hand in hand. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture or simply looking to experience the extraordinary, the vibrant matsuri are a highlight of any Japan tour. As you navigate through the festivals of light and color, you're not just a spectator but a participant in a centuries-old tradition that continues to dazzle and inspire. How To Take Part In Matsuri  To take part in Matruri, a grand Japanese festival, you have to learn about Japanese culture. Many Matruri welcome tourists and visitors from around the world. Indeed, it's a great way to learn about Japanese festivities and share the most important inputs on the celebrations. Here, we discuss how you can take part in Matrusir and experience the festivities. It is usually opined that there are many, hundreds, and thousands of Matsur taking place in Japan. The is no requirement to wear traditional clothes. Watching the people in procession and parades in huge numbers is a great approach to feeling the festivity from within. Renting Traditional Japanese Costumes If you join the matsuri celebration in general clothes, there is no issue, but you may be detached from the crowd. Why not make the gathering special? No, you do not need to buy traditional wear. But you can rent it. It’s a simplistic wear, yet echoes the Japanese spirit…yes, we mean a Kimono called the Yukata. There are Yulta rentals. Moreover, there are some specific costumes meant for different festivals. You can try it out and have fun. Chanting Together  Another part of the festivities and soaking in the fun is chanting together. It is one of the easiest ways to be one with the people. Chants like Washoi or Oisa, or say Rassera Rassera Rassera (in the Nebuta Festival), can help you get yourself close to the Japanese culture and the sense of unity. It is indeed a great way to join the locals and be one with the Japanese culture. Dance Together  One of the great ways to express fun, merriment, and lightness of mood is by dancing together. Dance has been an integral part of the culture of various civilizations. It is a great way to participate with the people and learn about the intricacies of the culture. The same goes for Japan. It is a great way to embrace the warmth of the festivities and soak up the cultural elements. In Japan, during the vibrantMatrusi, you can take part in a traditional Japanese folk dance called Odori. Repeat the same movements with everyone, and you will be a master of it in no time. If you find it shaky initially, then you could use YouTube videos to familiarize yourself with the steps. Don’t worry, you are new, and you need some time. But there is no doubt that you will have great fun. Cherish The Gastronomic Heart Of The Matsuri: Yatai Street Food No festival experience is complete without navigating the Yatai, the vibrant rows of wooden street food stalls that provide the smoky, sweet aroma defining every matsuri.  For many travelers, the Yatai are the most accessible entry point into the celebration, offering a literal taste of Japanese tradition. As you wander through the crowds, start with the iconic Takoyaki (savory octopus balls), served piping hot and topped with dancing bonito flakes.  Follow the sizzle of the grill to find Yakisoba, where thick noodles are stir-fried with a signature tangy sauce that has been a festival staple for generations.  For those with a sweet tooth, the whimsical Choco-banana, dipped in chocolate and colorful sprinkles, is a nostalgic must-try.  Finally, don't miss Taiyaki, the famous fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste or creamy custard.  Eating your way through these stalls isn't just about refueling; it’s a vital ritual of communal joy. Tradition Meets Tomorrow: Tech And Sustainability In The Best Festivals In Japan In 2026 In the travel landscape of 2026, the magic of a Japanese matsuri is no longer just about preserving the past. It’s about ensuring these traditions survive in a modern, eco-conscious world. The intersection of high-tech logistics and "Green Shinto" values has transformed how visitors experience these spectacles. Smart Crowd Management Navigating the legendary congestion of festivals like Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri has been revolutionized by technology.  Major events now utilize official Crowd Management Apps, such as the SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 platform, which provides real-time heat maps of street density.  By using AI-driven sensor data, these apps steer tourists away from bottlenecked alleys toward "secret" viewing spots, ensuring safety without dampening the festive spirit.  For the traveler, this means less time stuck in a standstill and more time enjoying the procession. The Rise Of The Eco-Matsuri Sustainability is the new heartbeat of the festival grounds. The "Zero-Waste" movement has moved from niche to norm. The Earth Celebration 2026 on Sado Island, for example, leads the charge by encouraging visitors to bring their own reusable cutlery (my-hashi) and offering dedicated wash stations to eliminate single-use plastics. Even the iconic nighttime illuminations have gone green. Traditional paper lanterns are increasingly powered by high-efficiency LED bulbs and solar-charged battery packs. Events like the Nabana no Sato Light Festival now run massive, multi-million LED displays entirely on solar energy.  This shift not only reduces the carbon footprint but also allows for more intricate, color-changing light shows that were impossible with traditional candles.  In 2026, you can soak in the "Light and Color," knowing that the glow is as sustainable as it is spectacular. Festivals In Japan: A Spectacle Of Light And Color Japanese tours that include the vibrant matsuri offer an unparalleled experience of the heart of Japanese culture.  Each festival, with its unique blend of history, tradition, and community, presents an unforgettable spectacle of light and color.  Whether you’re drawn by the history, the beauty, or the sheer joy of these celebrations, participating in a matsuri or the festivals in Japan is an experience that resonates long after the lights have dimmed. Read Also: What Is The Oldest Country In The World? Japanese And Other Civilizations Still Alive Today What Are The Things To Do In Japan? Know Why Gen Z Travelers Love Japan The Most What Is The Best Japanese Temple To Visit? A Temple Tour In Japan

BY  Ankita Mar 20, 2024

Siam Square is a popular shopping area located in the heart of Bangkok city, and known for its classy shopping malls and plenty of street markets. This capital is different from others as it allows you to explore museums, visit amazing temples, and watch Thai boxing matches, all in one area. Whether shopaholic or not, you can enjoy amazing things like street and window shopping, viewing amazing art, and interacting with large wax statues of your favorite celebrities. Window Shop At Central Chidlom As a shopaholic who has fun window shopping, visit Central Chidlom to view products in its flower display. Get a foot massage at Siam Square from this stylish store that has seven floors internationally known for its huge, unique, and attractive display. Do Amazing Shopping At Siam Square The square is a huge hub of all essentials for shopping due to its large fantastic malls, small boutiques all over, and low-budget street shops. You can comfortably do street and window shopping, and after a tiring day of shopping join one of the many restaurants and cafes for food and drinks. You can do the shopping from 10 am to 10 pm, Thailand time. Watch The MBK Fight Night One of the most exciting things you can do in Siam Square is see Thailand boxers fight against worldwide boxers. On the last Wednesday of every month, you can watch a live Muay Thai Boxing match free of charge. The fight is hosted with live commentary, ring girls, and a music band at 444 Phayathai Rd, Wang Mai. Take Photos With Global Celebs At Madame Tussauds Museum Get a chance to brush shoulders with your favorite local and international celebs, Hollywood stars, heads of state, and sports heroes and heroines at Madame Tussaud Museum. You’ll find life-sized wax statues of famous guys and have a chance to touch, hug, and even kiss them. You can access them any day of the week from 10 am to 9 pm. Visit Jim Thompson House Art lovers worried about what to do in Bangkok are well-catered; they can access well-designed South Asian art at Jim Thompson House. Here you will find old-aged Buddha images, Chinese porcelains made in the 14th century, and 18th-century paintings. Visit the place on any day of the week, specifically between 10 AM to 5 PM to see all this art. Idol At Paragon Shopping Mall If you are having a tired day, just wander around the huge, plush, and luxurious shopping mall. To those who love admiring pricey and high-end electronics, materials, and clothing, you will enjoy moving from one floor to another looking at them. You could also enjoy luxurious and underworld dining in the same mall. Explore Erawan Shrine Find a time between 6 am and 10 pm to visit one of the most popular Hindu Shrines in Bangkok. You can go there to pray, meditate, or have fun watching Thai and lion dances in the shrine. Enjoy all forms of fun from amazing shopping, hugs and kisses from your favorite celebs, prayer and meditation, art, and window shopping at Siam Square. Best Places To Shop Around The Siam Square  Bangkok In this section, we discuss some of the great places you can visit in Siam Square. Enjoy Siam Paragon The Siam Paragon offers different brands, mainly the upmarket brands, where people can go out and shop. The glass and steel megamall covers a vast area. You will find around 250 shops there. You could also find Asia’s largest aquarium, a 16-screen cineplex, and plenty of gourmet restaurants and cafes. There, you could find the flagship stores in Prada, Louis Vitton, and the Thai bespoke stores where you could occupy the 4th floor. The place is great and offers a great shopping experience to the people. You will undoubtedly fly high inside the buzzing shopping mall filled with life. CentralWorld  The CentralWorld is undoubtedly one of the most visited places in Siam. It has got everything, from fashion to high-tech electronics and imported groceries. You will certainly get a glimpse of the best shopping experience. The mall is always buzzing with life. Some events and concerts cater to the requirements of people across diverse age groups. You can find the 15-screen SF World Cinema, Isetan department stores, and Zen there. Apart from that, you can also find hundreds of restaurants and cafes. MBK Center The MBK center is well known for affordable shopping. It's a gigantic place with around 2000 shops that occupy around seven floors of the retail space. One of the primary selling points of the place is the extensive range of products, photo equipment, video games, gold ornaments, and many others. Whatever you wish to shop for, you can easily find them here. It is indeed a great shopping experience where you get plenty of food choices. Siam Center Another shopping center that counts itself on the list of the trending fashion malls in Siam Bangkok is the Siam Centre. There, you get dozens of boutiques. However, you get products from Thai designers. The mall is one place where you find the utmost fun. Fashion brands like Steve Maddens, Adidas, Pull & Bear, Victoria’s Secret, and others. It's a fun place to explore the best offerings from the best brands. Gaysorn Village Gaysorn Village is one of the most luxurious upmarket shopping complexes. The place is a storehouse of the most high-end luxurious goods. The contemporary design and the innovative retail concept create an exclusive shopping experience that you definitely need to look for. You can expect a wide range of products from international brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, and Prada, among the best brands in Thailand. The most innovative designers in Thailand are the Senada Theory, Kloset Red Carpet, and Fly Now.  These products are highly competitive and of great quality if compared with the best foreign international brands. Apart from its renowned places, there are some other great places in Siam Square where you can have the best shopping experience. They include Erawan, Ermin Plaza, Hard Rock Shop, Center Point Siam Square, and others. Read Also: Crime Rate In Florida Trending Down While California Skyrockets: Report World’s Most Famous Christmas Tree Has Reached Trafalgar Square