The ultimate 3-week Sri Lanka itinerary | The best of Sri Lanka
The ultimate 3-week Sri Lanka itinerary | The best of Sri Lanka
Uncover the absolute best of Sri Lanka with this detailed 3-week itinerary. This itinerary covers all the best things to see and do – including the best beaches & surf breaks, must-see attractions, and impressive ancient World Heritage Sites.
You’ll be hard-pressed to find an island that amazes travellers as much as Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s natural beauty is unrivalled – from the beloved gold-sanded beaches on the southern coast to mysterious mountain towns in the idyllic hill country to the dense, wildlife-rich jungles of Yala National Park.
There is simply a myriad of reasons to travel to Sri Lanka, and the world’s most scenic train ride is absolutely one of them. Not to mention that Sri Lanka occupies some of the most vibrant cultural heritage sites, including a colonial seaside fortress, lush tea plantations, and multiple ancient cities which include Kandy, Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya.
You could easily say that Sri Lanka’s unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes go hand in hand, and it’s my intention to help you plan, and make the most out of your journey. I’ve put together the best possible itinerary to spend 3 weeks in Sri Lanka.
My 3-week Sri Lanka itinerary is a detailed introduction and covers all the best things to see and do – plus additional guides that help you throughout your trip. Now the only thing left for you to do, is soaking up beautiful Sri Lanka and its magical experiences.
3-WEEK SRI LANKA ITINERARY | WHAT TO DO IN SRI LANKA
Day 1 | Colombo, Sri Lanka’s somewhat chaotic capital
Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital makes an excellent first destination in your Sri Lanka itinerary, especially if you look at the fact that it is located just 45 minutes from the Bandaranaike International Airport.
With nearly 620,000 inhabitants, Colombo is considered Sri Lanka’s biggest city. Unfortunately, this comes with the side note that the city is rather intoxicating, and often too overwhelming to fully enjoy.
Although Colombo isn’t the most captivating city in terms of must-see attractions, I think you shouldn’t just skip over it. I would recommend spending at least one day here to experience the hustle and bustle of Sri Lankan everyday life.
COLOMBO | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
The Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque) | Located in the narrow streets of Pettah, Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque is one of the few must-see attractions in Colombo. The mesmerising mosque is charmed by a distinct colour pattern, towering minarets, and ornate domes that can be seen from quite a distance. It’s utterly breathtaking to see the towering mosque appear while strolling through the lively streets of Pettah.
Barefoot | Barefoot is an iconic shop, gallery, bookshop, and courtyard café in the heart of Colombo’s spirited fort area. The vibrant café is tucked away in a garden of calm and serves a wide variety of delicious dishes, while the shop sells traditional artisan crafts like fabrics, linen, clothes and gifts. Barefoot also houses a unique bookstore that offers a great selection of books on art, architecture, photography and spirituality.
The streets of Pettah | Pettah is considered one of the oldest districts in Colombo and a stroll through its narrow streets is quite the experience. The Pettah market is an excellent area to get a feel for the country and its people. While you’re there, make sure to grab a bite at one of the many street food stalls. Bear in mind that these streets are very chaotic and overwhelming, therefore it is best to give in, and go with the flow.
COLOMBO | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Colombo
Where to stay in Colombo | I recommend Lavonca Boutique Hotel, a small, comfortable hotel in the heart of Colombo. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Colombo.
How to get around Colombo | Colombo is quite an extensive city and somewhat challenging to navigate by foot. The easiest way to get around is by making use of the famous tuk tuks, which are found at about every corner. To avoid unnecessary costs, use the PickMe app, or arrange a price with your tuk tuk driver in advance.
DAY 2 – 3 | GALLE FORT, A COLONIAL SEASIDE FORTRESS
After experiencing the hustle and bustle in Colombo, its time to embark on a scenic train journey in the direction of Sri Lanka’s spirited south coast.
During this 3-hour journey from Colombo Fort to Galle, you’ll get spoiled by views of vivid sceneries, as well as authentic local villages and the island’s golden-sanded coastline.
Once you arrive in Galle, you’ll quickly come to realize why it is such a beloved destination. The seaside town was once of significant importance and is still largely visited for its historical Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that continues to amaze travellers.
The Dutch Colonial fort in Galle has a rich and captivating character. With lively, narrow streets, decaying colonial buildings, trendy contemporary cafés, and an appealing, tropical ambience, Galle Fort is, in my opinion, a must-see in any Sri Lanka itinerary.
GALLE FORT | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Galle Fort Lighthouse | The Galle Fort Lighthouse is framed by tropical palm trees and is one of the many picture-perfect scenes in Sri Lanka. For that reason alone, it’s one of the things that shouldn’t be missed within the ramparts of the historical Galle Fort.
The Galle Markets | Just outside Galle Fort, you’ll notice several authentic markets that sell a wide variety of fruit, fish and spices. By visiting these local markets you have an excellent chance to taste delicious tropical fruits, stock up on high-quality spices – plus you become familiar with Sri Lankan culture.
Galle Fort interior | Taking a stroll through the narrow, colonial streets of the fort was by far one of the best things I did during my time in the Galle Fort. By doing so, you come along a collection of decaying colonial buildings, which makes it seem as if you’re living during the VOC era.
GALLE FORT | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Galle Fort, Galle
Where to stay in Galle Fort | Galle has no shortage of good accommodations, both in and outside the fort. I would highly recommend Yoho White House Apartment and The Bungalow – Galle Fort. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Galle.
How to get from Colombo to Galle Fort | The easiest and most scenic travel option is from Colombo Fort to Galle by train. The direct train operates frequently (about 10 times a day) and takes around 2.5 – 3 hours.
How to get around Galle Fort | Galle Fort is easily explored by foot. If your accommodation is slightly remote, make usage of the accessible tuk-tuks.
DAY 4 – 5 | UNAWATUNA, SRI LANKA’S BACKPACKER BEACH TOWN
Situated at only a 10-minute drive from Galle lies Unawatuna, one of Sri Lanka’s most popular coastal towns and the first proper beach destination in this itinerary.
Unawatuna has rapidly become a fixture for travellers that visit Sri Lanka, and trust me, that’s for a good reason. The trendy beach town is home to a laidback backpacker vibe and has no shortage of palm-fringed beaches, contemporary cafés, and irresistible beachfront restaurants.
Accordingly, I would recommend spending a few nights here, it has some of the island’s most beautiful beaches after all.
UNAWATUNA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Dalawella Beach | Dalawella Beach is an extremely picturesque stretch of beach and without doubt one of my favourite beaches in Sri Lanka. The charm that defines Dalawella Beach is realized by a scenic rock formation, exciting beach swings and plenty of low bending palm trees. Make sure you visit early morning or during sunset.
Skinny Tom’s Deli | Only head over to Skinny Tom’s Deli, if you’re keen on tasting the best brunch in town. This European-style café has a great reputation on the southern coast and serves life-changing bacon, dhal & egg hoppers, fresh eggs benedict toast, and delicious artisanal cakes and desserts.
Jungle Beach | Although its located slightly off the beaten path, Jungle beach is an exceptional place for an afternoon of relaxing, swimming and tanning. Make sure you take a look at the Japanese Peace Pagoda, which is situated in the lush jungle right above the secluded beach.
UNAWATUNA | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Unawatuna
Where to stay in Unawatuna | Unawatuna has great accommodations in every price range and I would highly recommend Bedspace Beach and Cantaloupe Levels. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Unawatuna.
How to get from Galle Fort to Unawatuna | Take a 10-minute drive by local bus from Galle Fort to Unawatuna. Alternatively, take a tuk-tuk.
How to get around Unawatuna | Unawatuna is easily navigated by foot. If you’re keen to explore the surrounding towns, make use of the affordable tuk-tuks, or rent a scooter.
DAY 6 – 7 | MIRISSA, A TRANQUIL BEACHSIDE PARADISE
After unwinding at one of the tropical beaches in Unawatuna, it is time to continue your journey along the island’s beloved south coast.
Mirissa is an energetic beach town that has not gone unnoticed to backpackers and travellers alike. It has, in fact, become quite an unmissable destination in Sri Lanka itineraries.
The beach town is all about riding waves, paradisiac stretches of beach, trendy cafés and the tranquil ambience that characterizes it. But what really highlights Mirissa is that it’s deemed to be one of Sri Lanka’s best places to get up close and personal with Blue Whales.
MIRISSA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Coconut Tree Hill | Coconut Tree Hill is without a doubt among the most iconic things to see in Sri Lanka. The tangerine-coloured cliff is extremely popular and well-known for its sea of swaying palms and views over the shimmering Indian Ocean. I’d recommend stopping by earlier in the day or during a glorious sunset.
Parrot Rock | Only just of Mirissa’s main beach is Parrot Rock, a small secluded rock-island that provides the most stunning views over the town’s golden-sanded shoreline. Make sure you climb to the summit, it’s one of Mirissa’s best spots to sit and watch the world go by.
Surfing in Weligama | With decent waves rolling in year-round, Mirissa is one of the leading surf destinations on Sri Lanka’s south coast. The vibrant town is home to excellent surf schools that provide lessons and board rental. The waves in Mirissa are perfect for beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers.
MIRISSA | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Mirissa
Where to stay in Mirissa | Mirissa has many excellent accommodations and I would highly recommend Satori Beach Hostel, Triple O Six and Mirissa Heights. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Mirissa.
How to get from Unawatuna to Mirissa | Jump aboard a direct train from Unawatuna to Mirissa that operates frequently (about 5 times a day). Expect the journey to take around 0.5 – 1 hour.
How to get around Mirissa | Walking around town is your best option as the distances are quite short. For surfing in Weligama, I would recommend taking a tuk-tuk.
DAY 8 | YALA NATIONAL PARK, SRI LANKA’S BEST SAFARI DESTINATION
From the moment I booked my flight to Colombo, I was excited about one specific thing, travelling to the wildlife-rich jungles of the Yala National Park to experience my first ever safari.
The incredible Yala National Park, situated on the island’s south-eastern coastline, is famed as Sri Lanka’s most popular national park and is unquestionably a must-see on any Sri Lanka itinerary.
The park is home to dense jungles, sandy dunes, wide stretched grasslands and several lakes and lagoons. This distinct landscape is the perfect habitat for a great variety and density of wildlife, which results in the potential sighting of leopards, elephants, Black Sloth bears, Fishing cats, Red Slender loris and crocodiles.
In totality, the national park is home to 44 species of mammals, 215 species of birds and 46 species of reptiles, which makes an excellent reason to jump aboard a jeep and roam around the jungles of the park. Believe me, it’s one of the most fulfilling adventures in Sri Lanka.
It’s easy to book your Yala National Park safari through your accommodation in Tissamaharama. I would recommend joining a morning safari, this increases the potential of leopard sightings.
YALA NATIONAL PARK | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Yala National Park
Where to stay in Yala National Park | Tissamaharama has great accommodations (both in and outside the park) and I would highly recommend Hotel River Front, Thaulle Resort and Cinnamon Wild Yala. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Yala National Park or Tissamaharama.
How to get from Mirissa to Yala National Park | For this journey, the local bus is the easiest and cheapest option. Head to Matara, here change to a direct bus to Tissamaharama. The journey can be quite intense and takes around 3.5 hours.
Entrance fee | 4.000 LKR ($21.50).
Half-day jeep safari costs | 5.000 – 6.000 LKR ($24,00 – 32,25) per jeep, with a maxi of 6 people.
DAY 9 – 10 | ARUGAM BAY, A LAIDBACK SURFER TOWN
Travelling to Arugam Bay requires quite a long and exhausting journey, as it is pretty off the beaten path compared to other destinations on this Sri Lanka itinerary. That being said, I truly believe that the detour is worth every minute of it.
Slightly hidden on Sri Lanka’s untouched east coast, with Yala National Park as its neighbour, lies Arugam Bay: one of the island’s leading surf destinations. With great bays, excellent surf breaks, stunning natural sceneries, and trendy cafés, there’s enough to see and do in Arugam Bay, therefore, I would recommend staying at least two days.
ARUGAM BAY | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Kudumbigala Monastery | Just 45 minutes of Arugam Bay’s spirited main street is the Kudumbigala monastery, a sacred place where locals come to practise deep meditation techniques. In addition to those mysterious, spiritual vibrations, you’ll find a viewpoint that provides the most stunning panoramic views of the entire region.
Muhudu Maha Viharaya | Known as the temple of the ocean, Muhudu Maha Viharaya is a charming white Buddhist stupa, overlooking Pottuvil’s sandy dunes and shimmering ocean. Fortunately, the temple is out of range of the regular tourist area, so it gives an authentic glimpse of Sri Lanka’s daily life. As always, follow religious customs and visit in a respectful manner.
Elephant Rock | Acknowledged as one of the best surfing breaks in the area, and a great place to sit and watch the world go by, especially during the golden hour. Elephant Rock gives a marvellous view over the bay and its wave riding surfers, certainly a must-see in Arugam Bay.
ARUGAM BAY | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Arugam Bay
Where to stay in Arugam Bay | Arugam Bay has no shortage of great accommodations. For surfing, I’d highly recommend Upali Beach Surf Resort – other excellent options are The Spice Trail and Arugam Bay Roccos. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Arugam Bay.
How to get from Yala National Park to Arugam Bay | Local bus is the cheapest option. Do keep in mind that this is one of the most exhausting bus journeys in Sri Lanka – plus it requires changing bus up to three times. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk or arrange a taxi with the PickMe app. The journey can take up to 6.5 hours.
How to get around Arugam Bay | If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, I would highly recommend renting a scooter. Alternatively, walk or make use of tuk-tuks.
DAY 11 – 13 | ELLA, SRI LANKA’S EXTRAORDINARY HILL COUNTRY
After learning to ride the waves in Arugam Bay, it’s time to head for Sri Lanka’s mysterious mountains and one of my favourite places in the country, the sleepy town of Ella.
Around 1,041 metres above sea level and hidden in Sri Lanka’s peaceful hill country is Ella: a small town that is encircled by charming tea plantations, towering mountains and rushing waterfalls.
If you’re a nature & adventure enthusiast like me, Ella’s incredible sceneries will surely blow your mind. I enjoyed this town so much, that I’ve ended up staying slightly longer than initially planned. Therefore I’d always recommend adding some flexibility to your Sri Lanka itinerary.
ELLA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Ella Rock | It is no surprise that Ella Rock is one of the must-see attractions in Ella as it provides breathtaking views of Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Gap and the mysterious hill country of Ella. If you’re a seasoned hiker, you certainly feel hyped for the somewhat challenging Ella Rock hike. Do bear in mind that the best time to hike up Ella Rock is around sunrise.
Nine Arch Bridge | The now-famous Nine Arch Bridge is single-handedly responsible for the largest part of travellers that come and visit Ella. Tucked away between the dense jungle and tea plantations; this stunning piece of architecture impresses both travellers and locals on a daily basis. The scene becomes even more remarkable when the famous blue train slowly navigates its way across the bridge.
Little Adam’s Peak | As the name implies, Little Adam’s Peak is named after its taller and better-known brother, Adam’s Peak. The hike to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak guarantees the most excellent overview of both Ella Rock and the infinite-looking Ella Gap. It’s therefore little wonder that it’s such a popular attraction in Ella.
ELLA | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Ella
Where to stay in Ella | Ella has some of Sri Lanka’s finest accommodations and I would recommend Rawana Den, 98 Acres & Spa and Mountain Heavens. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Ella.
How to get from Arugam Bay to Ella | Take a bus to Monoragala, before changing to the bus that heads for Wellawaya. Here take the bus to Ella. If you’re fortunate, you may catch a direct bus between Arugam Bay and Wellawaya. Since the journey is quite chaotic, alternatively hire a tuk-tuk or arrange a taxi with PickMe. The journey can take up to 4.5 hours.
How to get around Ella | Ella is an easy town to navigate by foot. Alternatively, jump aboard one of the many tuk-tuks.
ELLA TO KANDY, THE MOST SCENIC TRAIN RIDE IN THE WORLD
Ask anyone that jumped aboard the famous Ella to Kandy train and they all answer the same – this scenic train journey is one of the absolute highlights in any Sri Lanka itinerary.
Secure yourself a window seat and witness the train meandering through mysterious woodlands, authentic local towns and leafy tea plantations. This seven-hour journey is one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, so make sure you enjoy every moment of it.
ELLA TO KANDY TRAIN JOURNEY | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Ella Railway Station
Costs | 2nd class: 270 LKR ($1.50), 3rd class: 180 LKR ($1). If you prefer to book your ticket in advance, visit 12go.asia.
Train times from Kandy to Ella | 06:40, 09:24, 10:57 and 12:48. For up to date timetables, visit the Seat61 website.
DAY 14 – 15 | KANDY, THE CITY OF KINGS
Following the breathtaking train journey, you’ll arrive in Kandy, a vibrant city that is of major significance to Sri Lanka’s rich, captivating culture and history. It is, therefore, more than rightly so named, the city of kings by its locals.
Sri Lanka’s second-largest city is famed for its most important spiritual site, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic; which according to Sri Lankan legends houses a tooth of the Buddha.
Although many travellers tend to visit Kandy in a hurry, I think there are quite a few fascinating places to see and appreciate in Kandy. I would highly recommend spending at least two days exploring the lively city and surrounds.
KANDY | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic | Right at the heart Kandy and next to the Kandy Lake is the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist shrine. The best time to visit is during a Buddha Puja ceremony, when pilgrims from all over the world reflect, sing and bring offerings to deepen the appreciation of the Buddha and his teachings.
Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya | For me, it’s always impressive to see a large urban city park in the midst of a lively city, the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya are exactly that. The verdant gardens are home to over 4,000 species of plants, including palm trees, medicinal plants, orchids and spices. A peaceful morning walk is a perfect activity to escape the sizzling heat and chaos of Kandy.
Bahirawakanda Temple | Located atop of the Bahirawa Kanda hill and to be seen from the whole of Kandy lies the majestic Bahirawakanda Temple. The towering Buddha reaches a height of 27 metres and is considered one of the largest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. Make sure you snap some shots of the panoramic views of Kandy.
KANDY | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Kandy
Where to stay in Kandy | I stayed at Range Hotel Kandy and Cafe Aroma Inn. Additionally, I would recommend Dumbara Peak Residence. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Kandy.
How to get from Ella to Kandy | Jump aboard the famous Ella to Kandy train. It’s cheap and considered the most scenic train ride in the world – 2nd class: 270 LKR ($1.50), 3rd class: 180 LKR ($1). If you prefer to book your ticket in advance, visit the 12go.asia website.
How to get around Kandy | Kandy is easily explored by foot. I’d recommend grabbing a tuk-tuk for attractions that are situated just outside the town.
DAY 16 – 17 | SIGIRYA, SRI LANKA’S EIGHT WONDER OF THE WORLD
It’s time to head further North to the Ancient City of Sigiriya, one of my all-time favourite places in Sri Lanka, and an unmissable destination on this itinerary.
It is little surprise that Sigiriya is loved by so many, it has essentially everything a traveller yearns for. The town is surrounded by nature, has no shortage of breathtaking sceneries and houses the authentic ambience of a local village.
The real draw though is the Ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of the country’s most famous landmarks, and often stated as the eighth wonder of the world.
It is safe to say that being surrounded by Sigiriya’s idyllic nature has a therapeutic effect on both body and mind. Therefore, I’d recommend spending a few days to explore and unwind in this magnificent area.
SIGIRIYA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Sigiriya Rock Fortress | Sigiriya’s natural beauty is unrivalled – and that is largely by means of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Witnessing this unique, ancient fortress, should be on every Sri Lanka bucket list, whether viewed from Pidurangala Rock or up close and personal.
Pidurangala Rock | The Sigiriya Rock Fortress might be the number one attraction in Sigiriya, it’s the incredible view from Pidurangala Rock that stole my heart. Hiking the summit of Pidurangala Rock has rapidly become a must-do activity for travellers and locals alike. To experience the mesmerizing view in full potential, make sure to visit with sunrise or sunset.
SIGIRIYA | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Sigiriya
Where to stay in Sigiriya | I stayed at Wali Kukula Nest multiple times and I felt at home every single time. If you’re a creative like me, this is an inspiring place where you surely want to stay. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Sigiriya.
How to get from Kandy to Sigiriya | Take a bus to Dambulla, where you change for the bus that heads to Sigiriya. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk from Dambulla to Sigiriya (1,000 LKR – $5.50). The journey takes around 2.5 hours.
How to get around Sigiriya | Walking around town is your best options as the distances are quite short. Do be aware that elephants often roam around the jungles. Alternatively, hire a bicycle to explore the stunning surrounds.
DAY TRIP | KAUDULLA NATIONAL PARK, THE GATHERING OF ELEPHANTS
Sigiriya is conveniently located and makes the perfect base for an exciting day trip: a jeep safari in Kaudulla National Park.
Poised between Sigiriya and Trincomalee, Kaudulla National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s best national parks, and home to over 200 wild elephants, including a newborn. The extensive wildlife park is often referred to as; The Gathering, world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants.
It’s easy to book your Kaudulla National Park safari through your accommodation in Sigiriya. I would recommend joining an afternoon safari, right after you spend the morning to visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress or Pidurangala Rock.
KAUDULLA NATIONAL PARK | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Kaudulla National Park
How to get from Sigiriya to Kaudulla National Park | By safari jeep. A safari tour is always including pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.
Entrance fee | 4,090 LKR ($22).
Half-day jeep safari costs | 6,000 – 7,000 LKR ($32.50 – 37.50) per jeep, with a max of 6 people.
DAY 18 | POLONNARUWA, SRI LANKA’S ANCIENT CAPITAL CITY
Part of Sri Lanka’s glorious cultural triangle and only an hour away from Sigiriya is the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, an impressive UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a thriving kingdom.
Present-day, this ancient city has no shortage of grandeur, whether it’s the remainings of temples and religious buildings, impressive shrines, or elegant Buddha statues. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa features some of the most impressive ruins in Sri Lanka – which is a true pleasure to seasoned travellers.
I’ve heard many backpackers that experienced difficulties when choosing between Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. When I followed my intuition and chose Polonnaruwa, it felt like the right decision, and up until this day, I’m still delighted with it – even after visiting the Angkor temples in Cambodia.
POLONNARUWA | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Polonnaruwa
Entrance fee | Adult 4,550 LKR ($25), children 2,275 LKR ($12.50).
Opening hours | 07:00 – 18:30 daily.
Where to stay in Polonnaruwa | I stayed at Singha Guest House and would additionally recommend Pharo Lake and Mahanuge Hotel Polonnaruwa. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Polonnaruwa.
How to get from Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa | Take the local bus to Inamaluwa, before changing to a direct bus that heads for Polonnaruwa. The journey should take no longer than 1.5 hours.
How to get around Polonnaruwa | The most fun way to explore Polonnaruwa is by bicycle. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk that guides you around the complex.
DAY 19 – 20 | TRINCOMALEE, SRI LANKA’S UNDISCOVERED EAST COAST
After soaking up all that Polonnaruwa has to offer, venture further east to the pristine, undiscovered beaches of Trincomalee and surrounds.
Trincomalee, often called Trinco by the locals, is a relaxed coastal town that is less frequently visited by travellers and backpackers alike. Even so, I sincerely feel that its beaches aren’t inferior to most of the must-see beaches on Sri Lanka’s beloved south coast.
But what really distinguishes Trincomalee is the fact that it’s deeply influenced by Tamil culture, resulting in a completely different atmosphere than elsewhere on the island. Trinco is thus, no stranger to vivid, breathtaking Hindu temples, and I would highly recommend attending at least one of them.
TRINCOMALEE | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Koneswaram Temple | The colourful Koneswaram Temple holds the upper area of Fort Frederick and is a must-see in Trincomalee. The fascinating temple is dictated by its main shrine, a large vivid statue of the Hindu god Shiva, and faces one of the world’s largest natural harbours. If you plan to visit, remember to respect religious customs.
Nilaveli Beach | Just 20 minutes north of Trincomalee you’ll find Nilaveli Beach, a secluded beach that is said to be among the best beaches in Sri Lanka. The sleepy town and its eponymous beach are still largely undiscovered to backpackers and houses an authentic local atmosphere. Nilaveli may be a little off the beaten path, but it is worth visiting, and a great place to grab a coconut while watching the world go by.
Sri Pathirakali Amman Kovil | Trinco may be renowned for its pristine beaches, it is the incredibly ornamented Hindu temples that amazed me the most. Established adjacent to the Trinco bus station is one of them, the Sri Pathirakali Amman Kovil, a work of art that is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhadrakali. To fully experience the temples, I’d recommend taking a peaceful walk in and around the buildings.
TRINCOMALEE | THE ESSENTIALS
Where | Trincomalee
Where to stay in Trincomalee | Trincomalee has excellent accommodations and I would highly recommend Surf Reef Dive Beach Palace and OYO 310 Sea Lagoon Beach Hotel. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Trincomalee.
How to get from Polonnaruwa to Trincomalee | From Polonnaruwa’s main station, take the local bus to Habarana, before changing to a direct bus that heads for Trincomalee. The journey takes around 3.5 hours.
How to get around Trincomalee | If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, I would highly recommend renting a scooter. Alternatively, go walking or hire one of the many tuk-tuks.
DAY 21 | NEGOMBO, TIME TO LEAVE SRI LANKA
It’s time to leave Trinco and board the train that brings you from Trincomalee to Negombo (departs once a day at 06:50).
This scenic train journey is the last glimpse you’ll have of this unique, captivating country. It’s a great moment to reflect and appreciate the fascinating adventures you’ve had during your 3 weeks in Sri Lanka.
To avoid unnecessary problems, make sure you arrive in Negombo one day prior to your return flight. By doing so, you ensure yourself a stress-free journey to the airport.
NEGOMBO | THE ESSENTIALS
Where to stay in Negombo | The last night before a flight, I always try to pick the most comfortable, budget-friendly accommodation possible. For Negombo, I would highly recommend Waves by Tranquil. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Negombo.
How to get from Trincomalee to Negombo | Take the direct train from Trincomalee station to Gampaha station. From there, hire a tuk-tuk or arrange a taxi with the PickMe app to bring you to your accommodation in Negombo. The journey can take up to 9 hours.
Train times from Trincomalee to Negombo | Train departs once daily, 06:50. To avoid unnecessary problems, make sure you arrive in Negombo one day prior to your return flight.
SRI LANKA ITINERARY | TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AND TIPS
WEATHER IN SRI LANKA | BEST TIME TO VISIT SRI LANKA
Although Sri Lanka is just a small island, it is quite a challenge to figure out the best time to visit.
Sri Lanka’s weather is somewhat confusing and dictated by two individual monsoon seasons, and since they alternate, it’s important to plan where you want to go. Due to this distinct climate, there’s always a part with good weather, making Sri Lanka a year-round travel destination.
May to September | The absolute best time to go and visit Sri Lanka’s undiscovered northern and eastern areas.
December to March | Sri Lanka’s popular south and central areas have excellent weather this time of year.
I’d followed this itinerary in September and was fortunate to have the best of both worlds. That said, do be aware that travelling during the shoulder season does not always guarantee good weather.
MONEY ESSENTIALS | CURRENCY IN SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka’s official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee, a currency that is indicated by LKR and Rs. The notes that are currently in circulation include Rs10, Rs20, Rs50, Rs100, Rs500, Rs1000, Rs2000 and Rs5000. Make sure you have enough notes in lower denominations, especially if you plan to stroll the markets and hire tuk-tuks.
Exchanging currency in Sri Lanka | I would sincerely recommend you to avoid buying Sri Lankan Rupees either ahead of time or at the airport. I made the mistake to buy upfront, and since the Rupee isn’t rated as a major currency, I ended up getting a bad exchange rate.
The exchange rate at the time of writing | $1 equals 189 LKR, and €1 equals 209 LKR.
For up to date exchange rates, visit the XE website.
ATM’s in Sri Lanka | ATM services are found throughout most popular tourist areas and work well. To avoid unnecessary costs, I’d highly recommend choosing the local currency when withdrawing money.
Fee-free ATM | I used The People’s Bank on many occasions, and had no commission or whatsoever.
STAY SAFE IN SRI LANKA | TRAVEL INSURANCE
Though Sri Lanka is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.
Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.
World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.
PLAN YOUR SRI LANKA ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES
8 Wonderful things to do in Kampot, Cambodia's laidback riverside town
Kampot, an atmospheric city in South East Cambodia. For people that admire slow travel, this is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia.
Kampot city is easy to explore on foot and the surrounding attractions can be reached by motorbike or tuk-tuk. The laidback vibe in Kampot is one of the things that make you stay a little longer than planned. Combine this charming city with a day trip to Bokor National Park or a local pepper plantation and you are certain of a great time.
Continue reading to find out and explore all the tourist attractions Kampot has to offer.
If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and support my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying me a virtual coffee here.
Where to stay in Kampot
Kampot RiverInn Boutique Hotel
If you want to stay near the city centre, Guest House Blue Buddha Hotel is a great pick. If you want to experience life a little bit slow down, Eden Eco Village is perfect for relaxing and is located on the riverside.
The price you pay to spend a night in Kampot is really low, it varies from $6 to $25 for one night and the options are endless.
Have a look at booking.com to see the current rates for hotels in Kampot.
8 Wonderful things to do in Kampot, Cambodia
#1 Roam around Kampot City
Kampot is a small but charming city where you will find a lot of French colonial buildings being converted into guesthouses, bars or restaurants. Walking along the Kampot River and exploring the city centre gives you a good impression of authentic Cambodia. Another good option to explore Kampot is by bike. Because of the short distances, it is easy and fun to ride around town with a bike.
One thing we also noticed is the number of statues in the city and in particular the durian statue that has its own roundabout. Durian fruit is really popular in Kampot, so they honoured it with a statue.
#2 Explore the Bokor National Park
Bokor National Park is a famous park in Cambodia. The main attraction in Bokor National Park is the old French hill station at 1,080m above sea level. A visit to the park can be done easily as a day trip. You can book a day trip at one of the tourist offices or explore the 140.000 hectares by motorbike. With the roads being in good condition it makes it easy to drive by yourself. The entrance fee for the Bokor National Park is $0,50 and can be paid at the bottom of the hill.
Some of the highlights of the park in random order: The Ruins of The Black Palace, The Old Catholic church, Le Bokor Palace Hotel and Casino, Wat Sampov Pram, The Lok Yeay Mao Monument and the chance to spot wild tigers and elephants.
#3 Join a Kampot River cruise
A city divided by a river always charms us. In that case, a river cruise couldn’t miss. When you do the Bokor Hill trip, a sunset river cruise + drink is included. But it is also possible to only do a river cruise if you inform the tourist offices.
Some offices call it the Firefly cruise, but do you want our honest opinion? It’s a joke, there were literally no flies at all. Nevertheless, the cruise was quite relaxed and amusing.
#4 Go on a day trip to Kep
Nearby Kampot you will find a lazy coastal city named Kep. The city is famous for its seafood and in particular for its crab. Besides the beach, this city has no big attractions. Kep can be a great day trip but also if you want to relax for a few days while enjoying the Cambodian food. For us, it is slow travel at its finest!
#5 Take a stroll around the Kampot Markets
Similar to Battambang, there is a Night Market in Kampot. The market has been renovated and is open for business. With a lot of stalls that sell everything, it is nice wandering around. Find a souvenir, buy some clothes or enjoy the local food and drinks.
Besides the Kampot Night Market, you have the old market. It’s a traditional market that primarily provides the locals with the usual products. Have a look and wander around to see some local procedures but watch your head the ceilings are low.
#6 Visit La Plantation | Taste Kampot Pepper
When in Kampot, Cambodia you have to visit a pepper plantation. Located in between amazing hills close to the sea is the perfect environment to grow these peppers. The Kampot region is famous for its “Kampot pepper”. The pepper is the finest in the world and has been awarded the Protected Geographical Indication status. Compare this with the fact that a wine can only be named champagne if it’s from Champagne (France).
Kampot pepper stands out with its unique flavour, high quality and strong taste. Walking through the vines and learning about the peppers is fun and you will also get to taste all the different types. After a visit, your love for this spice will grow. More information can be found at the La Plantation website or book your night here at this beautiful place.
#7 Sample traditional Cambodian food
When in Kampot, you can’t go around the smell of Kampot’s famous pepper. In every restaurant, you can eat this pepper, but we highly recommend Rikitikitavi for its traditional Khmer food. The restaurant is located on the riverside and also offers rooms.
Another Guesthouse and restaurant we really enjoyed is Pepe & the Viking. It is basically on the same street and is a place where you will feel very welcome.
We also recommend the hostel and restaurant GreenHouse; it is located across the river and on the right side of the main part of town.
#8 Visit the salt fields
Another fascinating thing to visit in Kampot are the salt fields. On your way to Kep, you will find a number of rice paddies that are currently being used as salt fields. The salt production is mostly done by hand and is from around the beginning of December to April. This is when it doesn’t rain too much.
Things to do in Kampot | The essentials
How to get to Kampot
Sihanoukville to Kampot | Transportation in Cambodia is done best by bus. But if you travel from Sihanoukville to Kampot you will find out there is no bus line between those two cities. This means you have to travel by minivan or a private taxi. A minivan will cost you $6 and a private taxi will be between $30 and $35. The ride will take around 2,5 and 3 hours depending on how good the roads are and the amount of traffic.
Phnom Penh to Kampot | Going from Phnom Penh to Kampot offers more options. You can travel by bus, taxi and even by train. The bus will cost you anywhere around $10 and takes around 4 to 5 hours. A taxi from Phnom Penh to Kampot is one of the fastest ways to travel. It cost you between $30 and $50 and takes approximately 3,5 hours.
A nice alternative is to travel by train, the journey takes almost 5 hours but costs you only $6. The fun part about travelling by train is that you get to see a lot of the beautiful countryside Cambodia has to offer. If you pick this option, book your tickets direct at the train station.
Essential tours of Cambodia
Stay safe in Cambodia | Travel insurance
Though Cambodia is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.
Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full COVID-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.
World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering COVID-19-related claims.
My 3-week Cambodia itinerary | Uncover the absolute best of Cambodia
When people talk about Cambodia they probably instantly name up Angkor Wat. All tough visiting the temples of Angkor should be on the top of your list when travelling to Cambodia, there is so much more to explore in this authentic country.
We loved the diversity that it brings, name it and Cambodia will deliver. Jungle, beaches, culture, temples, islands to relax or party and lovely countryside. In 18 days we managed to enjoy all those lovely things.
In this guide, we hope to help you enjoy authentic Cambodia just as we did.
If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and support my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying me a virtual coffee here.
Where to start?
When planning your Cambodia itinerary, it’s good to know where you wanna start.
Our adventures through Cambodia started off in Siem Reap. In our case, a ticket to Bangkok was way cheaper than a flight directly to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. So we choose to have a 2-day city trip in Bangkok before heading to Siem Reap with AirAsia. To see how we spent our 48 hours in Bangkok click here. In this Cambodia itinerary, we show you which places we visited and tell you all about our favourite sites.
BTW don’t forget to bring some dollars, when entering Cambodia you have to pay $20 for a 30-day visa. Also, keep in mind that you need some extra passport photographs for your visa and Angkor pass.
Travelling through Cambodia by public transport
Going from place to place in Cambodia is best done by bus. We used Camboticket to get our tickets for the bus, ferry or taxi. With the code CTAPP, you can get 10% off when booking tickets with their app. Another easy option is that you can get your tickets at almost any hotel or hostel. If that isn’t the case try visiting a Mekong Express office nearby or book online.
It can happen that they sell too many tickets and if that’s the case the bus can be really packed. Also, keep in mind that your bus driver usually tries to drop you off at the edge of the city centre, it looks like they are working together with the tuk-tuk drivers. They usually drop you at a place where you pay way too much for short-distance tuk-tuk rides. We used an app called Maps.me to pin a marker at the place where the bus driver should have dropped us. So when they were planning to drop us at the wrong place, we could show them the bus station. This app is a perfect offline alternative to Google Maps.
For short distances in the cities or just outside of them, a tuk-tuk is perfect. The price can vary between $1 to $3, never pay more. And don’t get fooled by the trick that the price is per person instead of per tuk-tuk. And always try to get a deal, it’s really common to do this in Cambodia.
Accommodation | Where to stay in Cambodia
When travelling through Cambodia there are enough options to get accommodation. We booked our accommodation one day in advance and that worked out pretty well. It gives you a lot of freedom and opportunities to change your itinerary. We always use booking.com and if you use this link you get a $15 discount. In some cases, you can even cancel your booking, if done on time, without being charged.
My 3-week Cambodia itinerary | Day-to-day overview
Day 1 – 4 | Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat
When travellers talk about Siem Reap they see it as a starting point to visit the world’s largest religious monument named Angkor Wat. If you are thinking about visiting Angkor and we know you do! You can have a look at our Temple running guide below. Besides the temples of Angkor, Siem Reap is a place rich in culture and history. It’s easy to spend 3 to 4 days here, including your visit to the temples. Enjoy the many lovely restaurants, and the exciting nightlife and have a visit to the night market. If you take Siem Reap as a home base you can take a trip to, Phnom Kulen also known as the ‘‘Mountain of Lychees’’. It’s one of the best waterfalls in Cambodia and totally worth a visit.
Joining a day tour from Siem reap to Angkor is easy and includes a visit during sunrise. For prices and availability check here.
Day 5 – 6 | Battambang, Cambodia’s underrated gem
The city that’s most famous for its Bamboo train. Driving through the rice fields with a traditional train is a fun thing to do. You can combine it with a visit to the killing caves of Phnom Sampeau which was used as an execution site. During the Red Khmer regime, they used this cave to kill their victims and threw the bodies into the cave afterwards. On the other side of the tragic cave, you have the Bat Cave. Every day around sunset thousands of bats leave the cave, an amazing show by Mother Nature. In the city centre of Battambang, you can see the French colonial influences. You can say that Battambang has something special, although there isn’t much to do in the city, the cosy restaurants and laid-back cafes make it worth your stay. We really enjoyed eating tapas at The Lonely Tree Cafe or getting lunch at About The World.
Transit | Sihanoukville
Once a sleepy beach town but it’s rapidly transforming due to Chinese investments, Sihanoukville has now, sadly, become a gambler’s paradise, with casinos popping up on just about every corner.
Not our favourite town, but that was no problem for us. We went straight to the ferry that brought us to Koh Rong. Sihanoukville is the best-known harbour city and you have to go here when you are going to visit Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem.
Day 7 – 11 | Koh Rong, Cambodia’s island paradise
If you like to have some time off at the white beaches or take a relaxing swim in the clear blue sea. Koh Rong is your place to go. When on the island you can choose to stay on the busy side to visit the bars and go partying. Or just pick a quiet beach on the other side of the island. We really liked our stay on the island and planned it in the middle of our itinerary. We even stayed a few days longer than planned.
Day 12 – 14 | Kampot, Cambodia’s scenic riverside town
Kampot is a small city on the coast with a lovely relaxing vibe. One of the charms of Kampot is that life feels slow over here. We ended up staying there a bit longer because of the nice atmosphere and good restaurants. We had some awesome Khmer food at Rikitikitava and enjoyed some good burgers at Pepe and the Viking. A must-do when in Kampot is driving to the top of Bokor Hill, you can easily rent a motorbike and explore the mountain by yourself. On top of the 1,080 meters high mountain, you have a viewpoint that gives you the most amazing views of the region. Take a visit to the famous Catholic Church or just restored Bokor Hill Hotel, which is now a hotel. If you own a drone you should definitely take it with you to the top, the bird-eye view is just mesmerizing!
Day 15 – 16 | Kep, an authentic local town
If you love seafood make your way to Kep. This small coastal city is well known for its ‘’Crab Market’’. You can easily spend a day in Kep to rent a motorbike and explore the surrounding countryside. Take a look at La Plantation which is one of Cambodia’s famous pepper plantations. They provide you with a free guided tour and let you taste all different kinds of peppers. The dusty road brings you through local villages and lovely rice fields and you can even have a stop at Kampot’s “Secret Lake”.
Day 17 – 18 | Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s energetic capital
The capital of Cambodia is really overwhelming and definitely not our favourite place in Cambodia. But if you don’t know anything about what happened during the Khmer Rouge regime, then this is where you should go. Have a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and take a look at the tragic Killing Fields just outside of Phnom Penh. Keep in mind that visiting those places can be shocking and may need some time to settle. If you want to see some other cultural things in Phnom Penh pay a visit at What Preah Keo better known as The Silver Pagoda. Or maybe even try a traditional Khmer cooking lesson. At night you can have dinner or a drink at one of the many restaurants or rooftop bars.
Stay safe in Cambodia | Travel insurance
Though Cambodia is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.
Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.
World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.
6 Awesome things to do on Koh Rong, Cambodia’s island paradise
6 Awesome things to do on Koh Rong, Cambodia's island paradise
Cambodia tourism has grown a lot over the last five years and that is not only because of Angkor Wat. A big reason why Cambodia is getting more popular is its tropical island. Backpackers in Cambodia prefer to visit Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem to enjoy the island life. And wow, they do have some of the best beaches in Cambodia.
So if you’re in for a tropical getaway in Cambodia, you have come to the right place.
If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and support my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying me a virtual coffee here.
A short guide to Koh Rong, Cambodia | The absolute best things to see and do
How to get to Koh Rong
The only way to get to Koh Rong is by boat from the Serendipity Pier in Sihanoukville. The easiest way to get your ferry tickets is by ordering them in advance on the app Camboticket. A two-way ticket will cost you around $20. The boat trip will take 45 to 90 minutes depending on the sea conditions.
GTVC Speedboat | If you book your ticket with GTVC Speedboat a one-way ticket costs $12 and a return ticket comes at $22. This ferry service has good reviews and departs from the Serendipity pier in Sihanoukville.
Buva Sea Ferry | Buva Sea Ferry offers the same price as GTVC Speedboat and can drop you at alternative piers on the islands.
Timetable | Departure: 9:00 am, 11,30 am and 3:00 pm | Return: 10:00 am, 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm
TIP | Make sure the ferry company drops you off at the right pier. Sometimes they are in a hurry and try to drop you at the first pier. This will cost you extra money because you need a taxi boat to the other side of the island.
Where to stay on Koh Rong
The possibilities for accommodations on Koh Rong are quite good. With a rich variety of hotels, hostels and guesthouses, there is an option for every budget. Most accommodations on this tropical island are positioned on the pearl white beaches. Due to the popularity of Koh Rong island, it is best to book a few days in advance. Some of the best Koh Rong Hotels can be found on booking.com, best part they often come with free cancellation.
Find hotels on Koh Rong
Koh Touch
Backpackers in Cambodia prefer to stay at Koh Touch. This part of the island is packed with cheap hostels and guesthouses and is the main tourist area on Koh Rong. This beach is famous for Koh Rong nightlife and is full of great restaurants and bars.
Koh Touch Village is the main pier and that is why they organize a lot of activities over here. This village is also the only place where you can find small supermarkets and get cash on the island.
4K Beach
With over 4 kilometres of white-sanded beach, the most stunning turquoise water, and a relaxing atmosphere, 4K Beach is easily one of the most picturesque beaches on the whole of Koh Rong.
With that tropical vibe 4K beach is perfect to experience the island life in all its glory. On the beach, you will find a few places where it is really fun to hang out.
One of those places is Sandbank. Located between a snow-white sandbank and a turquoise sea you can enjoy a fresh smoothie or coconut while sitting down in a hammock. They also serve delicious tasting Thai food and you can play volleyball and board games.
Don’t forget to visit Nest Beach Club, a hostel, restaurant and bar with its own private beach. This beach club organizes the Nestival every Monday. A festival that starts at 12 am and ends after 12 pm including dj’s, a barbecue and a free volleyball tournament. The entrance is free but for $1 you will have VIP entrance which gives you happy hour all day and free shots.
Relax at Long Beach and Sok San Village
At Long Beach, you will find Sok San Beach Resort, a luxury but affordable resort. After traveling for a few days this place is perfect to ease your body and mind. With 7 kilometres of untouched beach, it feels like the perfect getaway. The thing we liked the most was the friendly staff that did everything to make our stay worry-free.
If you walk along Long Beach you will reach a small village named Sok San. In this village, you will have several bungalows and a few restaurants. One of them is The Moon, an atmospheric restaurant located on the beach that is perfect if you want something different instead of the resort restaurant.
Plastic pollution on Koh Rong
After exploring the beautiful beaches of Koh Rong, I came to the conclusion that there was a lot of plastic pollution on the island. So if you take stuff to the beaches, don’t forget to bring it back. Because most of the trash is from the tourists let’s make each other aware of this fact.
Someone who is really making a difference on this matter is Jackson Groves. He started an organization named The Adventure Bag Crew which is focused on cleaning beaches while going on an adventure. Let’s get inspired by his initiative and do something about plastic pollution!
6 Things to do in Koh Rong
The diversity on this tropical island is what makes it so much fun. If you are searching for relaxation, adventure or partying, you’re in the right place. Curious? Here is a list of the best things to do during your stay at Koh Rong Island.
#1 Go on a boat trip with Adventure Adam
If you want to take an adventurous boat trip ask for Adventure Adam. This guy organizes full-day boat trips around the island of Koh Rong. Some activities including the trip are jungle trekking, exploring the beaches, snorkelling, watching the sunset and the highlight for most people: swimming with glowing Plankton.
#2 Get adventurous in the High Point Adventure Park
Located left of the main pier at Koh Touch you will find High Point Adventure Park. A 400-meter circuit with 25 platforms and 3 zip lines. If you like some adventure while you are on Koh Rong this is your best option. The price to climb around is $30 for a whole day, this is including safety gear, a High Point t-shirt and water.
#3 Rent a kayak
A fun way to explore the surroundings at Koh Rong is by renting a kayak or stand-up paddle. You can rent them at almost every restaurant at Koh Touch for a price of around $10 a day.
#4 Get your Padi at the Koh Rong Diving Center
At the Koh Rong Dive Center, you can learn how to dive. It is up to you if you would like to follow PADI training courses or just do some fun diving. You can find the dive centre on the main pier at Koh Touch.
#5 Relax and do nothing at all
One thing that you should certainly do is nothing. Just sit down, relax and take in the tranquil surroundings. Have fresh juice and let your body and mind come to ease. Besides chilling in a hammock, try to cool down a few times a day by swimming in the clear blue sea.
#6 | Join a Koh Rong plankton tour
Have you ever heard of bioluminescent plankton? This plankton reacts to movement and starts glowing if you swim through it. The best way to see the plankton is to swim on the beaches where light pollution is really low.
Flying a drone on Koh Rong
A fun thing to do on the island is flying the drone. With bird eye view you will be even more amazed how beautiful this island is. With incoming plans of building an airport on Koh Rong flying the drone here could be over soon. So if you have a drone, don’t mind putting it in the air.
Extra things you need to know about Koh Rong
#1 | There are No ATM’s on the islands, but you can get cash in Koh Touch. Green Ocean Guesthouse and The White Rose have Eftpos terminals. Keep in mind that they ask for a 10% charge, so it’s better to bring extra cash.
#2 | The WIFI is horrible, but that’s okay. You came here for some time off so say yes to a social media detox.
#3 | If you think you got bitten by mosquitos, this could also be sandflies. We didn’t have too many problems with that but we heard some pretty frustrating stories.
Stay safe in Cambodia | Travel insurance
Though Cambodia is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.
Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.
World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.
9 Wonderful reasons why Morocco should be your next travel destination
When thinking about travelling in North Africa, Morocco is the most popular destination. And if you have any interest in other cultures, Morocco is the way to go. With a good balance between dynamic landscapes, colourful architecture and vibrant cities Morocco has much to offer. From walking through crowded medina’s, staying in a Riad to sleeping in the Sahara desert. Some people choose to only visit Morocco to stay in Marrakech, but believe us, there is so much more to explore.
If you are still in doubt, here are some reasons that hopefully make you wanna jump on that plane!
9 REASONS WHY MOROCCO SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT TRAVEL DESTINATION
FIRST OF ALL
Most people around us told us only about the negative aspects of visiting Morocco. But that only made us curious to go and explore for ourselves. When we visit a new country we always choose to keep our judgement at the customs. That gives us the opportunity to blend in with the local people, and in Morocco, that is an experience you don’t wanna miss. Some advice, when you are thinking about a visit to Morocco: don’t let somebody else their judgement affect your travel plans.
1 | GET LOST WHILE STROLLING THROUGH THE MEDINA
Are you one of those people that love to get lost wandering unknown places? A Medina can be a maze and will definitely confuse you where to go. With thousands of narrow streets and handcrafted stalls that all look the same, you will have a big chance of getting lost. But to be honest, it’s really great to feel the vibe and see what’s going on in the medina of Marrakech. To be sure you will find your way back, download and have Maps.me prepared to save the day.
2 | UNWIND IN A TRADITIONAL MOROCCAN RIAD
Ever wanted to stay in a riad? This is your chance. In the heart of the Medina of Marrakech, you will find a lot of them. Once you are inside a riad al the chaos of the Medina is gone and your time to relax starts. You can find good affordable Riads on booking.com. We really enjoyed our stay at the Riad Baba Ali.
3 | MOROCCO’S ARCHITECTURE IS ON POINT
With architectural highlights in the Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs and the Ben Youssef Madrasa. Marrakech will really satisfy your architectural needs. While walking through the medina you will see traditional Moorish architecture at almost every corner. It is just one of those things that remind you of your visit to Morocco.
4 | MOROCCAN FOOD IS RICH IN SPICES AND HERBS
When in Morocco you should and will probably eat a lot of tagine and couscous. Tagine is a dish that is slowly cooked in a clay cooking pot. This signature dish is prepared with veggies, beef, chicken or lamb depending on your preference. One thing is for sure, it is packed with lovely herbs and spices and you can order the dish at almost every corner.
Another dish they serve is Harira, a Moroccan lentil soup which is most famous as the meal they eat when breaking the fast during Ramadan.
5 | MOROCCO’S CULTURE IS RICH AND CAPTIVATING
This is one of the things that can work for you, or against you. But when you are interested in other cultures and just let the country guide you, this can be such a great experience. With lovely medinas and souqs it feels like you are in a whole different world, and that is the thing we like the most. It’s such a different vibe than many of us experience on a daily basis. If you are curious and open to blend in you will have a really great time.
6 | MOROCCO IS WELL KNOWN FOR ITS DYNAMIC LANDSCAPES
If you like breathtaking landscapes Morocco is the way to go. They have mountains like the High Atlas mountains, unbroken silence in the Sahara desert and a serene and calm oasis in Tinghir. Morocco has a lot of diversity in its vast natural environment. Beside those lovely sceneries, Morocco will certainly surprise you with even more natural beauty.
7 | MOROCCO MAKES A PERFECT ROAD TRIP DESTINATION
When we booked our tickets to Morocco we had no other choice then hitting the road. And that is one of the reason why we had such an amazing time. Interested in which destinations crossed our Moroccan road trip? One of them was really, uhm sandy.
8 | SLEEP IN THE MAGICAL SAHARA DESERT
Guess what, this is the place we just mentioned. When you make your itinerary for Morocco don’t miss the opportunity to sleep in the Sahara desert. If you want to know more about our experiences in the Sahara you should check out our Sahara desert Guide. Keep in mind that a trip from Marrakech to the Sahara will cost you about three days of your travel time.
9 | VISIT AIT BEN HADDOU, A GAME OF THRONES FILMING LOCATION
If you watched Game of Thrones you will probably recognize this scenery. This old Kasbah is built up against the hill and is one of the best looking sceneries you will find in Morocco. When you walk your way up through the narrow streets it really feels like you are part of a movie.
Some movies that are filmed here are: The Mummy, Gladiator and Prince of Persia: The sands of time.
SAFETY IN MOROCCO | TRAVEL INSURANCE
When travelling this big wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and though I felt safe in Morocco, I recommend anyone travelling here to do the same.
Though you rather don’t think about the things that could go wrong, there’s always a chance that something happens, and when that’s the case, it is better to be safe than sorry.
To help you find the right policy, I’ve listed two of my favourite options below:
Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.
World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.
PLAN YOUR MOROCCO ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES
6 Things to do in Battambang, Cambodia's underrated gem
Battambang, a city full of artistic people and a calm atmosphere. Although it is the second city of Cambodia, a lot of people forget to put this city in their Cambodia itinerary. We almost thought of skipping it as well, but we are glad we didn’t. With a lot of artistic bars, vibrant cultural sights and humble local people it was one of our favourite places we visited during our 3 weeks in Cambodia. Take a ride on the traditional bamboo train and watch thousands of bats leave their cave at Phnom Sampeau.
In this guide, you will read about the six things that you should definitely do when visiting Battambang.
If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and support my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying me a virtual coffee here.
6 Incredible things to do in Battambang, Cambodia
#1 Take a ride with Cambodia’s iconic Bamboo Train
When in the Battambang province you can have a ride on a classic norry what you may also know as the bamboo train. It’s an improvised rail vehicle made of bamboo that can reach a speed of 50 km/h. When the train brings you from A to B, you will have a nice impression of the countryside. With lovely views of vast rice fields and local people working in the fields. The experience is really worth it and will cost you only $5,- for a return ticket.
#2 Visit the Killing Cave
This tragic site is known as one of the places where Pol Pot and his Khmer Rouge soldiers killed thousands of innocent Cambodian people. Normally we don’t like to visit that kind of tourist site. But we learned more about the tragic history of Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge and are now making people we know aware of what happened. So this will hopefully never happen again. On the other side of Phnomh Sampou you can find something that is more calm and has a serene vibe.
#3 Admire thousands of bats leaving their cave
As we mentioned, this is the cave with the serene vibes. Besides the tragic Killing Caves, you also have the Bat Cave at Phnom Sampou. You can have a look on the side of the road or go to the edge of the cave with your local guide. There are so many bats leaving the cave that this scene lasts about 20 minutes. Such an amazing vibe and show by mother nature. We went up and that was a really nice experience. One thing, head down the hill before it’s dark. It can be a dangerous climb down if you don’t see anything.
#4 Sample delicious tapas at Lonely Tree Cafe
The Lonely Tree Cafe is an organization that supports humanitarian activities across multiple lines of action in North-West Cambodia. With the goals of formation, empowerment, employment and obtaining profits to help finance the activities. On the ground level, you can buy all kinds of traditional handcrafted items crafted by the victims of landmine accidents. On the top floor, you can eat delicious tapas or Spanish, Mediterranean, Western and Khmer dishes.
Please bring me some more of that Creamy Pumpkin Soup, NOW.
#5 Walk around and abandoned train station
At many places in Cambodia, you will find abandoned train stations and that’s also the case in Battambang. At the train station in Battambang, all of the buildings are abandoned and some of them contain graffiti traces.
A funny thing about this station is that the clock always says it’s two minutes past eight. It’s worth having a look and after all, the time isn’t ticking.
#6 Climb your way to Wat Banan
Wat Banan is one of the best-preserved temples of Battambang and is on top of a hill. You can reach the temple by climbing 358 steps, but when you reach the top you have a great panoramic view. The temple is located about 22 km outside Battambang but easily to combine with a visit to the bamboo train and Phnom Sampou.
Stay safe in Cambodia | Travel insurance
Though Cambodia is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.
Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.
World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.
8 Incredible things to do in Bangkok, Thailand's bustling capital city
Bangkok is often called the backpackers capital of South East Asia, and beside the chaos that Bangkok brings it also has a lot of exciting things to see and do. Take a look at the Grand Palace, eat traditional Thai street food or take a ride in a tuk tuk on your way to amazing temples like Wat Pho and Wat Arun.
With so much different things to do in Bangkok, it can be a really tough time to plan your stay. In this guide you can read how to get the best out of 48 hours in Bangkok.
8 THINGS TO DO IN BANGKOK, THAILAND'S BUSTLING CAPITAL CITY
1 | CHILL AT A HOTEL WITH A ROOFTOP POOL IN BANGKOK
You can find lots of hotels with a rooftop pool in Bangkok. After a long flight, it’s lovely to have some time at the pool. When you are charged up after some time relaxing you are ready to explore the city. During our visit to Bangkok, we stayed in Casa Nithra, they offer good quality for a decent price.
2 | TAKE A STROLL ON KHAO SAN ROAD
Khao San Road is probably the most famous street in Asia, and that is mostly for its party scene and that is visible since everything is arranged to satisfy backpackers coming from all over the world. Khao San Road is also the place where you can get all kinds of street food. We prefer the last one over the party scene or tend to take it a bit more easier on Soi Rambuttri.
3 | WANDER AROUND SOI RAMBUTTRI
Nearby Khao San Road you can find a smaller alley named Soi Rambuttri. We prefer this small street over Khao San Road everyday. The vibe at Soi Rambuttri is way more authentic and you will find less tourists. For a calm walk past street food stalls and small shops, this is where you should be. In the evening you can find lots of nice restaurants and outdoor bars.
4 | SAMPLE THAI STREET FOOD
Bangkok has street food like no other. If you like to live on the edge and love to try new things, you are in the right place. Dare yourself to eat fried rats, spiders or even scorpions. Eating Thai street food is all part of the ultimate Bangkok experience and Thai Cuisine is favourite for many people. We prefer to try signature dishes like Pad Thai or Khao Pad over fried spiders and we loved that you can have really tasteful meals for almost nothing.
5 | TAKE A BOAT TRIP ON THE CHAO PHRAYA RIVER
The Chao Phraya River is also known as ‘‘The River of Kings’’ and is the lifeblood of Bangkok. A boat trip will take you along a number of attractions such as Wat Arun, Wat Pho, The Grand Palace and the Flower Market. You can book your tickets at the Chaoprahya Tourist Boat, they offer 3 kinds of passes: 1-day river pas for 200 Baht, 1-night river pas for 200 Baht and all-day all-night pass for 300 Baht. If you don’t have a lot of time in Bangkok, this boat trip can ensure you see some of the highlights.
6 | WAT ARUN ‘THE TEMPLE OF DAWN’
Wat Arun also known as ‘‘The Temple of Dawn’’ is located on the west side of the Chao Phraya River. With a height reaching 82 metres you can’t miss it. It’s one of the nicest and cheapest temples in Bangkok and it’s fully decorated with broken porcelain from China.
The best time to visit is early in the morning, there is almost no shadow at the site and it can be really crowded at noon. You can use the ferry over the Chao Phraya River to get from Wat Arun to Wat Pho.
THE ESSENTIALS
Opening hours | Daily, 08.00 – 17.30
Cost | 50 Baht
Website | Wat Arun
7 | VISIT WAT PHO TO SEE THE RECLINING BUDDHA
Wat Pho is known as ‘‘The Temple of the Reclining Buddha’’. With a mesmerizing Reclining Buddha that has a length of 46 metres, this temple is really impressive.
The temple is one of Bangkok’s oldest temples and is recognized by UNESCO. Visiting Wat Pho is easy to combine with a trip to Wat Arun.
THE ESSENTIALS
Opening hours | Daily, 08.00 – 18.30
Cost | 200 Baht
Website | Wat Pho
8 | THE GRAND PALACE
The Grand Palace is the biggest attraction in Bangkok, and a trip to the palace can take a whole day.
With beautiful architecture and high standing details, it shows the creativity and craftsmanship of Thai people. Keep in mind that it is Thailand’s most sacred site and they use a strict dress code. So cover up your shoulders, wear something that covers up your knees and doesn’t show your bare feet.
THE ESSENTIALS
Opening hours | Daily, 08.00 – 15.30
Cost | 500 Baht
Website | Royal Grand Palace, Bangkok
A guide to the Pyramide van Austerlitz, Utrecht’s very own pyramid
A guide to the Pyramide van Austerlitz, Utrecht
Did you knew there is a pyramid in The Netherlands? It is in fact, the only pyramid in Europe.
Even though we are both born and raised in The Netherlands, we didn’t knew as well. When we heard of it we did some research. There is a small town in Utrecht called Austerlitz. In 1804 Napoleon’s soldiers built a 36-metre-high pyramid which is now one of the highest points of Utrecht.
Although the Egyptians never made it this far north, they definitely inspired the soldiers with their architectural masterpiece. What to do in Utrecht? Visiting this historical place, isn’t that nice?
Take a look at this guide to find out more about the Pyramide van Austerlitz.
If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and support my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying me a virtual coffee here.
The Utrechtse Heuvelrug
When you have an interest in what to do in Utrecht, this is your read. When you plan to visit Utrecht it is really nice to have a walk through the Utrechtse Heuvelrug.
It is also possible to rent a bike to explore the area. It’s an oasis of calm just outside of the Randstad. With a vast natural environment and lots of historical locations, it’s lovely to spend the day, or even two. But that’s up to you!
There is no way around the Utrechtse Heuvelrug if you want to visit the pyramid.
The Pyramide van Austerlitz
Start your trip at NS Station Driebergen-Zeist and walk your way to the small town of Austerlitz. To plan a trip with public transportation in The Netherlands it comes in handy to use OV9292 and the NS reisplanner. When you plan to walk to the pyramid keep in mind that it is a one and a half-hour walk. It eventually took us three hours of walking before we arrived. The reason it took us so long was that we just bought our drone and camera and in combination with the lovely vast natural environment it’s a guarantee for success. So if you have a drone, don’t mind taking it with you.
History of the Pyramide van Austerlitz
In 1804, the French General Auguste de Marmont established an army camp (le Camp d’Utrecht) in this central location in the Batavian Republic, the present Netherlands, where over a period of several months he forged together various battalions into a large, well-trained army, capable of beating the British enemy should there be any repetition of the invasion of 1799.
In the autumn of 1804, satisfied with the military power of the new army, and to occupy his bored soldiers, Marmont had his soldiers build an earth and turf monument inspired by the Great Pyramid of Giza, which Marmont had seen in 1798 during Napoleon’s Egyptian campaign.
Even the erosion-exposed stepped surface was imitated. Construction lasted 27 days. The pyramid hill was 36 metres high and surmounted by a 13-metre-high wooden obelisk. It was named “Mont Marmont” or “Marmontberg”.
Entrance to the entrance to the Pyramide van Austerlitz
When arriving at the entrance it’s about a 300m walk till you reach the pyramid. Don’t forget to bring some cash with you. The entrance fee is around €3. They open at 10 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. and in the wintertime, they only open on Saturday. The winter season for 2019 is from the 29th of October till the 6th of April.
Even if it is closed it’s worth paying a visit, the only downside of that is that you can’t climb it.
If you are planning to visit the pyramid by car. There will be free parking spots available next to the entrance, in high season there is an opportunity it’s too busy.
More information about the Pyramide van Austerlitz can be found here.
Stay safe in the Netherlands | Travel insurance
When travelling this big wide world, I never go on an adventure without my essential travel insurance sorted out, and though the Netherlands is safe, I recommend anyone travelling here to do the same.
Though you rather don’t think about the things that could go wrong, there’s always a chance that something will happen, and when that’s the case, it is better to be safe than sorry.
To help you find the right policy, I’ve listed two of my favourite options below:
Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full COVID-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.
World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering COVID-19-related claims.
