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Expat Exchange - The Essential Guide to Negombo 2024
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The Essential Guide to Negombo

By Betsy Burlingame

Universal Tax Professionals
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Summary: Discover the charm of Negombo with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.

Welcome to Negombo! If you're planning to move to Negombo, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Negombo has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Negombo.

Negombo is a coastal city in Sri Lanka, located just north of the capital city of Colombo. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious seafood. There are many sites of interest for tourists and locals alike in Negombo.

The Negombo Lagoon is a popular spot for visitors, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean and a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching. The Dutch Fort is another popular attraction, built in 1678 by the Dutch East India Company. The fort is now a museum, with exhibits on the history of Negombo and its colonial past. The St. Mary’s Church is a beautiful Catholic church, built in the 16th century and still in use today. The church is a popular spot for visitors, with its ornate architecture and stunning stained glass windows.

Negombo is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars. The most popular restaurants in Negombo are the Seafood Cove, which serves up delicious seafood dishes, and the Spice Garden, which offers a variety of traditional Sri Lankan dishes. For a more upscale dining experience, the Grand Oriental Hotel is a great option, with its elegant atmosphere and delicious international cuisine. For a more casual night out, the Negombo Beach Bar is a great spot, with its lively atmosphere and live music.

Negombo is also home to a variety of recreational activities. The Negombo Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. The Negombo Water Park is a great spot for families, with its water slides, wave pools, and other attractions. The Negombo Golf Club is a great spot for golfers, with its 18-hole course and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The Negombo Race Course is a popular spot for horse racing, with its exciting races and lively atmosphere.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Negombo: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Expats in Negombo often join clubs and activities such as the Negombo Expat Club, which organizes events and activities for expats to meet and socialize. Other popular activities include yoga classes, beach volleyball, and cricket matches. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals and events, such as the Negombo Fish Festival, or by joining local sports teams. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in the area," said one expat living in Negombo.

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"Life for expats and digital nomads in Negombo is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and low cost of living. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of accommodation options, from beachfront villas to budget-friendly guesthouses. Negombo also offers a wide range of activities, from exploring the local markets to taking part in water sports. The city is also well-connected to the rest of the country, making it easy to explore other parts of Sri Lanka. With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning scenery, Negombo is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a relaxed lifestyle," commented an expat living in Negombo.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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