Purchasing from a Good Decent Shop (1)
by srupesh
When you’re purchasing clothes or any other items always make sure that you ask for a discount from the salesman. Else ask him to reduce the price in figures of “00” or “50”. You can simply ask him to reduce the price from Rs.100 – Rs.200 depending on the prices.
Obviously almost every shop will give discount or reduce the price by a small amount as they are hidden cost in the price of the item you purchase. So, feel free and don’t be shy to ask for a discount.
There are some shops where they don’t give discounts. You can simply judge them by the size of their shop and the technologies they use. But still don’t take a step back when you go to pay for the item you purchase at the cashier put a smile on your face and ask him whether you will give a discount? If the cashier says no say ok and pay the bill. And if he says yes you are really luck. Normally these shops don’t have salesman and we have to choose things on your own like the super markets.
I do agree in the shops which gives discounts won’t give discounts on some items because they are either given on promotion or their prices don’t have any hidden charges. Those items will be normally cost you very little.
This is continued in the next page due to lack of space……..
Colonial shopping!
by mafi_moya
Back in the old colonial days the owners of the tea and spice plantations up in the hills would make occasional trips to Colombo to stock up on supplies and 'luxuries' imported from home. Department stores such as Cargills and banks such as the Chartered Bank became famous names known across the whole of the Empire. Many of these old companies remain, particularly in the Fort area.
The Cargills department store in particular, with its distinctive red and white stripe design, is still pretty much the same as in old Victorian times. With lots of mahogany and brass display cabinets it's like stepping back in time and going shopping in a museum - you're almost scared to pick things up!
The cavernous General Post Office is another interesting reminder of days gone by, as are the original offices of the Chartered Bank and Hong Kong & Shanghai Bank (now internationally known as HSBC)
You must see the many temples....
by Divingmouse
You must see the many temples. This is the outside of the Hindu Temple. The beauty is out of this world. The people are friendly and willing to let visitors visit. Do not forget to give a small donation, and use manners when taking pictures. We always ask first.
Packing List
by Tenzin
The safari trips offer decent value for money. Remember to bring along a good pair of binoculars, suntan lotion, water and mosquito repellent. I like the variety of bird life in particular. Don't get too near the wild elephants though. I saw a porcupine for the first time in my life and was absolutely delighted. It was in captivity though. Can anybody tell me how they reproduce? The locals don't seem to know either. Ouch Ouch Ouch. Bring a light rain coat instead of an umbrella. That frees up both hands. It's easier to wear slippers when you visit the temples. Less chance of loss and easier to take off. Most hotels serve mediocre tea and bland coffee. I had expected tea to be of a far higher standard considering Sri Lanka's reputation as the world's key tea exporter. Maybe that's the problem, the good tea all get exported! That's also true for Sri Lankan crabs. It's the national dish in Singapore but it doesn't come cheap over there not is it commonly found.
The rest of the city
by mafi_moya
Colombo is divided into districts 1 to 15. And apart from the lively markets of Pettah (Colombo 11), most tourists are unlikely to visit the city's districts 8-15. These are the areas of Borella, Dematagoda, Maradana, Hultsdorf, Kotahena, Grand Pass, and Mutwal, and are mostly in the northeast of the city. They are mainly residential areas but there are still parts of interest.
Borella's main junction is a crowded market and busy bus station very useful for getting around the city; some of the chaotic old Hultsdorf streets and narrow alleys and the crumbling buildings are a fascinating sight; as are that area's colourful and exotic street markets; if you're going to the international cricket you might need to go to the Premadasa Stadium in Dematagoda; and there are some very interesting temples in Maradana.
Otherwise the main points of interest are just a look at everyday Sri Lankan urban life away from the more modernised tourist areas.
Just a note of caution: Colombo is a safe city for tourists, but as with most places there are some areas best avoided, especially at night - in particular, some slum areas around Grand Pass and Kotahena and the edge of the city limits.
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Boarding Counters entrance
Scarlet, is'nt?
Twin bed
The Buddha near death of starvation
