JEFFREY AND RENEE 2013 AROUND THE WORLD : Day 36 to 39

September 26, 2013

Gen, Maldives to Colombo, Sri Lanka (1,100 NM)

We had a change of plan for today's destination. Originally we were booked to Amanwalle at Mattala, Sri Lanka. Another beach destination. Frankly, we are "beached out". Wanted to see the real world instead. We decided to visit the capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo, instead.

Sri Lanka's civil war was ened just 4 years ago, in 2009. The thirty year civil war has great adverse impact to the development of the country. Ever since the end of the civil war, , the country has been booming. We can see along the congested streets, constructions are everywhere. We see Shangri-la, Taj, and Hyatt are under construction and will finish in next year or two. China has rooted its influence here too. They bulid freeways, airports, and concert halls in the past 4 years. We were told, at this time, there are 22,000 Chinese workers working on different projects in Colombo. In the city, we see new and old mixed, chaotic and grand side by side. If things are managed right, this country will change rapidly and be a nice destination in South Asia. Colombo reminds us very much of Taiwan 1970s. The two places are similar in latitude, size, and are both located next to a mainland by a straight. Sri Lanka, however, has plains more then mountains and is English speaking. It seems that it has the opportunities as Taiwan has in the sevenies if not more. Of course, a lot of works need to be done too.

People looks like Indian, dress like Indian but I was old they are 80%, Buddism, 10% Hinduism, 5% Islamic. But all are religious.

We are glad we come to the city and understand a little more about Sri Lanka.

Tuk Tuks are all imported from India.

Sri Lanka is famous for its giant crabs. We had one each. Singapore style. Things are still very reasonable here. $300,000 US dollars can buy a flat in a best down town high rise.