Privatrundreise "Fabelhaftes Sri Lanka" (ab/bis Colombo)

About the destination: Colombo, situated on the banks of the Kelani River and stretching along the coast with views of the Indian Ocean, is the largest city and the financial and commercial hub of Sri Lanka. While Colombo is often regarded as the country's capital, the official administrative capital is Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, a suburb located to the east of Colombo. The streets of Galle Fort are rich with the city's colonial heritage, showcasing the influences of the Portuguese, British, and Dutch who left their mark here. To delve deeper into the Dutch era in Colombo, a visit to The Dutch Period Museum is recommended. The city presents a captivating mix of cultures and religions, with mosques, churches, and temples scattered throughout. The Gangaramaya Temple is the most renowned Buddhist place of worship in Colombo, featuring a museum that houses an extensive collection of Buddhist relics from around the globe. The Sri Kailawasanathar Swami Devasthanam Kovil Hindu temple is a vibrant and ornate temple that is well worth a visit. The Wolvendaal Church, constructed by Dutch settlers, is an impressive building and a must-see in Colombo. Colombo is often bypassed by tourists who visit the country for its beaches, but the city is the most vibrant place in Sri Lanka, offering high-end shopping, a lively nightlife, delicious restaurants, and intriguing historical sites.

About the destination: Located in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles archipelago has transitioned over four centuries from a pirate sanctuary to a dream destination for millions of travelers. Its 115 islands - with only thirty inhabited - have everything to adore: year-round sunshine, a tropical climate, coral beaches, unique flora, and a rich marine life. The must-see route through this paradise includes visits to Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, the islands that offer more services and a greater variety of attractions. The journey begins on the island of Mahé, the largest and only island in the Seychelles. Just seven miles from Victoria, the capital, you'll have your first interaction with the friendly locals, whose features reflect a blend of African, Chinese, Indian, and European heritage. This ethnic diversity has resulted in a rich culinary, musical, architectural, and artistic culture filled with nuances and abundant pirate legends. Locals love to share tales of the adventures of John Taylor, Jean François Hodoul - whose 1804 Château Mamelles was one of his two residences on Mahé - and other buccaneers who hid treasures of jewels and gold coins somewhere in the archipelago. The last known treasure is still believed to be near the beach of Bel Ombre in Mahé. Several bus lines traverse the island, with the small Victoria station serving as both the starting and ending point. Riding in these basic vehicles provides a great opportunity to share a seat with locals heading to the Victoria market, workers, and students returning home at the end of the day. After a few miles on the bus, travelers quickly learn that they must shout "devant!" for the driver to stop.