Surfing is the most popular form of extreme sport in Sri Lanka. Thanks to the country’s ideal, year-round waves, small fishing hamlets like Ahangama, Midigama, Weligama, Mirissa, Polhena and Arugam Bay have transformed into tourist hotspots frequented by surfers from all parts of the globe.
And just like skateboarding’s genesis in California surf scene in the late 1950s, skating in Sri Lanka is slowly emerging out of the Down South surfing community. If you visit Ahangama, Midigma and Polhena today, you’d find skatebowls and half-pipes at hotels, hostels and restaurants.
Although skating had a local presence before its advent Down South, most skateboarding happened around Colombo and skaters didn’t have proper infrastructure like ramps and half-pipes etc. Given the lack of space and proper equipment, the few loose skating communities in and around Colombo faded out as quickly as they came.
Manu Dharmaraja is an extreme sportsman, model and master of ceremonies who have been a part of the Colombo skate scene during its tiny emergence in the 2010s and the Down South surfing and skating scenes. Manu started Skate for Sri Lanka right before Covid as a mission to popularise skating among local youth, especially those from underprivileged communities.
For instance, in Arugam Bay, this cop was like, “Oh, but if you’re skating on the road, if something happens to you, like a car hit you. What do I do about it?” Maybe they’re concerned in that manner. But like at the end of the day, it’s my decision, you know. If I choose to do this and because there’s no actual safe place for us to skate, you know, we’ll keep doing it here. Skateboarders are adrenaline seekers at the end of the day
The international premiere of the inspiring film Arugam Bay, which explores the unbreakable bond among a group of IDF veterans healing through the sport of surfing. Takes place in Miami / USA. The Movie was filmed in Arugam Bay. (before the current crisis & war!)
The major event will take place at The Miami Jewish Film Festival (MJFF) proudly presents the program for its upcoming 27th edition, a dynamic hybrid of virtual and live events featuring 120 films. Running from January 11-25, 2024, the festival will showcase 94 feature films and 26 shorts from 25 countries, including 10 world premieres, 10 international premieres, 12 North American premieres, and 7 US premieres.
Notably, 41 films (34% of the total program) are directed by women, with 40 first-time feature filmmakers.
Our remote, South/South Eastern Resort is a true All Year Round Destination.
The weather is unique, Swimming is fine at all times; there are no dangerous currents. In the Winter our wild Life is amazing, Kumana National Park is nearby The population mainly speaks TAMIL (& English). Indian/ Tamil Nadu Visitors will feel specially welcome! Below are some of our areas most loyal Establishments, pledged to remain open 12 months / year:
Establishments who remain open all year:
1.) Way of the Bay 2.) AZURE Swim Store 3.) Riva de Sole 4.) GECKO 5.) Paddyway Resort & Restaurant 6.) Hideaway Resort 7.) Oasis Bay 8.) Wateredge Hotel 9.) Beach Wave 10.) Whisky Point Resort 11.) Atteriya Chill 12.) Sand Dune Beach Villa 13.) East Surf Cabanas 14.) Spice Trail (incl. Kaffi, LBK) 15.) Sandy Beach 16.) Hakuna Matata 17.) Popoyo Surf Resort 18.) Bay Vista Hotel & Restaurant 19.) Cresent Bay 20.) Oruwa Boutique Villa 21.) Surf & Sand Hotel 22.) Rams Resort 23.) Oceano Beach Villa 24.) Another World 25.) Surfers Park 26.) Star Rest Beach Hotel 27.) Flymoon Hotel 28.) Lazy Bay Surf Camp 29.) Sweet Home Villa 30.) Hotel Alaskabay 31.) The Surf Access Guest House 32.) Mermaids Village Restaurant 33.) Dream Garden Resort 34.) Shim Beach Resort 35.) Comfort Beach Hotel 36.) Cili Pizza and Room 37.) Sunset View Beach Hotel 38.)Beach Cab Resort 39.) Surf Beach Hotel 40.) Happy Bay Guest House 41.) Zimbay Guest House 42.) Family House 43.) Tropicana Home Stay 44.) PIZZA Hub & Dosa Station! 45.) Clear Point Super Market 46.) Arne’s Place 47.) Blue Wave Hotel 48.) SVH Thai Restaurant 49.) Arugam Bay Hostel 50.) Siam View Brew Pub
Plus some of the additions we received after the initial deadline: 51.) Danish Villa 52.) Artist Village 53.) m. Meena local Bar
Use Google Maps to look up and locate any of the above Places Prices, Photos and Reviews are shown and will assist you to chose the Best for you.
Arugam Bay, a beautiful coastal town located on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, has gained popularity as one of the most sought-after beach destinations in recent years. With its pristine golden beaches, excellent surfing conditions, and rich cultural heritage, Arugam Bay is a traveler’s paradise. This article delves into the allure of Arugam Bay, highlighting its natural beauty, exciting activities, and vibrant local culture.
Unspoiled Beaches and Crystal Clear Waters
Arugam Bay is known for its breathtaking beaches that stretch for miles. The main beach in the town offers a lively atmosphere with beachside bars, restaurants, and surf schools. If you prefer a more tranquil setting, head to Crocodile Rock or Peanut Farm beach, where you can relax in the shade of the swaying palm trees.
One of the main attractions of Arugam Bay is its crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The underwater world is teeming with colorful corals, tropical fish, and even turtles. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a novice, there are numerous diving centers that offer lessons and guided tours for all levels.
A Surfer’s Mecca
Arugam Bay is renowned for its world-class surfing conditions, attracting surfers from all over the globe. With consistent waves that can reach up to 10 feet high, it’s no wonder that this destination has become a mecca for avid surfers.
The main surf point, known as Main Point, offers challenging waves suitable for experienced surfers. If you’re a beginner, there are plenty of surf schools around the area that provide lessons and equipment rental. Whiskey Point and Elephant Rock are also popular surf spots that cater to surfers of all levels.
Discovering Local Culture
While Arugam Bay is primarily known for its natural beauty and water sports, the town also offers a rich cultural experience. Take a trip to nearby Pottuvil, where you can explore ancient Buddhist temples, witness traditional ceremonies, or even try your hand at traditional handicrafts.
Additionally, don’t miss out on the delicious local cuisine. From spicy curries to fresh seafood, Arugam Bay offers a wide variety of culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best time to visit Arugam Bay?
Is Arugam Bay suitable for families?
Are there accommodations available in Arugam Bay?
Can I rent surfing equipment in Arugam Bay?
What other activities can I do besides surfing?
Arugam Bay offers a magical experience for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unspoiled beaches, thrilling waves, and rich cultural heritage make it a destination worth exploring. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Arugam Bay.
Sources: – [Sri Lanka Tourism](https://www.srilanka.travel/) – [Arugam Bay Tourism](https://www.arugambay.lk/)
Friday, 24th November 2023 Source : Bill Barnett Last week, I made my first post-pandemic trip back to Sri Lanka, the trip was to look at the latest trends in the property and tourism sectors. The country remains a personal favorite, despite its many up and downs over the past 30 or so years. There is little doubt the prolonged political crisis has spurred an outbound migration of many talented hospitality professionals and entrepreneurs. With elections coming next year, the path forward is unknown. But there is a mounting return of tourists especially to the Southern Coast. I met up with longtime tourism personality Jack Eden who runs the respected Eden Villas out of Galle. For luxury rentals, 2023 has seen sustained demand in the South. Some of the notable markets are Europe, Russia, and the Middle East. While viewing the upcoming winter season through March, many properties are booked out. While Russians have yet to be major property developers, they are renting and becoming a strong long-stay market. Sri Lanka now has pushed out the 30-day visas for Russians to 180 days (6 months). Another option is a one-year business visa. The South Beach areas are becoming popular for small-scale investment for Eastern Europeans especially Hikkaduwa and emerging areas past Galle. Walking around Galle Fort, the vibe has continued to improve, and even some new boutique hotels such as The Charleston. Some old icons such as Sun House in the hills above Galle are just reopening under new management. A new band of part-time and full-time overseas residents is now growing from Unawatuna through Ahangama to Welligama. These are not only Russians but a wide variety of nationalities. Heading further to Hiriketiya and beyond is seeing new investors in the area. I was able to meet up with Lanka Real Estate’s Buddhima Perera to talk about luxury villa sales. There have been a few notable trades along the coast at the USD5 million dollar level.
While Sri Lanka’s risk profile for investment has some uncertainty, where in the world does not these days? The visa regime of business and retirement visas is positive, despite high bank interest rates. For those looking for an amazing place under the sun in Asia, Sri Lanka’s South Coast remains a strong contender. If you haven’t visited lately, my advice is to get there soon. Bill Barnett, Hospitality & Real Estate Advisor / Tech Entrepreneur / Sustainability Advocate / Writer & Managing Director, C9 Hotelworks Company Limited 9 Lagoon Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket, 83110, Thailand (Office located at the entrance of Laguna Phuket) T: +66 (0)76 271 535 / F: +66 (0)76 271 536 source: https://www.4hoteliers.com/news/story/24035
New Direct to / from Airport Luxury Bus service (Arugam Bay) promised!
The upgrading of the SLTB Pottuvil sub-depot, which has been operating under the Akkaraipattu Depot since 2005, into a main depot was initiated by Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana yesterday.
A large crowd was present to witness the occasion and appreciate the Ministers’ initiative to upgrade the SLTB Pottuvil sub-depot to a main depot, which was a long felt need.
The aim of this project is to further streamline and expand public passenger transport services by coordinating the Pottuvil and Arugambay tourism zones.
At a cost of Rs. 60 million, the construction work is to be done by the State Development and Construction Corporation operating under the Ministry of Transport and Highways.
From pristine beaches to rich cultural and archaeological wonders, these are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka.
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Arugam Bay
Prime surfer territory Arugam Bay is enticed with its laid-back vibe and magnificent surf. It’s no surprise that during the surfing season, it transforms into a party town. During the low-season, the town is a lot more mellow but is still lovely to explore. Head to the southern end of the beach overrun with colourful wooden fishing boats and watch the fisher folk bring in their catch. For the best view of the palm-fringed coastline climb up Elephant Rock.
Sri Lanka, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a mesmerizing island nation that boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. From ancient temples to pristine beaches, Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Here are five must-try activities that will make your visit to Sri Lanka, especially if you are considering Sri Lanka Tour Packages From Ahmedabad, an unforgettable journey.
Explore the Cultural Triangle:
As you embark on your Sri Lanka tour packages from Ahmedabad or Bangalore, the Cultural Triangle beckons with its historical treasures. Discover ancient cities like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress. Anuradhapura boasts well-preserved ruins, including ancient monasteries and a sacred Bodhi tree. Polonnaruwa, with its Gal Vihara and intricately carved Buddha statues, showcases the island’s rich heritage. Don’t miss the ascent to the top of Sigiriya for panoramic views and captivating frescoes.
Safari in Yala National Park:
Nature enthusiasts will find Yala National Park to be a highlight of their Sri Lanka tour. Whether you’re starting a Bangalore to Sri Lanka trip , a safari in Yala promises encounters with Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife, including the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Witness elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and an array of bird species in their natural habitat. Both morning and evening safaris offer unique perspectives on the park’s vibrant ecosystems.
Relax on Unspoiled Beaches:
No Sri Lanka tour is complete without indulging in the serenity of its pristine beaches. Whether you’re arriving from Bangalore or Ahmedabad, the golden shores of Bentota and the laid-back atmosphere of Mirissa await. Tangalle and Arugam Bay offer secluded escapes, providing the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Arugam Bay, a surfer’s paradise on the eastern coast, invites travelers to experience its vibrant surf culture.
Tea Plantation Tour in Nuwara Eliya:
Transitioning from the tropical climate of Sri Lanka to the cool hills of Nuwara Eliya is a unique aspect of your journey, especially if you’re starting from Bangalore or Ahmedabad. Take a guided tour of a tea estate to learn about the art of tea production, surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of “Little England.” The misty weather, manicured tea gardens, and the chance to savor freshly brewed Ceylon tea make this experience truly special.
Visit the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy:
Your Sri Lanka tour packages from Ahmedabad or Bangalore should include a visit to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy. Nestled amidst hills and tea plantations, this temple houses a revered relic believed to be the tooth of Lord Buddha. Attend the evening ‘Puja’ ritual, where the relic is adorned with flowers and offerings, and immerse yourself in the cultural significance of this spiritual site.
In conclusion, as you plan your journey from Bangalore to Sri Lanka or opt for Sri Lanka tour packages from Ahmedabad, the island nation unfolds a tapestry of experiences. Whether exploring ancient ruins, encountering wildlife, lounging on pristine beaches, sipping tea in the highlands, or partaking in spiritual rituals, Sri Lanka promises a diverse and enriching adventure for every traveler.
By XU WEIWEI in Hong Kong and ARUNAVA DAS in Kolkata, India | China Daily Global | Updated: 2023-11-02 10:23
Tourists walk on the beach at sunset in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka, on June 8. THILINA KALUTHOTAGE/GETTY IMAGES
Sri Lanka is set on the path of recovery by attracting more tourists, especially from Asia and Europe, after the authorities announced that visa-free entry will be issued to nationals from seven countries, said officials and industry insiders.
Currently, many Asian tourist destinations are vying with each other to revive their tourism industries, which had been battered by COVID-19, said Sumit Batabyal, director of the Kolkata-based Wandervogel Tours and Travels.
He said policy measures such as the visa-free entry “will certainly go a long way in bringing more revenue” for Sri Lanka, which is grappling with an “acute financial crisis”.
This year, its tourism industry aims to attract 2 million visitors, up from the previous target of 1.5 million.
Sri Lanka’s cabinet last week also approved a proposal to offer free visas for nationals from seven countries, according to Minister for Tourism and Lands Harin Fernando.
The plan, which will benefit tourists from India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and Thailand, is a pilot project that will end on March 31 next year, he said on X, formerly Twitter.
Priantha Fernando, chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, said the nation had just exceeded 1.1 million tourist arrivals in the first 10 months of 2023.
For Europe, the traditional markets have been the United Kingdom, Germany and France.
Priantha Fernando said the visa-free exemption plan is expected to increase arrivals from the three major markets “by 12 to 15 percent”.
“What we are trying to do is to start to experiment … to see how best we can increase the numbers from those markets,” he said.
‘Great stimulus’
He expressed his wish to see more Chinese tourists. “With Sri Lanka being listed among the 20 countries for Chinese travel, we plan to take advantage and increase the operations of air services between the countries.”
Rajiv Mehra, president of the Indian Association of Tour Operators, or IATO, described the timely move as “fantastic”.
“The waiver of visa fees will certainly serve as a great stimulus for tourists from India to Sri Lanka,” he said.
Priantha Fernando said Sri Lanka has it all within 65,000 square kilometers — sea, sun and sand, nature, wildlife, heritage, culture, wellness, marine tourism and friendly people.
“Sri Lanka is also a great place for adventure lovers, not only from India but also from around the world,” said Mehra, who is also the director of New Delhi-headquartered Uday Tours& Travel.
Xinhua contributed to this story.
Arunava Das is a freelance journalist for China Daily.
Arugam Bay has always been very popular with Visitors, surfers and party people from Israel. As soon as news of the Middle Eastern Conflict were received almost every single affected person packed up. And made arrangements to return home, With Immediate Effect. In an amazing show of solidarity, for the support of their Nation and family hundreds left towards the airport in chartered buses. All of a sudden the resort is quiet. And only a few are out to catch the still existing waves. Below is an extract from a local newspaper on this matter: Quote:
In Sri Lanka, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chandana Wickramaratne has issued instructions to all police stations and to the Tourist Police Division to identify hotels, guest houses and other accommodation where Israeli citizens are lodged and provide necessary security for them. There are currently about 12, 000 Israelis in Sri Lanka according to information provided by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), an officer from the Tourist Police Division said.
So far, there has only been one incident of harassment of Israeli tourists directly linked to the hostile environment created by the conflict. In Arugam Bay, two female Israeli tourists had allegedly been verbally abused by a man who had threatened them and demanded they leave Sri Lanka. He was arrested and produced in court following a complaint lodged by the tourists. Police said the Sri Lankan man had been under the influence of liquor.
Such incidents and a prolonged conflict could have terrible consequences for those who rely on tourism from Israel. Manjula Prasad, who has been working with Israeli tourists visiting Sri Lanka for 14 years, said the incident at Arugam Bay was posted on a Facebook and WhatsApp group for Israelis in Sri Lanka that had over 28, 000 members. The group consists of those who have visited Sri Lanka or are already here. “Israelis in Arugam Bay were advised to leave immediately after the incident and we know that many packed up and moved to the southern coast,” he claimed. Mr Prasad said it was essential that authorities treat such incidents seriously and take action to assure the safety of Israeli tourists.
He said the war could not have come at a worse time for tourism from Israel given that it has increased significantly in recent times. “I wasn’t home most of this year because I was taking Israeli tourists around the country. But since last Saturday, I have had seven upcoming tours cancelled. The situation is the same for everyone else taking Israeli tourists.”
According to the SLTDA, 9326 Israelis visited the country last year. By September this year however, that number had already doubled to 18, 449. There was potential for an increase in numbers due to the start of direct flights between Tel Aviv and Colombo this year. Israel’s Arkia Airlines is due to start direct flights between Israel and Sri Lanka from October 31. “The airline told me that they had over 8000 bookings from Israelis from October 31 up to March. Most of them likely won’t come now as they would be on the battlefield,” said Ambassador Nimal Bandara.
A meeting was convened at the Presidential Secretariat to discuss the Arugam Bay Tourism Development Plan, which has the potential to significantly contribute to Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka, Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of the Presidential Staff, chaired the meeting.
During the discussion, the issues identified in the initial meeting led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the steps taken to address them were thoroughly examined.
The focus was on the challenges related to infrastructure development in the area and the obstacles hindering the growth of the tourism sector. Participants from various organizations also discussed how each institution could contribute to finding solutions to these challenges.
Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka presented the main tourism plan for Arugam Bay, prepared by the Urban Development Authority (UDA). Additionally, a three-year tourism development plan will be presented to the president for consideration.
It was agreed that a follow-up meeting would be held in a month to assess the progress of these initiatives. Those in attendance included Member of Parliament D. Weerasinghe, IGP C. D. Wickramaratne, Ampara District Secretary Chinthaka Abeywickrama, and heads of relevant organizations.
This is the cheapest country to work as a digital nomad
Photo taken in front of the AbaY Digital Nomads High Speeds Co-working Center (Est. 2001)
While working on serene beaches or by tranquil pools was once a dream for many, it’s now very much a reality.
Working remotely is surging in popularity and, as a result, a growing number of countries are now offering digital nomad visas to entice people over.
For those not clued-up, these particular visas allow remote workers to live and work in that country for a specified period, while being employed and earning an income from a business based outside of that country.
And new research has analysed the cost of living in the countries offering these visas, to reveal the best for remote workers to get the most out of their earnings.
So, if you’re considering packing up and working elsewhere, there are certain cheaper spots that should be on your radar.
According to the Digital Nomad Rich List created by Flamingo App, Sri Lanka is the country where your money will go furthest.
Based on the average UK salary, the data found that cost of living in Sri Lanka comes to just £492 per month (on rent, food, transport and utility bills), so the average Brit is expected to pocket around £2,282 of disposable income.
Argentina, Colombia & North Macedonia, Indonesia and Malaysia also ranked within the top five cheapest countries for digital nomads – according to this report.
Cheapest places to live as digital nomad, according to Flamingo App:
Sri Lanka
Argentina
Colombia & North Macedonia
Indonesia
Malaysia
High speeds (200Mbps), UPS, Generators, Air Conditioning, attached Bathrooms, Membership options: All at the Old, Original AbaY Nomads Nonworking Centre (WhatsApp +94702042271)
However, the most expensive countries to work remotely in were also named, with Bermuda scooping the top spot, followed by the Cayman Islands and Iceland. The UK also placed eighth on the most expensive list.
David Hehenberger, the founder of Flamingo App, said: ‘The findings of our Digital Nomad Rich List are eye-opening, highlighting that the average Brit can increase their disposable income by choosing to work remotely from over 40 countries, freeing up financial and mental space to explore and enjoy life. If you can work from anywhere, why not pick a place that enhances your life?
‘Whether it’s the warm beaches of Indonesia, the cultural hubs of Argentina, or the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.
‘Remote work doesn’t have to be confined to our familiar surroundings; it can be the gateway to global experiences, cultural immersion, and financial empowerment. The world is your office.’
Most expensive place to work as digital nomad, according to Flamingo App:
Bermuda
Cayman Islands
Iceland
The Bahamas
Norway
The photos in the original article are copy sadly protected. And have been replaced with our own freeware.
On the apparent southward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka during 28th of August to 07th of September in this year (2023).
The nearest towns of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead tomorrow are Bambalapitiya, Maliboda, Keppetipola, Badalkumbura and Pottuvil about 12.09 noon.
One of my earliest childhood memories is of preparing a school project about a country that we’d love to visit, which, for me, was Sri Lanka.
Although life there seemed far removed from the Manchester Jewish bubble in which I lived, to me, Sri Lanka represented paradise.
I was fascinated by this teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean with its rich history, dating back 3,000 years, its tropical climate, and its wonderfully varied wildlife.
Sadly, the opportunity to visit Sri Lanka never arose. Not for me the globe-trotting gap year that many of my contemporaries enjoyed, during which a trip to Sri Lanka was the highlight. I watched with envy as they went off on their adventures, instead, having to make do with a postcard, which of course only heightened my desire to go there.
As the years wore on and I started work as a lawyer, before marrying and having children, travel became something that others enjoyed. I’d happily spend an hour or so in my lunch break, flicking through friends’ holiday snaps, but for me, that was the extent of it.
Having made aliyah some years ago, and settled on the shores of the Mediterranean in Netanya, my travel bug dissipated somewhat. But Sri Lanka always held a special place in my heart. This is why I was delighted to be included on the guest list for a dinner at the Sri Lanka Ambassador Nimal Bandara’s home in Herzliya a couple of weeks ago.
Sri Lanka’s history of ties with Israel
SRI LANKA has long enjoyed fruitful, productive relations with Israel, with its embassy being established in Tel Aviv in 2000.
Under an agreement between the two governments, Israel provides job opportunities for Sri Lankan caregivers of whom there are around 7,000 working in Israel at present. Conversely, Israel has given technical support to aid the establishment of a modern agricultural center in Sri Lanka. In addition, training opportunities for Sri Lankan government officials under MASHAV – Israel’s Agency for International Development – have been proposed.
As a further sign of the strengthening of relations between the two countries, Arkia Airlines is scheduled to operate direct flights from Israel to Sri Lanka from October 31. Opening up this direct route between the two countries will, of course, further enhance this well-established relationship from all perspectives.
It will facilitate travel between the two countries for the thousands of Sri Lankan carers who work in Israel, and Israelis, well-known for their love of travel, especially around South Asia, will have easy, affordable, direct access to this beautiful country for the first time.
One of Sri Lanka’s most famous destinations to which surfers from all countries, including Israel, flock in their thousands, is Arugam Bay on the southeast coast of the island. Rated as one of the top 10 surf destinations in the world, Arugam Kudah, as it is known locally, has also hosted most of the international surfing competitions in Sri Lanka since 2004.
A number of Israeli organizations are also promoting surfing trips to this tropical island for people with special needs.
As well as surfing, visitors to Sri Lanka will have the opportunity to experience firsthand some of the country’s rich cultural and historical values, including astrology, meditation, ayurveda (alternative medicine), dancing, painting, and more.
The highlight of any trip, however, will doubtless be the fabulous food, and those who keep kosher need not feel excluded. Kosher restaurants are available in Arugam Bay and the Gandara area.
HAPPILY, SOME of Sri Lanka’s finest cuisine was served to guests by the ambassador at his recent dinner. Thirty-two mouthwatering dishes – in all – graced the table, some of which were prepared by the ambassador himself. These delicious dishes included: chicken biryani; string hoppers (Idiyappam); kottu roti; coconut roti; mango curry; butter prawn curry; Pathola (snake gourd); Cancun devil curry; cashew curry; potato and green bean curry; coconut sambal; Moringa (drumstick) curry; potato curry with coconut cream; and chili chicken curry.
DINNER AT the Sri Lankan ambassador’s residence: ‘It is important not only to cook the food but also to place it correctly on the table,’ says His Excellency Nimal Bandara.
Sweet treats, including caramel pudding and a selection of fruits, were also served after the meal.
This carefully arranged, beautiful array of dishes was a sight to behold.
As the ambassador, who was on hand to assist his guests as they helped themselves to the food explained: “It is important not only to cook the food but also to place it correctly on the table, to prepare colorful and matching tablecloths, as well as to place the food according to the colors.”
This spectacle was not lost on my fellow guests, whose number included: Israel-Asia Chamber of Commerce President Anat Bernstein-Reich; Israel-Asia Chamber of Commerce vice president Ron Doron; Federation of Israel Chamber of Commerce’s Or Nehushtan; Michal Weiler-Tal, director of the South-East Asia Department, Foreign Affairs Ministry; Nadav Ben Yehuda, Nepal Embassy; Israel Airport Authorities director Shmuel Amsalem; and Inga Michaeli, travel writer.
WHEN THE ambassador himself and the embassy staff aren’t busy preparing sumptuous dinners, they all work hard to support the thousands of Sri Lankans who live and work in Israel, often going over and above what is expected of them. Round-the-clock help is provided, including hospital visits, prison visits, participating in police interrogations and court hearings (translating), and so on.
One woman from the embassy, who works closely with the Sri Lankan community here in Israel, told me, “I was on a hospital visit not long ago and the doctor asked me who I was and where from. When I said the embassy, he stated: ‘This is the first time any embassy [worker] has visited a foreign worker.’”
In keeping with the warm hospitality for which Sri Lanka is renowned, its embassy also has a warm, welcoming atmosphere – a place where visitors can pop in and help themselves to drinks and snacks. There’s even a designated kids’ corner that opened last week. This provides a child-friendly area where youngsters can read, draw, and paint, while their parents seek the help they need from the staff. Chocolate, sweets, and fruit are also available for whoever wants.
My recent taste of Sri Lanka has not only stirred up some happy childhood memories but also reignited my desire to visit this magnificent country.
As my good fortune would have it, my wish may soon be granted, thanks to His Excellency Nimal Bandara, who has invited me to join his party on the inaugural direct flight to Sri Lanka next month.
At long last, my childhood dream will become a reality.
The writer is a former lawyer from Manchester, England. She now lives in Israel where she works at The Jerusalem Post.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe who toured Arugam Bay yesterday greets a tourist
President announces plans for 10-year strategic roadmap encompassing two distinct phases of development strategies aimed at positioning region as a premier travel and leisure hub
Urgent measures to address land title challenges for businesses
President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday announced the swift implementation of a comprehensive plan to elevate the Arugam Bay tourist zone into a highly desirable destination for both local and international tourists, with the potential to generate substantial revenue.
The President emphasised the importance of meticulous planning in identifying areas that necessitate development, with the intention of executing these initiatives systematically. The President further highlighted the prospect of achieving significant income by promoting water sports such as water skiing, which holds popularity along the Arugam Bay coastline.
Wickremesinghe conveyed these rema-rks during a meeting held with key stakeholders in the tourism industry within the Ampara district. The gathering brought together Government officials and industry professionals, aimed at addressing pertinent challenges that have emerged within the tourism sector.
The President underscored that global reports predict tourism to contribute 10% of the global gross domestic product by the year 2035. He stressed that Sri Lanka should proactively prepare for this shift and highlighted the tourism sector’s potential to directly address the nation’s financial challenges.
Wickremesinghe also outlined a two-phase development plan for the tourism industry in the Eastern Province, with the ambitious goal of completing it within the next decade.
Furthermore, during his ongoing tour of the Eastern Province, President conducted an inspection of Arugam Bay and Peanut Farm beaches in the Ampara district. The President personally assessed the areas’ shortcomings and engaged in cordial conversations with the tourists present there.
Following the site visit, President Wickremesinghe engaged in discussions with the local business community to gain insights into the challenges faced within the tourism sector in the area. This comprehensive engagement reflects the President’s commitment to actively addressing the needs and potential of the Eastern Province’s tourism industry.
In the process of developing the Arugam Bay Coastline into a prominent tourist destination, a proposal was put forth to relocate the existing fishing port to an alternative location, equipped with necessary facilities for fishermen. This proposal was conveyed to the President by MP W.D. Weerasinghe. In response, the President emphasised the urgency of transforming this region into a dedicated tourism area while taking swift action on the proposal.
The President’s attention was also drawn to the challenges arising from the absence of permanent property deeds for business premises within the local tourism industry. President Ranil Wickremesinghe stressed the importance of promptly submitting a comprehensive report detailing these issues, with an expectation for viable solutions to be presented.
Another key concern addressed was the availability of drinking water for both business establishments and visiting tourists in the area. Recognizing that the construction of the proposed ‘Hada Oya’ drinking water project might take several more years, President Wickremesinghe directed officials to explore the installation of establishing water treatment plants at existing natural water sources, with assistance from the Navy to address these multifaceted challenges in the pursuit of transforming Arugam Bay as a premier tourist destination while ensuring the well-being of the local community and visiting tourists.
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But we may well continue to be:
Critical of anyone who could do better
Do you like Old Arugam Bay?
Here you find any article ever written about Arugam Bay
Meet great people on our FB page
Arugam Bay:
Nobody can simply 'just'
GO TO ARUGAM !
YOU first have to EARN it.
After coming thru our jungles, Dodging Wild Elephants,
Crossing crocodile infested lagoons & rivers,
Passing Old Check Points and
Burned down Houses:
You will have a sense of achievement
When you reach remote AbaY!
Arugam.Info is a free Self-help Community page.
We attempt to publish and re-publish every article and every report ever written about our small, remote village.
The idea is to make it easy and simple for you to decide, if this is a resort for YOU.
An upcoming and most promising, beautiful Bay with a lot of untapped potential:
This is what we wish to share with you.
And try to attract you to visit us.
If you like, what you see here, join our popular Facebook Fan Club, too!
Arugam Forum
Arugam Photo Galleries on Picasa
Old Website
Press Coverage
Surf Forecast for Arugam Bay
TODAY’s Comments