SPOTLIGHT ON:

GaLLe

Here’s the history of the colonial town of Galle in a coconut shell: It was founded in 1505 by the Portuguese, who set about building a fortress to protect the trading port. A century later, the Dutch came along, making the fort even bigger and stronger, before the British finally arrived in the late 18th century to have a crack.

The fort has withstood the test of time – as well as the devastating 2004 tsunami – and is recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site. Within its walls you’ll find a charming coastal settlement of beautiful architecture and narrow, cobbled streets that are ideal for exploring on foot. Set aside a day for getting lost in the town’s quirky boutiques, museums and cute cafés.