Galle is a lovely oceanfront city on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka. As a thriving port town long before colonial times, it attracted Arabs, Persians, Romans and Greeks on their way across the Indian Ocean. The Portuguese attacked and settled the town in 1505. The Dutch won the town 135 years later and built the famous Galle Fort. After the British took over in 1796, Galle’s prosperity increased; and the city still contains remnants of lavish mansions built during British rule.

Today Galle Fort, one of the best-preserved colonial sea fortresses in Asia and designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, is part of the old city. Locals stroll the promenade along the sea and play board games in small parks, and children splash in the surf. Along the narrow streets you’ll see cloistered courtyards, hedges covered with brightly colored flowers and shuttered buildings that echo the city’s colonial past. Other landmarks of historic interest include the Galle Lighthouse and St. Mary’s Cathedral. For a luxurious trip back in time to colonial days, spend a night at the beautiful Amangalla Hotel, located within the ramparts of the fort.