Book a trip from Vancouver to Colombo with Cathay Pacific , fares from CAD1,976

Start your trip at Galle Face Green, a promenade that was originally developed in the 17th century as a leisure space for the colonial elite, and it has since evolved into a beloved public space that reflects the vibrant and diverse culture of Colombo. Spanning an expansive 5-hectare area, Galle Face Green is a lush, grassy expanse that stretches along the Indian Ocean coastline. It is a popular gathering spot for families, friends, and people of all ages, who come to enjoy the breathtaking views and engaging activities. One of the highlights of Galle Face Green is the opportunity to witness the stunning sunsets over the horizon. As the sky transforms into a beautiful blend of colours, visitors can sit back, relax, and savour the mesmerising sight.

If you’re looking to explore some of the temples of Sri Lanka, Gangaramaya Temple is one of the best places to start. The temple's architecture showcases a unique fusion of Sri Lankan, Chinese, Indian, and Buddhist styles, creating a visually stunning and culturally rich environment. As you step through the entrance, you'll be greeted by elaborately decorated shrines, intricate carvings, and a serene atmosphere that invites you to immerse yourself in the temple's rich spiritual heritage. The temple also features a museum-like exhibition hall, displaying a remarkable collection of artefacts, including ancient scriptures, paintings, and rare Buddhist relics.

Before you leave the city, consider immersing yourself in the city’s culture by visiting the Pettah Bazaar, one of the city’s open-air marketplaces. Encompassing a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys, the Pettah Bazaar is a sensory delight, where the sights, sounds, and smells of Sri Lankan commerce collide in a vibrant symphony. Vendors hawk their wares, from spices and textiles to electronics and household goods, creating a cacophony of activity that envelops the visitor. As you navigate the crowded lanes, you'll be greeted by a dizzying array of stalls and shops, each offering a unique glimpse into the local way of life.

Cathay Pacific brings the convenience of finding the best hotels. For those looking to explore the vibrant city of Colombo, the Mövenpick Hotel Colombo is conveniently located next to the Liberty shopping arcade and within close proximity to historic and cultural sites. Featuring spacious rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning views of the city and Indian Ocean, the hotel offers a truly magical stay for travellers. Guests can indulge in a range of culinary experiences, from the ground floor to the rooftop Vistas bar, which offers refreshing drinks and panoramic city views. The hotel also boasts an infinity pool, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and the renowned Spa Ceylon, which provides the finest Ayurvedic treatments. For a stay closer to downtown Colombo, Jetwing Colombo Seven is an upscale urban hotel that blends modern minimalism with the brand's legacy of elegant hospitality. Boasting a prime location in the exclusive Cinnamon Gardens neighbourhood, the hotel provides easy access to Colombo's diverse shopping, dining, and sightseeing options. Guests can enjoy contemporary accommodations, ranging from deluxe rooms to serviced apartments, all designed with the discerning traveller in mind. The hotel's standout features include a stunning rooftop infinity pool and one of Colombo's highest rooftop bars, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

Colombo allures food lovers with its vibrant restaurant scene, where an eclectic mix of international flavours intertwines, inviting diners on a mouthwatering journey of culinary fusion. Nestled in the heart of Colombo, Upali's is a beloved restaurant that offers travellers an authentic taste of Sri Lankan culinary traditions. Established in 2013, this family-owned establishment prides itself on serving simple Sri Lankan fare, crafted with quality ingredients and a passion for preserving age-old recipes. The menu at Upali's is a delightful exploration of the island's diverse flavours, with popular dishes including Mutton Varuwal (spiced mutton cubes on a sizzling plate) and Maalu Oluwa (fish head curry). On the other hand, if you’re looking to taste Sri Lankan seafood, the Ministry of Crab is a popular choice. Housed in a beautifully preserved 400-year-old Dutch hospital building, the Ministry of Crab offers a unique dining experience that celebrates Sri Lanka's rich history and cuisine. This iconic restaurant showcases the country's legendary mud crabs, with sizes ranging from 500g to an impressive 2kg "Crabzilla". In addition to their famous crabs, Ministry of Crab also serves up freshwater prawns, as well as local clams, oysters and vegetarian crab substitutes.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Colombo.

• Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (Re/Rs, LKR). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 230V Types D, M, and G
• Time zone: GMT+5:30
• Languages: Sinhala and Tamil