Top Things to Do in Kochi (Cochin), Kerala, India

Located on the Malabar Coast of Kerala, India, Kochi (Cochin) has been a major hub of commerce and cultural exchange for over a millennium. Its natural harbor and strategic location on the Arabian Sea made Kochi one of the most sought-after ports in the Indian Ocean, attracting merchants from Arabia, China, and later European powers (TOP THINGS TO DO IN TRIVANDRUM, KERALA). 

Kochi became the first European colonial stronghold in India when the Portuguese arrived in the early 16th century, followed by the Dutch and the British, each leaving enduring architectural and cultural influences (THINGS TO DO IN COLOMBO, SRI LANKA). 

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – Best Things To Do

Previously known as Trivandrum, a name still referred as, Thiruvananthapuram is located at the southern tip of India, along the southwestern coast facing the Arabian Sea, near the border with Tamil Nadu. It is Kerala’s political, cultural, and educational center, home to institutions like the University of Kerala and the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. The city is also known for arts and culture, with museums and galleries showcasing its heritage (KERALA HOUSEBOAT CRUISE). 

Thiruvananthapuram has a history that goes back over a thousand years. In the 18th century, it became the capital of the Travancore Kingdom under Maharaja Marthanda Varma, who shaped the region’s culture and administration.

Kerala Houseboat, India

Think Kerala, and you immediately picture a Kerala houseboat. One of the best things to do in Kerala, a trip isn’t complete without experiencing a houseboat ride. It is one of India’s top nature experiences, generally affordable, and a pride of Kerala. Thousands have already cruised the backwaters, yet returning again for this natural attraction (THINGS TO DO IN COLOMBO, SRI LANKA) in India is common.

Things to Know About Kerala, India

Kerala is popularly known as “God’s Own Country” because of its nature, fertile land, culture, and history. It is famous for traditions in music, dance, and food, as well as Ayurveda wellness and spirituality, which make Kerala special.

Best Things to Do in Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan

Just within 40 minutes from Sapporo is Otaru, a small port city along the Sea of Japan in Hokkaido. A trip to Hokkaido is not complete without the best things to do in Otaru. Back then, Otaru was a busy hub for trade and fishing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries (THINGS TO DO IN SAPPORO JAPAN). 

As Hokkaido developed its industries, Otaru also grew. Its historic canal, stone warehouses, and preserved architecture still show its past as a thriving commercial gateway.

Today, Otaru has both its old side and modern side connected together. Winter is one of the best times to visit, as snow turns the city into a natural wonder. In summer, visitors can expect comfortable weather and seaside breezes.

What to do in Otaru is mostly about walking - for food, shopping, and sightseeing.

Things to Do in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan

Within approximately 2 hours’ drive from Noboribetsu (THINGS TO DO IN NOBORIBETSU) is Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. With a population of nearly two million people, Sapporo was established in 1868 during Japan’s efforts to develop Hokkaido. The city features modern urban planning, wide streets, and a grid layout inspired by American cities.

Sapporo History
Sapporo is a major cultural, educational, and economic center in Hokkaido, hosting Hokkaido University and several research institutions that attract students and scholars from across Japan and abroad. Sapporo has a long history of brewing, with Sapporo Beer dating back to 1876. Sapporo food, including the city’s famous miso ramen and other local specialties, is another highlight.

Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan: Things to Do

Heading from Hilton Niseko Village, it takes around a 3-hour drive to reach Noboribetsu, a small city in the southwestern part of Hokkaido, within Iburi Subprefecture. Located along the Pacific Ocean and part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Noboribetsu is undoubtedly one of Hokkaido’s top destinations (THINGS TO DO IN HOKKAIDO, JAPAN).

Attracting visitors year-round, including Japanese from other regions, Noboribetsu is about 110 kilometers southwest of Sapporo and roughly 50 kilometers from New Chitose Airport.

Things To Do in Hokkaido, Japan (Winter)

Hokkaido, one of Japan’s top travel destinations, is the northernmost of the four main islands, located above Honshu and separated by the Tsugaru Strait. It sits north of the Sea of Japan, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Sea of Okhotsk to the north. Hokkaido’s location gives it a colder climate than the rest of Japan, large open landscapes, and sparsely populated regions. Its proximity to Russia’s Sakhalin Island has influenced its history, culture, and unique heritage.

Famous as a winter destination, Hokkaido attracts thousands of travelers every year, mainly from Asia, including China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia, while Western tourists are fewer. Asian travelers (THINGS TO DO IN COLOMBO SRI LANKA) are drawn to Hokkaido’s heavy snowfall, winter festivals, hot springs, and snow-covered landscapes. The snow season typically lasts from late November to early April, making it one of Japan’s snowiest regions.

Things to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka

The largest city and commercial capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo is a bustling hub with a population of over 5 million people. While Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the official administrative capital, Colombo remains the center of trade, business, and travel in the country. Once a strategic port on the ancient East–West trade routes, its history reflects Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influence (THINGS TO DO IN GALLE, SRI LANKA). 

Situated along the Indian Ocean, Colombo is known for its coastline, colonial architecture, lively streets, and modern malls. Beyond the urban rush, parts of the city still showcase traditional villages, cottage industries, and fishing as a way of trade. There are many things to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka, covering different parts of the city and its surroundings.

Things to Do in Galle, Sri Lanka

One of the next destinations in Sri Lanka from Kataragama (THINGS TO DO IN KATARAGAMA) can be Galle Along this approximately five-hour drive, there are sightseeing spots 2–3 hours before reaching the city.

Depending on time and interests, any of these spots can be included in a list of top things to do in Galle, Sri Lanka, including its beaches, historic sites, and cultural attractions. These can range from visiting a traditional village house, stopping by roadside cottage industry stalls, or even purchasing some of the handmade products.

 

Located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Galle is a city known for its colonial heritage, bustling streets, and serene coastal vibes. It offers a blend of history, culture, and seaside relaxation. Life in Galle moves at a gentler pace, reflecting a simple and peaceful lifestyle (THINGS TO DO IN NEGAMBO, SRI LANKA). 

Things to Do in Katagarama, Sri Lanka

Heading to Kataragama from Nuwara Eliya (THINGS TO DO IN NUWARA ELIYA) takes around five hours, a popular route for Kataragama travel. The first half an hour of the journey is worth spending by looking out the window, recalling the natural beauty of Nuwara Eliya one more time. Once the road begins to cut through the winding hills, it is time to lean back or take a nap. 

About half an hour before reaching Kataragama, it is worth looking out again, as the view changes into a different setting that signals the approach to the town.

Best Things to Do in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

One of the best things to do in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, is simple. Most of them are free. Nature, fresh air, sunshine, waterfalls, breathtaking hillscapes, misty forests, and valleys. This is exactly what should be expected in this part of Sri Lanka’s central highlands.

The journey from Kandy (MUST-DO THINGS IN SRI LANKA) takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours. The road winds through slopes and narrow mountain paths. About an hour before reaching Nuwara Eliya, the scenery is already a preview of what awaits in this hill country town.

Must-Do Things in Sri Lanka

Landing at Bandaranaike International Airport, also known as Colombo Airport or Katunayake Airportin Katunayake, about 20 miles north of Colombo, marks the start of interesting sightseeing in Sri Lanka. The route depends on the direction taken first. One of the top spots to begin with can be Negombo, and a day in Negombo is fairly good enough before heading to other parts of Sri Lanka (TOP THINGS TO DO IN NEGAMBO, SRI LANKA). 

From there, travel in a small van amongst a small group of tourists can lead to Rambukkana, followed by Mawanella, before reaching Kandy, one of the significant destinations in Sri Lanka.

Things to Do in Negombo, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Travel
Sri Lanka is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, located just off the southern coast of India, famously known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean.” Its attractions are unmatched, from unspoiled nature and pristine beaches to flavorful cuisine made with spices, coconut, and fresh seafood, key highlights when considering what to eat in Sri Lankan food. Covering about 65,610 km², Sri Lanka draws travellers not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural and historical sites.

Sri Lanka History
Sri Lanka’s fascinating history is shaped by ancient kingdoms and colonial powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Buddhism, practiced for over two thousand years, has left a lasting mark on the island, reflected in its temples, architecture, and traditions. These cultural and historical landmarks are among the main reasons to discover things to do in Sri Lanka.