Diterbitake: 12.02.2020
In Colombo we picked up the Tuktuk from Tuktukrental.com. We received a driving lesson for both of us (as motorcycle riders, it wasn't too difficult for us to learn how to drive the Tuktuk), a detailed verbal instruction, and even a small written final exam. We also received a manual with the most important information for the journey. We are highly impressed with the professionalism of the rental company.
After that, we started our tour and headed into the hustle and bustle: the road from Colombo to Negombo is extremely busy and the drivers only follow one rule, which is driving on the left side. Other than that, the law of the jungle applies (with the Tuktuk being in the hierarchy between motorcycles and cars. Buses and trucks are at the top). And even lane lines are only rough recommendations.
Nevertheless, we managed the two and a half hours well and arrived at the Grand Villa Negombo. There, we checked into a room with a private bathroom and then continued to the beach.
The beach was wide, but unfortunately, there was some plastic waste in various places and even cigarette butts in the area of the bars. For me, an absolute no-go. The sea was not clear (hopefully because of the wind), but the temperature was delightful.
After dinner, I (D) drove back to the villa. A challenge in the dark when you can't see where you're shifting. We went to bed quite early because we wanted to get up early the next day to tackle the next and much longer stage of our journey.