Can You Live for Less than 1000 USD in the City of Negombo?

The city of Negombo is one of the most popular destinations in Sri Lanka. It is located on the west coast of the country and is home to a large number of tourists all year round. There is so much to see and do in Negombo, from its stunning beaches to its rich cultural heritage. But the question is, can you live in Negombo for less than 1000 USD a month?

The Cost of Living in Negombo

The cost of living in Negombo varies depending on your lifestyle and the type of accommodation you choose. However, on average, you can expect to pay around 700 USD a month for a basic apartment with a kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. This may not include utilities such as water, gas, and electricity, which can cost an additional 50 USD a month. If you decide to live in a more upscale apartment, you can expect to pay up to 1500 USD a month.

The cost of food in Negombo is relatively cheap, with a meal at a local restaurant costing around 3 USD. However, if you decide to eat out at high-end restaurants, you can expect to pay around 15 USD for a meal. Groceries are also inexpensive, with a week’s worth of food costing around 25 USD.

Transportation in Negombo is also affordable. A bus ride around the city costs around 15 cents, and a taxi ride will set you back around 2 USD. However, if you plan to travel long distances, such as to the capital Colombo, you can expect to pay around 12 USD for a one-way bus ticket.

Additional Expenses

Aside from accommodation, utilities, food, and transportation, there are a few additional expenses you should keep in mind when considering living in Negombo. These include:

• Health Insurance: You can expect to pay around 30 USD a month for basic health insurance in Sri Lanka.
• Internet: High-speed internet is available in Negombo for around 25 USD a month.
• Visa Fees: If you plan to stay in Sri Lanka for longer than 30 days, you will need to apply for a visa extension. The cost of a visa extension ranges from 20 USD to 50 USD depending on how long you plan to stay.

Final Thoughts

It is definitely possible to live in Negombo for less than 1000 USD a month, especially if you choose to live in a basic apartment and eat local food. However, if you plan to live a more upscale lifestyle, your expenses may surpass this budget.

Before deciding to live in Negombo, it is important to do your research and thoroughly analyze your finances. You should also consider the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition.

Overall, living in Negombo can be an enriching and rewarding experience, and with proper planning, you can make it work within your budget.

The Insider’s Guide to Negombo, Sri Lanka

Negombo is a city located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, just a short drive from Colombo International Airport. This charming city has something to offer to tourists of all interests, from cultural experiences to beach lounging and delicious cuisine. In this guide, we’ll cover the best attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make the most of your trip to Negombo.

Attractions

Negombo is famous for its pristine beaches, which stretch for miles along the coastline. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing on the sand. Negombo Beach Park is a popular spot for tourists, where one can enjoy the sunset view while enjoying a fresh seafood dinner. Moreover, Negombo is also home to many historic sites, including St. Mary’s Church, which dates back to the 17th century and is one of the oldest churches in Sri Lanka. The Dutch Clock Tower and the Old Dutch Fort are also must-sees, showcasing Negombo’s rich history and colonial past.

Dining Spots

Negombo is famous for its seafood, and there’s no shortage of restaurants that serve it fresh and delicious. Beachside restaurants hold the majority of the seafood spots with daily morning fish market that guarantees the freshness of seafood. Home-style food is another feature of Negombo, with many small eateries and kiosks selling local food specialties like Hoppers, Kottu Roti and Watalappam. The Esplanade – the food court situated in the middle of Negombo Town – is also a great place to sample local dishes with low price tags.

Cultural Experiences

Visitors to Negombo can immerse themselves in Sri Lankan culture by visiting the Angurukaramulla Temple, one of the most significant Buddhist temples in the area. The temple houses a 6-meter-long reclining Buddha statue and a 6-meter-tall standing Buddha statue and showcases beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings. A cultural attraction that appeals to all ages is the Negombo Fish Market, most active in the early morning. The chaos of the market, with its vendors and fishermen haggling over prices and showcasing their catch, is not to be missed.

Local History

Negombo is a city with a rich and varied history. It’s a melting pot of different cultures, religions, and ethnicities, each of which has left its mark on the city. The Dutch and Portuguese colonizers played significant roles in the formation of Negombo’s present-day character, as did powerful Buddhist and Muslim communities. A trip to the Dutch Fort and Museum will deepen your knowledge of the city’s colonial past. The museum explores the history of Negombo and showcases a selection of artifacts, including documents, ancient coins, and even antique weapons.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity makes it an ideal destination for wildlife lovers. Negombo Lagoon is home to many species of birds, including pelicans, herons, egrets, and flamingos. Visiting the bird sanctuary is a rare opportunity to witness the migration patterns and habitats of these majestic creatures. Another attraction that is off the beaten path is the Muthurajawela Marsh, a vast wetland area that is home to many endemic species of birds, reptiles, and insects. A boat ride through the marshes is mesmerizing.

Conclusion

Negombo is a city that offers something for everyone, from pristine beaches to historic sites and cultural experiences. This guide has provided an overview of the best attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to help you make the most of your trip. Whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach, exploring local cultures, or immersing yourself in the city’s history, Negombo has it all. So, when you plan your next trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to keep Negombo on your itinerary.