April 2021

off the beaten path Italy, venice, grand canal, italy

Off The Beaten Path Italy: 7 Places For An Epic Experience!

Italy, is definitely on everyone’s bucket list, whether we plan to go there or we have already been there. With the Alps, the vineyards of Tuscany, and the coastal region. Italy has it all. In this post, we explore off the beaten path Italy. We will also explore the most beautiful city in Italy, Rome.

Rome, Florence, Venice, Naples, and the Amalfi are must-visit destinations. However, there is more to Italy and you are on the right page if you are looking for answers to off the beaten path in Italy destinations.

  1. Where is Italy?
  2. What is the most beautiful city in Italy?
  3. How many languages are there in Italy?
  4. What is the national dish of Italy?
  5. What are Italy’s famous dishes?
  6. Where are off the beaten path places in Italy?
  7. Is Italy worth visiting?

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means, if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information.

Where is Italy?

Before we explore off the beaten path Italy, let’s explore where Italy is in the first place. The Italian Republic borders France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia. It contains the microstates of Vatican City and San Marino.

Italy is home to the Indo-European Italic people who gave this peninsula its name. Latins were the dominant tribe and it was they who established the Roman Empire.

Is Italy a safe country?

Italy is a safe country to visit. However, make sure to keep all valuables under wrap. Do note that Naples is the mafia hotspot. The good news is that tourists are hardly affected by the mafia there, which means making an off the beaten path Italy a doable choice.

Origins of Name

The name Italy originates from antiquity. Italia was the name of the peninsula which was derived from Vitalia. This is now Southern Italy. Dionysius of Halicarnassus says that Italia is from the legend of Italus. Aristotle and Thucydides mention these legends in some of their books as well.

History 

Monte Poggiolo is a Paleothitic site where ancient artifacts were discovered. The excavations revealed the presence of the earliest existence of modern humans in Europe. Riparo Mochi is now the oldest pre-historic site in Italy where the historic remains of the Grimaldi Man were found here.

The Phoenicians were the first to colonize Italy. They developed urban centers along the coasts of Sicily and Sardinia. After that, the Greeks invaded the southern peninsula was known as Magna Graecia once it was colonized by the Greeks.

Rome was established by twin brothers, Remus and Romulus. According to legends, they were the sons of a Trojan princess. The empire reached its peak under Emperor Trajan.

The Italian Renaissance was the start of the modern era in Italy. During this period, some of the achievements were in exploration, painting, architecture, sculpture, music, science, technology, and literature. 

After a Constitutional Referendum, Italy became a Republic. The referendum was to determine the Head of State of Italy. Italy was proclaimed a Republic on 6th June 1946. 

Geography

The Apennine Mountains are Italy’s backbone. The highest mountain is Mount Blanc. With the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, Gran Paradiso, and the Dolomites all being international tourist destinations. Over 70% of Italy’s plains are from Po Valley.

With Po River being the longest in the country. The five largest lakes in Italy are Garda, Maggiore, Como, Trasimeno, and Bolsena.  

Italy is at the meeting point of two tectonic plates. They are the Eurasian Plate and the African Plate. This explains why the country has considerable volcanic activity. Italy has 14 volcanoes of which 4 are active. The four active volcanoes are Etna, Stromboli, Vulcano, and Vesuvius.

Vesuvius is the most active. And is famous for the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum in the eruption of 79AD.  

Italy is the first country to use geothermal energy. With its first geothermal power plant in Larderello in 1904. However, the United States is the world’s largest producer of geothermal energy.

Do you know what geothermal energy is and where it comes from?

Culture

Italy has a culture that has flourished over the centuries. Its culture can be seen in arts, food, architecture, and music. Some Italian architectural styles are Roman, Baroque, Renaissance, and Neoclassical. Major fashion houses that are from Italy are Prada, Versace, Gucci, and Armani.

Do you know that opera has its roots in Italy?

What are some cultural traditions in Italy?

The cultural traditions of Epiphany and Befana, Patron St Feasts Day, and Notte Bianca just to name a few. Check out the Top 8 Cultural Celebrations in Italy to know more. It is food that brings and establishes ties among family and friends. Italians are known to be open with their displays of public affection.

You can expect affectionate hugs and kisses when greeting. Light touches on the arms are normal greetings. Italians believe that someone who cannot look at you in the eyes is hiding something. Rome celebrated its 2,774 years birthday on April 21st, 2021. This day is known as Natale di Roma. On this day, historical re-enactments, parades, and gladiator fights are the highlights of the day.

Art is everywhere in Italy. It is not only in its museums. The famous Sistine Chapel ceiling by Michaelangelo is an example that ceilings can be used as a canvas.

Do you know that Italy has over 700 cultural institutes, 300 theatres, and 6000 libraries?

Visa Requirements

It is the Ministry of Foreign and International Affairs that manages and provides information for visas to Italy. To determine if you need a visa, click Do You Need A Visa To Italy?. There are two types of visa to be aware of, which are Schengen Visa and ETIAS.

Schengen Visa

Schengen Area is a European Union passport-free zone that covers 27 member countries. The Schengen Area is the largest visa-free zone in the world. Here, 27 EU nations abolished their international borders to encourage trade and movement. This led to an expansion of business and trade within member nations.

Tourists with a Schengen Visa can travel to all 27 member countries. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Malaysia, and New Zealand do not need a Schengen Visa so long as it is for tourism or business purposes only.

With an increase in terrorism and the migrant crisis, there was a need for better management and to improve the security concerns of tourists and citizens alike.

European Travel Information And Authorization System

The European Travel Information And Authorization System (ETIAS) will launch on 1st January 2022. The goal of this system is to identify risks and threats to visitors traveling to any Schengen country. Tourists traveling to countries that do not require a visa are expected to complete the ETIAS prior to entry into Europe. To know more about ETIAS, read the ETIAS Application Form to know more. 

Americans, Canadians, and Australians will need to apply for a visa waiver. This allows them to stay up to 90 days. The good news is that ETIAS won’t be mandatory until 2023. This is to give time to travelers to adapt to the new system.

Where are off the beaten path places in Italy?

The map gives an accurate description of the seven off the beaten path places in Italy.

Cascate del Mulino

off the beaten path Italy, cascate del mulino, Saturnia hot springs
Photo by Michael Baccin on Unsplash

The first in our off the beaten path Italy is Cascate del Mulino. Saturnia Waterfalls are another name for these falls as they are located in the town of Saturnia, Tuscany. This town is 93 miles from Rome. 

The source of these falls begins at the slopes of Mount Amiata. It then passes through a natural underground passageway and re-emerges at the hot springs of a 5-star hotel resort. The water continues its flow through meadows before reaching these iconic waterfalls.

Fun Facts

  1. The water has flowed at a consistent temperature of 37.5°C for 3,000 years.
  2. It flows at a rate of 500 liters per second.
  3. The waters generate unique thermal plankton when it comes into contact with oxygen.

Benefits of Saturnia Hot Springs:

  1. The waters naturally smooth skin.
  2. Its waters have anti-aging, anti-stress, and antioxidant properties.
  3. It is rich in minerals and vitamins.

The Thermal Park is open for guests of the hotel through an exclusive online booking. There are two rates available. These are the “Club” formula which is €70 ($85) and the “Source” formula which is €85 ($103). According to Forbes, these hot springs are one of the Most Picturesque Hot Springs in The World

For hotels in Saturnia, check out:

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Lake Como

off the beaten path Italy, Lake Como, most beautiful lake in Italy, boat, mountains
Photo by Maria Dolores Vazquez on Unsplash

The second in our off the beaten path Italy is Lake Como. Lago di Como is a glacial lake in Lombardi. This lake is the third-largest in Italy and the fifth largest in Europe. It is also the deepest lake out of Norway. The feature of Lake Como lies in its “Y” shape.

This lake is ranked number one in The World’s 20 Most Beautiful Lakes. Lake Como has always been a retreat for aristocrats and the wealthy since the Roman Empire. Check out the Best Places to Stay and Eat in Como and Spirit of the Italian Lakes to know more.

What is the best time of the year to visit Lake Como?

The best time to visit is summer. This is when the weather is humid and the lake waters are warm. Temperatures are highest in the months of July and August. This is the holiday season in Italy, thus, attractions would be filled with crowds.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, then the months from Easter to the end of October are suitable. This is during the spring and fall months. 

For hotels in and around Lake Como, check out:

Tropea

off the beaten path Italy, Tropea, window with a view, beach, buildings on cliff
Photo by Razvan Horhat on Unsplash

The third in our off the beaten path Italy is Tropea. This municipality is in Vibo Valencia which is a province in Calabria, Southern Italy. Tropea is one of the Most Beautiful Villages. Hercules founded this town upon his return from the Pillars of Hercules. The Pillars of Hercules is the Straits of Gibraltar. Tropea’s coast was where Sextus Pompey defeated Octavius in the Battle of Naulochus.

Santa Maria dell’ Isola Monastery is the main attraction here. This medieval church sits on a rocky cliff and is home to a Byzantine-era portrait of the Virgin Mary that locals believe protects the area. This town is on New York Times and La Republica.

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For hotels in Tropea, check out:

Vicenza

off the beaten path Italy, Vicenza, clock tower
Photo by Stacy Ropati on Unsplash

The fourth in our off the beaten path Italy in Vicenza. This city is 37 miles from Venice and 124 miles from Milan. The City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto are UNESCO World Heritage Site to protect the buildings designed by Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio.

The Palladian style was inspired by him. In this style, symmetry, perspective, and formal classical temples of the ancient Greeks and Romans are used as inspiration. Check out the 12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Vincenza and 15 Best Things To Do in Vincenza to know more.

Do you know that Vicenza is known for its red onions?

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For hotels in Vicenza, check out:

Porto Venere

off the beaten path Italy, Lake Como, boats on a lake, colorful buildings
Photo by Cristina Gottardi on Unsplash

The fifth in our off the beaten path in Italy is Porto Venere or Portus Veneris. This town is home to Saint Venerius, who was the patron saint of the La Spezia. At that time, the village was a fishing community. The lake is famous for the luxurious villas that dot its banks.

Another name for this gulf is the Gulf of Poets. This is due to the fact that Mary Shelley, Percy Bysshe Shelly, and Lord Byron once lived here. The villages of Cinque Terre and Porto Venere are UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1997. 

Check out 9 Reasons to visit Cinque Terre’s Gorgeous Sixth Town – Portovenere. You can check out the 18 Hidden Gems to visit in Europe to know more. 

Endless Possibilities

For hotels in Porto Venere, check out:

Civita de Bagnoregio

off the beaten path Italy, Civita di Bagnoregio, town on a cliff
Photo by Catherine Kerr on Unsplash

The sixth in our off the beaten path in Italy is Civita de Bagnoregio. This town is in the Province of Viterbo in Central Italy. The only access is via a footbridge. Civita is on a volcanic rock and is surrounded by deep ravines. Over the centuries, the rock is facing erosion.

This town is considered a ‘dying town’. This is due to continuous erosion, earthquakes, landslides, and floods that have threatened this town. There are two things which this town is famous for. Firstly, its feline population is more than its human population. As of October 2019, only 10 human beings live here.

Secondly, an entrance fee of €3 ($3.63) is on weekdays. It is €5 ($6) on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. This town is on the Tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town wants to recognize its landscape and resilience towards the force of nature. 

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For hotels, check out:

Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa 

off the beaten path Italy, Castelmezzano, Pietrapertosa at night, town on a cliff
Photo by Paolo Santarsiero on Unsplash

The seventh destination in our off the beaten path Italy is Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa. These towns are on hills near each other. This town is in the Province of Potenza is in Basilicata. The Flight of the Angel links to town to Pietrapertosa. This zipline crosses the valley at speeds of 120 km/hour.

The Seven Stones Path is an ancient path. Oral stories are handed down through the generations and are bound together by keywords. Mimmo Sammartino wrote these stories based on three areas which are the literary walk, the visionary path, and the scenic route. He describes his land on La Repubblica.  

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For hotels, check out:

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What is the most beautiful city in Italy?

Rome

off the beaten path Italy, Rome, Trevi fountain
Photo by Cristina Gottardi on Unsplash

Rough Guides has ranked Rome as the Most Beautiful City In The World. Rome is also part of Conde Nast’s 50 Most Beautiful Cities In The World. With a history that spans 28 centuries, it is the only city that is continuously inhabited city in Europe.

Why Rome the Most Beautiful City?

Rome has successfully incorporated modern and ancient architectural wonders within the city. This makes Rome a walking and living museum. You never know when ancient buildings might house modern restaurants. Although Rome isn’t an off the beaten path Italy, check out 5 Reasons Why Rome is the Most Beautiful City in the World and 10 Reasons Why Everyone Should Visit Rome At Least Once

What is the best time to go to Italy?

The peak season is between mid-May to August. These are the summer months. This is the time when international travelers flock to the country for its beautiful weather. This is the time when airfares, hotel rates, and crowds are at their highest. For a monthly guide, check out Culture Trip.

For hotels in Rome, check out:

For car rentals in Rome, check out:

How many languages are there in Italy?

Italy has 34 native dialects with Italian being the official language in the country. The native languages of Italy are a combination of Romance languages and Indo-European languages. Italy recognizes twelve minority languages which are Albanian, Catalan, German, Greek, Occitan, and Sardinian just to name a few. This is based on Article 2 of the Official Gazette No 297 of December 1999

What are Italy’s top languages?

The top language spoken is Italian with 93% speaking the language. The endangered languages in Italy include Griko, Gardiol, Vastese, Toitschu, and Molise Croatian. 

What are some common Italian phrases?

The best way to explore any country is through its language. And, learning a new language is always fun! Here are the common phrases you can use for your next trip to Italy.

An informal “hello” is Ciao while Salve is a formal version. “Good morning” is Buongiorno, “good afternoon” is Buonasera, and “good night” is Buonanotte. “Please” is Per Favore and “thank you” is grazie

Check out the Italian For Dummies Cheat Sheet and the 112 Basic Italian Phrases to Learn and Speak Now. For free online courses, check out Duolingo and The Italian Experiment.

What are some Italian sayings?

There are plenty of Italian sayings that convey messages of wisdom and humor. Some Italian phrases about life are Nulla Nuova, Buona Nuova which means no news is good news. The phrase Meglio Tardi Che Mai means better late than never. Check out 37 Italian Sayings That Italians Use and 12 Cool Expressions You Will Learn in Rome to know more.

What is the national dish of Italy?

Ragu Alla Bolognese

Ragu alla Bolognese, pasta, minced meat sauce
Photo by Ivan Vighetto on Wikipedia Commons

World Atlas mentions that Italy’s national dish is Ragu Alla Bolognese. Bolognese traces its roots to the town of Bologna. Tagliatelle is used. While meat, onions, carrots, and pancetta are sweat, braised, and sauteed over a slow fire to make the sauce

This dish is served together with the sauce. However, alternative kinds of pasta which can be used are fettuccine, rigatoni, pappardelle, and penne.

What are Italy’s famous dishes?

Italian cuisine is known throughout the world for its simplicity. It is a known fact that Italians love their food and this is evident from murals and paintings of Romans feasting on food. Whether it is on paintings or recipes that date back centuries.

With a culinary history that dates back to 2000 years and the impact of foreign exploration and trade, Italian food is a combination of its regions and the countries it has explored. In this post, we will look at the top 5 famous dishes in Italy and their impact around the globe.

Do you know that the first recipe book is De Re Coquinaria?

Neapolitan Pizza

Neopolitan pizza, basil leaf, cheese
Photo by Galen Crout on Unsplash

Tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaf are the main ingredients of this dish. The three colors represent the Italian flag. The New York-style pizza was inspired by this dish. The art of making this pizza is listed under UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage.

Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana states that the base is made from risen dough and cooked in a wood fire oven. Most importantly, only San Marzano tomatoes or Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio tomatoes can be used. Check out the recipe for this pizza on the Food Network.

Lasagne

off the beaten path Italy, lasagna, thin layer of pasta, tomato sauce
Photo by sunorwind on Unsplash

Lasagna, this flat and wide pasta is the oldest in the world. The word lasagna is from the Greek word, laganon. However, lagane appears in the works of Apicius. In his book, he describes lasagna as thin layers of pasta stacked with meat, vegetables, and cheese.

What are the 3 main components of lasagna?

The three components of lasagna are pasta, sauce, and cheese. 

Carbonara

off the beaten path Italy, carbonara, spaghetto, parmesan cheese, black pepper, pancetta
Photo by Rob Wicks on Unsplash

This dish uses spaghetti and the sauce is made of eggs, parmesan cheese, black pepper, and pancetta.

Who invented carbonara?

Renato Gualandi invented this dish. The most accurate story of the creation of this dish is that Gualandi was working in Riccione in 1944 when Italy was still a war-torn nation. The Allied forces wanted to celebrate once the town was free from war. It was Gualandi who was in charge of the banquet at that time. To create his new dish, he gained inspiration from Slovenian culinary traditions.

He created spaghetti carbonara with a sauce of bacon, cream, processed cheese, and dried egg yolk sprinkled with black pepper. For an ultimate spaghetti carbonara, check out the recipe on BBC’s Good Food.

Risotto

lemon risotto, lemon
Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

This Northern Italian rice dish is cooked with broth until it becomes creamy. Risotto is usually made from butter, onions, white wine, and parmesan cheese. According to a local legend, an apprentice of Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano sprinkled saffron to the risotto and served the dish at a wedding feast. The basis of risotto is its rice.

Common risotto rice is arborio, carnaroli, vialone nano which are considered good quality risotto rice. Long grain rice such as basmati and jasmine should be avoided. Unlike other rice, Risotto does not have to be rinsed. Check out the recipe for speck and wild garlic risotto on Financial Times.

Prosciutto

prosciutto, dry cured ham, asparagus, olives, bread
Photo by David B Townsend on Unsplash

Cambridge Dictionary defines prosciutto as an Italian dried ham served in thin slices. The meat should come from the leg or shoulder of a pig or any other animal.  

The hind legs of pigs are the main ingredient of this dish. The prosciutto process can take between nine months to two years, depending upon the size of the ham. Salt removes moisture and gives the dish its flavor. Prosciutto di Parma is the most prized prosciutto in the world. The breeding of the heavy pigs used for this ham began in the 3rd century BC.

Check out 19 of Our Favorite Prosciutto Recipes and 10 Delicious Ways to Use Prosciutto in Your Cooking to know more. For prosciutto recipes and menu ideas, check out Bon Appètit.

Is Italy worth visiting?

Yes! Check out the 10 Reasons to Visit Italy. Italy is home to landmarks such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Colosseum, the canals of Venice, and the white sandy beaches of Sardinia.

Do you know the 10 Things Italy Is Famous For?

Italy is a cosmopolitan city. One where you can walk past ancient buildings or marvel at its beaches, and learn from its museums. Before going, check out the 5 Things I Knew Before Going to Italy. Forbes gives you Why Italy Should Be Your Next Budget Travel and 5 Smarter Ways to Travel in Italy

RELATED: 

Off The Beaten Track Peru: Your Ultimate Guide!

Off The Beaten Path Italy: 7 Places For An Epic Experience! Read More »

famous landmarks in Ireland, cliffs of moher, ireland, landscape

5 Famous Landmarks In Ireland: A Complete Guide!

Ireland is the land of saints, scholars, legends, magic, and culture. With tales of leprechauns and hidden pots of gold, folklore is abundant here. Ireland’s history dates back to the prehistoric era, it is no wonder there are many famous landmarks in Ireland.

You have landed on the right page If you are looking to know more about Ireland, its national food, and the five famous landmarks of Ireland.

In this post, the questions which we will answer are:- 

  1. Where is Ireland?
  2. What is the national language of Ireland?
  3. What is the national food of Ireland?
  4. Where are Ireland’s five landmarks?
  5. Is Ireland a good place to visit?

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means, if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information.

Where is Ireland?

Ireland or the Republic of Ireland is an island on the North Atlantic Ocean. The North Channel separates Ireland and Great Britain which is on its East. 

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Is Ireland a safe country?

Vision of Humanity 2020 ranked Ireland the 12th most “peaceful” nation in the world. The measurements are based on a Global Peace Index that captures the absence of fear across three main areas which are safety and security, ongoing conflict, and militarization. 

Origins of Name

Ireland or Éire is from Ériu. She was an Old Irish goddess. Another name for the island is Erin which is from Éireann. William Drennan in his poem, When Erin First Rose described the island as “the Emerald Isle”.

An antiquated name for Ireland is Hibernia. Interestingly, Ptolemy drew a map of Ireland in 100 AD. In his map, he gives the names of 15 rivers, six promontories, and 10 cities. 

History of Ireland

The earliest inhabitants of Ireland were from the Mount Sandel Mesolithic Site. This site was home to an extended family of hunter-gatherers. The people here caught salmon in summer, gathered hazelnuts in autumn, and hunted wild boar in winter.

However, a bear bone found in 1903 at the Alice and Gwendoline Cave pushed back human inhabitants to 12,500 years ago. These findings were remarkable as the brown bear knee bone was dated towards the end of the Ice Age in Ireland.

Check out the Brief History of Ireland and the Top 10 Most Epic Ancient Sites in Ireland to know more.

What are the Irish famous for?

Ireland is a nation with a rich history. Here, we explore the 5 things that the Irish are famous for.

  1. Riverdance. Bill Whelan created this dance form. He created a dance that combined Spanish Flamenco with Irish Folk Dance. A special film version of this dance was made in conjunction with their 25th anniversary. 
  2. Drinks. Guinness, Kilkenny, Irish Whiskey, and Baileys trace their roots to Ireland. Check the 9 Most Popular Irish Alcoholic Beverages
  3. Musicians. Do Enya, Sinead O’Connor, The Cranberries, and U2 sound familiar? Yes, these chart-toppers are Irish. Check the Top 10 Irish Musicians of All Time by Billboard’s Hot 100. 
  4. Guinness Storehouse. Arthur Guinness began brewing ales in Dublin in 1759. Ten years later, he exported his first shipment to Great Britain. Check out the Guinness Storehouse, the ticket prices are Welcome Back Experience which is €15 ($17), Upgrade Experience at €24 ($28), and Ambassador Experience at €30 ($35). 
  5. Blarney Stone. This is a limestone block built into Blarney Castle. Legends say that kissing the stone gives the kisser a “gift of gab”.

The above are just some of the things the Irish are known for. Check out the 11 Awesome Things Ireland Gave The World.

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Visa Requirements

The Irish Naturalization and Immigration Services (INIS) is responsible for the issuing of visas and dealing with immigration matters. There are several types of visas available but for this post, we will focus on short-stay visas and long-stay visas.

A short-stay ‘C’ visa is for stays of less than 90 days. The requirements of this visa are on the Department of Justice’s Short Stay Visas page.

A long-stay ‘D’ visa is for stays of more than 90 days. The requirements for this visa are the Department of Justice’s Long Stay Visas page.

You can check if you need an Irish visa here and apply through the official AVATS Online Application Facility. The visa application form is available in 7 languages. However, forms completed in English are accepted for processing.

What is the national language of Ireland?

Irish Gaelic

Article 8 of the Constitution of Ireland states that Irish Gaelic is the first and official language of the nation. In a Central Statistics Office Population Survey, 39.8% of the population could speak Irish with Galway County recording the highest percentage of speakers at 49%. The primary speakers are, of course, primary and nursery teachers.

To further strengthen the usage of the Irish language, the Official Languages (Amendment Bill) 2019 seeks to amend and extend the use of the Irish language for all official state, parliamentary and public use as per the Official Languages Act 2003.

What is a typical Irish greeting?

A handshake is a common form of greeting in Ireland. A hug and a kiss on the cheek is an acceptable greeting among close family and friends. Cultural Atlas has an excellent article on everything you need to know about Irish culture, etiquette, and communication.

What is the Irish Hello?

Are you curious to know how to say some common words in Irish? Here you go!

Hello is “Dia duit” which means “May God be With You”, Goodbye is “Slán leat”, and Thank you is “Go raibh maith agat”. Check out Useful Irish Phrases and Words You Might Need and 15 Irish Sayings That Everyone in America Should Know

Duolingo is another useful tool to learn Irish.

Do you know what an Irish Goodbye or Irish Exit is? 

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English

According to Article 8 of the Constitution of Ireland, English is recognized as the second official language of the nation. The English language spoken in Ireland is known as Hiberno-English and is natively unique when compared to British English. 

English was brought to Ireland by the Norman Invasion in the 12th century. The second wave of English language speakers came during the Tudor Conquest

How many different languages are spoken in Ireland?

There are 72 different languages spoken in Ireland. Each of these languages has about 500 speakers. This means that three children in a classroom in Ireland speak another language other than English or Irish at home.

Polish is the most spoken foreign language followed by French and Romanian. Interestingly, Shona which is the main language of Zimbabwe is spoken by about 1000 people in Ireland.

The Irish Times states that there are 182 languages in Ireland. The United States has the largest number of Irish speakers with at least 20,000 people conversing the language. 

Do you know that the term “by hook or by crook” traces its origins to Ireland?

INTERESTING FACT:

According to the Cambridge Online Dictionary, the definition of the term “by hook or by crook” means any possible method. The story is that the term was a vow made by Oliver Cromwell during the Cromwellian Conquest of Ireland.

He was referring to the capture of Waterford and said that he would take Waterford either by Hook on the Eastern side of Waterford Estuary or by Crook that was on the Western side of the Estuary. Hence, the term “by hook or by crook“. He was believed to have relied on Hook Lighthouse which is the oldest operational lighthouse in the world.

What is the national food of Ireland?

Irish cuisine is based on the crops and animals of Ireland. Meals in Ireland include staples such as potatoes, fish, and meat. 

Irish Stew

famous landmarks in Ireland, Irish stew, potato, carrots, lamb, parsley, Ireland's national dish
Image Credit: Jeffreyw (Wikipedia Commons)

Irish stew is considered a national dish in Ireland. This dish has four basic ingredients which are lamb, potatoes, onions, and parsley. The modern variation includes carrot or mutton. This dish is known as “stobhach gaelach” in Gaelic Irish.

When the Irish Potato Famine struck in 1845, immigrants to the United States took this recipe with them. The recipe evolved to include Guinness Stout as an ingredient in this dish.

Chicago Tribune has an excellent recipe of Irish stew adapted from the traditional recipe served at Ireland’s oldest pub.

What are typical Irish foods?

Soda bread

famous landmarks in Ireland, soda bread, quick bread
Image Credit: O’Dea (Wikipedia Commons)

Soda bread is bread where the leavening agent is baking soda instead of yeast. This is a quick bread as it can be prepared quickly and is less time-consuming. It doesn’t require skilled labor and controlled temperature.

The basic ingredients are whole wheat or plain flour, buttermilk, honey, and eggs or olive oil. These loaves of bread are popular in Australia, Serbia, and Scotland. 

BBC UK has an excellent recipe which you can try and easily serves six persons. Darina Allen who is the “Julia Child of Emerald Isle” has her version of soda bread on Forbes.

Colcannon

famous landmarks in Ireland, Colcannon, white headed cabbage
Image Credit: Vegateam (Wikipedia Commons)

Cál ceannann means “white-headed cabbage”. This is another traditional Irish dish and is made from cabbage, kale, and mashed potatoes. This four-ingredient dish includes potatoes, butter, milk, and cabbage.

Smoked Salmon

famous landmarks in Ireland, smoked salmon
Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

In this dish, salmon is cured in either hot or cold smoke and served. Irish smoked salmon uses Atlantic Salmon smoked with oak from Irish whiskey casks. The recipe for this dish is on the Food Network.  

Boxty

famous landmarks in Ireland, boxty, traditional Irish pancakes made from potatoes
Image Credit: David Bailey (Wikipedia Commons)

Bacstaí or Boxty is traditional Irish pancakes made from potatoes. An Irish rhyme associated with this dish is “Boxty on the griddle; boxty on the pan. If you can’t make boxty, you’ll never get a man!”.

Boxty is traditionally served on St Brigid’s Day to mark the beginning of spring. Forbes has an excellent recipe for this dish. 

Where are Ireland’s five landmarks?

The five famous landmarks in Ireland that we will be focusing on are the Cliffs of Moher, Dublin Castle, the Rock of Cashel, Leap Castle, and the Newgrange Tomb.

Cliffs of Moher

cliffs of moher, scenic seacliff in Ireland, famous landmarks in Ireland
Photo by Sarah Donisi on Unsplash

The first of our famous landmarks in Ireland is the Cliffs of Moher. This scenic seacliff is on the southwestern edge of Clare County. It is about 165 miles from Dublin city which is an approximate 4-hour drive.

The O’Brien’s Tower is the highest viewpoint and was built by Sir Cornellius O’Brien in 1835. From the top of the tower, visitors can view Aran Islands in Galway Bay and the Maumturks and Twelve Pins mountain ranges. The name Cliffs of Moher is from the ancient Moher Tower which was built as a watchtower during the Napoleonic Wars. 

These cliffs were featured in the sixth installment of the Harry Potter series which was Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. 

Do you have to pay to see the Cliffs of Moher?

No, there isn’t any fee to see the cliffs. An admission ticket of €5.00 ($6) is for adults, senior citizens who are above 65 years, and students above 13 years of age. This ticket price covers family-friendly pathways, secure parking, and free WiFi.

These cliffs are on 8 Scenic Spots Not To Miss in Ireland, the 32 of the Most Beautiful Places in Ireland, and Lonely Planet.

Dublin Castle

famous landmarks in Ireland, Dublin Castle
Photo by Lisa Fecker on Unsplash

The second of our famous landmarks in Ireland is Dublin Castle. This iconic castle is in the heart of Dublin. The name Dublin is from the dark pool or “Dub Linn”. The pool is at the confluence of Liffey and Poddle Rivers.

Historically, this castle is one of the most important buildings in Ireland. The castle was a residence of the Irish Representative to the British Monarch from 1204 to 1922 and was eventually used as an administrative center.

Is Dublin Castle free?

The castle now houses the Office of Public Works (OPW). However, only the public gardens are free and accessible to the public. There are several tickets available:-

  1. Guided Tours. The costs are €12 ($14) for adults, €10 ($11) for seniors above 60 years and students with a valid student ID, €6 ($7) for children between 12 to 17 years. A Family Ticket is €30 ($35).
  2. Self-guided Tours. The costs are €8 ($9) for adults, €6 ($7) for seniors and students with a valid student ID, €4 ($5) for children between 12 to 17 years. A Family Ticket is €20 ($24).
  3. Heritage Card. This card gives access to all OPW Heritage Sites for one year. The costs are €40 ($47) for adults, €30 ($35) for seniors above 60 years and students with a valid student ID. Children between 12 to 17 are €10 ($11). A Family Ticket is €90 ($107). For more information on this card, click The Heritage Card page.
  4. Dublin Pass. This card has access to the self-guided tours which are €3 ($4). For more information on this card, click on the Dublin Pass page.  

This landmark is on Forbes, Lonely Planet, and CNN Travel and is a must-visit when in Dublin.

Rock of Cashel

Rock of Cashel, famous landmarks in Ireland
Photo by Mike Kenneally on Unsplash

The third of our famous landmarks in Ireland is the Rock of Cashel. Rock of Cashel is located 103 miles from Dublin. 

Local legends mention that this rock was originally at Devil’s Bit. The story goes that St Patrick was chasing the Devil across Ireland, the Devil bit a chunk of rock and spat it out. The rock which he spat out is now Rock of Cashel.

Another legend has it that St Patrick converted King Aenghus to Christianity. Brian Boru who united Ireland was crowned here. 

How much does it cost to visit Rock of Cashel?

The admission costs are €8 ($9) for adults, €6 ($7) for senior citizens, €4 ($5) for children and students, and €20 ($24) for family.

Leap Castle

famous landmarks in Ireland, Leap castle, world's most haunted castle
Image Credit: Mike Searle (Wikipedia Commons)

The fourth of our famous landmarks in Ireland is Leap Castle. Leap Castle describes itself as “the world’s most haunted castle”. The castle’s reputation is from a curse.

The story goes that a chieftain once wagered a bet on a poor peasant. The bet was that he would exempt the peasant from paying rent if he could jump between two rocks. The peasant tried and failed.

Another story states that the castle sits on an ancient ceremonial site, hence the hauntings. The castle is now a private residence with the current owners continuing the restoration works.

Some of the hauntings are The Bloody Chapel, the Priest’s House, the Murder Hole Room, the Red Lady, Emily & Charlotte, the Murdered Woman, and the Governess & the Old Man. This castle was featured on the Irish Post, Irish Central, The Mirror, and Conde Nast Traveler.

Newgrange Tomb

famous landmarks in Ireland, Newgrange Tomb, prehistoric monument
Image Credit: Tjp Finn (Wikipedia Commons)

The fifth of our famous landmarks in Ireland is Newgrange Tomb. This prehistoric monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site are 37 miles from Dublin. This site is a large circular mound with large inner passageways that predates Stonehenge by 500 years.

This structure built entirely of stone is 600 years older than the Great Pyramids of Giza. To know more, check out the 101 Facts About Newgrange

Do you know that a single drop of water has not penetrated the interiors of the tomb in 40 centuries?

Newgrange is a Stone Age engineering marvel and is on CNN Travel, National Geographic, and Lonely Planet.

Is Ireland worth visiting?

Yes! With breathtaking landscapes, stunning coastlines, and many historical sites, Ireland is a must-visit. We will explore the four reasons why you should make that trip to Ireland.

Castles

Dunguaire Castle, most phographed castle in Ireland
Photo by Matteo Paonessa on Unsplash

Our famous landmarks in Ireland wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the castles of Ireland. With castles all over Ireland, it would be hard to choose which one to visit. There is Blarney Castle, Bunratty Castle, Trim Castle, and Cahir Castle just to name a few.

Dunguaire Castle is the most photographed castle in Ireland. Check out Travel Channel’s Best Castle in Ireland to know more. Ashford Castle is now a hotel. This castle is about 155 miles from Dublin and sits on the Mayo-Galway border. This castle was was once home to the Guinness family. Pierce Brosnan and Keely Shaye Smith held their reception here in 2001.

Another castle that is gaining local support is the Old Court Castle in Bray. Vandals have removed stones creating a gaping hole in the castle’s structure. 

How many castles are there in Ireland?

There are more than 30,000 castles. We know it’s impossible to visit all of them, so check out the Must-See Castles of Ireland and the 11 Best Castles to Visit in Ireland

Where are the best castles in Ireland?

Whether it’s best castles or beautiful castles, Ireland has it all. Check out the Best Castles to Stay in Ireland and the Beautiful Castles in Ireland You Can’t Miss

Coasts and Countryside

coasts and countryside of Ireland, sea, islands, green hills
Photo by Anukrati Omar on Unsplash

The coasts and countrysides are other famous landmarks in Ireland. Check out the Best Coastal Destinations in Ireland to know more.

How many miles is the coast of Ireland?

The Ordnance Survey of Ireland states that the total length around Ireland at 1,970 miles. Ireland’s coastal road is The Wild Atlantic Way. This is similar to the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne, Australia. The route starts at Inishowen Peninsula in the north and ends in Kinsale in the south. 

Along the route, you can check out the 10 Best Beaches in Ireland or you can explore the 10 Best Road Trips in Ireland.

Pubs

Pubs in Ireland, in here its always Friday, neon lighting
Photo by Edouard Percevault on Unsplash

Irish pubs have a casual and friendly atmosphere. Here, we will check out the highest pub and oldest pub in Ireland.

What is the highest pub in Ireland?

Top of Coom is Ireland’s highest pub at over 1,045 feet above sea level. Check the 7 Most Remote Irish Pubs In The World and the 5 Pubs in Ireland That Hold Epic Records. After all, your trip to  Ireland isn’t complete without a visit to an Irish pub.

What is the oldest pub in Ireland?

The oldest pub in Ireland is Sean’s Bar which dates back to 900 AD. A “wattle and wicker” wall was discovered and it was dated between the 9th to 13th centuries. This bar is also certified by the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest bar in Ireland and Europe. A certificate confirming the status is also on display.

Legends

Photo by Anthony Tran on Unsplash

Irish legends and mythologies are based on three main manuscripts which are The Book of Dun Cow, the Book of Leinster, and the Bodleian Library. The manuscripts in these books are from the Ulster Cycle of Mythology.

Mythological Cycles are stories of people who were once Gods. The cycle also looks at the origins of the Irish people. Ulster Cycles are stories of heroic tales of mortal characters.

What are some Irish myths?

Leprechauns, fairies, Finn McCool, shamrock, and St Patrick Ireland’s myths. Check out the Best Stories from Irish Mythologies, the Top Irish Legends and Myths to Tell Your Kids at Bedtime, and Where to Find Ireland’s Myths and Legends Today

With these beautiful stories, castles, and coastlines, it is no wonder that Ireland is a must-visit destination when in Europe.

Check out the 17 Best Places to Visit in Ireland, 16 Reasons Why You Should Visit Ireland At Least Once In Your Lifetime, and 10 Essential Experiences on Emerald Isle You Must Have and make your way there.

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unexplored places in srilanka, ella, landscape

5 Inspiring Unexplored Places In Sri Lanka That We Love!

Sri Lanka or Ceylon is on Palk Straits in the Indian Ocean. This island paradise has many tourist trails that include beaches, hill stays, and tea plantations. Do you the unexplored places in Sri Lanka?

In this post, we will answer the following questions:-

  1. Where is Sri Lanka and what are the visa requirements to enter the country?
  2. What is the first language in Sri Lanka?
  3. Where are the unexplored places in Sri Lanka?
  4. Where is the coldest place in Sri Lanka?
  5. What is the famous food of Sri Lanka?
  6. Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means, if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information.

Where is Sri Lanka?

The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka is in the Indian Ocean. The island is southwest of the Bay of Bengal. This island has two monikers which are “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” and “Teardrop of the Indian Ocean”. For a complete guide to this nation, I recommend Lonely Planet’s Guide to Sri Lanka.

Names of Sri Lanka

In Mahavamsa, the island was Tambapanni. The nation’s first king was Prince Vijaya. The term “Lanka” means an island. This widely used term of the aborigines specifically belongs to the Central and Eastern Indian tribes. In Hindu mythology, the term “Lanka” appears.

The ancient Greeks referred to the island as Taprobana whilst the Persians referred to it as Sarandip. Portuguese named the island Ceilao. The name evolved to Ceylon once the British arrived.  

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History of Sri Lanka

Pre-historic

The Iranamadu Formation places Sri Lanka’s history back 300,000 years before the present (BP). Tools made from quartz indicate that there was a pre-historic settlement in almost all regions of Sri Lanka. Once Balangoda Man was identified, the link between the Veddha’s was confirmed. The earliest evidence of human civilization on the island is Fa Hien Cave where ancient fossils were found.

Local legends mention a Buddhist monk named Fa Xian was a resident here. The Travels of Fa-Hien are the only link to these legends. A burial site in Fa Hien Cave in 1968 and further comparative studies indicated that the earliest occupants of the cave lived during the same period as Europe’s Cro-Magnon Man.

Ancient

The ancient history of Sri Lanka is divided into pre-Anuradhapura and the Anuradhapura period. The political history of the pre-Anuradhapura period began in 543 BC when Prince Vijaya established the Kingdom of Tambapanni.

The House of Vijaya is the first and only recorded Sinhalese royal dynasty. The monarchs from this house ruled Sri Lanka for 609 years. The Vasabha Dynasty of Anuradhapura defeated this dynasty.  If you are curious to know more about the list of Sri Lankan monarchs, read The Kings of Sri Lanka.

The Pali Chronicles of Dipavamsa, Mahavamsa, Thupavamsa, and Culavamsa provide written historical records of Sri Lanka from the 6th century onwards. The Anuradhapura period began in 377-1017 BC during the reign of Pandukabhaya who established the Anuradhapura Kingdom.

Post-classical

It was Vijayabahu I who successfully drove out the Cholas in 1070 and reunited the country as a whole. However, it was Parakramabahu I reign that the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa was at its greatest. 

The founder of the Jaffna Kingdom, Kalinga Magha invaded Polonnaruwa in 1215 intending to loot, ransack and destroy everything. It was during his reign that there was a massive migration of the Sinhalese to the mountainous interiors.

Do you know that Admiral Zheng He installed the Galle Trilingual Inscription stone tablet as offerings to Buddha, Allah, and Hindu God Vishnu?

Modern

Modern Sri Lanka is divided into three which are Portuguese Ceylon, Dutch Ceylon, and the British Ceylon periods. The transition from the British Empire towards an independent nation succeeded on 4th February 1948. Ceylon was Dominion of Ceylon after it received independence from the British Empire.

On 22nd May 1972, the island officially became a republic and was renamed the Republic of Sri Lanka.

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Visa Requirements

Sri Lanka’s visa policy with regards to tourism states that tourists must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. There are four types of visa services available from the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka. The ETA is the official website and is an online system.

Once your visa is approved, an ETA Approval Notice is sent to the applicant. The Approval Notice is needed when you arrive in Sri Lanka.

What is the first language in Sri Lanka?

Several languages are spoken in Sri Lanka with Sinhala being the official language. The other languages include Tamil and English. Sinhala is spoken by the Sinhalese people who are the largest ethnic group in the country. The oldest record of Sinhalese Prakrit dates back to the 3rd century BC when Buddhism first arrived in the country.

Sinhala belongs to the Indo-Aryan group of languages. Tamil is spoken by 5 million people and is a Dravidian language. These people are descendants of the Jaffna Kingdom and mostly reside in the north of Sri Lanka. The Sri Lanka Tamils have lived on the island since the 2nd century BC.

English is a link language between the two and is spoken by 24% of the population. English is used for official and commercial purposes and is spoken in cities. Sri Lankan Malay is a minority language spoken by Sri Lankan Malays. Sri Lankan Malays have full or partial ancestry to Indonesian and Malay Archipelago. 

The first wave of Malays arrived when Sri Lanka was a Dutch Colony during the 16th and 17th centuries. The second wave was between 1796-1948 when Sri Lanka was part of the British Empire. The Dutch brought them to Sri Lanka because of their bravery and loyalty. The Malays of Sri Lanka have retained their culture, for example, Tuan (Sir) is used within the community.

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How do you say hello in Sri Lanka?

With Sri Lanka’s ethnic diversity, there are three ways to say “hello”. The first is Ayubowan in Sinhalese. The second is vanakkam in Tamil and lastly, halo which is in English. Namaste as a greeting is recognized due to the nation’s proximity to India.

How do you say good morning in Sri Lanka?

Subha udhāsanak is how you say “good morning” while Subha dhavalak is “good afternoon” and Subha sandhavak is “good evening”. Check out the Useful Phrases in Sinhala and Learn the 30 Most Important Words In Sinhala.

How do you greet someone in Sri Lanka?

The accepted form of greeting someone in Sri Lanka is to press the palm of one’s hand together under the chin with the head slightly bowed down. It is customary that the younger one greets the oldest first.

Hugging and kissing as a greeting should be avoided unless one is familiar with the person. The culture of Sri Lanka combines modern and traditional in a mix of ethnic diversity.

Check out the 11 Things To Know About Sri Lanka’s Local Culture before planning your trip there.

What does ayubowan mean?

Ayubowan is a salutation that wishes the recipient long life. It is used as a greeting in Sri Lanka and is equivalent to “Namaste” in India.

Where are the unexplored places in Sri Lanka?

Just like any other country, there are many unexplored places in Sri Lanka. Many of these places remain unknown as the boom in tourism has led to over-populated beaches and accommodation in some parts of the country.

We will now explore the Top 5 least explored places in Sri Lanka that could turn your ordinary journey into an extraordinary one.

Anuradhapura

This city is 126 miles from Colombo is the capital city of the Northern Central Province of Sri Lanka. This city is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and is known for its well-preserved Sinhalese ruins.

Anuradhapura together with Kandy and Polonurrawa make up the “cultural triangle” of Sri Lanka. These towns are host to four UNESCO Heritage Sites. In this post, we visit the three sites that should be on your itinerary for Anuradhapura.

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

unexplored places in Sri Lanka, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Image Credit: TimeOut

The first in our unexplored places in Sri Lanka is Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. This fig tree is from a branch of the Sri Maha Bodhi in Bodh Gaya, India where Gautama Buddha attained nirvana.

A sapling was brought by Sanghamitta Theri. She was the eldest daughter of Emperor Ashoka who came to Sri Lanka. She planted the sapling in 288 BC and went on to ordain Queen Anula Devi who had already reached a high state of spirituality known as Sothapanna.

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Jetavanaramaya Stupa

The second in our unexplored places in Sri Lanka is Jetavanaramaya Stupa. This stupa is in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest ancient stupa in the world at 400 feet in height. 

Can You Go Inside A Stupa?

No, there are two methods of worship in a stupa. The first is a devotee would prostrate themselves in front of the stupa. Secondly, they would circumambulate in a clockwise direction. 

A stupa is a mound-like structure that contains relics or ashes or revered monks or nuns. The dome-shaped structure of a stupa represents a person seated in meditation. Circumambulation of a stupa brings one towards enlightenment.

Check out the Most Notable Buddhist Stupas Around the World to know more about these amazing structures. 

Thuparamaya

unexplored places in Sri Lanka, Thuparamaya Stupa
Image Credit: Exploreslk (Wikipedia Commons)

The third in our unexplored places in Sri Lanka is Thuparamaya. This is the first stupa in Sri Lanka. This stupa is within the grounds of Mahamevnawa Gardens. King Mutasiva built this park. Mahamevnawa means “Grove of the Great Cloud”. Lord Buddha’s collar bone here. This makes this place a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. This stupa is on Business Mirror, India.com, and Lonely Planet

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Ambuluwawa Tower

unexplored places in Sri Lanka, Ambuluwawa Tower
Image Credit: Circle Ceylon

The fourth in our unexplored places in Sri Lanka is Ambuluwawa Tower. This tower is part of the Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex in Kandy. This multi-cultural complex houses a mosque, a temple, and a church. This complex reflects harmony and unity among Sri Lankans that exist today.

How Long Does It Take To Climb Ambuluwawa Tower?

It takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours to climb the staircase to the top. The climb depends on your fitness level.

How Tall is the Ambuluwawa Tower?

This tower sits on a hill and has a height of 48 meters above sea level. This attraction is on Death-defying Attractions That Should be Illegal to Visit

Bentota

unexplored places in sri lanka, bentota lake
Image Credit: Hafiz Issadeen (Wikipedia Commons)

The fifth in our unexplored places in Sri Lanka is Bentota Lake. This lake is in Bentota which is about 38 miles from Colombo in the Galle district. The lake sits between the main coastline that separates the sea and the city.

The name is from “Bem” and “tota” which means city according to local folklore in this area. Hence, the name “Bentota”. Bentota is on the 5 Awesome Places to Visit in Sri Lanka, Forbes, and BBC Travel.

Madu Ganga

unexplored places in Sri Lanka, Madu Ganga, Mangrove Forest
Image Credit: Found in Sri Lanka

The sixth in our unexplored places in Sri Lanka is Madu Ganga. Madu Ganga is a watercourse that opens into Madu Ganga lake. This lake together with Randombe Lake forms the Madu Ganga Wetlands declared in 2003 as part of the Ramsar Convention.

Madu Ganga’s main treasures are its mangrove forests. This place is on Lonely Planet, Daily Mail, and Daily Express.

Laxapana Waterfalls

The seventh and last in our unexplored places in Sri Lanka is Laxapana Waterfalls. This waterfall is the 8th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. The name is derived from Sinhalese words “Laxa” which means “hundred thousand” and “pana” which means “rocks”.

The literal translation means a hundred thousand rocks. There are two local legends associated with these waterfalls. The first legend states that Buddha stopped by the waterfall and mended his robe while he was on the way to Sri Pada.

The second legend is that there is a receptacle that lives beneath its waters and that it brings rain to the area during droughts. This waterfall is on Things To Do In Sri Lanka, The Culture Trip, and Inspirock.

Where is the coldest place in Sri Lanka?

Nuwara Eliya

unexplored places in Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya, tea plantations, tea leaves
Photo by Yasasi Rajapakse on Unsplash

This hill station is known as “Little England”. The name of this hill station means “city on the plains”. Nuwara Eliya is the tea capital of the nation. This hill retreat was a favorite among the British elite who came here to immerse in their hobbies.

The buildings in this city retain their old-world charm. The homes are the Queen’s Cottage, General’s House, and Town Post Office which has stood the test of time. The architecture of these buildings is reminiscent of the past.

Read Sips From Sri Lanka to know more about the teas of Nuwara Eliya. Check out The Top Things To See And Do In Nuwara Eliya and the 10 Best Things To Do In Nuwara Eliya before planning your trip there.

For hotels in Nuwara Eliya, check out:

What is the famous food of Sri Lanka?

Fish Ambul Thiyal (Fish Curry)

unexplored places in Sri Lanka, Fish Ambu Thiyal, Sri Lankan Fish Curry
Image Credit: World Food Guide
fish ambu thiyal, sri lankan fish curry

Fish Ambul Thiyal is a sour fish curry that was originally from Ambalagonda. This dish is best made with tuna. Fish Ambul Thiyal can be preserved for a week because of the tamarind used when making this dish. The recipe for this dish is on Cookpad. This dish is not be missed in Sri Lanka.

Kukul Mas Curry (Chicken Curry)

unexplored places in Sri Lanka, Kukul Mas, Sri Lankan Chicken Curry
Image Credit: World Food Guide

Canadian-Sri Lankan chef, Ruwanmali Samarakoon-Amunugama describes this dish as her “top five list of comfort foods”. The recipe for this dish is on Food.com.

What is Sri Lanka curry like?

Sri Lankan curry consists of caramelized onions, sour pickles, and spicy curries that instantly awaken your senses. Check out The Best Curries You Should Try In Sri Lanka and the 7 Dishes You Need To Know

Sri Lankan Crab Curry

sri lankan crab curry
Image Credit: The Flavor Bender

Kakuluwo uses mud crabs or blue swimmer crabs as its main ingredient. The crabs are marinated overnight and can only be made the next day. This means preparations have to be made earlier. This dish is an embodiment of Sri Lanka’s culture. The recipe for this dish is on SBS Food.

Lamprais

unexplored places in Sri Lanka, Lamprais, Dutch Burgher dish
Image Credit: The New York Times

It was the Dutch Burgher community in Sri Lanka that introduced this dish to the nation. It is important that the ingredients are wrapped in banana leaf. Banana leaf gives this dish a special flavor and fragrance. This dish consists of a three-meat curry which is usually beef, pork, chicken. Check out this dish is on Info Lanka.

Polos (Young Jackfruit Curry)

unexplored places in Sri Lanka, young jackfruit curry
Image Credit: Simply Lanka

This young jackfruit dish is Polos. Polos is a must-try when in Sri Lanka. During the British occupancy of Sri Lanka, it was this ‘vegan sensation’ that saved the nation from starvation. An Australian burger joint, Moo-Free Burgers has been serving jackfruit “pulled pork” in vegan barbeque sauce. The recipe for this dish is on The Flavor Bender.

What are the best hotels in Sri Lanka?

We will be exploring the 5 best hotels in Sri Lanka. From elephant stables, beach resorts and a sprawling bungalow in a tea plantation, these resorts are a perfect escape in Sri Lanka.

Ceylon Tea Trails

Situated in Bogawantalawa, the Golden Valley of Ceylon Tea lies 5 bungalows set amidst cool hills. Their latest bungalow, Dunkeld, has an infinity pool that drops onto the lake. Each bungalow has a butler and an executive chef who would assist with your meals for the day.

A review of this hotel is on Telegraph UK.

Kumu Beach

This hotel in Balapitiya is chic and refined and has 10 sea-facing rooms, manicured lawns, and a slim 23-meter swimming pool. This unassuming hotel boasts attentive and genuine staff. The downside is patchy WiFi throughout the property. A review of this hotel is in Telegraph UK.

Cape Weligama

This resort is a 40-minute drive from Galle and boasts magnificent views of the Indian Ocean. Although the views are to die for, there isn’t any beach here. The service at this hotel is superb with chefs constantly engaging with guests and wait staff are attentive to guests’ needs.

The resort caters to families as it has a separate family pool, spa villa, and a watersports center that offers whale watching, cycling, and diving activities. A review of this hotel is in Telegraph UK.

Chena Huts

This resort is at the boundary of Yala National Park and is above a beach. With wildlife at the doorstep of the hotel, guests can see eagles flying high above the resort and an occasional elephant on the property. The huts are a cathedral dome shape. This reflects the tree huts of farmers who keep a night watch.

This family-friendly and disable friendly hotel has interconnecting huts and a wheel-chair accessible hut. A review of this hotel is in Telegraph UK.

The Elephant Stables

This family-friendly hotel has six rooms and one luxury tent that boasts colonial era and contemporary style fittings. The hotel aims to keep a bright and airy feel with yellow tones pervading throughout the property. The service is top-notch and the facilities include a yoga teacher on request and an infinity pool.

Guests are provided with returnable mobile phones and sim cards upon check-in. This is so that they can contact the hotel for pick-up in and around Kandy.

Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?

Yes!

With a welcoming tropical climate, stunning beaches, and mouth-watering food, Sri Lanka is a must-visit destination. Check out 11 Reasons Why You Should Visit Sri Lanka and 23 Reasons To Visit Sri Lanka. Rough Guides give you 9 Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka’s East Coast while Culture Trip gives 7 Travel Tips for First-Timers to Sri Lanka

I recommend The Rough Guide to Sri Lanka which gives you ideal places to eat, sleep and visit in Sri Lanka.

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