Explorer le monde

Nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Bentota is a tropical paradise that blends golden beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Famous for its calm waters, luxury resorts, and scenic river estuary, Bentota has become a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic experiences. From serene beach walks at sunrise to adrenaline-pumping water sports, this coastal town offers a perfect balance of leisure and exploration. With its proximity to Colombo and Galle, Bentota is easy to reach, making it an ideal stop for both short escapes and extended holidays.

Population: Approximately 37,000 in 2023.

Economy: Bentota’s economy thrives mainly on tourism, which drives local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and wellness retreats. The town also benefits from fishing, coconut cultivation, and handicrafts like wood carving and batik textiles. Many residents rely on the growing demand for water sports and Ayurvedic treatments, making tourism the backbone of both income and employment in the area.

Landmarks: Famous for Bentota Beach, Bentota River Safari, and Kande Vihara Temple.

Mirissa is a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline. Known for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, it has become a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the island. Many come for whale watching, surfing, and sunset views at Coconut Tree Hill, but Mirissa offers much more than postcard beauty. The fishing boats you see anchored by the bay carry generations of stories. Local traditions, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back rhythm of life shape every visitor’s experience.

Population: Approximately 4,700 in 2023.

Economy: Mirissa’s economy is largely shaped by its coastal location. Fishing has long been the backbone of local livelihoods, with generations relying on the Indian Ocean for income. In recent decades, tourism has become the main driver of growth, thanks to whale watching, surfing, and beachside hospitality.

Landmarks: Famous for Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, and Parrot Rock Bridge.

Tucked away in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is often called “Little England”. With its rolling tea plantations, cool misty mornings, and colonial charm, this mountain town feels like a step into another world. Travelers come here to breathe fresh air, walk through flower gardens, sip the finest Ceylon Tea, and enjoy a pace of life far from the island’s busy cities. Whether you’re drawn by scenic landscapes, heritage architecture, or the warmth of its people, Nuwara Eliya is a destination that blends nature, culture, and history in perfect harmony.

Population: Approximately 781,000 in 2023.

Economy: Nuwara Eliya’s economy thrives mainly on tea production, as it sits in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, famous worldwide for Ceylon Tea. The city also benefits from a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors with its colonial charm, cool climate, and scenic landscapes.

Landmarks: Famous for Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Victoria Park.

Perched in the state of Pahang, Malaysia, the Cameron Highlands is a highland retreat famed for its tea plantations, strawberry farms, and cool mountain air. Often called the Green Jewel of Malaysia, this destination blends colonial charm with natural beauty, making it a favorite among both domestic travelers and international visitors. With rolling hills, lush forests, and Tudor-style cottages, Cameron Highlands offers a unique escape from the tropical heat of Kuala Lumpur or Penang.

Population: Approximately 43,000 in 2019.

Economy: Cameron Highlands’ economy is primarily driven by agriculture, tourism, and retail trade. The region is one of Malaysia’s most important suppliers of vegetables, tea, and flowers, with farms exporting produce nationwide and abroad. Tourism also plays a significant role, with visitors supporting local businesses, markets, and hospitality services.

Landmarks: Famous for the Boh Tea Plantation, Mossy Forest at Gunung Brinchang, and Lavender Garden & Butterfly Farm.

Hidden deep in the heart of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, the Kinabatangan River winds through lush rainforests and thriving wetlands. Known as one of the best places in Asia for spotting wildlife, Kinabatangan draws eco-travelers, birdwatchers, and culture seekers alike. But Kinabatangan is more than a wildlife haven. It is also home to the Orang Sungai, or “River People,” whose traditions remain closely tied to the river. A journey here offers travelers not just a glimpse of Borneo’s biodiversity, but also a chance to connect with a living culture.

Population: Approximately 16,000 in 2020.

Economy: Kinabatangan’s economy is closely tied to its natural resources and fertile lands. The region relies heavily on agriculture, with palm oil plantations being a major contributor. Fishing and small-scale farming support local livelihoods, while eco-tourism has grown rapidly, thanks to the Kinabatangan River’s rich biodiversity.

Landmarks: Famous for the Kinabatangan River Safari, Gomantong Caves, and the Ox-Bow Lakes.

Tucked away in the heart of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, Sepilok is a paradise for eco-travelers. This small settlement, only 25 kilometers from Sandakan, has become world-famous for its Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Here, visitors can witness endangered orangutans learning to live wild again. Beyond the orangutans, Sepilok offers rich rainforest landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a strong commitment to eco-tourism.

Population: Sepilok is a small town. The population here is not documented.

Economy: Sepilok’s economy thrives mainly on eco-tourism and conservation efforts. Beyond tourism, the surrounding region supports agriculture, particularly palm oil plantations and small-scale farming.

Landmarks: Famous for the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC).