Britons battling the bone-chilling cold may find their thoughts wandering to warmer climes, and Galle, in Sri Lanka, could be just the sunny sanctuary they're looking for, with an average temperature of 30C in winter. Not only does the seaside city promise plenty of sunshine, but it also boasts a treasure trove of attractions for travellers. The star of the show is undoubtedly the historic Galle Fort, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the serene tropical landscapes and picturesque old town are also worth visiting.
Long before the Portuguese set foot on its shores in the 16th century, Galle was known as Gimhathiththa, claiming fame as the island's premier port. Travel experts from Salt in our Hair explained: "Galle Fort is the most beautiful coastal town in Sri Lanka. Here, life slows down as locals play cricket alongside the beach, travellers walk on the ancient fort walls, and street vendors sell fresh tropical fruit under the palm trees.
" They added: "Its history makes it a melting pot of culture, with a unique fusion of European and Asian influences, as seen in the whitewashed Dutch-style buildings that line the cobbled streets." Globetrotter Mollie from We are Global Travellers shared: "Turns out Galle is an incredibly vibrant cultural hub with a history dating back to the late 16th Century when Galle Fort was first conquered by the Portuguese. Galle was then taken over by the Dutch in the 17th century and for over 200 years, it was Sri Lanka's main spice .