A bustling fishing town, Negombo is the closest city of consequence to Sri Lanka’s main international airport, and is usually either the first stop of choice to commence your travels in Sri Lanka or the last in winding down your holiday. The town has for centuries been an important trading port, with its natural lagoon first attracting Arab merchants and traders here as far back as the 7th Century, in search of the prized spice cinnamon which grew profusely in the area.