It's colourful, it's noisy, and it's bustling. That's perhaps the best way to describe Pettha, a market quarter in Colombo. Amidst neon signs, mobile phone covers, and mandarins, we're propelled forward. Tuk-tuks honk, market vendors shout, and the scent of dried fish fills the air. As we meander through the streets, we get the impression that you can find everything imaginable here, and we mean everything. Alongside stores brimming with spices and dried fish, there are electronics shops, household goods, a wide selection of flip-flops, clothing, and plastic goods from China, DVDs, handbags, refrigerators ... you name it, they have it. We let ourselves be carried along, relishing the hustle and bustle. We try not to get in the way of the workers with their hand carts, buying a bag of fruits here and a screwdriver there. When it all gets a bit overwhelming, we take a right turn and after a few hundred meters, we find ourselves in the somewhat quieter market halls, where fruits and vegetables are being sold. An experience for all the senses! Shortly after, we enjoy a tea at the warmhearted Mohammed's, in what is probably the smallest tea shop in the entire market.

From Colombo Fort Station, for example, head up 1st Cross Street. Then, take a right onto Prince Street. Continue until you reach the open vegetable market halls on 5th Cross Street, opposite the bus station. If it all becomes too overwhelming, take a stroll to the nearby Pettah Floating Market for a snack in a quieter atmosphere. However, it's worth knowing that this market was designed for tourism and should not be compared to a traditional floating market in Thailand.

The best time to immerse yourself in the shopping hustle is every day, as these shops are open seven days a week.

DO look out for Mr. Mohammed and his tiny tea shop. You find him on the outside (facing the Sri Bodhjiraja Maratha) of the fruit market hall facing the bus stop.

DON'T allow pickpockets to take anything from you. Stay alert, but don't let fear consume you."