It seems strange after so long in semi isolation to find the town coming to life again. The centre of Negombo was always busy but the areas most frequented by tourists have been very quiet. Gradually now the souvenir and craft shops are dusting off their wares and reopening. More and more tourists are arriving and wandering around, so gradually the restaurants and bars are livening up.
The constant cry of “you want tuktuk” is to be heard again from the multitude of drivers, the local ones seem to be suffering from amnesia and have forgotten that for the last two years I have walked past them quite happily. Now it is assumed I am incapable of walking!
On 1st December the countdown to Christmas was heralded by bangers being let off at midnight. I was prepared for it this year. I still find it strange that in this heat so many Christmas decorations are the traditional Victorian snow scenes. The exception to the standard red, green and gold themes are the sets of Advent candles, three are a soft mauve, one white and one pink.
Jetwing Beach Hotel has started a weekly Sunday Market in their car park. The range of stalls was a good selection of organic spices, oils, chutneys and other foodstuffs. Beautiful locally made craft items were to be found and a secondhand book stall all added to the temptation to spend money.
Café Zen at Skinny Suddha held their Christmas market on Saturday offering mulled wine and mince pies as well as attractive gifts to buy. It seemed very strange sitting in temperatures in excess of 32 degrees sipping hot wine.
Dolce Vita held the final quiz night of the year in the evening and fun was had by all seven competing teams. Our team came a creditable second for the night and third over the year.
To round off the week the carnival was in town. Scaled down from previous years there were still plenty of rides for children to enjoy, candy floss and spicy fruit snacks to eat.
My Christmas tree is up and decorated, this week I hope to be able to get my Christmas house (otherwise known as stable and nativity scene). I will post pictures when that is set up.
All in all, life seems to be busy and very festive now.
Janet's Journal 
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