Colombo, Sri Lanka
Trendy area popular with expats and young professionals. Good cafes, restaurants, and hospitals nearby. Safer and quieter than central Colombo, though you'll pay mid-range prices.
Havelock Town (Colombo 5) has gotten trendy over the past decade - young professionals, expats, and local families moving in. The Havelock City shopping complex area stays busy from morning through evening with people at cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. Good hospitals nearby (Lanka Hospital, Asiri Surgical) and international schools, which is why expat families like it. Food scene ranges from street food to upscale places like Gini restaurant. You'll see people eating alone regularly, especially at the brunch cafes that fill with laptop workers during the day. It's quieter and feels safer than Kollupitiya, with decent lighting and security systems in buildings. Fine for walking during the day, but after 10pm the residential streets empty out - stick to main roads or use PickMe/Uber. English is common since many residents are international professionals.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
LowScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Excellent"Good cafes for working, felt welcome sitting alone"
"Quieter and safer feeling than busier areas"
"Food scene had both international and local options"
"Easy to use PickMe, felt fine taking rides"
"Less touristy, more residential which I liked"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Popular oceanfront promenade for sunset and street food. Safe during evening hours with family crowds. A destination to visit, not an area to stay.
Kollupitiya is where most of Colombo's international restaurants and cafes are concentrated. It's safer and more walkable than most areas, with good English and a cosmopolitan feel. You'll pay more for everything here.
Beach suburb with relaxed atmosphere, seafood restaurants, and family-friendly vibe. Calmer than central Colombo but requires 30-minute commute to main sights.
Help other women stay safe in Havelock Town (Colombo 5)
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.