Andrew, Sylvie & Colette
England & France, May 2016
What did you like most about Sri Lanka?
Mixture of culture, fabulous mountainous scenery, wildlife and the beaches.
What did you like least about Sri Lanka?
Rain (!) and the driving conditions. The stopping and starting and lack of lane discipline was unbearable at times!
What is your opinion of your accommodation in Sri Lanka?
I think we made good choices overall. We liked the mixture of the atmospheric colonial buildings with the newer resorts further in the south of the country. Some of the rooms (Portofino [Resort Tangalle, Tangalle] and [The] Safari Resort near Tissa [Tissamaharama]) were in need of a good clean (squashed mosquitos on the wall, dust on the lights). The food at Portofino (dinner and breakfast a la carte) was the best by far, followed by the Havelock [Place] Bungalow [Colombo] (we ate dinner and breakfast on both nights). The buffets at Sigiriya [Hotel Sigiriya] were the best of the bunch (possibly as this was at the beginning of the trip), Those at the Suisse Hotel [Hotel Suisse, Kandy] and the Royal Safari Resort [Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort, Uda Walawe] (in particular) had poor hygiene. In fact, of all the places serving buffets, only the [The] Safari Resort had any evidence of refrigeration. Enjoyed Fort Bliss [Galle] very much.
What is your opinion of your chauffeur guide in Sri Lanka?
Anura was very personable and helpful. His driving was very impressive in view of the difficult driving conditions, he was careful in the mountains as it is easy to take corners quickly on the descents. His knowledge of the history of the places was not so good, I am not sure if he was holding back and waiting for us to ask questions or whether he was not fully briefed. He was also not particularly easy to understand, his English was not as good as we expected. In comparison, we spoke to several locals in the hotels, many of whom spoke fluent English. However, overall we were happy with Anura.
What is your opinion of your flights to and from Sri Lanka?
Sri Lankan were on time in both directions and the service on board was very attentive. Having flown on the majority of the world’s major airlines (including the likes of Sri Lankan in this), their food was average (Emirates and Singapore Airlines were superior). Drinks were very generous and free flowing. Overall, very satisfied with a clean cabin and 2-4-2 layout better than 3-4-3. [Arranged their own flights]
Any other comments?
Enjoyed the variety of the terrain, flora and fauna at the different reserves. Due to flooding, we visited the Eco Park near Sigiriya instead of Kaudulla [National Park]. Bundala [National Park] was our favourite with a surprise ocean view at the end. Yala [West National Park] was disappointing with only one entry point and consequently a herd mentality of a vast number of jeeps. Not a safari to remember and the only one we would not repeat. Sigiriya Rock ascent and Horton Plains walk were exceptional half day excursions. We loved the views and archaeology on Sigiriya and the differing terrains and flora at Horton Plains. It was such “otherworldy” that no one would have believed we were in Sri Lanka.
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