Julia & Mia
England, March 2024
What did you like most about Sri Lanka?
Combination of culture and wildlife experience.
What did you like least about Sri Lanka?
Tipping culture – found the expectation and decision on when/who to tip awkward despite guidance. Also felt that the assumption is that because you have afforded a trip there that tipping must be affordable for you which is not always the case. [Tipping is the perennial issue on the island for our customers and it won’t go away. When it is inextricably linked to the culture it is not possible to get around the issue or find a solution to keep all parties happy. I am afraid we just have to accept that tips are expected from foreign visitors by many of the hotel staff and other tourist workers in Sri Lanka, particularly when they perceive holiday makers to be much more affluent than they are – which we are in relative terms, of course.]
Also felt uncomfortable at Sigiriya safari with so many jeeps surrounding elephants. We felt that the reserve should introduce timed visits to limit vehicle access which would reduce pressure on wildlife. Particularly an issue on this part of the reserve at water holes near entrance/exit.
What is your opinion of your accommodation in Sri Lanka?
Overall, very good. Some hotels better than others. Top hotels were 98 Acres Resort [& Spa] Ella and Talla retreat Tissa [Talalla Retreat, Talalla]. Least good was [Hotel] Suisse [Kandy] – in much need of revamping all round (grounds/rooms/pool area) although food was good. It was obvious that some hotels had let grounds go (gardens/pool furnishings) and our driver [guide] did explain that the country was still in recovery from covid and so some hotels had not invested recently. 98 Acres was superb! Felt tearful at leaving – room had spectacular views over forest. Rooms were high quality. Talla retreat – lovely relaxed feel, clean rooms/grounds/beach access also great. Food generally very good although some hotels (Villa Hundira [in] Negombo, Kalu’s Hideaway [Udawalawe]) didn’t cater very well for vegetarians which surprised us.
[Your feedback on the varied accommodation included in your itinerary is most useful and we are glad that you enjoyed it overall. Hotel Suisse has had its up and downs over the years, but it sounds as though it is currently on a ‘down’. We are sorry if this affected your stay in Kandy and we will look at replacing it for future holidays. It is disappointing to hear of the lack of variety for vegetarians at both Villa Hundira and Kalu’s Hideaway, which we will approach them about.]
What is your opinion of your chauffeur guide in Sri Lanka?
Ravi was very dependable – always on time and made sure we were settled in. Very good driver and overall guide. He went out of his way to help us locate a church in Galle where Mia’s great grandfather was married. He made sure we had the best experience at events (assisting us with ques and protocol at temple tooth/seating on Ella train trip). He looked after us and we felt protected. We were tearful at parting company. [We are very pleased to hear that Ravi looked after you so well. He has worked with us for many years, although he has just returned to the fold following a few slower years for us post-Covid. I know him well and I am sure he always had the best intentions at heart. We are glad you felt safe and chaperoned throughout, and even a little sad to say goodbye to him at the end, which shows you must have developed quite a rapport.]
What is your opinion of your flights to and from Sri Lanka?
Generally ok. Films on outgoing had technical issue and flight was delayed. Coming home was on time despite the news that the airline [SriLankan Airlines] was up for sale by Sri Lankan government. [Arranged their own flights.]
Any other comments?
We had a fantastic time in Sri Lanka all went according to plan aside from a few issues round timings of safaris which we have already fed back to tikilanka [Tikalanka]. Road travel was without a hitch. Cultural and wildlife experiences were fantastic. Won’t forget the trip in a hurry!
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