Kathryn & Mark
England, September 2024
What did you like most about Sri Lanka?
There were so many wonderful things about Sri Lanka it is difficult to single out one thing we liked best. We loved meeting the warm, friendly people who made us feel so welcome. We were impressed by the cultural and religious sites we visited, but were especially enchanted by Sri Lanka's natural beauty and the incredible variety of landscapes. We did three safaris, at Wilpattu, Minneriya and Gal Oya, which were all different and very special in their own way – although watching herds of elephants in their natural setting for hours at Minneriya was hard to beat! We enjoyed some amazing snorkelling at Pigeon Island NP, swimming with turtles, reef sharks and tropical fish. We also loved our time in the hill country, firstly near Digana, outside Kandy, and then in the Uva Highlands, outside Ella. The mountain scenery in both areas was absolutely stunning, with beautiful walks and wild swimming in natural pools at the foot of waterfalls. The places we stayed in the mountains were dedicated to improving the lives of the people in their respective communities and working hard to maximize local employment, so we felt that our presence made a positive difference.
What did you like least about Sri Lanka?
There was nothing we disliked about Sri Lanka. We had an incredible holiday and will definitely go again one day.
What is your opinion of your accommodation in Sri Lanka?
We researched the accommodation carefully and so it was generally pretty much what we were expecting in terms of the setting, facilities and ambiance. We stayed in smaller places, mostly somewhat off the beaten track. Irrespective of the star rating, everywhere was spotlessly clean, and the staff always helpful and friendly. The food was, at the very least, hearty and wholesome, but mostly significantly better, with a wide variety of delicious dishes at each meal. We ate almost exclusively Sri Lankan cuisine and never got tired of it. Indeed, another highlight I forgot to mention above is the brilliant cooking lesson with Charles and Dinesha at Polwaththa, where we learnt to make four different curries on a traditional wood stove. We enjoyed everywhere we stayed but if we had to single anywhere out, Galkadawala Forest Lodge [Habarana] and the Amba Estate [Ella] were particularly lovely. We also really enjoyed our time at Polwaththa Eco Lodges [Digana] because of the people, setting and ethos.
What is your opinion of your chauffeur guide in Sri Lanka?
Anura was brilliant. Unfailingly kind and thoughtful, completely reliable and a very safe driver. We learnt so much about Sri Lankan history and culture from him, and definitely experienced things which we either wouldn't have known about, or wouldn't have benefitted from in the same way, had he not been there. His knowledge of Sri Lankan wildlife (especially birds) was incredible, and as we also love nature, it was easy to find things in common. I was a bit unsure what it would be like to have a chauffeur guide for two weeks, as we usually travel independently, but I needn't have worried, as Anura unequivocally enhanced our experience of Sri Lanka.
What is your opinion of your flights to and from Sri Lanka?
We flew direct from London to Colombo with Sri Lankan Airlines. It was a trouble-free experience, with efficient service and a generous baggage allowance (40kg). [Arranged their own flights]
Any other comments?
As I know people can have concerns, it is important to say that we felt completely safe at all times in Sri Lanka, including on our final weekend which coincided with the September 2024 general election and vote count. This was one of the best holidays we have ever had, so if you're thinking of going, do! You won't be disappointed!
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