Rolland family
Scotland, February 2025
What did you like most about Sri Lanka?
What’s not to like? The lush landscape, the wildlife, the Indian Ocean rollers to swim and surf in, the outstanding driver/guide Anura, the contrast between urban street chaos and the serenity of the hill plantations, the ready smiles of Sri Lankans, the unerringly delicious meals and the temperature difference to Scotland!
What did you like least about Sri Lanka?
We experienced an exceptional holiday with only two minor negatives which we now laugh about… a slightly aggressive tuk tuk driver who was determined we’d take his boat tour of the Negombo Lagoon instead of the arranged one he was hired to take us to. Grumpy soul.
Secondly, ahead of transport to the airport our last restaurant meal could not be paid for by card in spite of Visa being advertised. ‘No card machine sir’. Our LKR cash was deliberately low ahead of leaving the country. A mad dash back to the hotel with the restaurant manager resulted in settlement but a stressful exit. C’est la vie!
We also observed that rubbish was an issue on the island, and this was especially evident staying in the coastal areas. We hope the island can resolve the issues of lying refuse and achieve greater recycling, especially of plastics, and provide enhanced facilities for disposal. Tourists need to do their part and be considerate too.
What is your opinion of your accommodation in Sri Lanka?
Excellent. Those places with mozzie nets over beds particularly welcome.
Our favourite places (though reluctant to choose): Kassapa Lion’s Rock [Sigiriya], Amba [Estate, Ella], Hanthana House [Kandy], Fort Bliss [Galle] and Villa Atulya [Ocean’s Edge, Mirissa].
Everywhere staff were a delight and the standard of cleanliness and service high.
What is your opinion of your chauffeur guide in Sri Lanka?
Anura No.1 [chauffeur guide] is a treasure. His knowledge, passion for his culture, consideration for his clients’ welfare, irrepressible humour and capability on the roads make him the perfect companion for such a tour. He saved us from marauding monkeys and a charging tusker in Yala when the HiLux driver was not aware of the imminent danger. Anura is a consummate professional whom we came to know as a friend.
Anura No.2 [transfer driver] we spent much less time with but he was friendly, efficient and considerate. Our only other observation would be that his vehicle is tired with worn suspension giving a ride akin to being on a rough sea! Simply by contrast Anura No.1’s vehicle was in immaculate order at all times. It probably comes down to affordability.
What is your opinion of your flights to and from Sri Lanka?
First time on such long haul and with Emirates [Economy Class]. Apart from a 1.5 hour standing wait at check in in Colombo Airport the whole experience was comfortable… good service, reasonable food, screen entertainment. Staff from 20 different nations. A remarkable facility from Glasgow.
We were curious to know what lay up the spiral stair at the rear and how much that would cost!
Any other comments?
Thanks to John, Pathi and all in furnishing this gloriously memorable family trip to an island of such abundant attraction for us. Our senses were truly sated. As an ex-fisherman I was intrigued to chat to tuna and sardine men in Mirissa and Negombo with offers to join them at sea… next time. There was perfect balance between sightseeing, travel and relaxation. The final beach time was the ideal conclusion where we cooled in the tumbling Indian Ocean rollers as the children learned to surf. 18 days? Not long enough.
Thanks for the guidance on tipping; essential to have a wad of LKR100 and 500 notes at the ready as never refused!
Special thanks too to Pathi for escorting us up the hill to see the sunset. He’s engaging company and we wish him and you all a thriving future.
In appreciation, Douglas, Kirsty, Genevieve and Ossian Rolland
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