A Journey to Sri Lanka: Exploring the Wonders with a Group of Adventurous Ladies.
Traveling to a new destination can bring a mix of emotions – excitement, curiosity, and yes, a little bit of nervousness too. October this year 2024 I had the pleasure of leading a group of 12 ladies to the vibrant and enchanting island of Sri Lanka. For many of them, it was their first big trip in quite some time, so the journey began long before we boarded the plane.
Building Connections Before the Journey
Two weeks before our departure, I hosted an afternoon tea gathering to help the group get acquainted, ease any pre-trip jitters, and build excitement. It turned out to be a fantastic way to bond while ironing out logistics, like deciding how to get to the airport. The unanimous choice? Take the train from the Gold Coast – efficient and a perfect way to start our adventure.
Touching Down in Sri Lanka
There’s something immensely satisfying when months of planning have come together seamlessly. From the smooth immigration process to all luggage arriving intact, everything was off to a great start. Waiting to greet us were our tour guide Isanka, her assistant Prasanna and driver Uddika (who, by the end of our trip, managed just one $16.00 speeding ticket – cheap!)
We arrived at our first stop, the Jetwing Sea Negombo, tired yet thrilled to have reached our destination. The sound of the ocean was all I needed to feel relaxed and at home.
Isanka our tour guide
Exploring Sri Lanka’s Cultural Heart
The next morning, we began our journey to Dambulla to visit the awe-inspiring Cave Temple Complex. A gentle uphill walk brought us to this UNESCO World Heritage site, where ancient murals and statues took us back in time. Locals even offered a helping hand for those who needed it (for a small tip, of course!).
For the next who nights, we settled into Habarana Village by Cinnamon, where we stayed in cozy clusters of Bure styled huts. Evenings everyone looked forward to – predinner drinks at the bar, recounting the day’s adventures, and enjoying buffet dinners that catered to every palate.
Adventures Around Habarana
Our days in Habarana were packed with unforgettable experiences:
While most of us enjoyed the safari, Metka and I took a detour to the local clinic in Dambulla – a memorable experience in its own right!
A Taste of Kandy
Next, we headed to Cinnamon Citadel Hotel Kandy, nestled along the peaceful banks of the Mahaweli River. Highlights here included an energetic aerobics class set by Judy (our personal official Aqua teacher), a visit to the Matale Spice Gardens, and the magnificent Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
A tuk-tuk tour around Kandy added a dash of adventure, while the cultural fire walking show, entertained with arts, dance, music & acrobatics.
Into the Highlands
The journey to Nuwara Eliya was nothing short of spectacular. Traveling by train in 2nd class gave us stunning views of rolling hills, tea plantations, and bustling local life. On arrival, the cooler climate felt like a refreshing change.
A visit to the Damro Tea Factory taught us about the tea-making process, we even learned to enjoy tea without milk! Our stay at Jetwing St. Andrew’s was like stepping into colonial-era England, complete with cozy fireplaces and a charming bar.
High Tea at the Grand Hotel was a highlight – cakes, pastries, and, of course, more tea made for the perfect midday indulgence.
Yala and Beyond
Our adventure continued with a visit to Ella, a quaint hill town known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and vibrant cafes. Though we didn’t stay long, it’s certainly a spot worth revisiting.
At Yala National Park, we embarked on an early-morning safari, hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive leopards. While they remained out of sight, the stunning landscapes and wildlife more than made up for it.
Wrapping Up in Galle – Colombo
Our final days brought us to the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Dutch-inspired architecture and scenic ocean views. Strolling through its streets, we explored the lighthouse, quaint boutiques, and charming cafes – a perfect way to wind down our trip.
A visit to the Turtle Care Center and a serene Madu River Boat Ride (complete with a fish spa therapy session) added the final touches to an already incredible journey.
Reflections
Sri Lanka is a land of contrasts – ancient temples and modern cities, serene tea fields and bustling markets, friendly locals and curious wildlife. Leading this group of adventurous ladies was an absolute joy, and the memories we created will last a lifetime.
Would I do it all again? In a heartbeat. Sri Lanka, it was an absolute pleasure.
Exploring Sri Lanka’s Cultural Heart
The next morning, we began our journey to Dambulla to visit the awe-inspiring Cave Temple Complex. A gentle uphill walk brought us to this UNESCO World Heritage site, where ancient murals and statues took us back in time. Locals even offered a helping hand for those who needed it (for a small tip, of course!).
For the next who nights, we settled into Habarana Village by Cinnamon, where we stayed in cozy clusters of Bure styled huts. Evenings everyone looked forward to – predinner drinks at the bar, recounting the day’s adventures, and enjoying buffet dinners that catered to every palate.
Adventures Around Habarana
Our days in Habarana were packed with unforgettable experiences:
While most of us enjoyed the safari, Metka and I took a detour to the local clinic in Dambulla – a memorable experience in its own right!
A Taste of Kandy
Next, we headed to Cinnamon Citadel Hotel Kandy, nestled along the peaceful banks of the Mahaweli River. Highlights here included an energetic aerobics class set by Judy (our personal official Aqua teacher), a visit to the Matale Spice Gardens, and the magnificent Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
A tuk-tuk tour around Kandy added a dash of adventure, while the cultural fire walking show, entertained with arts, dance, music & acrobatics.
Into the Highlands
The journey to Nuwara Eliya was nothing short of spectacular. Traveling by train in 2nd class gave us stunning views of rolling hills, tea plantations, and bustling local life. On arrival, the cooler climate felt like a refreshing change.
A visit to the Damro Tea Factory taught us about the tea-making process, we even learned to enjoy tea without milk! Our stay at Jetwing St. Andrew’s was like stepping into colonial-era England, complete with cozy fireplaces and a charming bar.
High Tea at the Grand Hotel was a highlight – cakes, pastries, and, of course, more tea made for the perfect midday indulgence.
Yala and Beyond
Our adventure continued with a visit to Ella, a quaint hill town known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and vibrant cafes. Though we didn’t stay long, it’s certainly a spot worth revisiting.
At Yala National Park, we embarked on an early-morning safari, hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive leopards. While they remained out of sight, the stunning landscapes and wildlife more than made up for it.
Wrapping Up in Galle – Colombo
Our final days brought us to the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Dutch-inspired architecture and scenic ocean views. Strolling through its streets, we explored the lighthouse, quaint boutiques, and charming cafes – a perfect way to wind down our trip.
A visit to the Turtle Care Center and a serene Madu River Boat Ride (complete with a fish spa therapy session) added the final touches to an already incredible journey.
Reflections
Sri Lanka is a land of contrasts – ancient temples and modern cities, serene tea fields and bustling markets, friendly locals and curious wildlife. Leading this group of adventurous ladies was an absolute joy, and the memories we created will last a lifetime.
Would I do it all again? In a heartbeat. Sri Lanka, it was an absolute pleasure.
