Because I’ve always wanted to…
Greetings to you all!
In our last e letter I promised to report back after our recent trip to Sri Lanka. Helen and I are convinced that this was one of the best holidays we have ever done – and there have been a few!
My last visit to Sri Lanka was post tsunami with the war in the north of the island still very much apparent. Since that visit the country has changed beyond all recognition with an air of optimism now pervading. A new inland road from Colombo to Galle… re-opened national parks… beautifully renovated colonial style hotels and restaurants with exquisite food – and not just curry!!
Our trip was a perfect blend of colonial Colombo, Buddhist culture, trains, tea plantations and hill stations, luxury beach, Blue Whales and the charming fort area at Galle. Ideas – Sri Lanka without children.
For families, Sri Lanka equally ticks all the boxes with game parks such as Yala famed for having the highest leopard density in the world. Mirissa Bay for arguably the world’s best Blue Whale watching and of course miles of stunning coast line. Ideas – Sri Lanka with children, click here to read the testimonial.
Months to travel – All year round Peak: December to April also perfect timing for Whale and Dolphin watching.
Steve is about to leave on an intensive two week trip around Costa Rica, so full report next month.
Sending you all our very best wishes and fingers crossed that summer arrives soon.
Laterally yours,
Kandy House
This fabulous colonial style hotel is just twenty minutes outside Kandy, set in a tropical jungle with a stunning infinity pool. There is no more charming a place to stay and perfect for visits to the Temple of the Tooth and Peradeniya Botanical gardens. From here there is easy access to the cultural triangle to visit Sigiriya, Dambulla and Anuradhapura. A two hour train journey will take you to Tea Trail.
Tea Trails
Five hours drive from Colombo or a short hop on a float plane. Tea Trails is a collection of four (Relais & Chateaux) Tea estate managers’ colonial houses. Stunning settings, exquisite food, tea factory visits, plenty of scenic walking available – perfect temperatures due to the altitude, not to mention Pimms, croquet lawns and cucumber sandwiches!
Amanwella
Sumptuous beach luxury is the only way to describe this superb hotel. Amanwella is situated on a private bay/beach just outside Tangalle. Huge rooms with plunge pools and amazing views out over the ocean. Star studded dining with award winning seafood on offer. Day trips to see the Blue Whales of Mirissa or the Leopards in Yala National Park or Turtles laying their eggs on a nearby beach.
The Dutch House / The Sun House
A pair of beautifully renovated period colonial properties on a hill just two minutes from Galle Fort. Partial ocean views, tropical gardens with an excellent terraced restaurant at the Sun House as well as Dicks Bar famous for their tropical cocktails.
Sabbatical News
A pair of beautifully renovated period colonial properties on a hill just two minutes from Galle Fort. Partial ocean views, tropical gardens with an excellent terraced restaurant at the Sun House as well as Dicks Bar famous for their tropical cocktails.