Poetically named the “Tear drop of India”, Sri Lanka is its own country, often mistaken as a part of India, but actually sitting south and much smaller than it's northern brother. Also called the “Island of gems” and “Pearl of the East,” Sri Lanka is famous for the various exotic colored gemstones that can be found there, including the king of Sri Lankan precious stones, the blue sapphire. A country claiming to have more holidays than any other worldwide, due to the vast amount of religions cohabiting rather peacefully on the small island. It is actually considered a very safe country for travelers.
Have you ever thought of visiting Sri Lanka? I actually had because a friend of mine went years ago and loved it, however, it was not high on my bucket list. According to Lonely Planet, Sri Lanka has been named “the best country in the world to visit in 2019”. I believe it. It was so much more than I expected. The opportunity to join a group tour presented itself to me last year, and I am so glad we went.
One of the things I love about developing countries is that the juxtaposition between societal classes can be subtle or obvious. The areas we toured were primarily subtle. Villages dotted with upscale shops, street vendors, and tuk-tuks hustling to make a quick buck. But, underneath the grit and grime, the stray dogs slowly moving from the road when they hear the sounds of constant blasting horns, is a gem waiting to be discovered. A gem shining so brightly, calling out to its admirers, “Welcome to the beautiful Sri Lanka!” The people were smiling and kind everywhere we went! The landscape was breathtaking. Lush, green rolling hills; tea plantations and rice paddy terraces made for some amazing photo ops as well as good, long hikes. The train ride from Kandy to Ella was one of my favorite things ever! Incredibly scenic, some call it the most beautiful train ride in the world!
Hiking above the clouds is always fun….and not something I have done very often. I have to admit, it is surreal to see puffy, white mists floating below as I stared off into the horizon, wondering how deep those mountains are. Wondering why I am so blessed to experience such a beautiful culture. The food was new to me and my palate was more than pleased. It really was delicious! I can’t wait to research recipes and try to replicate it at home.
Kindred spirits who love nature, hiking, traveling, and cultures spend about 10 days together. Strangers when we started, friends when we departed. My husband was the only male tourist of the group, but had some male counterparts to bond with via our tour guides and drivers. He adapted rather well and I am proud of him. I was kind of worried because a big group of women, all ages, could be crazy fun, or just crazy. It was perfect! I love the age variances and hearing stories from other like-minded people. It also provided a sense of safety and bonding that I had not experienced before since I mostly solo traveled in the past. Not having to drive is the biggest bonus! I think I am over driving in other countries. As our tour guide said, “we have driving laws in the books, but no one follows them”. And he is not kidding! It can be so stressful and a tour company can take that stress on, so your vacation can be spent relaxed.
If you’ve never been to Asia, I highly recommend Sri Lanka. I have been to several countries in Asia and as usual, it is now “my favorite”. I love that part of the world! And don’t forget to visit the Yala National Park for a safari full of elephants and other gorgeous animals, living free!
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