Most Inspirational Moment
Hard to pick an inspirational moment of the trip as I wouldn't say anything was particularly "inspiring" in those words except we had a great group moment on top of Sigiriya with one member afraid of heights. So glad she made it! It was nice to stop at Exodus Tsunami House #7 for lunch, but would have liked more interaction with the home owner and her family. The lunch, however, was one of the absolute best meals we had in the country! Very fresh and delicious and her papadams were heavenly!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Suresh is a great tour leader. He went beyond the call of duty several times to ensure comfort and well-being to the tour members from arranging a quick neck massage before departure to tracking down some aloe vera cream (and plant leaves!) at 8pm for a sunburn. He works very hard to make sure the tour members are having a great time with no troubles and provides excellent information. He is very open to answering questions about Sri Lanka (and Sri Lankans) and is inquisitive about our home countries and customs as well. He's always trying to learn new English words and phrases he can use with future groups. He always made sure my husband and I had either a "King's bed" or two twins pushed together. This really meant a lot to us. The only point I would like to see more of is a better idea of the day's itinerary when we meet for breakfast. With the trip notes I knew where we were going, but wasn't sure of the timing. Would we get to the hotel in the early afternoon? Have the activity before or after lunch? How long (approximate time and distance) would we travel that day? I know I am more interested in time than many other people, but I like to have a good idea of the process. A simple "Today we drive for approximately 30 minutes to this temple, then we drive 1 hour to the hotel. Check in and have time for lunch and a swim before we meet again at 3pm for the afternoon activity" would be nice. I loved the day's "topics" and personal details Suresh provided regarding many points. He is a wonderful guide with great enthusiasm for welcoming and sharing his country with visitors. His laugh makes everyone laugh with him because he's so happy! He is also very generous and giving of not just his time. "Dinner?" (Wobble-Wobble) Ha ha!
Advice for Potential Travellers
For women bring a combination of shorts and capri pants. Trousers were only needed really at Nuwara Eliya and when hiking out to World's End at Horton Plains (we didn't have Adam's Peak on this tour). No shorts or tank tops at temples, but the rest of the time shorts and capris (or loose skirt) are fine. For swimming in the river at Kithugala: local women don't wear swimming costumes. They swim in shorts and t-shirts. If you won't want the stares from local men, dress modestly. The local guys think it's OK and flattering to say, "Hey Hottie!" and whistle. On the rafting trip you'll have the chance to jump out of the raft and swim in the river. Dress accordingly. At the Hill Club Dining Room: No clothes to lend for women-we just need to be dressed "suitably enough" to accompany the men. For the men-they have jackets, ties and oxford shoes to lend, but no shirts or trousers. Make sure you have the appropriate collared shirt and trousers. No sandals or trainers. National dress OK. If you're not dressed suitably, you will have to dine in the casual dining room.