‘I think the developments have been sensitive to the culture and it doesn’t feel over touristed. One thing that hasn’t changed is the friendly people, who are always welcoming and smiling.’
Rhind, who returned from a Travel Advocates famil this week, says she was particularly impressed with the Heritance Kandalama near Sirigiya and the Newburgh Ella, a working tea factory that has been converted into a hotel.
‘I already sell Sri Lanka and try to use boutique hotels – these two will definitely be on my list from now on.’
Fellow Travel Advocate Andrew Phillips says Sri Lanka surprised him. ‘It’s safer and cleaner than I expected, well organised and friendly. The hotels have been a highlight for me and the buffets are amazing.
‘I would say it is a gentle introduction into Asia. It’s still got the small shops and crazy driving and you can still haggle in the bazaars – all the things that people expect in Asia. I would says it is somewhere between India or Thailand and Hong Kong or Singapore. It has really got something for everyone and the roads are good.’
Salveen Kumar says he didn’t find Sri Lanka as cheap as some other Asina destinations but he was impressed with the breadth of experiences available – from walking the famous Nine Arch Bridge, to spotting a leopard on safari.
‘I was really impressed by our guide (Ranindu Lakmal Kalubowila, guide with Aitken Spence). He was extremely knowledgeable about the culture, the history and the wildlife. I’d highly recommend Aitken Spence.’
Sasha Marshall says she had done a lot of research before the famil and enjoyed the week in Sri Lanka. ‘Having a guide who can pass on information about staying healthy, eating in good places and how to act at certain places (ie temples) is helpful. I loved the touches like the lamp lighting ceremony when we arrived at hotels.’
Michelle Rowe says the friendliness of the people was what really stood out for her. ‘They were always helpful and willing to share their knowledge and to chat. The scenery was amazing too but for me the big highlight was seeing a leopard – that was high on list.’