13th to 15th March, 2023

Ayubowan – the traditional greeting in Sri Lanka: “Wishing you a long life”.

Ancient, thousands years old cultural heritage. Strategically situated in mid Indian Ocean on spice route to East. Colonised by Portuguese, Danes, Dutch, French, English. 22 million people primarily Sinhalese, mainly Buddhist, with minority Tamils, mainly Hindu. Clothing, tea, tourism all key to the economy. Tsunami in 2004 did much damage!

Ravaged by decades long civil war until 14 years ago. Home of suicide bomb. Severe economic devastation: The country is pretty much bankrupt and much poverty everywhere. We therefore arrived with some trepidation at one of the globes largest natural harbours in Trincomalee, centre of Tamil people. Colourfully decorated, extraordinary Koneswaram Temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Incredible, intricate sculptures, designs, colours at the ancient Buddhist Cave Temple of Dambulla; orange robed monks; monkeys; Duke of Wellington’s castle, spotted deer; elephant on roadside. Men in numbers hauling in large-netted catch of fish. 

In Galle iconic stilt fishermen. Fabulous time walking through the UNESCO World Heritage Site old town. Shops in Sheryl’s “style”! Helpful tuc tuc driver. We met a French ex- pat who married a local and had just that week opened a store selling painting, ceramics, photography; jewellery; clothing. Sumptuous local curry lunch at homely guesthouse.

Sri Lanka means serendipity. Lived up to its name! Various spontaneous, special experiences not expected nor sought. We experienced warm, gentle people. A fascinating place to visit!