Sri Lanka Tailor-Made Blog

Call it adventure, call it mountain climbing, call it whatever you want, but I believe that Sri Pada (Adams Peak more commonly known) is a must climb mountain if you are a pure Sri Lankan.

A pure Chinese is measured by those who cover the great wall, well I think it would be correct to say that a pure Sri Lankan should at least experience Sri Pada, once in their life span. This is definitely a one of a lifetime climbing experiences.

It all started when my 3 times repeated clients, the Koetsiers from Netherland informed me that they wanted to visit Sri Lanka for the 4^th time in Jan 2012. I was over the moon to receive that e-mail inquiry, and in that they had mentioned about climbing Adams Peak. Immediately my mind took me to the memory of the first experience which I had on climbing Sri Pada. It is famous story at Jetwing that I took 17 hours to climb and return to the bottom of the mountain on my novice trip. Some colleagues laugh when they still hear this story, and some look at me in bewilderment! I am not offended by either actually….
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I am trying my hand in a new type of writing; blogging, that most people are already familiar with. Perhaps, I, too, can use this as a platform to express my ideas and opinions and encourage feedback so that an intellectual discussion can be initiated on and around issues related to the tourism industry. I am aware that I am starting off with a broad topic. Hopefully, with further additions, practice and of course valued feedback, we will be able to narrow the topics down and initiate a much more focused discussion.

Nowadays, almost everyone is advocating some sort of social cause or mission; be it for genuine reasons or as merely promotional strategies. “Responsible tourism” is a term that seems to be in hype in the present day. As part of the larger tourism industry in Sri Lanka, we, as tour operators have a greater responsibility in advocating such themes as we are pivotal in spreading such messages out to our clients. As more and more people are beginning to research and be aware of animal rights and businesses that take responsibility for their actions, we being tour operators should be conscious of the consequences of our actions. This will result in the increase of business as well as a better promotion of the company image.
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It is wonderful to see how tourism is increasing in Sri Lanka over the years after the end of the long 26 year civil war. With the increase in tourism, one must also think of the negative effects it causes on the animals. Many who come to Sri Lanka, would love to experience an elephant back ride or maybe a bullock cart ride as this would be a once in a life time opportunity and it would seem like so much fun, or maybe they would just like to experience a safari in a National Park.

Elephant back rides are promoted mainly in Habarana.  Due to the people’s safety, a wooden saddle (something like a huge basket on a wooden platform) is placed on the elephant’s back which could hold up to 4 people. It is tightly tied around the elephant in order to ensure the basket is steady and strong. These straps are so tight that it cuts into the elephant’s skin. This tightens the elephant’s lungs, which result in reducing the lifespan of the elephant.
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The golden sandy beaches, the beautifully decorated light blue and bright blue sky with white clouds and thin layers crystal colored water kissing your feet, make you sit and wonder what more beauty can an island could possibly have.

Known as one of the most popular beaches in the world, the sea show is filled with coconut trees, palm trees, livelihood of the locals and much more.

The history talks about Unawatuna as a great location of the Ramayana Trials, where during the time of King Ravana, the monkey-warrior Hanuman was sent to Sri Lanka to fetch four herbs that could heal Lakshman who was injured trying to save Princess Sita, however could not find the herbs and took back the entire mountain to the battlefield and on the way back, he accidently dropped a chunk of it which is known as “Rumassala Hill”, which is located in Unawatuna, and also the name Unawatuna was derived by this mythical incident that enriched the entire area and the name Unawatuna means “fell down”.
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Sir Arthur C. Clarke, world renowned scientist and writer settled in this beautiful island in the year 1956, claiming that, Sri Lanka was the best place in the world from which to view the universe……. Like the universe, this island is also unending with hidden treasures mysteries and beauty…….PERFECT for that PERFECT holiday of a life time. In fact I had the great opportunity of unraveling the mysterious and exciting luxury camping in Yala National Park.

One of the advantages of being on camping safari is being able to immerse yourself in an entire 24-hour cycle; the very fact that you are able to eat, sleep, shower, walk around (campsite only!) inside the parks means that far from being the outsider looking in at the wildlife, you actually become part of it. And having the facilities at camp to fall back on – whether for relaxation, freshening up or having a meal in the river- makes it all more enjoyable.

Another important benefit is that when out on safari you can get the rewards of having highly exclusive access to the parks’ hotspots at the best times of day. Good areas for game-viewing and scenery are often located well inside the parks and are best seen at dawn and dusk. Due to restrictions placed on day-time visitors, you can take full advantage of your close proximity to these places by getting the best out of them before the sun gets too high and others arrive or as it goes down when they leave. You need to experience this amazing Wildlife in Sri Lanka. Not only in Yala but also in Udawalawe, Wilpattu, Horton Plains are few more Nationals parks that can recommend for you to visit.

By Shiroma Rodrigo

(Sri Lanka Tailor-Made)

Sri Lanka is world renowned for her uniqueness in hospitality, delivered generously by simple and complacent Lankan folk. Commencing from a humble Ayubowan (May you have long life) it transcends to abundance; an experience that will mesmerize the spirit and soul.

The richness of a genuine and warm smile ensures promises of an ever entrancing welcome, and beams enrichment upon the unleashing experience you have been long seeking.

The beauty of this pristine land is the people and their vibrant cultures; the local cultures dramatically differ from city to city. Such a small space of land but large vivacious display of trends, practices and rituals, this amazing multi-faceted feature is intertwined by the embracing warmth of the Lankan hospitality.

Walk by golden beaches, hike through evergreen forests and engage amidst the ancient sites; you will sense the ever resounding aura of warmth in the air and embrace friendly hospitality, dazzling smiles and the assurance of a stay that will be etched in your mind.

By Jeron Daniel

(Sri Lanka Tailor-Made)