Travels Past & Future

A Day of Sapphires, Tea, and Timeless Charm: Exploring Sri Lanka’s Highlands Today was a whirlwind of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery as we continued our journey through Sri Lanka’s stunning highlands. The day began with a thrilling descent down the mountain in a small, nimble bus, winding through lush greenery and misty vistas.  Our first stop was a local lapidary, where skilled artisans cut and polished sapphires, transforming rough stones into dazzling gems. While the craftsmanship was mesmerizing, the prices were a little too dazzling for my budget, so I left empty-handed but with a newfound appreciation for the art of gem-cutting.   Back on our coach, we made our way to the Ramboda Falls Tea Bush for a well-deserved lunch break. The view here was nothing short of spectacular—Ramboda Falls cascading dramatically in the background, surrounded by verdant hills. It was the perfect backdrop for a hearty meal and a moment to soak in the natural bea...

A Journey to Kandy: Temples, Markets (almost), and Mountain Vistas On the bus by 8:00 a.m., bags packed, bills settled, and hearts brimming with anticipation. Today’s destination? The enchanting city of Kandy, a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka.   Each morning, our cheerful Sri Lankan bus driver Jamera, warmly greets us with a heartfelt "Ayubowan" and a delicate flower, a beautiful gesture that embodies the island's spirit of hospitality and kindness. It’s a simple yet touching ritual that sets the tone for our days, filling us with gratitude and a sense of connection to this enchanting land. Our first stop was the awe-inspiring Rangiri Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that effortlessly blends history, spirituality, and natural grandeur. While a few of us opted to sit out the climb (including Glenn and myself), those who ventured up were rewarded with a sight that words can scarcely do justice. Perched atop a towering grani...

A Day of Adventure and Surprises: From Elephants to Ancient Ruins Today was a whirlwind of activity, packed with unforgettable moments and a few unexpected twists. After a week of hand-washing our clothes, we finally had the chance to get our laundry properly done—a small but much-needed luxury when you’re on the road.  We kicked off the day early with breakfast at 7:00 AM and were on the bus by 8:30 AM, ready for another day of exploration. The best part? We’re staying at this beautiful resort for two nights, so we didn’t have to deal with the usual morning rush of packing. It felt like a little victory to leave our bags untouched and just head out for the day.   Our first adventure was an elephant safari, and it did not disappoint. We piled into Jeeps, four to a vehicle, which gave us plenty of space to move around and take in the sights. It wasn’t long before we spotted our first group of elephants—four majestic creatures roaming freely.  Our driver was determined...

A Day of Adventure and Serenity in Sigiriya Our day began bright and early, boarding the bus at 8:45 AM as we set off toward the iconic Sigiriya Rock. The morning air was crisp, and the anticipation of the day ahead filled the bus with excitement. Around 11:00 AM, we made a quick coffee stop to fuel up for the adventures awaiting us.   We made a quick stop at an ATM, which seemed to be a hotspot for the locals. The line was long, but we patiently waited our turn to withdraw some cash. After watching Kylie and Jacqui navigate the machine first, I figured out how to use it. I successfully withdrew my cash, cautiously reached into the slot to grab it—hoping it wouldn’t snap shut on my hand—and then stepped aside to count my money. Just as I finished, a kind voice interrupted me: “Excuse me, lady, your card!” Sure enough, I’d left my card in the ATM. I thanked her profusely, at least three times, feeling both grateful and slightly embarrassed. Lesson learned: always do...