Sue Halliwell shares her experience of traveling through Sri Lanka as an older traveler, blending adventure with ease.
As our bus descended the winding mountains near Ramboda Falls, a flower seller appeared in front of us, waving a bouquet of local flowers to grab our attention. What followed was a brief but unforgettable interaction that perfectly captured my experience of Sri Lanka.
Around every sharp bend, the flower seller miraculously reappeared, unscathed and still clutching his bouquet. His infectious smile was directed at the women on our bus, and despite racing down five slippery, rain-soaked turns in nothing but flip-flops, he remained unharmed—a small miracle!
Finally, we asked our driver to stop, and all nine of us chipped in to buy his beautiful bouquet.
This heartwarming interaction happened during a 12-day guided tour of Sri Lanka, which my partner and I, both over 65, had decided to join for a balance of adventure and comfort. The small group tour took us through the essentials—Sri Lanka’s culture, customs, and cuisine—before we ventured out on our own. It was a smart decision.
Sri Lanka, though not large in size, offers a rich and vibrant mix of sensory experiences, from the bustling, spicy streets of Colombo to the serene beauty of the countryside. Navigating the chaotic roads of Colombo made us grateful for our decision to let someone else handle the driving.
The tour covered popular destinations like Galle, Yala National Park, Ella, and Kandy, all while our guide shared local knowledge that deepened our appreciation for the country.
Among the highlights was our hike through Horton Plains National Park and the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site at Sigiriya Lion Rock. We also enjoyed the serenity of Polonnaruwa, the majestic Dambulla Cave Temple, and the wildlife at Minneriya National Park. Everything was thoughtfully arranged, from accommodation to transportation.
Tourism is on the rise in Sri Lanka, with a significant increase in both tourist arrivals and earnings. However, the government acknowledges the need for further infrastructure development, especially in managing plastic waste, to sustain this growth.
After the guided tour, we felt ready to venture out on our own. We set our sights on the beautiful beaches of Trincomalee and the wildlife haven of Wilpattu National Park. The heat on the east coast during July was intense, with temperatures reaching the high 30s, so we adapted by sightseeing in the early mornings and spending afternoons relaxing at our hotel.
Wilpattu National Park rewarded us with three leopard sightings and a much quieter atmosphere than other parks, making it the highlight of our trip.
On our last evening in Sri Lanka, we reflected on the journey. Much like our flower seller, we navigated the five bends of Sri Lanka’s customs, culture, cuisine, currency, and climate. In the end, we were rewarded with an unforgettable experience—one that felt like receiving the full bouquet of what this incredible country has to offer.
No matter your age, Sri Lanka offers a magical experience for every traveler.
Source: The New Zealand Herald
