Like Bali, but without the crowds. The Resplendent Isle, Serendib, Ceylon, whatever you call it, Sri Lanka is spangled with exquisitely designed luxury villas, gorgeously renovated classic old hotels, amazing shops and bespoke services erupting all over the south. So, why not slip into something floaty, and let LUXE lead you astray.
Overview
The jewels of Sri Lanka are spread far and wide, from west coast capital Colombo to the fabulous villas, beach bungalows, and atmossy C.17th World Heritage-listed Dutch colonial Galle Fort in the south. Cooler tea plantations and the ancient, sacred Cultural Triangle are centre, unspoilt beaches and sights in the north and east, and elephant and leopard-spotting in the deep south.
Need to Know
- Weather: The best time to visit the south and west coasts is Nov-Mar; Apr-Oct is monsoon, but there’s still plenty of sun
- Communication: English is widely spoken, but have your villa/driver’s number on you at all times. Note phone coverage can be patchy outside of major towns
- Getting Around: Roads and traffic can be really dreadful and Sri Lankans drive like lunatics. Whatever you do, do NOT self-drive – hire a car and driver
- Cash Up: Banks and ATMs are few and far between outside of Colombo, so cash up when you can
- Alcohol: Beware of the local brew arrack, it’s the swiftest way to coma/stomach pump/showing your knickers
- Tipping: Most hotels and higher-end establishments add a service charge, but it’s nice to leave a little extra
- What to Expect: Most businesses are closed on full moon days (Poya) and national holidays. By law, alcohol sales are also banned on Poya days so watch the sky or end up dry. And note luxury is still developing – power cuts are frequent while chic delis and wine shops don’t exist (stock up before you fly). Go with it, you’ll be hugely rewarded
Talking Points, 2016 Edition
- Events: Check local listings as there are varied, vivid cultural and religious events taking place every month of the year. Bibliophiles and luvvies congregate each Jan in Galle for the famed literary festival. Past speakers incl. Gore Vidal, Joanna Trollope and Richard Dawkins. You’re too late for 2016, so peepers peeled – and book ahead – for next year instead
- Whale Watching: Jan/Feb is prime whale-gazing time, and while SL’s scene is still in its infancy (ergo rickety boats but fewer tourists), seeing the big blue dudes lurch in the waters off Mirissa is magical indeed
- Festivals: Both Sinhalese and Tamil New Years are celebrated in April with fireworks, family gatherings and street parties – though never together!
