2 independent reviews for Sri Lanka nature & wildlife holiday

Linda Bryant review 17 Feb 2008

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?

Walking through a forest reserve and seeing a Spot Bellied Forest Eagle Owl staring straight at us and rushing in a jeep to stand just feet away from a Frogmouth owl, a rare and wonderful sight (despite the leeches invading our shoes). The smile of the Sri Lankan people was uplifting as was luxuriating in a herbal bath overlooking the Sinharaja Rainforest with lightening flashing on the horizon. Also being accompanied by two guides during our trip who were so enthusiastic, generous hearted and committed to making our holiday everything we had hoped for.

2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?

Check if you are being given a national guide as your guide for the trip. National guides have a level of seniority and status, which amongst other things, means that there is an implicit expectation that they eat all meals with you - this sounds inconsequential, but it does mean that you get little downtime from what is a fairly intensive relationship. If you're worried about the situation in Sri Lankan, ask all the questions of Ajanthan - he was extremely responsive and reassuring and everything he told us reflected our experience on the trip. He was also great at organising the trip and sorting out an unfortunate situation during it.

3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?

Absolutely - we stayed in some great eco lodges (except Sisira's River Lounge, which although offered excellent food and a beautiful location, we found the accommodation dirty, the bathroom unclean and we had little response from the staff when we pointed this out) as well as hotels where there was a clear commitment to developing and implementing environmental policies. This was hugely encouraging as this company is a big tour operator in the country and is therefore potentially leading the way for other travel companies to follow suit.

4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?

The holiday was excellent. We loved the country and the people and the tour provided us with everything that we had hoped for. We would also want to highly recommend Rainforest Edge - this lovely eco lodge was set in the most stunning location with a beautiful little ayurvedic centre. However, what made it one of the most memorable places we've ever stayed in was the staff - we felt genuinely cared for with everything being done with such special attention. They couldn't have done more for us.