Otto’s Journey in 10 Questions: Sri Lanka

Llama Travel, an award-winning London-based tour operator, works with Jetwing Travels to arrange amazing tours of Sri Lanka for travellers from the UK. Otto, a Senior Travel Consultant at Llama Travel, visited Sri Lanka earlier this year and in this blog, we ask Otto to share his experience, tips and knowledge about his journey.

What is your overall impression of Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka, a gem in the Indian Ocean off the southeast coast of India, boasts a tropical climate and warm weather all year round. Travelling along the coast is almost impossible without encountering a picturesque stretch of sand, many of which remain blissfully deserted. The island’s rich culture is a fascinating blend of influences from India, Portugal, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Despite its modest size, Sri Lanka boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sri Lanka captivated me from the start. The sheer variety of experiences makes you feel like you’re entering a new country every few hours. From the tea fields of the hill country to the warm, serene beaches of the south, combined with ancient forts, wildlife safaris, and deep-rooted traditions, Sri Lanka offers an endless array of adventures. It’s easy to underestimate the time needed to explore this island, formerly known as Ceylon. Truly.

How was the food?

One word: sublime. The flavours of Sri Lanka are unforgettable. Dishes like chicken kottu, fresh tuna steak and a never-ending supply of dhal and hoppers with coconut sambal for breakfast are bound to leave a lasting impression.

Local Tipple?

As a beer enthusiast, the National Lion Lager was my favourite find. Light, crisp and widely available, it’s perfect for enjoying a gorgeous sunset.

What was your favourite destination?

The Cultural Triangle stands out as my favourite destination, offering numerous excursions and a serene hotel base at Jetwing Lake. Day trips to Lion Rock and Dambulla Caves, alongside witnessing herds of elephants in their natural habitat made for a varied and enjoyable experience.

Where was the best place you stayed?

Choosing the best place to stay is tough, but Jetwing Yala takes the crown. Situated just outside Yala National Park and near a beautiful beach, it offers excellent dining options and spacious, comfortable rooms, particularly the bathrooms, providing a cool retreat from the day’s heat.

What are the locals like?

It’s often said that locals are friendly, but in Sri Lanka, the people are genuinely some of the warmest I’ve ever met. Their beaming smiles, incredible hospitality and kindness left a lasting impression.

What’s your favourite photo from the trip?

My favourite photo from the trip is of Lion’s Rock at sunrise, taken from the water garden.

What was the highlight of your trip?

The End of the World Hike in Sri Lanka is one of the most popular destinations in the country and it was a standout experience. The rewarding views and trails made the early start worthwhile. We hiked roughly 10 km, passing waterfalls, meandering rivers, rolling hills and spotting sambar deer, lizards and birdlife. This gentle walk offered ample time to relax and reflect on the trip.

Who would you recommend this trip to?

Sri Lanka has something for everyone: delicious food, outdoor activities, wildlife spotting and diverse city and rural settings. Our group included a wide age range, from teenagers to a couple in their 80s and everyone enjoyed the trip.

Did you pick up any souvenirs?

We brought back an array of souvenirs, including sandalwood incense, small elephant models and spices like cinnamon, curry powder and turmeric. Kandy and Ella are the best places to find unique mementos.