Sri Lanka - a Magical Mystery Island Tour
I asked the AI robots to write a short synopsis of this double page spread travel piece which appeared in West Country Life Magazine inside the Western Morning News and Western Daily Press this weekend…
Discover the enchanting island of Sri Lanka through the expertly crafted, tailor-made vacations offered by Hayes & Jarvis, a company renowned for creating unique travel experiences. This article delves into the transformative journey that awaits travelers seeking more than just a holiday, but a profound immersion into the heart of Sri Lanka's vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes.
For over 40 years, the author, a seasoned travel writer, has explored numerous destinations, but it's the Hayes & Jarvis trip to Sri Lanka that stands out as a quintessential holiday experience. This adventure combines the thrill of scaling the 1000-foot Lion Rock, a pilgrimage site and jewel of the island, with the relaxation of sunbathing by the pool of a luxurious five-star seaside hotel.
What sets this trip apart is the deep, pleasurable immersion into the foreign and fascinating aspects of Sri Lanka. It's likened to a genteel, legal hallucinogenic experience for someone from the Northern Atlantic, offering a dazzling and mind-bending journey. The trip is designed to be safe and attainable, suitable even for adventurous seniors.
The journey includes a visit to the heart of the island, taking in the famous Lion Rock near Sigiriya, the old cultural capital of Kandy, and a remarkable train journey to the high tea plantations. The experience is enriched by a guide who introduces travellers to the complex realities of Sri Lanka, taking them to places beyond the typical tourist path.
View from the train in Central Sri Lanka
In Kandy, the group visited the Temple of the Tooth, housing a sacred relic of Lord Buddha, and explored "Hela Bojun," a social welfare project for economically challenged women. The Hayes & Jarvis programme ensures a comprehensive experience with a dedicated Sri Lankan guide and a personal mini-bus driver, starting from the bustling markets of Colombo to the luxurious Aliya Resort & Spa.
The trip also includes a safari in Minneriya National Park, a stay at the Kandy House, and a journey through the tea-growing regions aboard a train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. The journey concludes with a visit to the coastal town of Bentota, a testament to the resilience of the island post-tsunami, and a mesmerizing early morning visit to the Beruwala Fishery Harbour.
This Hayes & Jarvis adventure is not just a holiday; it's a magical mystery tour into the heart of Sri Lanka, offering an unforgettable experience that goes beyond conventional tourism. For more information on these bespoke tours starting from around £1,999 per person for eight nights (excluding international flights), visit Hayes & Jarvis' website or contact their team of travel experts.
