The beautiful island of Sri Lanka has been the number one destination on my bucket-list for some time now. Only a stone’s throw away from Dubai and Tri Lanka calling from a far, it was time to make this trip a reality.
Endless beauty at Tri Lanka.
Located on the shores of Sri Lanka’s largest natural lake, Koggala Lake, and only a twenty minute tuk-tuk ride from the historic Galle Fort, Tri Lanka is a majestic luxury hotel blistering with natural beauty. The hotel’s 11 suits are nestled across a gorgeous six-acer hill exploding with greenery and wildlife.
The windows, doors, flooring and cladding of all the rooms have been crafted from entirely recycled local jak wood. Cinnamon sticks are used on exteriors to blend buildings into the land, enhance privacy and regulate temperature.
Guided by a local green consultant, Tri is intent on reducing its carbon footprint annually and promoting sustainable practices at all times. Solar PV panels harvest natural power, with energy use minimised through the latest appliance inverter technology and LED lighting.
A Tropical Paradise!
Upon arrival, Oliver, Tri Lanka’s General Manager, made us feel right at home with a quick debrief of what to expect over the next couple of days and an insight into the delicious food we will be having at the hotel. Checking in to our Lake Villa with Pool, these breezy privatised villas overlook Lake Koggala with a spacious terrace and plunge pool.
Drinks with a view.
Settling in just right.
Unpacked and settled in, there was only one thing to do…head to the most picturesque infinity pool on the island for light refreshments and some well-needed vitamin D, before digging in to some mouthwatering Sri Lankan cuisine. Note: The menu at Tri Lanka changes daily, so be sure to keep track of all the amazing dishes coming out of the kitchen.
I could spend the rest of my life here.
Food For Life.
With a few hundred images, it was time to explore the island and what Sri Lanka has to offer. After the lovely hotel concierge organised a tuk-tuk, we were off to explore Galle Fort in style. Passing by dozens of fruit stalls and small markets, we made our way to a local turtle hatchery to learn more about the island’s conservation and breeding methods before releasing our friends into the big blue planet.
One of many fruit markets scattered across Galle Fort.
An amazing experience and such beautiful creatures.
Little did I know that day two would start with something I have never practised in my life, yoga. With the tightest hamstrings in the world and a confused look on my face, the amazing Lara Drummond, founder of Quantum Yoga, took me through a number of techniques, stretches and exercises that would change my life forever.
The breathtaking setting of Tri Lanka’s yoga studio.
All “zenned” out, it was time for some quiet time. Surrounded by only glass panels, Tri Lanka’s library delivers nothing by stunning panoramic views of the green wilderness.
Architectural brilliance.
With cinnamon dominating the Tri lunch and dinner menu, it’s no surprise Sri Lanka became famous for its production and export of the spice. Intrigued and filled with questions, the hotel staff organised a visit to a nearby cinnamon plantation, where we a farmer took us through century-old techniques and drying methods in creating cinnamon bark, tea and even oil.
En-route cinnamon plantation.
A master at work.
To cap off an incredible couple of days, we made our way to the look-out atop the Water Tower for sunset drinks and a cool, fresh breeze.
Sunset/10.
A huge thank you to the team at flydubai for their hospitable Business Class service and a comfortable journey to and from Colombo safely.
To Oliver, Imesha, the entire Tri Lanka team and Bird PR, thank you for making this trip so memorable. Until next time!
