A What makes Sri Lanka special is that it is so much more than just a beach holiday . With over 2,000 years of recorded history , there is a rich culture to be explored anywhere you go , from the metropolitan Colombo to the ancient sites of Sigiriya and Dambulla . There is also evidence of Sri Lanka ’ s colonial history , such as the Dutch Fort in Galle , first built by the Portuguese in 1588 and later built on by the Dutch . Sri Lanka is home to vast natural diversity , containing 22 national parks in total , where you can see the biggest land mammal on the planet – the elephant - whilst the ocean contains the biggest animal on the planet – the blue whale . Due to Sri Lanka ’ s compact size , it is possible to experience this all within a ten-day tour .
Q Do you have any safari accommodation for people hoping experience this wildlife ?
A Yes , Jetwing have two sites just outside Yala National Park : Jetwing Yala and Jetwing Safari Camp . Jetwing Yala is in a unique location between the Indian Ocean and the National Park , which means you can have dinner on the beach and see elephants on the hotel grounds on the same day ! Jetwing Safari Camp is currently being renovated and will soon feature ten cabins , providing proximity to wildlife and comfort at the same time .
Jetwing Surf
Q What would you suggest for travellers keen on water activities ?
AMuch of the ocean surrounding Sri Lanka is rough , so it is important to know where the best locations are should you wish to go in the sea . Located on the east coast near Pottuvil Point , Jetwing Surf lets you experience one of the world ’ s finest surfing destinations . The ideal time to visit would be between April and October . On the west coast , you can enjoy jet-skis and boat rides on Negombo Lagoon , whilst on the south coast , you can go whale and dolphin watching off Galle and Mirissa .
Q Where would you recommend for a single centre stay ?
A The Mermaid Hotel and Beach Club at Kalutara about an hour and 20 minutes ’ drive south of Colombo is a good option if you just want to get away and experience some winter sun . As an all-inclusive resort , it also represents very good value .
Jetwing Surf
Q When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka ?
A Due to regional weather differences , it is possible to visit Sri Lanka all-year round . For a typical touring holiday of the west and south coasts and the cultural triangle , it is best to visit between December and April , due to the dry weather . On the east coast , weather is best from May to October .
Q What would you say to those apprehensive about visiting Sri Lanka right now ?
A Although Sri Lanka has experienced a period of instability recently , these problems scarcely affect tourists . In fact , we have already seen an uptick in tourist numbers . Tourism is also very important to the Sri Lankan economy , and guests from overseas are always made to feel so very welcome ! xxxxxxxxxxxx www . expressionsholidays . co . uk