Category: Travel

One with Nature

Sri Lanka is blessed with nature at its best. Nowhere else in the world will one find golden sandy beaches, lush green tea plantations, dense rain forests, and even history from hundreds of years gone by within 65,610 km2. Every day is an adventure with new things to see and discover. So on a rather unusual Monday morning, we set off to Belihuloya in search of a “Pond in the Sky”.

Situated approximately 150km away from Colombo in the Ratnapura district, Belihuloya is still one of the lesser known tourist spots in Sri Lanka. An area that falls in between the wet and dry zones of the country, Belihuloya (named after a stream that flows through the area) is rich in both flora and fauna, some which are endemic to the country. The area is also dotted with numerous waterfalls like the tallest one in Sri Lanka, Bambarakanda Ella.

Our journey is to Sri Lanka’s first, all-suite, luxury, private bush walks camp, Ahas Pokuna. A lake that is fed entirely by rain waters is credited for the name of the locality, “Ahas” being sky and “Pokuna” being lake in the Sinhalese language. On the shores of this waterway is a wilderness retreat that allows guests to become one with nature and enjoy a tranquil holiday experience like no other.

However our first stop is for breakfast at River Garden Resort. Despite it being the beginning of August, there is a considerable chill in the air as we disembark to enjoy traditional Sri Lankan breakfast. These tranquil surroundings also give us a chance to ask the locals about some of the key sites to visit in the area. River Garden Resort is also run by Eco Team and is a popular spot for travellers taking this route.

To get to the 30 acre private reserve that is Ahas Pokuna one needs to trek for approximately 15 minutes from Mulgama. What awaits weary travellers is three luxury suite tents complete with an arrival deck, sleeping tent, luggage and powder lounge, a fully-fledged bathroom tent that has hot and cold water, romantic star bed/day bed for relaxation or sleep during the day or night, and the first-ever bush bath tub in Sri Lanka. All of this overlooks the grassland in the 1,000 square metres of private space protected by an elephant fence that is yours to enjoy during your stay. Ahas Pokuna is the only property in Sri Lanka that has a private star bed for each accommodation unit, making it one of the most ruggedly romantic locations to stay at.

After a hearty Sri Lankan lunch made out of local produce we proceed for another trek of about 5-6 km. That doesn’t seem like much but this trek took approximately 3 hours and we were told would be of “medium” difficulty”. It turned out to be a battle between man and nature in the form of elephant grass as high as your waist and a slippery mountain. Guided by experienced village trekkers at first we walked along a path created by elephants and other animals. The view on the way is phenomenal as you see plains that connect to the famous Horton Plains National Park. The trekking path took us through dry grasslands, thanks to our pre-warning, the track bottoms and walking shoes definitely came in handy. The trek itself is not for the faint-hearted but if you are in love with the great outdoors then difficulty levels are the least of your concerns. The highlight of the expedition though was the chance spotting of two wild elephants quite content to have 12 people secretly watching them while they grazed. A few feet away from the elephant sighting point what awaited us was a “High Tea” in one of the highest imaginable places. Delicious traditional Sri Lankan sweet meats were served with tea and coffee as we sat overlooking the magnificence of the mountain range we had just conquered.

Once we returned, rested and refreshed ourselves, a scrumptious dinner awaited around the campfire at the dining tent. Before dinner we all sat around the campfire sharing and reminiscing stories of the day’s walks and our experiences in the wild. The jungle under the cover of darkness is a whole new experience with the sounds of crickets and other insects camouflaging the stealthy movements of the bigger animals. We were told that elephants and even leopards roam the area but do not come too close to the camp. The experienced trekking team from Eco Team who run the Ahas Pokuna Camp seemed to know what they are talking about so we slept easy!

Our second morning also began rather early as we needed to catch a glimpse of the many endemic and migratory birds who visit the area. Jungle fowls, peacocks, hornbills, kingfishers, cuckoos and kohas roam the trees while an occasional monkey also kept a watch out on us passing by. I find it difficult to quite describe the experience of living (even if it is for just 1 ½ days) in such close proximity to nature. How I wanted to stay back and live surrounded by silence instead of the humdrum of the city but then, you wouldn’t be reading this. So come and experience it yourself. Let Ahas Pokuna render you speechless!

Information

Colombo Office:

No 20/63,

Fairfield Garden, Colombo 08.

Website: www.ahaspokuna.com

Written by Nishu Hassim

Photo Credit: Sanura Gunawardana

Worldlink Travel Group warmly welcomes the luxurious cruise ship The Majestic Princess to Colombo

Princess Cruises’ most luxurious ship, The Majestic Princess, called at the Colombo port recently on her 49-day maiden voyage from Rome, Italy to China. The ship, which can accommodate over 3500 passengers, is scheduled to stop at 23 ports by the time it finishes its first voyage.

Sri Lanka’s Worldlink Travel Group represents Princess Cruises in Sri Lanka. Worldlink Tours is one of the leading sri lanka travel agents, a arm of the Worldlink Travel Group, which is one of Srilanka’s ‘finest’ group of companies in the travel industry.

Worldlink has been in business since 1991, and has been a purveyor of discerning journeys the world over. Mr Ahintha Amerasinghe, Chairman and Managing Director of Worldlink, who himself has been in the travel industry for over three decades, once did say that honesty and integrity together with the excellent service that they offer their clients has been the hallmark of the success of the Worldlink Travel Group.

It goes without saying that The Majestic Princess is truly a star class entity. With 19 decks, 1,780 cabins, and a passenger capacity of 3,560, it is absolute luxury at sea. It must be said that this testament to discerning travel boasts 20 restaurants and bars including 3 main dining rooms, 4 specialty drink options and 6 bars.

The La Mer restaurant is manned by Emmanuel Renaut who is a 3 Star Michelin Chef, and was voted — Chef of the Year — by his Michelin-starred peers. There is also the Harmony Specialty Restaurant that was created in partnership with another Michelin Star Chef by the name of Richard Chen.

It must be mentioned that the World Fresh Marketplace serves breakfast, lunch and dinner from diverse cuisine stations. Expect to indulge in a variety of exotic foods from China, the Mediterranean, and Europe. With luxury being almost a byline, the level of cleanliness and efficiency, which was apparent, is something worth taking note of. The produce that is handpicked and chosen for the passengers are of exceptional quality.

While The Majestic Princess certainly does offer a gastronomic journey that’s designed to titillate the sense, a whole host of leisure activities are also on offer to travelers. The architecture of the whole ship is characterized by long glowing lines with the interior space being extremely expansive and well-festooned with luxurious motifs and baubles that would make passengers feel very special indeed.

With regard to the leisure activities, there is the Seawalk (a glass-bottomed walkway above the ocean); Movies Under The Stars (China’s largest cruise ship movie screen featuring the best of Hollywood and international music stars); Water Color Fantasy (a dazzling water and light show); and British Festival of the World (a festival featuring beautiful British decor, themed dance parties, English language classes, afternoon tea etiquette, enriching activities, and lively musical tribute performances).

It is also worth mentioning that this monolith of luxury offers something known as the Fantastic Journey when it comes to entertainment options. This is a technologically-advanced and immersive musical and cinematic experience at sea, which is produced exclusively for Chinese guests that feature an all-star cast that’s truly international.

No journey that promises so much of luxury is ever complete without absolute comfort. All staterooms offer what’s called a Princess Luxury Bed, which is a custom-designed mattress developed by Dr. Michael Breus who is an America Board-of-Certified Medicine sleep expert. The staterooms also feature luxury linens designed by Canadian designer Candice Olsen.

All guest services The Majestic Princess can boast about are the range of luxury duty-free boutique shops that offer the best when it comes to: fine jewelry, designer accessories, leather items, name-brand cosmetics, liquor and tobacco and souvenirs. Additionally discerning travelers onboard can avail themselves of the Lotus Spa and Salon, Hollywood Pool Club, and 24-hour Room Service.

The Majestic Princess has won a plethora of international awards and accolades, including: Cruise Editors’ Choice Awards (Best Cruises Line 2013); Recommend Magazine Readers’ Choice Awards (Best Cruise Line – Itineraries 2004-2012); and, Cruise International Magazine (Best in Cruise Line 2014 and 2015; Best for Food 2015; and Best for First Time Cruiser 2015).

Princess Cruises possesses a fleet of 18 ships including The Majestic Princess. Boasting more than 360 destinations with around 2 million passengers being carried annually, there are over 150 itineraries (with vacation periods ranging from 3 to 114 days) that one can choose from.

Written by Rohitha Perera

Walking down the streets of Galle

Leaving Colombo city on a hot April morning, we made our way towards the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka, to explore the remnants from an era that shaped our country’s future. We left early with the hope of avoiding the traffic and the heat. However given that spring time (February – April) is the season for tourism in this area it was pretty crowded and the streets of the fort were bustling with both local and foreign tourists. There are many versions to how the suffix ‘Galle” came about. One version of it is that it derived from ‘Gallus’ from the Dutch language meaning ‘hen’. Another is that it was a ‘Galaa’ in Sinhalese language meaning a place where cattle were herded.

The Galle Fort is an interesting structure that was first built by the Portuguese in 1588. The Portuguese fleet first took shelter in the Galle harbour in 1505 where they saw the strategic importance of it given its natural focal point as the southernmost part of the Silk Routes connecting Asia and the Mediterranean. However it was only in 1587 that the Portuguese began construction of a small fortalice made of palm trees and mud in the northwest peninsula of the harbour. However the harbour’s prominence can be traced back to Ptolemy’s world map of 125-150AD where it was highlighted as a busy port for traders from Greece, Arab countries and even China. The fort was initially called by the Portuguese as ‘Santa Cruz’ which was extended with a watch tower, three bastions and a fortalice to guard the harbour.

Events took a turn in the 1640’s where the Dutch entering to an agreement with the then King Rajasinghe II to capture the Galle Fort. Thus the Dutch with a force of about 2,500 men wrestled the fort from the hands of the Portuguese that left the streets of Galle littered with dead. This fortunately was the only occasion the Galle Fort witnessed such conflict. Although this was not equally favourable to Sri Lankans at the time, the Dutch were instrumental in building the fort as seen in its present form in the Dutch Architectural style. The 36 hectare fort was greatly improved, with the construction of 14 massive bastions, three of which ‘The Sun’, ‘The Moon’ and ‘The Star’ Bastions were deemed most important. The Dutch encircled the entire peninsula by building impregnable fortifications including a sea wall to make city planning for defense purposes complete in all respects. Inside the fort they devised a grid system of straight but narrow roads, while building houses with distinctive Dutch architecture; low roof with hospitable doorways with colonnaded steps (verandahs) and green courtyards. When one walks down the streets of the fort now, you can still experience what it would have been like to be a colonial exploring the fort city for the first time.

With the invasion of the British the good fortune of Galle ended. Colombo port was developed as the central harbour in Sri Lanka thus leaving no alternative commerce for Galle leaving it languished for decades. Perhaps this was a good reasons, as it was a thriving port, expansions to the structures would have caused irreparable damage to the forts heritage that is recognized internationally today. The fort today is a UNESCO World Heritage site thus leading to funding from the Netherlands government for conservation and restoration of the historical sites within the fort.

One of the first things we did when we stepped into the fort was to explore the National Maritime Museum. It is located in a 1671 Dutch Warehouse above the old gate of the Galle Fort. Although the building survived the impact of Boxing Day Tsunami in 2004, the UNESCO maritime archaeology unit was completely destroyed flooding and damaging the exhibits. It was a bit deserted when we went, however the site holds a wealth of knowledge and artifacts which made me feel how important our Island had been in terms of trade. If you are interested they do screen documentary movies (free of charge) on ship wrecks in the sea off the southern coast and other underwater explorations, which you can view. Unfortunately we could not visit the Galle National Museum, which gives me the excuse to perhaps visit this colonial city again.

The Groote Kerk or the Dutch Reformed church is another prominent historical site situated near the entrance of the fort. The church built in 1755, was thought to have been built on a Capuchin Convent however a German article published in 1767 shows that the area was a unused plot of land. The church was built as a thank offering by Commandeur Casparus de Jong and his wife Geertruyda Adriana Le Grand for the birth of their daughter. It is built on the highest point of the Galle Fort and is the third building to serve the Dutch Reformed Church. The church’s belfry which was erected in 1701, stands opposite the church at the corner of Queen’s Street[1].[2] The church houses a large number of tomb stones and is believed to have catacombs underneath the church. One tends to wonder if these catacombs by chance would have access to the secret tunnels believed to be underneath the fort. But one can only wonder.

The next stop was the All Saint’s Church which was built much later and designed by J.G Smithers who later designed the Museum of Colombo. The church was constructed on the site of the former court house in the 1780s. It is said that the gallows stood on the site of the present altar. A large bell was placed in the centre dome in 1876 in memory of Rev. Dr. Schrader, who had made significant contributions to the church. However in the mid-1960s for security reasons the bell was lowered and left to be sold. Subsequently it was bought by the diocese and is now housed at the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour in Colombo. The current bell was acquired in 1968, from the Liberty Ship “Ocean Verity’, donated by the Clan Line Steamship Company. [3]

The Galle Fort city is lined with many restaurants, which can tantalize your taste buds. Most of the old colonial houses have been converted to Bread and Breakfast or boutique hotels, which you can easily book online. Most facilities such as money exchange centres and even to buy local souvenirs are all located with the fort. The Galle Good Market also comes to life on Saturdays, showcasing products that are both good for people and for the environment. You can find refreshing fruit juice, local nibbles and other organic goods and even antique jewelry and handloom clothes.

While walking down ‘Church Street’ in search of a good restaurant I also came across this really cool store, that designs and exhibits vintage posters. It’s called ‘Stick no bills’, where they specialize in authenticating and raising the profile of antique posters dating from the late 1800s. The retro designs were amazing and they have it different sizes and also as postcards. I instantaneously fell in love with all the designs they had because it portrayed the uniqueness of Sri Lanka. If you ever wish to derail from technology (whatsapp or otherwise) and send something old school to your loved ones this is the place to go.

Given that we were on a budget we opted to have lunch at Indian Hut, an affordable little place inside the fort. Making our way back to the vehicle we decided to stop by Pedlars Inn to get some delicious ice cream and head home as it was a very hot and busy day in the fort. Thus halting for now my exploration spirit and saving it for another day.

Text & Photography by Hasangani Edema

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Groote_Kerk,_Galle

[2] http://www.wolvendaal.org/churches-monuments/groote-church-galle

[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Saints%27_Church,_Galle

 

In the Midst of History and Nature

In the Badulla district of the Uva Province of Sri Lanka lies an ancient town named Mahiyangana. A Pali word loosely translated as “flat land”, this town is a sacred place for the Buddhists of our nation. It is also world-renowned for being one of the few places where Sri Lanka’s original inhabitants “the veddahs” have made their home in a place called Dabana.

Shied away from the more commercialized tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, Mahiyangana has for many years been a stopover on journeys to other parts of the country. However, with agri-tourism and eco-tourism growing in popularity and more travellers wanting to experience all that our little island nation has to offer, this town too has grown to become a significant part of tour itineraries.

In researching accommodation options in close proximity to the Dabana indigenous village, the famed Sorabora Wewa and the Mahiyangana Temple, we came across a brand-new city hotel located in the heart of the town. Seeing that it was a comfortable and affordable location, we decided to give it a try. Little did we know that we had made quite a discovery.

Kevan’s Casa is approximately 195km from Colombo and it takes about 5 ½ hours travelling by car to get there. Once you have braved the 18 hair-pin bends and get to the town it is quite easy to find with the signage along the way.

Much has been said about inherent Sri Lankan hospitality and the tourism industry prides itself on the welcoming nature of our people. At Kevan’s Casa they take it to another level. Two white marble lions and literally the entire staff was on hand to welcome us as we disembarked from a long journey armed with wet towels and a much-needed welcome drink. In keeping with our traditions the welcome drink is brewed using traditional and seasonal herbs and is served in a coconut shell accompanied with generous pieces of home-made juggery.

Once you are refreshed from the ride, a willing bellboy will accompany you to your room which is situated either on the bottom or 1st floor of the hotel. The hotel has two accommodation options to choose from, namely standard and deluxe. We were pleasantly surprised that the deluxe room we picked was spacious, modern and decorated in earthy tones with a touch of yellow to keep with the hotel’s brand image of a lion. Cable TV, Wi-Fi facilities, hot and cold water, air-conditioning and in-room tea and coffee-making amenities are available in all rooms. The only downside for us with the rooms was that the cable TV volume is centrally controlled, and we feel guests would prefer to be able to control it to their liking.

Since the hotel does not offer room service, all meals are served à la carte at an open restaurant downstairs. Since the weather is more of the arid nature at this time of year, a dip in the pool is highly recommended before tucking in to some of the delicious wares prepared by the local chefs. Trained in both local and international cuisine the executive chef and his team, prepare inter-continental dishes from around the world. But here’s a word from the wise. The owner Nisansala De Silva and his staff have all been brought up in the ways of old Sri Lanka, and make it their duty to feed guests to their fill. Each portion of food you order is generally sufficient for two adults unless you are a heavy eater or have been out the entire day exploring the countryside. During our stay we made it a point to try as many of the dishes as possible including the traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry, Chinese, Italian and a good English breakfast. Overall the food is well-prepared, localized to suit our taste buds and served with a lot of affection by the stewards who are ever-willing to please guests. Also expect a visit to your table from the chatty hotel manager Lal who loves to tell you stories.

During your stay a visit to the indigenous village is a must. Approximately 18km from the hotel, Dabana has its own informative museum and many local and international tourists come to visit the great leader “Uru Valiga Vanilla Aththo” who is said to have years of passed-on knowledge on Ayurveda medicine. The village also has a little marketplace selling souvenirs and handicrafts made by the indigenous people. For the adventurous, the 10th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka “Rathana Ella” is also about a half an hour drive away. The climb to the top however takes another two hours or so through precarious winding forest trails. The view from the top though is worth the trek. Those who love their history will also find a fascinating story in how the Sorabora Wewa came to be. It is said that a “giant” named “Bulatha” who worked for King Dutugemunu struck the rock with his mammoty to create the embankment.

Amidst all this history and natural beauty lies this hotel which is actually named after the owner’s young son Kevan. We are told that reservations need to be made well in advance since despite being open for less than 6 months the hotel has constant tour groups from around the world, and many return visitors from among the locals. Affordable pricing, comfort, luxury and a true spirit of Sri Lanka is our guess for why people seem to fall in love with this little gem of a place.

By Nishu Hassim

Photo Credit: Sanura Gunawardana

 

Information

Kevan’s Casa City Hotel, No. 23, Middle Class House, Mahiyanganaya.

Tel : +94 777 935 985

E-mail : reservation@kevanscasa.com

Website: www.kevanscasa.com

Adventure Based Learning

by Rochelle Palipane Gunaratne

A few years back the word outbound training received a new lease in life! Gone are the days when companies or school outings were merely about singing songs, playing random games, and letting it slip out of your memory once you got home.

At present, companies, schools, and other entities invest a significant sum of money for their employees or students to hone in on developing their skills and building unity through various outdoor training programs.

Inadvertently, the number of adventure sports, and companies offering attractive training programs has increased throughout the years. Yet, it is important to dig deeper or do some sleuthing prior to investing in the best program on offer.

The proverbial “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” rings true, which is the main reason for folks to optimize on these adventure programs which are a source of learning. The lessons learnt through these resonate throughout the lives of those involved and creates a stronger bond within the teams.

The tête- à- tête with Major Raajiv Wanigasekerawas, an expert in the field was an eye- opener

Major Raajiv Wanigasekera takes his role in outdoor training to heart, with honorary credentials to his name, his knowledge and expertise in this sphere makes him a linchpin in this field. He is the Founder/ Director Training & Operations, the Chief Facilitator Outdoor Training, Game Changer at Adventure Education.

He is an alumni of S. Thomas’ College Mount Lavinia and a graduate from the Pakistan Military Academy. Besides serving with the elite 4 Armoured Regiment, Sri Lanka Armoured Corps and being attached to the Special Forces, he was actively involved in conducting Military training at all levels, including mission oriented special operations. He has also held office in various command and staff and training positions.

A paratrooper and a SCUBA diver who has seen combat in many fronts, he is highly decorated for bravery in combat and has been seriously injured in the line of duty. Raajiv retired as a Major with 15 years of distinguished service.

Major Raajiv has also worked at Brandix as Head of Group communication, and as AGM HR & Administration at United Motors PLC/ TVS Lanka. Imagination, creativity and planning are his core strengths. He specializes in customizing programs to suit the clients’ need. He has over 300 training programs formulated locally and internationally to his credit. Currently, he is involved full time in Outdoor Training and also consults on Human Resource Development and Training.

He holds a degree / diploma in Military science, Disaster management & Human Resources and is presently reading for his MBA. Major Wanigasekera is one of the few Sri Lankans who qualified as a White- Water Rescue Technician. He is also an active EXCO member of S.Thomas’ College, Mt. Lavinia, and a Committee member of the Wild Life & Nature Protection Society of Sri Lanka.

Adventure Education
A passion for the great outdoors sparked Raajiv and his friend to launch their own company.

“We developed a love for nature and adventure as boy scouts, which was further nurtured by our parents. As adults we chose separate career paths, with me joining the army and he the corporate sector, yet we retained our friendship through various sports such as kayaking, camping and mountain biking as we derived immense pleasure through sports that revolved around nature.

Subsequently we developed a knack for sharing our knowledge with colleagues and friends, which gradually sparked an initiative called Adventure Education, which was launched in 2003.”

The facilitation, including team development activities, adventure and out-of-the-box corporate experiential, indoor and outdoor initiatives have led the company to the forefront in its field

A Sea of Options:
Raajiv runs his operation from a resplendent 50 acre land built and facilitated for adventure seekers. It is a natural teak plantation which provides an ideal setting for a training facility located on the banks of Maha-Oya.

The close- proximity to Colombo and easy access to the location makes it a preferred choice for outdoor training programs. In addition to top of the range facilities, the property which is named ‘Othara’ has its own in-house Chefs which concoct a variety of authentic Sri Lankan dishes, and much more.

“The campsite provides accommodation to 180 people in tents and billet type accommodation and is considered one of the biggest training facilities / campsites in the country. Apart from ‘Othara,’ we have access to many sites island-wide and the uniqueness of our operation is its “lifting capacity” as all the facilities can be moved to other locations. As in all options the client can select the most preferred site as well. We are renowned for our mobility, flexibility, adaptability, and our innate love for nature.

Our packages are customized to suit the requirement of the HR development offices in all functioning sectors from the corporate, banking, universities, schools. We give attention to detail, for instance we provide a variable, on point training which is beneficial and affordable to the customer and follow up to gain the feedback as we value the input.

We offer Experiential learning, Team building, Soft skills developments and Coaching, Adventure based activities, Zip line, Slacklining, Mountain biking, Water zorbing, Military grade obstacle course, Air rifling, Archery, White water rafting, Flat water rafting and Kayaking, Specialty activities, Amazing Race (This activity is based on a popular TV reality show. The brand is locally registered to Adventure Education, and the program can be conducted in any location island wide), Paint balling, Ultimate team cook-out, Orienteering, Backwoodsman skills training, Outdoor corporate events,

Further, we have established Sri Lanka’s first ever ATV (All- terrain vehicle), and SUV technical tracks which will enable enthusiasts to practice to their hearts content and learn the art of ‘off roading’ and the correct use of recovery gear etc.

Our programs can be customized to suit any need, from half day and full day options, multi-day options to post-event milestones and follow through.

Surmise it say, we have a sea of options for the client to choose from and it enables us to provide the most suitable package available,” informed Raajiv.

 

The Advantages of Outdoor Training Programs
These value- added programs manifests a behavioral change as it requires getting out of their comfort zone, and it provides a great platform for experimental learning and it is guaranteed to make you a better person. “Their thrown into the proverbial ‘deep’ with none but each other to hang on to, and they have to make a herculean effort, test their inner strengths, and endurance levels to achieve success individually and as a team.”

Safety First
“As in all matters concerning the wild, one must be aware that it comes with no foolproof guarantee of safety, yet with us there are no holds barred when it comes to safety,” stressed Raajiv. “We use a range of reputed brands and all the activities are assessed by certified safety officers. Risk taking is mitigated due to excessive precautionary measures and we are prepared to handle any eventuality having facilitator trained locally and internationally on life saving, first-aid and CPR and rope rescue ” stated he.

Our Mission:
“Our mission is to spearhead outdoor training, experiential learning, and adventure facilitation in Sri Lanka, with key focus on innovation, safety, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. With experience in designing and delivering programs, events and solutions for major international & local corporate clients and organizations over the past 13 years, the Company combines youthful energy with experienced expertise. Our strength lies in our ability to create ‘tailor-made’ training solutions as per clients’ requirements.

I idolize the methodologies of Sir Richard Branson and Robin Sharma who have shaken the thought process of the corporate world by their brand of thinking. It is clearly out-of-the-box, and out of the realm of many mainstream individuals who fail to make a statement due to archaic methods they follow. We need to muster the courage to make the change and be the change by growing with the parameters of time and opting for brand new ways of motivating our employees, students, and other subordinates in order to reach the zenith.

Most often the management finds employees lacking motivation despite the umpteenth meetings, but our programs tend to make them more productive by incorporating the learning element.

“We offer new and innovative experiences which are based on the element of fun and adventure,” concluded, Raajiv, who encapsulated the basic prerequisite for effective learning, which should always be intermingled with a spark of adventure …..

Address : Adventure Education – Sri Lanka 192/6, Robert Gunawardene Mawatha, Pelawatta, Battaramulla.
Hotline :+94 770 77 88 55
Email : raajiv@adventure.lk

Cocooned in the Hills

If my memory serves me right, my parents took me on my very first vacation to Nuwara Eliya. I have loved it since then. Everything about “Little England” as it is fondly known, reminds me of cozy and comfy. Everything a caterpillar must feel inside his cocoon before he spreads his wings and flies. This is what Royal Cocoon wants each guest to feel at their luxury bungalow.

Situated a few hundred meters away from the world famous Victoria Park, Royal Cocoon is all about warmth. Getting here by car takes approximately 5 hours but by train would add on 2 more. Those who don’t mind the lengthy journey are welcomed by picturesque views of lush green tea plantations and snowy white clouds reaching down from the heavens. Even during the month of March temperatures are between 15-20 degrees Celsius and may drop lower in the night time so it’s best to take warm clothing anyway.

We arrived in the wee hours of the morning and were hit by the biting cold the moment we stepped out of the car. The warmth and hospitality with which guests are greeted though soon serves to warm you up as much as the steaming cup of coffee or tea that awaits your arrival.

Royal Cocoon has 7 luxury bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. Each room also has its own heater and an old fireplace reminiscent of the bygone days of the British. Hot and cold water, cable TV, Wi-Fi, tea and coffee machines in each room adds to the comfort, homely feel.

The restaurant at Royal Cocoon provides all day dining on an à la carte menu that is a mix of continental and traditional Sri Lankan wares. For breakfast we tried both varieties and were pleasantly surprised by the magnanimity of the portions served in the garden. Continental breakfast included a platter of fresh fruit, scrambled eggs on toast with sausages, waffles with honey, yoghurt and chocolate cake. Traditional breakfast on the other hand was a plate full of milk rice made with very non-traditional long grain rice, coconut rotti served with chicken curry and “lunu miris”. That was a lot of food for just two people.

Satisfied and our tummy’s full, we decided to take a stroll in the one-acre landscaped garden that also converts to a mini-golf course on request. You can also choose to read or enjoy the weather outside basking on one of the deck chairs or under the garden umbrellas. A visit to the botanical gardens next door and the famed strawberry farms is also something you may opt to do. For those who prefer to snuggle up indoors Royal Cocoon has books to read and board games to enjoy.

Lunch we decided was to be a traditional affair as we were told the chef prepared a mean rice and curry. We heard right. Steamed basmati rice was served with tempered potatoes, beans, beetroot, chicken and fish curry, “mallung” and the unforgettable “pappadam”. Despite the heavy breakfast, this meal enjoyed historically by kings and commoners alike is satisfying to say the least. For dessert you can pick from curd and treacle, a fruit platter or ice-cream if you dare. Call me boring but the only thing you want to do after lunch is take a nice nap, and that’s what I did to wake up in time for dinner.

Dinner for us was Western. A plateful of French fries, steamed upcountry vegetables and quarter of a grilled chicken was preceded by a salty vegetable broth that is the best remedy to beat the cold outside. Royal Cocoon understands that food is an essential part of a good holiday.

Reasonably priced and with service that is exemplary, this small but luxurious boutique hotel is constantly booked by some interesting guests that you will come across if you browse through their guest book. It is best to make reservations well ahead of time. One other unique thing about Royal Cocoon is that it is private and sans the hustle and bustle of larger hotels. Tranquil is probably a good way to describe it.

 

By Nishu Hassim
Photo Credit: Sanura Gunawardana

Box Information

Royal Cocoon, No. 2 Wedderburn Road, Nuwara Eliya.
Tel : +94 722 324091
E-mail : info@cocoonresorts.com
Website: www.royalcocoon.lk

 

Into the Wild

As islanders we love our great outdoors and in fact are quite proud of the flora and fauna spread throughout the island. More so of the Yala National Park, the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka. Consisting of five blocks, the park covers 979 square kilometers. Yala was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and, along with Wilpattu was one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka. The park is best known for its variety of wild animals.

Panthera Pardus, more commonly known as the Leopard is one of them. A truly majestic creature, the leopard is arguably the only member of the “Big Cat” family to roam the Paradise Isle. Elusive is how most trackers and park rangers at the Yala National Park would most often describe the leopard. Not everyone though is lucky to spot a leopard on a first visit but with an experienced tracker you may just about catch a glimpse of the creature.

Many are the stories told of the Yala experience yet until seen with one’s own eye no great orator or writer’s description comes close. Elusive leopards, majestic elephants, dancing peacocks, playful black bears, a lone wild buffalo, ferocious crocodiles, herds of spotted deer, and over 200 species of wild birds, the Indian Ocean gently splashing against untouched white sandy beaches, and flora in all its glory everywhere you look, are just a few of the many moments in paradise. More than an experience it is what visitors who keep returning like to call an adventure.

In order to experience this plethora of attractions both natural and man-made Yala also has a variety of accommodation options from the luxurious star-classed hotels, to simple tree-houses that truly depict the village life that surrounds the national park. Camping perhaps is however the best way to become one with the surroundings.

At the Pardus Seek Luxury Camping Site which is our abode for two days, it is all about modern convenience meeting a picturesque jungle setting. If your hearts yearning it to be at the heart of nature, experience its beauty in its truest settings and yet bask in the luxuries of contemporary life then Pardus Seek is the place to be. Located deep in the serenity of the Yala National Park, and the closest location to the main entry point, this little haven is perfect for a lone traveller, a honeymoon couple, an adventurous bunch of friends, a family looking for relaxation, an ardent wildlife photographer or even a corporate group on a team building exercise.

The staff at Pardus Seek makes arrangements for pick-up from locations within Colombo and generally takes the Southern Expressway to get there. The entire journey takes about 3-3 ½ hours and we are told is best taken at night so as not to feel the fatigue too much. Once you do get there, guests are welcome in to luxurious 12 x 25 tents furnished with king size beds, and other amenities like fans, multiple power point sockets, attached bathrooms with water heating powered by solar energy, and internet facilities.

The best and most anticipated part of this journey is the trip to Yala which we are taken on early morning. This is the best time to see the elusive leopard, majestic elephant, playful black bear and the dancing peacocks. We are not disappointed and catch at least a glimpse of all of them and more.

After a tired day out exploring the best way to unwind is on your own private little patio or on the wooden deck of your camp while sipping the famous king coconut water straight from the fruit. Dining at Pardus Seek is an experience in itself as the options available range from a classy restaurant in the jungle to sitting atop a large boulder rock. Cuisine is a la carte and is specially prepared by a trained chef who is willing to give in to all and any taste buds. If required he will also pack a scrumptious picnic basket for your day in the wild.

For any traveller local or foreign, Yala is a definite on the to-do list. Pardus Seek offers a new way to do it in style.


Box Information
Pardus Seek Luxury Tents, Yala National Park, Sri Lanka.
Tel : +94 779 097 117 | +94 777 545 666
E-mail : info@pardusseek.com

Reservation Contact
182/A, Stanley Thilakerathne Mawatha, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka.
Tel : +94 112 076 044

Chennai Shenanigans

Stepping out of the plane, I was expecting a whiff of horrible smelling poo, I was wrong. People painted a horrible picture of India; however they were all proven wrong during my trip to Chennai. It was a great trip given that the company and the food were amazing. Chennai is indeed a larger version of Sri Lanka. Everything was double its size. The highways and roads are bigger; malls are huge and even their tuk tuks, rather known as rickshaws are larger and more spacious.

My trip to Chennai was on business, therefore given its convenience we were housed at ‘Radisson Blu Hotel Chennai City Center’. It is situated about 18 kilometers from the Chennai International Airport at the heart of the central business district in Egmore. It offers spacious rooms and suites, offering respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. While the restaurant offers flavourful cuisines with a pinch of Indian touch, the staff of the hotel was extremely helpful and caring. My stay was extra special as a result of the comfort the hotel offered during my stay.

Chennai is indeed a very special city, and is not how the media paints about India and thus a very safe stay and a peaceful one. Given that my stay was on a tight schedule I managed to squeeze in one important tourist / religious attraction of Chennai, St. Thomas Mount, a Holy place of international prominence and historical eminence. The ancient church a top of the St. Thomas Mount has served as the light house for the Portuguese and [1] Armenian vessels in the Bay of Bengal during the 16th and 17th centuries. The five hundred year old shrine atop of the mount, can be accessed by devotees easily through the vowed climb of 134 granite steps, constructed in 1726,  as an act of penance and sacrifice. However to make possible vehicular traffic, the historical shrine is also accessible through the south-western base.

According to folklore, the cross chiseled on a stone of this hill by St. Thomas himself was used as a means to offer his personal prayers. In addition it is believed that the cross provided protection from those seeking to persecute him. It was when he was praying before the stone cross, that he was stabbed from behind with a lance. It is believed that the Cross has been stained with the blood of the Martyr. This Cross was accidentally discovered by the Portuguese when they dug the foundations for the new Church in 1547. Ancient records show that the stone cross had sweat blood, during the holy mass celebrated by Fr Gasper Coelho on 18th December 1558. The last known occasion on which it was found sweating blood was in 1704. Popular faith says that innumerable miracles of cures were attributed to this sacred stone cross through mere contact with it in faith and it has roused the conversion of many unbelievers. Even today the natural dampness on its surface is a perennial factor of surprise and devotion.

In addition to the stone cross the shrine also houses the oil painting of the Madonna of the Blessed Virgin painted by St. Luke the evangelist on wood, known better as the ‘Scapular of St. Thomas’.  In the “Tombs and Descriptions in the Madras Presidency” ( A Government Publication ), Mr. J. J. Cotton says of the painting that “This is a picture painted by St Luke who was an artist. The Virgin died when Thomas was away and on his return he had the tomb opened in order that he might once more look upon her. It was found that the body had been miraculously removed and Thomas was so disturbed that St. Luke offered to paint him a portrait of the Virgin as a consolation. This portrait St. Thomas carried with him on all his wanderings”. The first written account of this painting was made in 1559 when the King of Bisnaga took it to his court in Chandragiri, which he later returned to the Mount. The Madonna is considered to be one of the oldest and most venerated paintings in India where countless blessings have been recorded by devotees who have prayed before it.

The facade of the Shrine is beautifully ornamented and highlighted by the Portuguese coat of arms engraved in rich granite and it serves as an official signature of the Portuguese who were the architects of this historical place of worship.  The shrine entombs a piece of the Bone of St. Thomas casketed in a beautifully ornamented monstrance. Many have witnessed miracles that have been affected through the efficacy of this holy relic. This Sanctuary is said to be the spot where St Thomas was martyred. Any one standing on this surface will certainly feel the vibrations of the hidden current that floods this main altar area.  The enchanting atmosphere atop the hill further enhances the serene experience of the church as it overlooks the city of Chennai is remarkable. The Mount is a proud heritage of Christians and remains a popular attraction for devotees far and wide.

Of course indulging one’s self in shopping especially given the seasonal offers was indeed therapeutic. Other than rickshaw’s, Uber is the easiest, cheapest and safest way to get about in Chennai. T-nagar considered to be one of the biggest shopping districts in Chennai and was indeed spectacular in the night. It is always good to take someone who speaks the local langue, allowing you to bargain and get goods for cheaper and better deals.  The night traffic in this district was literally crazy, as much as it was so colourful! Some of the recommended shops were Pothi’s and Nalli’s which I am sure most of us who travel to Chennai indulge in hunting for colourful sarees and kurtha’s. In addition the street shops are also good places to scry for beautiful ethnic jewelry as well as shawls and other goods. Given the demonetization India is currently going through we found it exceptionally difficult to change money. However every shopping mall particularly Express Avenue has money changing facilities making it convenient for tourists looking to indulge in more shopping.

If you are looking for something more ethnic to bring back to your loved ones Cane and Bamboo located in Egmore, very close to Radisson Blu Hotel is one of the best places to shop. Cane and Bamboo houses traditional Indian arts and crafts ranging from bags to wall hanging mirrors to wind chimes that are hand made by artisans from Kashmir to Kanyaumari and Gujarat to Assam. The diversity of the products were unbelievable showcasing exquisite workmanship influenced by religious, traditional, geographic and cultural factors each artisan is subjected to increasing high aesthetic and functional value.

In terms of the traditional cuisine, we experienced the traditional recipes of ‘Ente Keralam’ a traditional restaurant allowing its customers to indulge in Kerala’s rich culinary heritage. It was indeed an exquisite experience although not very different from Sri Lankan cuisine, there is however a significant taste that tingles your taste buds. I was surprised to see ‘Ap-pa’ also known as ‘Ap-pam’ on their traditional platter along-side string hoppers. The restaurant is located in Alwarpet, if you are looking for a diarrhea free indulgence. Not heeding pre-warnings to not eat street food, on my night out shopping I had the chance of indulging in the tastes of Panipuri from a street vendor. It consists of a round, hollow puri, fried crisp and filled with a mixture of flavored water (pani), tamarind chutney, chili, chaat masala, potato, onion and chickpeas. You get five of these Panipuri’s, giving you the strength to carry on walking in search of more shops.

It was indeed one of the best trips I have been on given especially that the company was amazing. Chennai was indeed an experience of a life time; a city that never sleeps in India.

Photography by: Nikka Almazan

[1] http://www.stthomasmount.org/

S p a O y a – The luxury Day Spa

October 8th, 2016: SPA OYA and its facilities was jointly opened by Miss Srilanka 2011 Stephanie Siriwardhana , Miss Khadeeja Ahmed, Mr Dasantha Fonseka, Chairman Vision Care and VC capital.

A short and sweet ceremony included the special guests and the board directors arriving at the jetty while a flute and sitar artist was playing a beautiful Hindi tune.
This was followed by lighting of the oil lamp.
SPA OYA, a lakefront wellness spa located in Koggola will open on 8th October 2016. The Spa is an 8-minute boat ride from the South Lake Resort, through the picturesque Koggola Lake.

Immersed in the spectacular natural beauty of Sri Lanka, SPA OYA is dedicated to wellness. SPA OYA’s classical Sri Lankan design is carefully used to create an atmosphere of tranquility and inspire inner peace and harmony.
SPA OYA’s holistic approach to well-being includes early morning and late afternoon yoga retreat programs conducted by highly specialized yoga instructors. The Spa will offer special day packages and is open for guests from nearby villas. The Spa’s in-house therapists will help visitors find the most ideal and authentic spa treatment and offers a wide range of packages including specialized treatment options for adolescents as well as special family packages.

The SPA OYA has 3 outdoor bungalows and 2 indoor treatment rooms. The arrival pavilion offers manicure and pedicure services. The spa’s garden facilities, including the infinity swimming pool overlooking the lake, open air jacuzzi, steam room, flower bath areas, lovers’ sunbeds and the meditation platform, are complimentary with most packages, making the SPA OYA a unique spa experience.
Let us give you a day to remember, come and live an experience of a lifetime.
Questions :
If you have any further questions on our facilities or services, please contact us at:

Phone: 0720440455
Email: thoyyib7@gmail.com
Pics: pls download from this directory
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0ByUxHjybmi0WSGJIMDNUN29HMTQ

Gone with the Wind

Let’s face it. Colombo is rapidly becoming one of the most sought after cities in Asia and a modern metropolis that quite literally houses every whim and fancy of the modern generation. Every possible type of cuisine has found its way to the streets of the city, while fashion brands for anyone and everyone are competing for a place in our closets. Yet what does one do when you need a quick but different kind of getaway from it all?

Less than an hour’s drive from Colombo overlooking the tranquil waters of the Bolgoda Lake lies the answer. The Marina opened up earlier this year as an exclusively members-only water sports club but since then due to popular demand has opened doors to non-members via a day pass.

The day pass comes in a variety of packages which includes access to The Marina’s facilities, recreational activities, and a three-course meal. The club is the first of its kind in Sri Lanka and strikes a balance between the adrenaline junkies and those who want a more relaxed afternoon. The reason we specify on afternoon is that this is by far the best time to visit.

For those who enjoy the water and are looking for some adventure, The Marina offers a multitude of water sports and activities like boating, jet-skiing, fishing, parasailing, jet-ski rides, jet boat rides, tube rides and wakeboarding all of which last about 15 minutes each. The fun doesn’t end once the rides do as the facility also has a pristine swimming pool and cosy Jacuzzi for the entire family to relax and enjoy. Equipped with an underwater music system, the pool provides hours of enjoyment for everybody.

Any member of the family or group of friends that doesn’t particularly enjoy the water will also not feel left out at The Marina. Lake-front cabanas are ideal for reading or relaxing to the sound of your favourite tunes, or even just basking in the sun with that special someone. An air-conditioned reading room and TV lounge is also in-house for those who prefer to stay indoors.

One of the best-selling factors about this place is the food. Whether you choose to dine at the indoor dining area, the private dining room or by the pool, the food keeps in line with the great ambiance of the venue. The presentation of the dishes is what catches one’s eyes and for the most part your soul is satisfied even before the first bite touches your taste buds. Being a water-sports facility there is naturally tons of seafood and whether it is a simple snack or a complete meal, The Marina scores top points with their food.

The facility is however, not just a place for family fun and relaxation and can even be used for a corporate brainstorming session. The marina offers a conference room complete with multimedia and state-of-the-art AV system for business meetings with a twist.

Like we said earlier, late afternoons are the best times to head over to The Marina as all of the activities can be enjoyed with the view of the sun going down. Even if it might be just a few hours of fun and relaxation, this is a good way to rejuvenate over a weekend before heading back to the stress of the week ahead. What better way than with the wind in your hair and the sand at your feet…

 

Box Information
Address: Pangnananda 1st Lane, Panadura
Phone: 0777 668424
Website: www.themarina.lk