Blogs from Southern Province, Sri Lanka, Asia

We’ve cracked it, reached the zenith of turtle. First was the Philippines where we saw one and jumped in after it, next was Lord Howe where we snorkelled around them while they were feeding, next Hawaii where we watched them topsy turvy and swum with with them as they moseyed along. But we have now encountered world’s friendliest and least law-abiding turtles. Unlike the Americans and Australians, they apparently had no idea of this 5m distance rule, and quite liked to get up close and personal. So we were ... read more

We arrived in Colombo on Monday. As we had visited before we had booked the ship excursion to Galle. Having watched the cricket from there we had noticed the old fort next to the cricket ground. It was an all day trip. We started with a 2 hour bus trip through the Sri Lankan country side. Very green with white temples scattered around, it was an interesting trip. Once we arrived in Galle we drove to the fort. As we entered Galle we passed an picturesque beach where there were many small fishing boats, and fishermen selling their wares on the side of the road.Our guide said they do business there because it costs too much to have a stall in the fish market. Then we drove to the fort.This was a very busy place with ... read more

My first intention for today was to get my washing done. I have been washing bits each day, letting them dry overnight in my room, but today I seem to get a pile of clothes that need doing. Ella gave me a wake up knock on the door at about 8:45. So as soon as I finished showering and dressing, I got straight on with my washing! Thea washing was done, and on the washing line before breakfast! As is now expected, another amazing day, another amazing breakfast, with a special mention for the very nice chocolate cake! There were a few more new faces at the table this morning, which is always nice. You simply never know whose company you are going to enjoy each day! My second intention is to fix the leather chair. ... read more

It’s not surprising, but I really struggled to get to sleep last night! Probably because of the sad news. Finally, I got to sleep at about 2:30, and then did sleep through until 8am. I sat and had a coffee with Ella whilst the yoga were yoga-ing, and before breakfast! Breakfast was different today, with a transient table of people, it seems very different. Saba had gone back to France, but there are quite a few new faces. Today’s breakfast was soya and vegetable burritos with chickpeas… and all of the usual spreads and bread, with the addition of papaya crumble, fruit juice and a healthy shot! I rarely know quite what I’m eating until after the event, but I always eat it, and I always enjoy it! There is often a spicy, curry like vibe ... read more

Wow! …. A marathon sleep! I’ve had about 10 hours, with a wake up to take on water!! Feeling good this morning! I woke up to Ella bringing me a coffee… loving it! The yogis were actually already done, and getting ready for breakfast! Today it is pancakes and fruit, and as always breakfast is accompanied by a fruit smoothie and a healthy shot. Today’s shot was lemon and ginger. I do enjoy the breakfast time as you meet new people everyday. The yoga is for the Basecamp people, but also for random drop ins. Some come from tha, and some come from yoga and breakfast. So with so many various people passing through, the conversations are random, varied and interesting! Today the curtains arrived. So after breakfast Ella and I went up to the shala ... read more