Aug of 2018-- Having traveled frequently to European countries, I was surprised and disappointed when my Schengen visa application to Greece was denied, especially as I had already prepared my flights, hotels, and itinerary. Despite my familiarity with Europe’s visa requirements, I faced an unexpected setback due to an overlooked interconnecting boat booking. With my vacation fast approaching, I didn't have time to reapply. However, rather than let this derail our plans, I began searching for destinations that didn’t require a visa for Philippine passport holders. Sri Lanka soon emerged as the perfect alternative, and a close proximity to Bahrain (where I used to live) leading us to a serendipitous adventure that unfolded with perfect timing at every step.
An Unexpected Luxury and First Stop: Colombo
While booking tickets on Expedia, I spotted a rare deal: a business-class return flight for nearly the same cost as economy. Believing it to be a system glitch, I booked it, and this little leap of faith was the first of many unexpected surprises on our trip.
Our journey began in Colombo, where we checked into the beautiful Ozo Hotel, recommended by a friend who had worked on its construction. With panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, it was the ideal place to unwind and immerse ourselves in Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. Our packed itinerary started with a visit to Gangaramaya Temple, a unique blend of Sri Lankan, Thai, and Chinese architecture. The temple offered a tranquil oasis from the city, and its intricate design and calming atmosphere made for a perfect introduction to Colombo’s culture.
Sri Lanka is celebrated for its precious gemstones, so we explored local jewelry shops, marveling at the country’s prized sapphires and rubies, renowned for their clarity and vibrant hues.
To our delight, we happened to arrive just in time for the Colombo Music Festival—another perfect example of being in the right place at the right time! With VIP tickets, we enjoyed grandstand views, delicious dinners, and unlimited drinks, dancing to reggae legends like Shaggy, Maxi Priest, Diana King, and Big Mountain. It was a high-energy night filled with live performances, rhythmic beats, and a relaxed, tropical vibe, making it one of the most talked-about music events in Sri Lanka.
Exploring Colombo by Tuk-Tuk and Visiting the National Heritage
Exploring the city on a tuk-tuk added a fun, authentic vibe to our trip. We also visited the Colombo National Museum, home to a vast collection of ancient sculptures, traditional masks, and intricate carvings that illustrate Sri Lanka’s rich history. The Colombo National Museum is an absolute gem for anyone interested in learning about Sri Lanka’s fascinating history and culture. Established in 1877, this museum is located in a beautiful colonial-era building that feels like stepping back in time. Inside, you’ll find everything from ancient sculptures and traditional masks to royal artifacts, like the throne and crown of Sri Lanka’s last kings. The exhibits give you a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage, from prehistoric times through the colonial period. It’s a calm, spacious place to explore, making it easy to lose track of time as you wander through displays that tell the story of Sri Lanka’s unique cultural journey. The museum’s serene setting and well-curated galleries make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to understand Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural legacy.
A Warm Welcome in Kandy
Our next stop was Kandy. Kandy is a culturally rich city nestled in the lush central highlands of Sri Lanka, known for its scenic beauty, colonial history, and spiritual significance. As the last royal capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses a revered relic of the Buddha's tooth and draws pilgrims and visitors from around the world. The city is surrounded by rolling hills, misty mountains, and tropical rainforests, creating a serene and picturesque landscape.
Back to our travel- we learned a quick lesson in travel safety along the way. After nearly accepting a ride from a street vendor, our hotel staff suggested a safer option for the journey. Once in Kandy, we found ourselves in the midst of the Festival of the Tooth (another right time at the right place), a vibrant event honoring the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. Colorful parades filled the streets with music, drummers, dancers, and ornately decorated elephants. Caught in the festive crowd, we felt lucky to be in the right place at the right time.
That night, a distant glow on a hill caught our eye. A friendly tuk-tuk driver took us to a nearby restaurant, where we enjoyed a breathtaking view of the festivities, capturing the beauty of Kandy from a peaceful vantage point.
Discovering Sri Lankan Craftsmanship
As an architect, I’m always fascinated by local craftsmanship. I had the chance to visit a wood carving workshop. Sri Lankan artisans are renowned for their skills, particularly with ebony, a striking black wood that’s both durable and beautiful. It inspired me with new ideas for future projects and of course I got my ebony buddha sculpture.
The Ceylon Tea Experience in Ella
Our journey continued to Ella, where we visited a Ceylon tea factory. The Ceylon Tea Experience in Ella is a must for tea lovers and curious travelers alike. Nestled in Sri Lanka’s lush hill country, Ella is home to sprawling tea plantations and scenic tea factories where you can immerse yourself in the island’s renowned tea culture. During a visit, you’ll get an insider's look at the entire tea-making process—from the plucking of fresh leaves in the fields to the intricate steps of drying, rolling, and grading the tea. Knowledgeable guides share the fascinating history of Ceylon tea and its journey to becoming one of the world’s most sought-after exports.
The tasting session is a highlight, offering a chance to sample different types of Ceylon tea. From robust black teas to the exquisite golden leaf teas, which are considered the finest, you’ll gain a new appreciation for this beloved beverage. Set against the misty, scenic backdrop of Ella, the experience combines the rich heritage of tea with the region's stunning natural beauty, making it a memorable part of any visit to Sri Lanka.
Island Spice Grove: A Sensory Journey
Our driver then took us to Island Spice Grove, where we discovered Sri Lanka’s medicinal plants and learned about traditional herbal remedies. We indulged in a relaxing massage that left us feeling rejuvenated and connected to the island’s healing traditions.
Sun, Sand, and Adventure at Hikkaduwa Beach
Our final destination was Hikkaduwa Beach, where we stayed at the Coral Sands Hotel, a beachfront haven. We loved the turquoise waters and had the chance to swim with sea turtles — a truly unforgettable experience.
One day, we even braved a rocky shoreline, holding hands as waves crashed around us, in a beautiful, challenging moment that only strengthened our bond.
Naturally, no visit to Sri Lanka would be complete without an Ayurveda massage.
An Ayurveda massage is a wonderfully relaxing and rejuvenating experience, rooted in one of the world’s oldest healing systems.
Originating in ancient India, Ayurveda focuses on balancing the mind, body, and spirit to promote overall health. During the massage, warm herbal oils—chosen specifically to suit your unique body type, or dosha (Vata, Pitta, or Kapha)—are used to deeply nourish the skin and help detoxify the body. The massage technique involves long, flowing strokes that feel both calming and invigorating, helping to ease muscle tension and boost circulation. I decided to give it a try, and it was a really pleasant experience. The oils in my hair had to stay in for a while, but it was well worth it!
A Luxurious Farewell
On our final evening, I met up with my architect friend for dinner, and we reflected on the incredible journey we’d experienced. Later that night, I treated myself to one last indulgence—a relaxing massage complete with a soothing flower bath.
We flew back in business class with Oman Air, enjoying fine dining, excellent wine, and even lounge access — a fitting end to an unexpectedly luxurious trip.
What began as a setback became an unforgettable adventure, thanks to Sri Lanka’s rich culture and serendipitous timing. This journey proved that sometimes, the best memories come simply by being in the right place at the right time.
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