Get ready to Sri Lanka🛫

This country just wowed me, thanks to the kindness of the people, the lush nature, and the amazing history. Here's some advice from an almost 3 week adventure in Sri Lanka.

It may seem strange, but Sri Lanka was the first South Asian country I visited. 

For that, it will always have a special place in my heart.

Writing this issue was actually difficult because I wanted to add A LOT more stuff, but for the sake of briefness, I swear you'll only find my best recommendations.

One more thing: even though the lion is one of Sri Lanka's symbols (it's even in the flag), there are no lions in Sri Lanka. 

But you can find a lot of other animals, promise.

Must See + Do

You can't miss the sacred district of Anuradhapura because here's where religion and story meet...and oh boy, their meeting is outstanding.

My favorite temple in the region was Mihintale

It’s not every day that you get to see a Budha in the middle of the jungle.

There's something truly spiritual about being in the temple where the monk who brought Buddhism to Sri Lanka met the king way back in the day.

The famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress is actually worth the hype (and the hike). The best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka, Dambulla Cave Temple, just left me speechless: it's a temple in a cave, beautifully decorated, and so old that we actually don't know how old it is.

Me super happy before…the climb! It is TOTALLY worth it.

Nuwara Eliya is a small town in the central hills of the island. I had to include it here for the complete change of scenery: you'll find a chilly climate, a relaxed mood, and outstanding views of lush greenery and tea estates. It's a little surprise.

The train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella is one of the most spectacular things you'll ever do. The beauty of what's outside of the window is not something I can put into words. It's definitely worth it.

Growing up in Mozambique, I was fortunate enough to go on more than a Safari. But the first time you see a leopard, it's something you can't forget, and so Yala National Park made it to the list. It's also a really affordable Safari experience. Don't miss it! 

This is one of my favorite photos of the entire vacation!

Where to Eat

Sri Lankan food is spicy. But even if our driver called me "baby spice," that didn't stop me from eating my way through this beautiful country.

Three places definitely stole my heart (and my belly):

  • In the center of Nuwara Eliya, next to the Central Market (facing it, on the left side), there's a food stall. You'll find a lot of locals outside eating and these women cooking in front of your eyes. Everything is simple, fresh and..delicious. No, Google will not help you; follow my directions. Thank me later.

  • Sometimes TripAdvisor is right. Because Green Lobster in Kalutara (right on the beach) is one of those places, we kept returning to when we were in the region. It's family-owned, and we felt at home: the excellent seafood and the meaningful conversation make it a small gem.

  • This was more of a "bucket list eat": the famous Ministry of Crab. Is it touristy and expensive for Sri Lanka? Sure. But it is one of Asia's 50 best restaurants. Was it worth it? Absolutely! I still dream about that extraordinary pepper crab.

Don’t mind me. I’m just salivating.

+ 1 (I told you it was really HARD to keep it short!)

We slept in this cute hotel near Yala, The Rain Tree. We had some of the best meals of the whole trip: their young chef works with fresh produce, knows how to cook it, and delivers an authentic Sri Lankan meal that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

WEB-ing around

 đź’¤This trend wants to prove that you can both sleep AND travel.

🖊️Traveling to Africa just got easier.

đź“‹I like these lists because they show how personal traveling is.

🎙️My first podcast appearance ever! If I sound nervous it is because I was but...if you like trains and Italy, you'll enjoy it!

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