Sri Lanka, You Have Me Hooked

Feeling incredibly grateful to have visited Sri Lanka twice in the last seven months for work — and to be honest, I still can’t quite believe this magical place is part of my job.

Sri Lanka has a way of getting under your skin. It draws you in slowly, gently with its lush green hills, golden coastlines, ancient ruins, and the ever-present warmth of its people. It’s a destination that doesn’t just tick boxes; it stirs the soul.

What makes Sri Lanka so special is its sheer variety. One day, you're watching elephants wander through the wilds of Yala National Park. The next, you’re sipping tea in the cool, misty highlands. There are bustling cities where colonial charm and contemporary life sit comfortably side by side, and serene beaches where time seems to pause. It’s immersive, it’s rich with culture, and it’s breathtakingly beautiful.

Tourism has been kind to Sri Lanka — and Sri Lanka has been kind in return. Everywhere you go, there’s a feeling that visitors are genuinely welcome. The hospitality isn’t rehearsed or forced; it’s heartfelt. People go out of their way to make you feel at home, and they do it with pride and grace.

One of the things I love most about being in Sri Lanka is how easily I can switch off. For someone constantly on the go, that’s rare. But here, I truly relax. I’m nourished by the food (yes, Sri Lankan curries are incredible — but rest assured, you’ll find everything from fresh seafood to Western favourites), soothed by the natural beauty, and restored by the pace of life. Whether I’m walking through a spice garden, bartering in a market, or listening to the rhythmic clatter of a passing train, I feel present. Alive.

There were a couple of standout experiences on this recent trip. Climbing Sigiriya Lion’s Rock was a highlight — a little daunting at first, but far easier than I imagined and completely worth the early morning start. The views from the top, and the sense of history and mythology surrounding the rock, made it unforgettable.

Another was taking one of the island’s iconic train rides. You’ve probably seen the videos online, carriages rolling through emerald tea plantations, locals waving from the tracks. It’s even more magical in person. Watching the scenery shift slowly and dramatically through the open windows is one of those moments you just sink into. No rush, no pressure, just being.

Now I understand why so many people return to Sri Lanka year after year. I’ve only scratched the surface, and already it feels like a place I’ll keep coming back to. There’s so much still to see, to feel, to experience.

Sri Lanka, you’ve got me hooked ... and I’m not done with you yet.