Sri Lanka

Mirissa Beach

Visit Mirissa Beach to find the famous and beautiful palm tree dome. We were there in the middle of the day and nobody was there. It is quite a stunning location.

Dalawella Beach

Dalawella Beach is a beautiful secluded beach. There is only one small hotel and several apartment rentals by the beach. You will see many sea turtles and can enjoy a beautiful sunset. The famous palm tree swing is also here. I am pretty sure this swing is no longer active since people would line up in the evening to take turns and take pictures hanging from the tree.

Hikkaduwa

If you would like to take part of an activity such as releasing baby sea turtles back into the ocean you can visit the Sea Turtle Hatchery & Rescue in Hikkaduwa. The hatchery focuses on rescuing injured and disadvantaged turtles as well as protecting turtle eggs until hatching and then releasing the turtles back into the ocean. Please note there is still high controvery sorrounding these hatcheries since, unfortunately, the turtles are kept in small tanks and frankly, look unhappy. These turtles would have not survived in the wild, but at the same time, these hatcheries do not have enough resources to create proper environments for them. It up to your own judgement if you would like to visit or not.

Pinnawala

If you would like to interact with elephants in Sri Lanka I would recommend a visit to The Elephant Freedom Project. They care only for one elephant for a certain period of time and as a visitor, you will have the opportunity to watch him eat, feed him fruits, and bathe him in the river. Riding the elephant is prohibited. I would not recommend to visit any other "foundation" since their main focus is to exploit the elephants for tourism purposes.

Galle

Galle is a pretty small colonial town next to the water. It has many pretty concept and locals shops and some cute cafes and restaurants. It is quite small, so one afternoon is enough to spend here.