Do you wonder what all the hype is about? Why has Lonely Planet, recognized as the world’s premier travel portal, named Sri Lanka as the top country to visit in 2019? Well, it is basically because this teardrop island paradise packs so much within its tiny boundaries, that visitors are never at loss for something enthralling to do. This is backed by the famous Sri Lankan hospitality that embraces visitors with a warm smile and helpful manner.
A country revived
The main reason for the guidebook publisher to place this sun-drenched island on top, is that it is so much more than just a place to work on your tan. As Lonely Planet author Ethan Gelber in the Best in Travel 2019 book notes, “Already notable to intrepid travellers for its mix of religions and cultures, its timeless temples, its rich and accessible wildlife, its growing surf scene and its people who defy all odds by their welcome and friendliness after decades of civil conflict, this is a country revived,”.
Diverse activities
Tourists not only arrive at a country that is slowly but steadily developing but also to a staggering number of diverse activities that cannot be experienced during one visit. Losing yourself in the inspiring world of wildlife in the numerous national parks around the island or stepping back in time by visiting the history-rich island’s many ancient monuments and ruins or breathing in the pure crisp mountain air of the country’s upcountry region are all experiences that lure visitors back, time and time again.
Easy travel
With new highways and expressways traveling is quick and smooth and it is even easier to enjoy more of this small island. You could be basking in the sun on a soft sandy beach one day and experiencing an adrenalin rush next day as you white water raft along the Kitulgala river rapids. You could be shopping to your heart’s content one day in the city’s commercial capital Colombo and stepping back to Colonial times with a visit to the historic Galle Fort area the next.
Senses stimulation
In Sri Lanka the senses are assailed from the moment you land, the bright sun, the aquamarine ocean waters, the bustle of the traffic, the calm of the jungle, the sound of nature waking up and the enticing smell of the spices and condiments used in the local cooking, are just some of the constant stimuli visitors experience.
Accommodation options
Thanks to the huge investment in accommodation, hotels, villas and Airbnb options, have made travel to Sri Lanka even more convenient and there are many providers who have embraced sustainable tourism, so travellers can enjoy Sri Lanka with the knowledge they are not adversely affecting the environment of this beautiful island nation.