February 7th - Columbo, Sri Lanka

Spent a wonderful day in Sri Lanka.

Our tour guide was Chandana (#2798) from Toursbylocals.com. He was just
great - and such a nice man. He speaks English and Dutch. He provided a
custom tour for our small group that included many off the beaten path
experiences.

Our first stop was to a local market. Everyone was so proud of what they had
grown or caught. They provided many samples and explanations of the
medicinal qualities of the various fruits, vegetables and plants. The plant
with the pretty yellow flower, eat it and you will die a painless death
within 30 minutes.

We then went to a very real local neighborhood where we were invited into a
home and introduced to a family.

From here tuk tuks were arranged to take us to the historical and beautiful
Mount Lavinia Hotel with great beaches and views (this was my first tuk tuk
ride).

Then it was out of the city to see the countryside and visit a private tea
plantation. The host was wonderful and had us sample a fruit drink - their
local "coca cola".

Then it was time to head back to town with a drive down Galle Face Green,
visit Slave Island and the Wolvendaal Church, and finish with a drive
through the very busy market.

I loved the people here - no matter how poor - always with a smile and happy
to see you. Everyone wanted their picture taken.

At times, I think we were the tourist attraction!