Birthday Bliss: Exploring Sri Lanka & Unwinding in the Maldives

What better way to celebrate a birthday than by ticking off two dream destinations in one unforgettable trip? I recently returned from the most magical getaway to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, and I can confidently say: it was the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and total relaxation.

Sri Lanka: Culture, Climbing & Close Encounters

Our journey began in the teardrop-shaped island of Sri Lanka, somewhere I last visited over 20 years ago, and I was blown away by the hospitality of the people. We also had the luxury of a private driver guide, Budhika, who meant we could relax and soak in the scenery while getting insider knowledge along the way.

Travel Tip: Having a private driver-guide in Sri Lanka gives you the flexibility to stop whenever you like – whether it’s for a spontaneous photo op, a roadside coconut, or to tweak your plans as you go. It’s the way to go!

One of the highlights for me was climbing Sigiriya Rock, an ancient rock fortress that rewards you with breathtaking views and a real sense of accomplishment once you reach the top. It’s a workout, but so worth it! Best to be enjoyed at sunrise or later in the day to avoid the heat, which can be sweltering. We followed it up with a visit to the incredible Dambulla Cave Temple, a stunning complex of ancient caves filled with Buddha statues and intricate ceiling paintings. Spiritual and serene, it was a definite pinch-me moment. From there, we took what might be the most scenic train ride in the world: the journey from Kandy, where we were packed off with a flask of tea from Budhik, to Nuwara Eliya. Think endless tea plantations, misty mountains, and locals waving as the train winds through the hills, a memory that will stay with me for a long time.

Travel Tip: Don’t be tempted by the air-conditioned first-class carriage. Go for second class with reserved seats, the windows and doors stay open, making it the spot for those Instagram-worthy shots and letting you feel the breeze and the vibe of the ride.

Upon reaching Nuwara Eliya, also known as ‘Little England,’ we treated ourselves to High Tea at the Grand Hotel, our home for the night, a colonial-era gem that makes you feel like you‘ve stepped into a more elegant time. Finger sandwiches, scones, and hot Ceylon tea never tasted so good, even better with a few glasses of bubbles… We ended our Sri Lankan adventure with a bang: a safari in Yala National Park. We were lucky enough to see herds of elephants enjoying play time in the river and even caught a glimpse of the elusive sloth bear – a rare sight that felt like such a birthday gift from the wild.

Maldives: Overwater Dreams & Ocean Serenity

After all the exploring, it was time to slow the pace down. We flew off to the Maldives, which instantly delivered those screensaver vibes – think turquoise lagoons, powdery white sand, and every shade of blue imaginable. We split our stay between two stunning resorts: Emerald Maldives and Emerald Faarufushi, both equally luxurious and postcard-perfect. In both places, we stayed in an overwater villa with a private pool – waking up to the ocean right at your feet is something I’ll never forget.

Travel Tip: When packing for the Maldives, less is more. You don’t need much – think swimsuits, a couple of light outfits, and leave the shoes behind. Chances are you’ll be living in your flip flops or barefoot the whole time.

One of the best decisions we made was to twin two islands. It gave us two different perspectives on paradise. And the speedboat transfer between resorts was an experience in itself – we were lucky enough to be surrounded by pods of dolphins dancing alongside us. Pure magic! Highlights? Swimming with a turtle in the crystal-clear water, indulging in blissful spa treatments, and savouring incredible food every single day. Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and the best curries made every meal something to remember.

This trip was everything I could’ve asked for – a perfect mix of exploration and relaxation, adventure and pampering. Sri Lanka filled my heart with wonder, while the Maldives let me completely unwind and soak in the beauty of nature (and a few cocktails, of course). If you are planning a special celebration trip, this is the perfect combination, so get in touch and let me do the rest.t