First Impressions: A Journey Begins in Sri Lanka

Today was a day of transit, spent largely within the confines of an airplane, yet I find myself already enamored with Sri Lanka. Some might say it’s premature, but let me share the experiences that have kindled this affection.

From the moment I boarded SriLankan Airlines, I was enveloped in an ambiance rich with cultural nuances. The cabin crew, adorned in traditional attire, exuded warmth and approachability. I observed a fellow passenger so engrossed in conversation with a flight attendant that he scarcely returned to his seat—a testament to their engaging nature. Attentive to the slightest gestures, they not only anticipated our needs but also indulged in light-hearted banter, a rarity among other airlines.

The culinary offerings onboard were delightful. For the first meal, we were presented with choices of beef, vegetable, or chicken. My husband opted for the chicken, while I chose the beef, only to be pleasantly surprised by a sukiyaki dish. My husband’s selection resembled a chicken curry, embodying Sri Lankan flavors. Although I initially felt a tinge of disappointment for missing out on a local dish, he graciously shared his meal with me. The curry, mildly spiced with a hint of sweetness, possessed a depth of flavor that was truly satisfying.

The second meal, informed by prior research, offered options of noodles, rice, or chicken. My husband chose the noodles, which turned out to be udon, while I selected the fish curry. The dish, moderately spicy, paired exquisitely with rice, leaving a lasting impression on my palate.

Despite the eight-hour journey, the extensive selection of in-flight entertainment kept monotony at bay. I indulged in a Sri Lankan love story and the latest installment of the Matrix, both of which were thoroughly enjoyable. The Sri Lankan film bore a resemblance to Indian cinema, with spontaneous dance sequences and a juxtaposition of upbeat music against serious scenes, adding to its charm.

Upon arriving at Colombo Airport, we encountered no persistent touts and seamlessly secured an Uber for approximately 1,500 Sri Lankan Rupees to our hotel. The hotel itself was a delightful surprise, boasting a pool and a bar. We were welcomed with a refreshing drink made from a local fruit, the name of which escapes me.

During an evening stroll, we were enchanted by the sight of fireflies. Though I’ve heard they were once common, I had never witnessed them in Japan. Their ethereal glow deepened my appreciation for Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

A visit to a local supermarket allowed us to purchase spices, tea, and exotic fruits. The array of unfamiliar produce and quaintly sized vegetables was exhilarating. We also picked up some local sweets. Despite forgetting to bring a plastic bag, the store provided one free of charge.

Back at the hotel, we dined at the in-house restaurant due to the lack of nearby options. The highlight of the meal was Kottu Roti—a popular Sri Lankan dish comprising chopped roti, scrambled eggs, onions, chilies, and a choice of meat or vegetable curry. The unique texture, distinct from udon, combined with a rich blend of spices, was utterly delectable. While the meat was slightly tough, the seafood was exceptional, prompting me to anticipate more seafood delights during our stay.

Taking minor precautions, such as using bottled water for brushing our teeth, we settled in comfortably. Tomorrow, we venture to Sigiriya, and I eagerly await the experiences that lie ahead.