A lot of people visit Iceland during winter months to catch the elusive Northern Lights but we opted for the fringe month of October (and we STILL got to see the Northern Lights!) But of course, you can also visit during the summer when the sun almost never sets.  Having access to the “midnight sun” can be a perfect companion for driving the 830-mile Ring Road that circles Iceland.

The adage ‘the journey matters more than the destination’ is nowhere truer than in Iceland. We spent long days driving around the country and slept side-by-side in a campervan. It wasn’t always glamorous, but hey, that’s what makes it an adventure!

Day 1: Renting a Car for Your Iceland Roadtrip

As soon as our flight landed at Keflavik Airport, we headed straight to pick up our bags and then to get our pre-booked campervan with Go Campers. We also made sure to include the necessary camping add-ons (cooking tools, sleeping bags, etc).

Sleep: We recommend either spending your first night in/around the Keflavik Airport or get a head start and drive towards Reykjavik. Make sure you stock up on groceries at one of the large supermarkets in this area because there aren’t too many of them once you set out on your drive.

Day 2: The Golden Circle

Our road trip began by exploring the famed Golden Circle.  The Thingvellir National Park, the site of the ancient Icelandic Parliament, is the first stop on this day. But what fascinated us more was the fact that the tectonic plates of North America and Europe meet at the Thingvellir National Park. The rift is clearly visible and you can actually cross over from one continent to the other.

Next up, the hot-springs area of Iceland. The original Geysir, after which all other geysers of the world are named, is dormant but there are a number of hot springs and geysers in the area. Make sure you wait for Strokkur, the highest Geysir in the area, to erupt while you are there.

The third attraction on the Golden Circle Tour is the Gullfoss Waterfall.  There are no shortages of waterfalls in Iceland and each is more beautiful than the next. Wrap up today’s drive with stops at a couple of other waterfalls – Skogafoss or Seljalandsfoss. It’s even possible to take a walk behind Seljalandsfoss really take in its beauty.

Sleep – Sleep at the base of Skógafoss.  Though it was a chilly (and windy) night, there was nothing cooler than waking up to a view of this gigantic waterfall.

Day 3: Glacier Hike and Plane Wreck

We spent this day pursuing something straight out of our wildest dreams. We went hiking on the Sólheimajökull Glacier with Arctic Adventures.
The guides got us prepared with all the necessary gear (helmets, crampons, etc). The next four hours were spent hiking on the gorgeous blue ice of the glacier. We think that this is a must-do for everyone’s trip to Iceland. Make sure you’re wearing warm waterproof clothes because it rains over 200 days/year in this area!

After the glacier hike, drive about 5 minutes down the Ring Road and park because it’s time for another hike (this time on flat land). Though you might be tired, the sight you will see will be worth it. Here you will find the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck. It is an abandoned plane that crashed back in 1973 and you’ll definitely get your Instagram fix.

Sleep – Drive about another 2 hours and camp at the Skaftafell Campgrounds at Vatnajokull National Park.

Day 4: Vatnajokull National Park, Jökulsárlón, and the Eastern Fjords

We started our day at the campground and got our blood circulating by hiking up to another gorgeous waterfall named Svartifoss. The hiking trail to the waterfall is a quick, about 2 miles, and starts at the visitor center. Make sure to stop along the way because you’ll see many opportunities to snap some photos.

Pack up the van and start heading towards 2 glacier lagoons. The first, Fjallsárlón, is smaller but had some pretty amazing panoramic views.  But for us, the highlight of the drive on Day 4 was the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon. It is one of Iceland’s most visited landmarks and a necessary stop on this road trip. There are a number of floating icebergs at this huge lagoon that is surrounded by black volcanic sand. Here is where you can truly understand why Iceland is called “The Land of Fire and Ice.”

Hop back on the road and hit up the little fishing town known as, Hófn.  They’re known for their langoustine (lobster) so treat yourselves and devour it along with some local beer made with glacier ice and Arctic thyme. Delicious.

Now prepare to wrap they say with a 4+ hour drive through the Eastern Fjörds.  For us, the end of this drive got a little sketchy when we hit gravel roads winding around cliffs and sheep crossing the road at every turn.  But we survived! (Note from Michael: Huge potholes, sheep darting across the road in complete darkness, and me at the helm. Good practice on the stick shift. Tara has eagle eyes and yelled out “sheep!!!” As I slammed on the brakes barely missing 2 sheep and a black ewe.) The adventure never ends!

Sleep: After a long day, set up camp in Egilsstadir (known as the capital of East Iceland). Make sure to bundle up because this was easily the coldest night of our trip.

Day 5: North Iceland and Myvatn

Wake up early and hit the road to start the long drive from East Iceland to the North and as one friend put it, the “Lake Tahoe of Iceland.” Fill up your gas tank before heading out (trust us).

Lake Myvatn is the 4th largest lake in Iceland, it is said to have more species of ducks than anywhere else in the world. It was about a 140 km drive from the last gas station in Egilsstadir to Myvatn, and we only had a half tank of gas. We also took a detour to Detifoss, the largest waterfall in Europe (although not as visually stunning as Gullfoss in our opinion). When we visited, a storm rolled in. This will likely be a recurring theme for your time in Northern Iceland, as well. Because of the crazy weather, we hoofed it 10 minutes to the waterfall, took our selfies, and attempted to absorb the natural beauty in the least amount of time possible. And then we hightailed it back to the car!

At this point, you will start a whirlwind tour of stops around the Myvatn area. Hit up the geothermal plant and visit the Viti volcano that has a lake in the middle. Walk around boiling mud pots, sulfur springs, and fumaroles that featured turquoise mud and an intense smell of millions of rotten eggs called Hverir. 

Finish off your evening at the Myvatn Nature Baths. This luxury geothermal spa has panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area. Plus, it’s much less touristy than the famed Blue Lagoon. We spent about two hours here relaxing and soaking in the hot springs while indulging in some craft Icelandic beer.

Sleep – Camp in the Myvatn area. 

Day 6: Dimmuborgir

After camping on the lake for the night, wake early for a day of hiking. Spend the morning hiking around Dimmuborgir. Dimmuborgir is home to the Yule Lads (13 mischievous trolls who torment children for 13 days before Christmas). Thousands of years ago it was a lake that was covered in lava from the nearby volcano. As air pockets escaped, spires of lava were formed, leaving a really dramatic hiking experience through 20-foot high lava towers. It felt like Grendel’s home from Beowulf.

After Dimmuborgir, visit the geothermal hot spring where they filmed a scene from Game of Thrones. It was the location where Ygritte deflowers Jon Snow. Then get those legs ready to hike about 90 minutes to the top of a nearby volcano. Once you’re at the top, you can also walk the rim.

Once it’s time to rest your legs, hop back in the van and head to Husavik, a famous whaling town in Iceland (about 45 minutes north of Myvatn). Grab some food at a local restaurant and book a whale watching tour for the following day.

Sleep: In Husavik

Days 7 & 8: Husavik and Akureyri

Get up early for a morning of whale watching. Unfortunately, we had such bad weather and our whale watching tour was canceled. But we have heard this is not to be missed so book if you can!

After the whale watching tour, it’s time to head towards Akureyri. We decided to treat ourselves and book a cabin for a couple of days after a week of living in a camper van. And boy was it worth it! On our first night, it was storming, but our cabin had its own personal geothermal spa on the deck, shielded from wind and rain. We enjoyed a few glasses of wine from our spa as we looked out on the rocky bluffs and snow-capped mountains. This area is so picturesque, with open green fields and a white farmhouse with red roofing. We have one more night here before hitting the road for the final 2 nights of our driving tour.

Sleep: Sleep in the Akureyri area. We slept at Ytri Vik cottages (heaven on Earth). This is a good place to stock up on groceries for the remaining duration of your road trip because Akureyri has quite a few large supermarkets and restaurants.

Days 9 & 10: West Iceland and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a fairly long drive away from Akureyri. A majority of our ninth day was spent driving through snow-clad roads, gurgling streams, and woodlands. This route is lined with idyllic fjords – Grundarfjörður (a small town that even the orcas love to visit in winters) is so peaceful that it deserves a mention on any itinerary of Iceland.

We spent Day 10 driving around the  Snaefellsnes Peninsula.  Make a stop and go for a short hike up the Saxholl Crater.  This is a fun walk but it can get pretty windy, so be extremely careful.  Next up, visit the Hellnar Arch, a natural rock formation comprised of basalt sheets. The rock arches over a lagoon and it is populated with dozens of screeching birds. Have a meal/coffee/beer at the cafe right opposite the Hellnar Arch as you soak in the beautiful views.

Another option for food is the Kirkjufell mountain. This famous mountain is the highlight of a drive around the Snaefellsnes area. Pack a picnic and enjoy it next to the waterfall by the Kirkjufell mountain. So idyllic!

Sleep – Sleep in the Snaefellsnes/Grundarfjörður area. 

Days 11 – 14: Reykjavik

Now it’s time to head back to Reykjavik. This can be bittersweet at the end of your long Icelandic road trip.  While you have access to more restaurants and overall civilization, there is something to be missed about the adventure of the open road.

We made the most of our time in the capital by going out to dinners (we recommend treating yourself to a meal at Kopar), reading at coffee shops (we love Reykjavik Roasters) and of course, visiting the famed Blue Lagoon. But the most memorable part of this trip was getting Dry Suit (scuba) certified!

We have been scuba certified for some time now and absolutely love doing it whenever we travel. So Iceland was not any different (except for how FREEZING the water is). So we decided to get Dry Suit certified with DIVE.IS. The course consisted of a pool dive and two open water dives in Silfra, meaning you get to dive between the tectonic plates that separate Europe and America! This was a truly memorable experience and we are happy we did it, but man, I don’t think we’ve ever been so cold in our lives! So remember to keep that in mind if you’re thinking about giving it a shot!

Sleep: We stayed at a local Airbnb while we were in Reykjavik but we noticed quite a few hotels being built while we were here. So be sure to check out what makes the most sense for your budget.

As you can tell by the length of this post, we thoroughly enjoyed our time spent in Iceland. As seasoned travelers, we often get asked what our favorite country is and truthfully he dread that question because we have been to so many amazing places.  But if we are being honest, this has to be one of the best trips we have ever taken. Even though it is getting more and more touristy,  if you’re contemplating a trip to Iceland – go for it!.

For another fun road trip idea, check out our post on Croatia!

The post 2 Week Iceland Road Trip appeared first on Passport Therapy.

Part of the thrill of heading to Big Sur is driving Highway 1 aka the Pacific Coast Highway.  Around every bend is another incredible view of Central California’s dramatic coastline.  Drive slowly and stop to sit for a while on a boulder looking out to sea.  Watch for the mist of a whale spout as whales bring their calves close to shore.  And for all you Instagrammers out there, make sure to pull-off on the side of the Bixby Bridge to capture a shot of its famous architecture.

Where to Stay

Glamping: We decided to go the glamping route for our trip.  You get the best of both worlds and there’s no place better than Ventana. The property boasts a luxury hotel, restaurant, along with glamping and regular camping sites. For us “glampers”, there is access to a beautiful bathhouse that comes fully-stocked with amenities and heated floors. The inside of the tents has everything you need from a comfy bed with heated blankets to a picnic basket equipped with smores ingredients!  Our camping area also had a deck with a firepit, perfect for roasting those marshmallows!

Budget/Moderate: If you’re not looking for a camping experience but don’t want to break the bank, check out these locations: Ripplewood Resort, Fernwood Resort, or Lucia Lodge.

Luxury: If you really want to splurge for your trip to Big Sur then as mentioned, Ventana Inn & Spa has gorgeous accommodations available. You can also opt for the Post Ranch Inn, a luxury hotel set atop a cliff with unparalleled views.

What to Bring

Grab your trail running shoes or light hiking boots to enjoy the local hikes.  As far as clothing, layers are always a good idea.  Expect to sweat in the sun during your hikes, but as soon as you tuck into the shade of the trees at night, you’ll need those bulky sweaters and scarves.

We also knew there would be campfires at our location, so we brought some food and wine to make nightly picnics. Is there anything better than a dinner made of wine, cheese, and crackers?!

For your hikes, make sure to lather on the sunscreen and stay fueled with snacks and water.

Where to Eat

As previously mentioned, we packed ourselves food for the trip but if you feel like treating yourself to a nice meal, we heard great things about Nepenthe. Grab a table outside to enjoy the pretty views while sipping wine and nomming on their burgers (they have a veggie burger!)

For those that want to splurge or have a romantic meal, Ventana has an elegant restaurant called The Sur House.  Just plan to make a reservation in advance!

If you’re looking for something on the budget-friendly side, hit up the local Deli right on Highway 1.  You can grab snacks, beer, or have them make a sandwich that you can bring with you on your hikes.

What to Do

Go on a hike!

There is an 8+ mile loop at Andrew Molera State Park.  It is a challenging hike with stunning views.  Start with the Ridge Trail, and come down the Panorama and Bluff Trails.  Take the Spring Trail to find a quiet, hidden beach. For a more relaxed day of hiking with a close look at sea lions and Cypress trees, check out Point Lobos State Reserve.

Visit the Henry Miller Library

Henry Miller called Big Sur home for many years and the area has memorialized him with this quaint library tucked away in the redwoods. The library also plays host to a variety of artists who perform and give talks on its lawn. Check out the events calendar before going!

Some Final Advice

Prepare to unplug! There is very little service in Big Sur. Like, seriously, the second you cross over into Big Sur territory, your phone will likely go off the grid.  So, make the most of it and become one with nature.

Rent (or have) a car – that’s the only way to do it

Stay awhile –  you can do Big Sur in one day, but to make the most of it, opt to stay a for a long weekend

For a European road trip idea, check out our post about driving through Croatia!

The post A Weekend Getaway to Big Sur appeared first on Passport Therapy.

While you may not be planning your next vacation in Brunei, there might be a chance you have a stopover there on your way to other spots in Southeast Asia.  If that is the case, below are a list of activities you should take into consideration while you are there.

Visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque

This mosque is absolutely stunning and its gold dome can be seen from many areas of the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan.  But if you ask me, it is still worth a closer look.  However, be mindful that it is only open to visitors when not being used for prayers.  Additionally, you will need to take off your shoes and put on a robe before entering (don’t worry – they have robes you can borrow!)

Visit the Jame’ Asri Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque

Why visit one mosque when you could visit two?!  This mosque is a bit outside the center of Bandar Seri Begawan but well worth the short 20-minute drive.  Built to commemorate the current reigning Sultan, it is the largest mosque in Brunei.  In addition to an opulent interior, 29 golden domes (in honor of the 29th Sultan) adorn the outside.

Explore the Water Village

The water village or “Kampong Ayer” is a collection of buildings built on stilts over the Brunei River.  You can access the village via footbridges near Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque or by taking a water taxi from the waterfront. The Kampung Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery explains the history and centuries-old lifestyle of the people who live here, and the friendly residents often open their homes to visitors.

Enjoy a Day Trip to Ulu Temburong National Park

Admittedly, I did not get the chance to visit Temburong while I was in Brunei and I really regret it.  As an adventure traveler, I like to get outdoors as much as I can.  Plus, given that about 80% of Brunei is virgin rainforest, it begs for exploration!  If you do get to go, you will need to book your tour in advance with a guide.  Much of the rainforest is off limits so this is not the type of trip you want to do alone.  You should expect to pay about $125-180.  One of the main attractions of your tour is the canopy walk.  But be forewarned that it is not for the faint of heart as it is about 200 feet high!

Get Your Grub on at the Night Market

Brunei is a dry country, so if you’re hoping to spend your evenings pounding back beers at a local bar, you’ll be sadly disappointed.  That said, you can bring alcohol into the country as a non-Muslim, so long as you declare it.  But if you decide to stay healthy and abstain while there, you can still find a bit of nightlife at the local night market.  Wander through the stalls and taste a few dishes.  And if you’re feeling adventurous, give durian a try!

Take a Fitness Class!

This is a shameless plug, but since the reason I came to this country was to help open a studio, I had to throw this on here!  Plus, if you feel like you need to get some exercise between your long-haul flights, then this is the perfect answer!  Check out Elev8 studio and you can take indoor-cycling or resistance training classes from some amazing instructors.

Want to read about another unknown travel location?  Check out our post on Cafayate, Argentina here!

The post Brunei: A Tiny Nation with Plenty to Offer appeared first on Passport Therapy.

The only direct flight offered to El Nido is through AirSwift, a small operator with 3 to 4 flights daily. The tickets are pricey, but it is by far the quickest way to get to El Nido. The most popular way to reach El Nido is by flying to Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s main city. From there, you need to book a van ride to El Nido, which takes between 41/2 to 6 hours. We opted to fly and paid the equivalent of $500 USD for two round-trip tickets.

El Nido, meaning “nest”, comes from the region’s historical practice of harvesting edible-nest swiftlets. This was one of the main sources of income for locals before the boom of tourism reached their shores. With crowded streets and construction all around, the town’s namesake might take on new meaning. Don’t let the initial shock temper your expectations, as the paradise you seek is only a short ride away.

Island Hopping

Island Hopping is by far the most popular activity in El Nido. There are four tours to choose from:

• Tour A – Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Shimizu Island and 7 Commando Beach
• Tour B – Snake Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Entalula Beach, Cudugnon Cave and Snorkeling
• Tour C – Helicopter Island, Matinloc Shrine, Secret Beach, Star Beach, and Hidden Beach
• Tour D – Ipil Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, Paradise Beach, Pasandigan Beach, Natnat Beach and Bukal Beach

Since all tours are regulated by the government, prices are locked in and locations are set. You can shop around and see if certain providers are willing to throw in kayaks or have better quality gear, but in terms of pricing, they are non-negotiable. At the very least, you should be getting a mask with snorkel, a large lunch (consisting of seafood, meat, veggies, and fruit) as well as drinking water.

Tour A and C are the most popular, but I’d recommend taking a look at your entire time in El Nido and consider what other activities you will be doing. If you are going to scuba dive with one of the many dive centers, I’d recommend focusing on a tour that is less geared towards snorkeling. The outrigger boats, called a paraw, do not feature an area for sunbathing, so if that is important to you, consider Tour C or D, which feature multiple stops at beaches.

It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you wear water shoes. Some of the stops require you to climb over dead coral as waves hammer you. It can get a little scary. We saw many people stumble and cut themselves wading into shore in flip-flops (or no shoes at all). Some of the pickup locations also have sea urchins between the beach and the boat which can cause major discomfort if stepped on.

Alternative Tour Option

A few operators in town offer “party boat” tours for those looking to go wild while Island Hopping. Mellow Yellow’s “Tour Z” and Kraken El Nido’s “Tour K” are two popular choices. Pricing varies, as these tours are not regulated by the government, and each offers different services. For Mellow Yellow, all guests get access to stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, and free onboard messages. For an additional fee, you can purchase a package for unlimited alcoholic drinks. Boat beer pong, anyone?!

Scuba Diving

There are a dozen dive shops within El Nido proper and the nearby Corong-Corong beach. Most of the shops had somewhat similar prices, but it will definitely be worth your time to walk to a few while you are in town to look at the equipment and speak with the staff. Most of the shops we spoke with used a paraw tricked out for diving, but a few used speedboats for diving in more remote locations.

We went to Aquanauts Dive Center located in downtown El Nido, a few blocks from the main party strip. We found the staff friendly, informative, and the equipment well-maintained. If you’ve never dove in a tropical location before, you will really enjoy the colorful wildlife found in the area. For experienced divers who have visited other locations in Southeast Asia, you should expect a solid, albeit unspectacular day of diving.

Interested in another Island getaway? Check out our guide to Sri Lanka here

Beaches

By far my favorite way to enjoy the beauty of El Nido was by plopping down at a beach and soaking in the beautiful views of the many nearby islands. The main beaches on our itinerary, excluding those we visited on Tour C, were Nacpan and Las Cabañas.

The main mode of transportation in El Nido is the tricycle, and from what we could decipher, the price is not determined by distance, but the destination. Heading to Las Cabañas from downtown or nearby Carong-Carong costs the same, which is about 150 pesos. The ride is short, and you can easily make a half day trip to Las Cabañas. The tricycle will drop you off on the side of the road with a short but fairly steep flight of stairs that leads down to the beach. There are drivers parked here before sunup, so don’t worry about arranging for a roundtrip ride, as they are never in short supply.

Nacpan is about an hour to 90 minutes on a tricycle, and you will have a little more leeway in negotiating price. Most drivers start at a roundtrip fare of 1,500 pesos, but it is possible to negotiate your way down to 1,000 pesos. Some drivers might even include the nearby waterfalls as part of a full day package to Nacpan. This is the crown jewel of El Nido beaches, the one you’ve seen all the amazing drone shots of. It’s a long, uninterrupted stretch of sandy beach that maintains its allure despite its popularity due to the distance needed to reach it. The road is underdeveloped so expect for a bumpy ride.

Many tourists opt to rent motorbikes, and you can get full day rentals for under 700 pesos. However, you might want to think twice before learning in El Nido. The nearest hospital is over 40 minutes away. Just saying.

Alternative route to Nacpan

For the more adventurous travelers looking for a fun alternative route to Nacpan, consider El Nido ATV Adventures. They offer a full day jungle trail, waterfalls and Nacpan beach trip that includes lunch for 2,799 pesos. They also offer a Surf & Turf option where you ATV to the beach and learn to surf.

The hype surrounding El Nido made anything but perfection a disappointment. The town is clearly looking to capitalize on the tourism boom, which means mixed results for travelers. The restaurant and luxury hotel scene charges top dollar but delivers substandard results. However, if you approach your visit understanding that El Nido is a town in transition, you can leave feeling like you really did get to visit paradise. 

The post El Nido: A Booming Tropical Paradise appeared first on Passport Therapy.

Rooms

The Theva Residency is made up of 15 rooms: 1 Penthouse, 3 Suites, 7 Superior Rooms, and 4 Standard Deluxe Rooms.  We stayed in one of the suites that comes complete with a jacuzzi tub overlooking the Sri Lanka hills. The tall windows slide open, giving you unobstructed views.  And let me tell you, “room with a view” is an understatement for this place.

Each room is complete with standard amenities including TV, cable, wi-fi, mini-bar, safe, hairdryer and toiletries.  Theva adds a nice touch by using local Ayurveda products from Spa Ceylon.  We may or may not have taken a couple shower gel bottles home with us.

The Theva Residency added another nice touch of different teas included in the room.  Ceylon tea is a large part of the Sri Lankan culture and we have come to love our daily intake.

Restaurant

Attached to the hotel is Theva Cuisine, the hotel’s restaurant. Many people come here to eat, even if they are not staying at the hotel because the food is delicious. 

We actually ended up eating here for most of our meals not only out of sheer convenience, but we wanted to try other items on the menu!  We recommend the vegetarian rainbow salad and the rice and curry.

Lastly, we were delighted that our included breakfast was not a buffet, but made-to-order (a nice change from many places we have stayed at).  We recommend the breakfast burrito and the Sri Lankan breakfast (but note that this needs to be ordered ahead the night before).

Facilities

The property comes equipped with a steam room, sauna, game room, and a gorgeous infinity pool.

With views just as breathtaking as the guest rooms, the pool might just be the crown jewel of this hotel.  I won’t lie to you, it ended up raining most of the time we were in Kandy so we could not take advantage of the pool as much as we would have wanted.  But that did not stop us from snapping a few epic photos whenever there was a break from the downpour.  I can only imagine that a sunny day by this pool (complete with a refreshing cocktail, of course) would result in heaven on earth.

To read more about Kandy and the rest of our Sri Lankan adventure, check out our two-week guide here.

Theva Residency invited us to stay as guests.  All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only.  All opinions are our own.

The post Hotels We Love: The Theva Residency – Sri Lanka appeared first on Passport Therapy.

Galle & Unawatuna

A two-hour car ride south of Colombo, Galle is a former Dutch colonial fort surrounded by a region of beautiful jungle and white sand beaches. It is one of the more popular locations in Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Due to its site, it is a great choice for those looking for a beach vacation, with the flexibility to book day excursions.

Spend the morning enjoying the Dutch Colonial architecture. As you walk the fort at a leisurely pace, make sure to stop and enjoy the amazing panoramic views of the ocean. Against the backdrop of the fort walls, watch scenes of everyday live unfold; a local cricket match played in front of a small (but enthusiastic) crowd, and school-aged children practicing military drills in a field. If the heat is too much to handle, make your way to The Heritage Cafe for some delicious cold brew. Featuring locally roasted Sri Lankan coffee beans from Ceylon, the flavorful coffee is a welcome respite from the instant coffee or dark roasted beans common throughout this region.

Unawatuna Beach is the largest, and most popular beach near Galle. The beach is lined with restaurants, dive shops, and a few lounges lit up at night for those looking to party. We’d recommend staying in Unawatuna, so you can go out at night for dinner and drinks.  That said, choose to spend your days at one of the less populated beaches nearby.

For a picturesque day, grab a tuk-tuk and head to Dalawalla Beach. While prices vary, we paid 300-400 LKR one way. If you jump out near the Dream Cabana, you will find the #instafamous palm tree swing. For 500 LKR (as of November 2017) you can swing to your heart’s content. Not to mention, you can buy an assortment of juices from the locals who built the swing. They are super-friendly, even extending our swing usage an extra day without having to pay.

If you don’t want to leave the confines of Unawatuna, or tuk-tuks aren’t your thing, you can walk 10 minutes from the town center to Jungle Beach. With amazing views of Galle Fort, this spot provides a perfect beach day away from the tourist crowds.

Unawatuna Accommodations

Thaproban Pavilion & Spa

For lodging, we stayed at the Thaproban Pavilion & Spa at the end of Unawatuna. With a pool that looks out to the ocean, this spot is more suited for those looking for some R&R. Thaproban is part of a trio of hotels in Unawatuna.  Each one has a unique offering. If you would prefer to spend time in a wellness center with daily yoga, Thapani is located halfway between Thaproban and the beach.  Lastly, The Beach House, as expected, lies directly on Unawatuna Beach.

Kabalana

After a bit of luggage Tetris in the back of a tuk-tuk, we headed off to Kabalana, a popular surf destination for experienced surfers and first-timers alike. The namesake beach is large, filled with fine white sand, and quite enjoyable for swimmers. When we went mid-November, it was almost completely empty, giving us a glimpse of what it would be like to retire to a deserted island.

Kabalana Accommodations

Lime & Co

From what we could see, Kabalana is mostly resorts or surf hotels. If staying ocean side is outside your price range, check out our review of Ceilao Villas’ Lime & Co hotel. Nestled off the main street and next door to its boutique sister hotel, Lime & Co is a fantastic backpacker option for those who want comfort and class but need to live within a budget.

Mirissa

Further along the southern coast is Mirissa, a very trendy beach town with a bohemian vibe. We did a day trip from Kablana and spent a memorable day soaking up the sun and body surfing among a fun, lively crowd of people.

Based on how busy Mirissa was at the start of the busy season, I can see this beach being absolutely crazy during December and January.  Due to the hip surfer bars with free daybeds and midday happy hours, the vibe on Mirissa was one of the best of any I’ve been to. The main part of the beach is calm enough for anyone to enjoy, but features big enough waves for boogie boarding and body surfing. By afternoon, you can watch experienced surfers taking on big waves while throwing back Lion Beers at Bay Moon Beach Club.

Furthermore, there are almost no panhandlers, making Mirissa Beach feel more like a fun party than a burgeoning tourist destination.

Mirissa Accommodations

As noted above, we made a day trip from Ceilão Villas’ Lime & Co. It was an easy 30-minute tuk-tuk ride that cost us 800 LKR one way. However, Mirissa is a very popular destination, with a ton of hostel and eco-backpacker accommodations. 

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is the second largest wildlife reserve in Sri Lanka, and it’s most visited. There are some nice beaches and important historical temples in the surrounding region, but if you are near the park, it means you are most likely looking for a safari experience.

In order to avoid getting burned on price, make sure you understand what it is you are buying. Some operators bundle the jeep and ticket together and inflate the price of entry. Whereas other operators just rent out the time on the jeep. That said, once you arrive at the ticket office, they will offer to go buy your ticket for you. This can lead to a price two to three times more expensive than expected. As with most travel tips, knowledge is your best weapon to prevent this type of scam. So, make sure you go to the Yala National Park site and check the entrance fee. Or, simply insist on going to the ticket office and buying the ticket yourself.

With all that said, the park itself is beautiful and well worth the price. An important reserve for Sri Lanka’s indigenous leopards, elephants, and waterfowl, the park is brimming with wildlife. In spite of the 50 jeeps crowded at the entrance, we came away satisfied. 

We opted for the standard 5-hour excursion. But, half-day and full-day excursions are available for those people who simply can’t get enough of the animal kingdom.

Yala National Park Accommodations

Kirinda Lodge

We stayed at Kirinda Lodge, which borders the edge of Yala and is a short 25-minute ride to the entrance of the national park. For our thoughts about Kirinda Lodge, click through here.

The surrounding area is dotted with a variety of eco-friendly and wildlife-themed accommodations, but for the truly adventurous, you can camp inside the park. Wherever you stay, make sure you are offered room and board, because restaurants and shops are few and far between.

Ella

Nestled high up in the mountains, Ella offers travelers stunning views of the southern plains of Sri Lanka. Surrounded by tea fields and cloud forests, the town is perfect for those who love to explore the outdoors.

Upon arrival, the allure of Ella might not be readily apparent as the town is geared toward selling to tourists. However, once outside the town, you will begin to understand why Ella is such a popular destination.

For the hikers among you, Ella Rock is a challenging half-day hike. It begins along the train tracks but can be a bit tricky, with touts purposefully obscuring the way. Make sure to check out our Ella Rock hike guide for the best route to the top!

An easy alternative to Ella Rock is Little Adam’s Peak. It features a paved path almost all the way to the top. Little Adam’s Peak takes about 90 minutes round trip. Plus, it’s close proximity to Findlay’s Tea Plantation and the Nine Arch Bridge makes for a great one-day itinerary.

Ella’s train station also makes it easy to navigate the surrounding area. Nuwara Eliya and Haputale are both do-able day trips. This is where we started the famed train ride to Kandy, which is a 7-hour ride along lush tea plantations.

Ella Accommodations

Ella Master Point Lodge

This wonderful secluded B&B features breathtaking views of the Ella Gap. However, it’s only a short 5-minute walk to the town center. From your room, monks can be heard chanting from the temple across the valley. A wonderful ambiance when taking your evening tea on the balcony!

Kandy

Of all the places we visited in Sri Lanka, Kandy remains the hardest for me to pin down. It possesses a frenetic energy that is exhilarating and a bit terrifying. But in spite of the constant rain during our time in Kandy, we were determined to get out of our hotel. 

With this in mind, we decided to rent out a tuk-tuk for the day. Most of the drivers we spoke with have some sort of pre-planned guide option but ask, just in case.

We visited

• Royal Botanical Gardens
• Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue, or the giant white Buddha.
• Kandy Lake
• Temple of the Sacred Tooth
• Commonwealth Cemetery

We loved the Royal Botanical Garden. The grounds are very well-kept, and it provides a pleasant escape from the urban jungle. It also seems to be a popular date spot. We spotted more than a few young couples canoodling under the tree cover watching the rainfall.

Up the hill from the Temple of the Sacred tooth is the Commonwealth Cemetery. Around a hundred permanent residents from the 18th and 19th century call this place home. The cemetery is a reminder of the legacy of colonial occupation in Sri Lanka. Prince Charles even visited in 2013. 

Kandy Accommodations

Theva Residency

We were guests of the Theva Residency during our stay in Kandy. Located on the Hantana Hills, Theva is a boutique hotel with stunning views and an excellent restaurant. A few kilometers from Kandy lake, the hotel is secluded from the chaos below. For our full thoughts on our stay at Theva Residency, check out our review here.

Santani Wellness Resort

Before we left Sri Lanka, we spent some time recharging at Santani Wellness Resort, located 90 minutes outside Kandy. Tucked away, high up in the mountains, Santani was a luxurious sanctuary from the bustling city of Kandy. For our full thoughts on Santani Wellness Resort, check out our review here, as well as our thoughts on why a wellness resort might be just what your body and mind need from a vacation.

After Kandy, it was time to say goodbye to the tiny island country that stole our hearts. It has so much to offer and we barely scratched the surface.  Needless to say, we cannot wait to return!

Also, if you’re looking for a shorter itinerary of Sri Lanka, check out our friends’ 9-day itinerary here.

The post Sri Lanka: Two Weeks in Paradise appeared first on Passport Therapy.

Personalization

Like many wellness resorts, Santani offers yoga and spa treatments. What makes them unique is the complete customization of their packages.  No two people are alike. As such, Santani personalizes packages based on body composition, current lifestyle, stress, fitness, emotional state, and future goals.  The Head of Wellness, your personal Wellness Concierge, and an Ayurvedic doctor will use the assessment to customize your bespoke Santani program. Whether you are recovering from an addiction or simply want to de-stress, a wellness retreat may be your answer.

Fitness

One of the most challenging parts of traveling, especially long-term, can be staying in shape.  Having the opportunity to practice yoga twice a day gave me that sense of accomplishment that I did not realize I missed so badly.  While we did our best to visit local gyms and fitness studios along our travels, having yoga built directly into our stay was so convenient.

Santani primarily focuses on Hatha Yoga and is available for guests to practice twice daily.  With this built into our schedule, I found myself eagerly anticipating the next class.  And if you are on the fence about yoga, you should know that it has shown to provide long-term benefits not only for body alignment but also to patients of respiratory problems, anxiety, high blood pressure, and arthritis.

Cost

Many of you might be thinking that a wellness retreat sounds like a great idea but is too pricey.  And while it is true that they can get very expensive, depending on the package it can actually be more economical than a regular vacation. During regular vacations, you make your own spending decisions, which can result in money leakage. We all know how easy it is to go over budget!  However, retreats are pre-planned and include exclusive features, in addition to all the facilities of a simple vacation. Thus, they can actually be more financially reliable. 

So, for your next holiday, pick a retreat that will actually give you the vacation your mind and body needs.

Santani invited us to stay as guests. All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. All opinions are our own.

Find out why Santani Wellness Resort is one of the hotels we love!

The post Why You Should Consider a Wellness Retreat appeared first on Passport Therapy.

Rooms

Each guest at Santani is given a private villa with a balcony overlooking the dramatic landscape of the hills and valley. Paying more than lip service to their eco-conscious mission statement, the villas utilize natural ventilation and light to great effect.

While Santani goes to great lengths to provide guests an opportunity to detox from the digital world, guests can request wi-fi in their room. We found it to be reliable and very fast, especially considering the remote location.

Food

Food is an integral part of the Santani experience. On arrival, you sit down with the chef and his team to discuss dietary preferences. After the discussion, the chef detailed the next days’ meals, which were customized to meet our needs. A classically trained chef who spent most of his career in France, the Santani meals range from local Sri Lanka delicacies to gourmet western fare, depending on the guest’s palate. 

With three meals a day, customized to your program, Santani’s culinary team delivers a top-notch experience. My personal favorite was a mouth-watering Passion Fruit ice cream served over a dark chocolate tart. As you can probably surmise, weight loss was not one of my goals.

Facilities

The quality of any health and wellness resort resides in its spa and yoga offerings. Consequently, Santani goes to great lengths to provide best in class service with both. Daily yoga, taught by a traditional practitioner of Hatha, is provided twice daily. As frequent visitors to yoga studios in San Francisco, we found Santani’s yoga classes challenging and centering. If you want to push the boundaries of your personal practice of yoga, private sessions are available. 

The spa features an extensive list of Ayurvedic treatments as well as traditional western options. Guests have access to the wet rooms with views of the natural surroundings, and a 16m infinity lap pool that overlooks the hillside.

While Santani Wellness Resort comes with a premium price tag, you are receiving a premium experience. The service from the moment you arrive at the resort is top notch, and the food is really spectacular. Despite visiting without a specific recovery goal in mind, we left feeling energized from our short stay.

Santani Wellness Resort is a fantastic option for solo travelers looking to get in touch with themselves or couples looking for a romantic experience focused on mutual internal discovery. Click here to book direct at Santani Wellness Resort for perks like free airport transfer (5+ nights) and 25% off all spa treatments.

We were invited as guests by Santani Wellness Resort. All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. All opinions are our own.

The post Hotels We Love: Santani Wellness Resort – Sri Lanka appeared first on Passport Therapy.

As travelers arrive, they are transported back to a time when man lived side by side to the animal kingdom. A monitor lizard basks in the shade of a coconut tree. An ox grazes alongside the well. Travelers take tea on the veranda, soaking it all in.

Rooms

Kirinda has two main lodges on the property; a standard lodge featuring two rooms with ensuite bathrooms and a family lodge with larger rooms. Rooms come stocked with water, shower amenities, and some very helpful shave kits for those of us who come unprepared.

The inner wall of the rooms are unique, made from a frame of mesh to prevent bugs from entering. That said, you are living in the wilderness, so the beds also feature a mosquito net.

We loved the aesthetics. The decor fit perfectly with the natural surroundings and added to the immersion of living in the wild, while still feeling upscale and modern.

Service

Featuring a butler and the caretaker team of Premalatha and husband Sunil, Kirinda Lodge caters to your every need. As you are located quite literally in the wild, Kirinda offers full room and board, serving deliciously prepared Sri Lankan cuisine three times a day. Meals are prepared family style and the team is flexible in accommodating any dietary preferences.

Your butler is both guide and concierge. At sunset, he accompanied us to the lake to see the wildlife. Peacocks danced in the distance while a group of wild boar rolled in the mud on the opposite bank. He also arranged our safari in Yala and made recommendations for other local sites, such as the Kirinda Temple.

The Grounds

A beautiful pool situated against the wildlife reserve, it is a welcome respite from the heat. Beautiful birds will fly by as you relax, as well as a wide variety of multi-colored dragonfly.  Have tea on the front veranda, and watch water buffalo bathe in the lake while the sun sinks lower in the sky. Take to higher ground, and climb the watch tower at the front of the property for stunning panoramas of the surrounding lands. 

The grounds really are a highlight of any stay at Kirinda. They are alive with wildlife, and it made our entire stay an extension of our Yala safari experience. From the nesting peacock to a massive monitor lizard roaming the grounds, Kirinda Lodge is not to be missed.

Kirinda Lodge is the perfect option for couples looking for a romantic getaway, or for families looking for a secluded home away from home. Offering beautiful accommodations in a tranquil setting, the property provides a wonderful respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

For a full board stay, which features large and delicious meals, the standard room for two is $120 USD per night. Click through here to book your stay at Kirinda Lodge!

We were invited as guests by Ceilão Villas. All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. All opinions are our own.

Interested in more hotels we love? Check out Ceilão Villas Backpacker friendly lodging, Lime & Co here

The post Hotels We Love: Kirinda Lodge by Ceilão Villas appeared first on Passport Therapy.

Rooms

Lime & Co consists of two attached villas. Each villa has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with an open lounge, dining area, and kitchenette. You can choose between a double room with en-suite bathroom ($45/night) or one of the twin rooms with a shared bathroom ($30/night).

Amenities include free parking, toiletries, mosquito net (essential in Sri Lanka!) and a fan (another essential!).

The aesthetic is both minimalist and chic. The sea breeze provides air conditioning and the sun heats the shower, so eco-conscious folks (like us!) will be happy.

Facilities

The hotel comes equipped with hammocks and a plunge pool.  We made good use of both to ensure full relaxation mode.

Next door to the hotel you will find the property’s café, Kanteen.  It offers up breakfast, lunch, and dinner at reasonable prices.  The menu changes daily but focuses on delicious, local Sri Lanka cuisine.  One night, Mike actually ended up ordering a second entrée because the first was so tasty!  Plus, there are not many restaurants within walking distance to Lime & Co, so the café is super convenient if you do not feel like cooking for yourself in the kitchenette.   

Location

Lime & Co is located in Ahangama, a relaxed town in the south of Sri Lanka.  It is most well-known for having some of the best surf in on the island.  But even if you are not a surfer, Kabalana beach is the perfect spot to soak up some sun.  Because the area is still undergoing development, it is not yet overrun by tourists, thus we practically had the beach to ourselves!

On the other hand, if you are looking for a bit more liveliness or just want to explore the area, you can easily access other neighboring towns such as Kogalla, Unuwatuna, and Galle via a short tuk-tuk ride. 

Click here to book your stay at Lime & Co.

We were invited as guests by Lime & Co. All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. All opinions are our own.

The post Hotels We Love: Lime & Co, Sri Lanka appeared first on Passport Therapy.