Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Therefore, TT invites locals and creatives to share their most cherished places at their favorite destinations. Today: A Sri Lanka guide through the lens of KIMBERLY BALTEN, INTERIOR PHOTOGRAPHER and PR PROFESSIONAL. Cover photo: courtesy of Kimberly Balten
Also, read: TOP 5 BEST WELLNESS HOTELS IN LONDON
Every year, Kimberly Balten – interior photographer and PR professional at Samsøe Samsøe – tries to escape the cold winter of the Netherlands — the perfect excuse to visit a new place. Sri Lanka caught her attention due to the country’s diversity. With her camera by her side, she was mesmerized by Sri Lanka’s beauty.
Anyone who thinks Sri Lanka mainly consists of resorts and white, sandy beaches is wrong. The island’s inland offers multiple national parks, which are great for hiking and bird-watching. The diverse nature reserves, plantations, and waterfalls are jaw-dropping. On a lucky day, elephant spotting is part of the experience. Of course, Sri Lanka also offers many spots to relax with a book by the sea, providing the ultimate holiday feeling. Many great beaches are located south of the island, forming the perfect backdrop for more luxurious resorts and hot spots. “Everything is trendier in the south,” Balten explains, “and there’s a real yoga and surfing culture. The combination of nature, exploring new things, and ending with relaxation is the perfect trip for me.”
SRI LANKA THROUGH THE LENS OF KIMBERLY BALTEN
Balten emphasizes that what immediately stands out is how incredibly kind and helpful everyone is. Everywhere you go, the people are genuinely friendly. It’s always remarkable to see that in certain places where people have less, they’re so happy with what they have. Gratitude and hospitality are central here. Additionally, things can get wild in Sri Lanka because the Tuk Tuk drivers aren’t afraid to step on the gas. The TukTuk is the ultimate mode of transport here and has given us many fun trips.”
WHERE TO GO IN SRI LANKA?
Balten recalls that Sri Lanka is a great place to make everlasting memories. “We slept in an Eco-Lodge treehouse surrounded by a family of monkeys. But one of the most extraordinary places we stayed—where we also slept the least—was a basecamp with thatched huts and cottages set along the shores of Lake Hambegamuwa amidst the jungle landscape. Here, we were greeted in the evening to join for a mega-romantic candlelit dinner on a raft floating through the lagoon.”
SRI LANKA’S BEST HOTELS
“There are incredibly many beautiful boutique hotels in Sri Lanka. Kurulu Bay, located in the country’s south, is one of them. Various suites and cottages are built here, each with character and architectural style. It’s a wonderful place with lots of greenery near the island’s largest natural lake, the Koggala Lake. In terms of interior design and architecture, I find it beautiful how they combine natural elements like wood with modern design.”
“Additionally, Mond in Hiriketiya is an absolute recommendation. It’s a beautifully sleek building inspired by architect Geoffrey Bawa. The application of concrete walls makes this building impressive and timeless. You can stay in beautiful rooms there and enjoy delicious coffee, tasty food, and cocktails – all with a sea view.”
BEST RESTAURANTS OF SRI LANKA
“There is a lot of amazing food on the island; sometimes you just have to look harder. However, it’s what I have always enjoyed about these kinds of trips. There are many local treats such as curries, noodles, or a real recommendation: the roti roll. One restaurant that caught our attention in Hiriketiya was Smoke & Bitters. You can sit here very comfortably, and the food is delicious. The kitchen uses local ingredients, and besides, they have delicious cocktails.”
SRI LANKA’S BEST BEACHES
“Without doubt, Weligama, Ahangama, and Hiriketiya beach.”
BEST COFFEE SPOT
“As a true coffee lover, I found it hard to find high-end spots. However, Mond in Hiriketiya served great coffee with a stunning view.”
BEST CLUB OR BAR
“For a cozy atmosphere and live music, we went to TRAX, but if you want to dance, then Dr. House or Dots Bay is the place to be.”
OTHER PLACES NOT TO MISS…
“Take surf lessons at Ceylon, explore various yoga spots, and if you have time, also visit the different buildings and resorts designed by architect Geoffrey Bawa.”
