During the 2016 off-season Ed Langdon and I were fortunate enough to explore one of the most idyllic islands in the world, Sri Lanka.
Our 15-day adventure comprised of endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, rolling surf and great food.
Here a few highlights from our Sri Lankan adventure…
It is no secret that Sri Lanka is home to beautiful beaches and a pristine coastline. This photo was taken at Hikkaduwa beach.
Sri Lanka was one of the countries struck by the tsunami resulting from the Indian Ocean earthquake on 26 December 2004.
Ed and I spent time learning about the magnitude and effect this natural disaster had on the locals. We also had the privilege to speak to those affected by the disaster. We were amazed by the Sri Lankans’ ability to overcome this disaster and work tirelessly to restore their country’s beauty.
A local cricket oval near Unawatuna.Cricket is extremely important to the Sri Lankan culture and identity. Ed’s cricket skills left little to be desired.
Another beach stop for Ed and I. This photo was taken at a secluded beach near the town of Unawatuna. 
Visiting the breathtaking Marissa Beach was a true highlight from our time in Sri Lanka.
This secluded crescent shaped beach was the perfect place to sit back, relax and forget about the hussle and bussle of life back in Perth.
This photo doesn’t do Marissa Beach justice!
The next stop of our Sri Lankan adventure was beautiful Hiriketiya Bay, a 500 metre horseshoe shaped cove with reef and a great surf break.
After four amazing nights it was very difficult to say goodbye.
Sri Lanka is one of the few places in Asia where you can see elephants in the wild, and boy, did Uda Walawe National Park deliver.
Summit of Little Adam’s peak.
Little Adam’s Peak is 1141 metres high and a fairly easy climb.The views from the top are magnificent.
In one direction you can see all the way to the ocean (provided it is clear enough) and in the other direction you have beautiful views of mountains and tea plantations. 
Train rides through Sri Lanka make for a wonderful sightseeing experience.
On our way to Adam's peak.
This five-hour trip was a surprising highlight of our holiday. 
We couldn’t leave Sri Lanka without another hike. This time we decided to climb Adam’s Peak which is roughly 2 243 metres high. Ed and I managed to complete the voyage in two and a half hours.
Views like this certainly made the trek worthwhile!
The takeaway
As footballers this international experience was invaluable for us to be able to return to pre-season refreshed and mentally rearing to go.
Our Sri Lankan adventure provided Ed and I great perspective of how lucky we are to be able to live out our childhood dream of playing football at the highest level.
We loved this country and after 15 days, I know that we barely scraped the surface.
There might be more Sri Lanka in my future, and I look forward to delving deeper into this magnificent country.
