Saturday, February 8, 2025

Famil Review: Bunnik Tours, Sri Lanka

Shannah Hohaia, a Helloworld Travel Advisor from Southland, Victoria, recently attended a Bunnik Tours Sri Lanka famil. This is what she thought of the trip and Bunnik Tours.

Stepping off the plane in Sri Lanka was a moment of realisation. My expectations didn’t quite match the reality of what I was about to experience, and I quickly realised I didn’t fully understand who Bunnik Tours was. During the first 10 minutes on Sri Lankan soil, I could already tell that this trip was going to far exceed any expectations I had.

After a midnight arrival, we were greeted by our guide Priya and representative Zoe, who escorted us to our bus. At that point, I was ready for bed. Instead, we were treated to a surprise ceremonial welcome – a vibrant mariachi band and a beautiful Ayubowan greeting. This was just the beginning.

Accommodation and Transportation

Our first stay was in Negombo at the Regenta Arie Lagoon, where the lagoon views from the breakfast table were breathtaking. The resort offered a variety of activities and spacious rooms, making it easy to unwind.

The true highlight came when we reached Water Garden Sigiriya – possibly one of the most stunning places I’ve ever stayed. (A stay in their luxurious villas is one of the Deluxe Experiences included in Bunnik Tours’ Sri Lanka In-Style tour.) Activities included yoga, archery, birdwatching, and croquet – all within the resort grounds. A serene pathway ran through the centre of the lake, leading to a bar, restaurant, and yoga pavilion. It was a peaceful, almost meditative setting that provided instant relaxation.

The food was exceptional, offering a vast selection of dishes from around the world, and the five-course fine dining experience was exquisite. Sri Lankan traditional meals were also available, and portions were generous enough to share – each dish looked as good as it tasted.

Next, we visited the iconic Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, a place that blends history with modern amenities. The hotel has undergone major renovations while still maintaining its historical charm. Exploring the hotel’s rich past and speaking with the staff revealed just how much history lives within these walls. There’s always something new to discover here.

Exploring Negombo

Our first day took us to the fish markets and a morning lagoon cruise in Negombo, a charming little fishing town where we got a glimpse into the daily life of the locals. The lagoon was full of fishing vessels, mangroves, and even monkeys. We cruised through the Dutch canals, learned some local history, and were treated to a surprise concert and cocktail in the warm waters of the Negombo Lagoon. It was a unique and fun way to kick off our adventure. In the evening, we enjoyed a delicious Sri Lankan BBQ dinner, rich with flavour and variety, alongside our first Arrack experience.

Cultural Wonders and Wildlife

Day two took us to the Dambulla Caves, where we marvelled at the 200-year-old carvings and artwork. It was humbling to witness such profound respect for multiple religions in a single space. From there, we headed to Minneriya National Park – a dream destination for elephant lovers like me! After a bumpy, rainy drive, we set out to spot wildlife, with elephants our focus. Seeing these majestic creatures up close, especially as they came to drink from the water’s edge, was an unforgettable experience.

Sigiriya Rock

The next stop was Sigiriya Rock – one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive sites – where the stunning architecture and history captivated me long before I even started the climb. The views from the summit after climbing 1,200 stairs were incredible, and even the overcast weather couldn’t take away from the beauty of this ancient site.

Visting a Local Village

One of the most moving experiences was visiting a local school and village. Though heartbreaking to see the stark differences between cultures, the happiness of the children and families was a beautiful reminder of how happiness is found in the simplest moments. It was humbling to see how they live and to experience their joy firsthand.

Food and Spice Plantation

The food in Sri Lanka was a revelation. I was introduced to so many new flavours, including the surprising delight of pineapple curry. The spice plantation offered a sensory journey with its diverse aromas, sights, and scenery.

The Last Day

On our final day in Sri Lanka, we visited the friendly staff at the Bunnik Tours office and enjoyed a farewell catered meal. Reflecting on my journey, I realised how much there was to experience, see, and love about both Sri Lanka and Bunnik Tours. They truly go above and beyond for their customers.

The Bunnik Experience

It’s clear that Bunnik Tours carefully selects tour guides and directors to enhance every trip. Priya, our guide, was both knowledgeable and engaging. He ensured that, despite some weather challenges, we didn’t miss a single moment of the itinerary. Kalum and Kayu made sure we travelled safely and efficiently. I’m grateful for the team’s dedication, which made this trip truly unforgettable.

For more on this tour, visit www.bunniktours.com.au

Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Travel Monitor has been delivering the First News of the Day to the travel industry since 2009 and continues the tradition of only engaging experienced writers, editors and other professionals to source and create Travel Monitor content.

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