Monday 19th

 And of course whilst sitting round the pool I can do the blog. ......

So we've made some changes to the itinerary as unfortunately Mike is feeling under the weather with a chest infection (a first for him).  Ayurveda is the ancient natural medicine of Sri Lanka and with Mikes well being in mind our driver booked us a herbal Ayurveda treatment, herbal massage and steam.  It was extremely relaxing and the resident doctor prescribed herbal remedies for Mike, which our driver then insisted on paying for!!  Once established at our next lovely hotel, Camelia, we left mike to relax and Zeinal (I'm not sure of the spelling) took me to Sigiriya Rock.  This is a 183m granite outcrop surrounded by jungle, inhabited once upon a time by Buddhist monks and then later in ad447-85 was made into a fortress/pleasure palace by an upstart pleasure loving King.  Being Sunday it was particularly busy with local tourists and flocks of selfie taking Chinese.  Not only was a palace and gardens laid our on the summit but water gardens and moats surround it. I didn't wait at the summit until sunset which was particularly beautiful last night.  

Today's schedule was full on sightseeing in one of the old capitals, Polonnaruwa.... By bike followed by a tradition lunch and then elephant safari.  Well being in mind this has been curtailed to the afternoon elephant safari.  We can read about Polonnaruwa instead. 

Note on accommodation..... We booked the Rickshaw "In Style" accommodation option and so far the hotels have been way more stylish than we expected, fantastic service by friendly staff, delicious food and beautiful rooms in keeping with a traditional style with modern touches, gorgeous!