When I touched down in Sri Lanka, I was expecting to find a smaller, quieter, cleaner India. I did not. I was surprised to discover that while these countries may share the same ocean, a love for curry, overly crowded trains, and the infamous head wobble, their similarities stop there. They are two very different countries.
Sri Lanka is a breeze. As a whole, the country is breathtakingly beautiful – from the sea and sand, to the hilltops and temples. The people are genuine, the infrastructure is relatively strong, and there’s an interesting story, both past and present.
At times, I could tell that it was difficult for my sister to sort out her feelings when faced with beliefs and customs that are far from her own. When you’ve never been introduced to a Buddhist temple, a Hindu shrine, or the call to prayer, it can feel somewhat strange. And when you’re met with all three at once, it can be overwhelming. Learning proper etiquette and remembering when to cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes, use only your right hand, and not turn your back, it’s a lot to absorb. But as much as travel highlights our differences, it also highlights our similarities, and it was great to be a part of my sister experiencing that for the first time.
Having a sidekick certainly changed things, but we made memories that will last a lifetime, and I’m happy she came. We laughed, we learned, we cried (just a little), and we’re closer because of it.
You’re a gem, Sri Lanka. May you always stay that way.
