Summary
One of the most iconic images I’ve encountered of Sri Lanka is the stilt fishermen along the coastline of Galle, a sight I had longed to witness personally.
But first, let’s talk about lunch!
Our lunch destination was Church Street Social, a lovely restaurant nestled within The Fort Bazaar.
This establishment serves as a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling atmosphere of Galle.
The historical property occupies a UNESCO World Heritage Site within Galle Fort, which had been abandoned since the 1950s until its transformation into The Fort Bazaar in 2006.
I had skillfully avoided curries during our travels, which I instantly regretted upon seeing the tantalizing curries that arrived at our table. This time in Sri Lanka, I resolved to indulge in as many culinary delights as possible, especially the curries, while tending towards sweeter options for breakfast.
To prepare, I opted for a refreshing passion fruit lemonade, while Lloyd chose a chocolate milkshake. Our mains were both curries, and we began with some delightful duck rolls.
Surprisingly, I found the traditional rice and curry platter to be accompanied by an array of small side dishes, making for a far more diverse and exciting meal than I had anticipated.
With our appetites satisfied, we made our way to Koggala to observe the famous stilt fishermen. If you have the chance, be sure to stop at the fish market on the way; while not a typical tourist attraction, it offers a genuine glimpse into the everyday life of locals in Sri Lanka.
Upon reaching the beach, the stilt fishermen continued their work while being aware of the small audience that had gathered on the shore.
While these fishermen have faced increased difficulty in catching larger fish in recent years, they still proudly showcase their small catches, often returning them gracefully to the water.
During this immersive experience, one can even ask for the opportunity to try stilt fishing. Lloyd took a shot at it while I captured the moment on camera, managing to hold in laughter as he wobbled precariously.
Ultimately, we concluded our day at a modern hotel, the Riu Sri Lanka, where we were greeted with thoughtful gifts in our room and indulged in a marvelous one-hour massage at the spa, followed by a hearty meal and delightful cocktails.
This hotel, which is the first Riu property in Sri Lanka, has undergone a stunning renovation, boasting multiple pools and an array of dining options that allow you to unwind in a vibrant atmosphere. The night transitioned into a whirl of fun, laughter, and memorable moments.
Following an exquisite dinner, we shared an abundant amount of bubbly and then headed to the cocktail bar before reveling in a lively club environment.
This vibrant night served as a stark contrast to our earlier experiences during our visit to Sri Lanka and highlighted the joy of discovering familiar places anew.
