BYE BYE ARUGAM BAY HELLO ELLA
We are on our way to the highlands of Ella. We could have jammed into one of the many Sri Lankan for the 5-hour journey, but instead we opted to pay $80 for an A/C van ride. Worth it so far, but there is nothing lie riding a public bus transport to acquire a felling about the people. Of course, all of the people travelling on the bus have zero luggage and not many children and the probably know exactly where they are going. Both Viena and Ezra are asleep which they probably would not be asleep on the bus, or if they were asleep, they would be asleep on us . And someone sleeping on you in this hot climate is not very comfortable. The scenery is pleasant. Blue skies, white clouds against greens trees. Grey big rock mountains. So many colors here in Sri Lanka. Monkey trees. Lots of activity near the towns. Bikes, walkers, umbrellas, tuk-tuks, babies being carried, buses, delivery trucks, cats, dogs, goats, cows, big trucks. We had a little trouble finding our guesthouse, mainly because there are signs for so many guesthouse. We finally found Freedom Guest House – Our home for the next seven days. Once we were settled in , I gathered everyone to hike up nearby Little Adam’s Peak. The trail is so close by. Our place, the Freedom Guesthouse, is clean and cool enough with no A/C here in Ella. 3000 feet of elevation. The hike went past a village and tea plantation. Soon we encounter some people selling items, but not too bad. We are becoming used to saying “No and “no thank you”. The walk is mostly in the shade with the beautiful scenic Ella Rock in the distance.I can see why many flock here to spend time in this beauty. the prices are not too bad I was able to by dinner for all of us for < $10. Vegetable Kotthu, vegetable noodles and spring rolls with some rice. The bed are extra big here – 7 foot long. Usually half my leg hangs off the edge or drills into the foot frame – not on this bed. Ella has been a good choice. The family here has been very welcoming and hospitable. Lot of guesthouses here and more being built, so hospitality and reviews will probably separate the good from the bad. This one is definitely a Good find. I sat on the porch and stared out at the starry sky. A good way to end the day of travel.
oneworldtwokids 