Sri Lanka is one of the world’s largest tea exporters. The tea is grown in the “hill country,” the country’s cooler highlands.

I spent a few days in Nuwara Eliya, home of numerous tea estates. Here’s what I found at the plantations…

Let’s get this straight — Sri Lanka isn’t India. It has a very distinct personality and culture with its own language, food, and musical traditions.

Here’re my 7 insider tips on exploring the southern and western coasts of this warm tropical island:

Kosgoda, on Sri Lanka’s west coast, is the home of a turtle hatchery and rescue operated by the Wild Life Protection Society of Sri Lanka.

Learn more about turtles and watch the sunset turtle release during my much anticipated visit to Kosgoda!