26th was also Nick’s birthday. The dawn chorus was melodious and a soft mist rose from the lake. A big, black wild boar grunted and ambled across the field in the valley below. Palm trees swayed in a gentle breeze and bright brown Brahminy Kites with gleaming white heads floated lazily above as we sipped tea on the terrace. Nick was wearing a Sri Lankan sarong and west and everybody smiled and nodded in approval. It was the perfect start to the day.

We were at the Albatross on Victoria lake near Kandy.

There was fresh fruit, Kiribath (rice cooked with coconut milk), String Hoppers and excellent local bacon.

Breakfast Buffet

We read, walked in the hills and drank beer until it was time for lunch. We asked for rice and curry again and the chef prepared excellent Black Pork and eight different curries, all served on the terrace.