sri lanka 2012.

As some of you might already know, I was lucky enough to spend a relaxing week in Sri Lanka over my Spring Break. It was the first time I'd been there, and although we didn't do much exploring of the country and culture (we sort of villa-hopped and shut out the rest of the world and lazed on the beach and ate way too much for a whole week), it was a rejuvenating haven away from the bustling city life I'm so used to. Punctuated with exotic spicy Sri Lankan curries, sunkissed days (and slathering aloe-vera gel on our sunburn the next morning!) and the rhythmic crashing of azure waves, it was a lovely, albeit lazy and unproductive week!

The first place we stayed at was an absolutely beautiful villa (by the equally beautiful name of "Auraliya" - seriously how great is that name?) belonging to some friends of ours - pictured in the two images above. With spacious rooms, a priceless sea view, a large lawn and the best service I have ever experienced in my life, the few days we spent here with our friends were so memorable. 

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Seriously though, how awesome is that pool?! As soon as it got dark each night, they turned on these little fairy lights which completely illuminated and transformed the pool into a blanket of stars; at your feet as opposed to over your head!

Although we didn't do much exploring of the country, we did go on a safari in Yala National Park! Although sitting in a seriously bumpy jeep for 7 hours was a challenge, the scenery, the animals, and the sheer amount of open space made me feel so infinite. Rolling hills, vast lakes, and animals literally everywhere - Yala was truly a sanctuary of abundant, untouched nature.

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"I love places that make you realize how tiny you and your problems are."

 Apologies for the excessive amount of sunset pictures in relation to everything else - seeing such stunning sunsets every night was the most wonderful way to wind down a long day. After Sri Lanka, I feel like I have a newfound appreciation for this simple phenomenon. It's as if the light is melting away into darkness, accentuated by succulent swirls of burnt hues. Amber, sienna, vermillion, gold, magenta and ochre streak the sky in opulent doses, and for a precious few minutes, the sky transforms right before your eyes. 

 Hope everyone had an equally relaxing Spring Break; I'd love to hear about your adventures too!

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photo credits to my talented mother and her Canon 7D!