Day 58 - A Sri Lankan Oasis, Gratitude & Another Quiz Victory

Today began with an early start, although the amazing crew had been up early and the Christmas table with the gingerbread houses had been dismantled, much to Joe's sadness, as he loved looking at it and touching it (which was forbidden to do so of course!) as we headed off for a relaxing day at the Hilton Hotel in Weerawila. With the early departure, there was no time for the gym, so I opted for a quick stretch and room service breakfast instead.

Joe, who absolutely loves pool and beach days, was up early and ready to go. His luck continued — he secured front row seats on the coach once again. Even better, this was a brand new coach, and we were only the second group to ever sit in it. It had all the mod cons, including seat belts, which instantly made Joe feel more at ease. Many of the buses we’d used in India hadn’t had seat belts, which had understandably made him a little anxious.

Out of the Port & Into the Countryside

Our guide shared that the port we were leaving had received huge investment in hopes of boosting revenue, but sadly it hadn’t paid off and is now considered a “white elephant” project. As we drove out, we passed countless brand new cars parked everywhere. The guide explained they arrive from various Asian countries and are stored here before being shipped elsewhere as needed.

The drive into the countryside was beautifully green and peaceful. Unlike the busy city roads, here the main concern wasn’t traffic — it was animals. We passed countless street dogs, stopped for a large land monitor lizard crossing the road, and on the return journey we were delayed by cows and a particularly cheeky monkey who made sure we slowed right down for him.



Hilton Weerawila – A True Oasis

The Hilton Weerawila was a stunning oasis. The pool was probably the largest and most beautiful hotel pool I’ve ever seen, surrounded by countless chill-out spaces. Joe and I claimed loungers in the shade near the pool bar, and while Joe soaked up the sun, I went exploring.



I found quiet corners perfect for meditation and reading, and then ventured up to the rooftop spa, which also houses a bar, restaurant, gym, and more peaceful seating areas. I managed to secure a massage appointment — it meant missing lunch, but some things are just more important. After missing out on our Ayurvedic massages earlier in the trip, I was really looking forward to this.

Before my treatment, I spent time on a swing chair, simply watching the world go by and feeling deeply grateful for this life and the memories we are creating.



Joe absolutely loved the pool and said the lunch was delicious — high praise indeed from him.

Massage, Memories & More Wins

My Balinese massage was wonderful and worked out all the kinks in my muscles. Feeling blissed out, we then headed back to the ship.

Joe made it back just in time for his beloved quiz, and once again — his team won, this time with full marks. At dinner in Compass Rose, Ray the quiz master came over, laughing, and announced he’d be making tomorrow’s quiz much harder, as he’s clearly not used to teams getting every question right!

After dinner, Joe headed back to the room for a well-earned rest after several busy days, while I went to watch the evening show — a violinist named Susanna, who was truly excellent.

Tonight, the clocks go forward another 30 minutes, which thankfully doesn’t feel too dramatic.

Daily Reflection:

Some days are about movement and adventure,
others are about stillness, gratitude, and soaking it all in.
Today was beautifully, perfectly balanced.

Highlight of the Day:
✨ Sitting on the swing chair at Weerawila, doing absolutely nothing — and feeling completely content.

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