Trish & Kerry's Fabulous Sri Lanka to Phuket Getaway

About your itinerary

Thank you so much for our chat this week about your amazing 50th birthday celebration plans to explore and indulge in the world of Sri Lanka and Thailand for your birthday! I have been working hard with our teams behind the scenes to find you the best possible rates, with some of my favourite luxury accommodation ready to greet you!

In Sri Lanka I have focused on providing a nature-focused experience, with a must-experience climb, local culture and the infamous elephant safari in the Minneriya National Park! Your hotel I have chosen fully complements the nature element, with super charming surroundings but still that honour the nature around them.

In Thailand, I have upgraded that luxury feel and added in an absolute stunner, the gorgeous 5* The Shore. I am so happy there is a fraction of availability left. The Shore is a personal favourite of mine after visiting the island last year – not only is it one of the most friendly and inclusive resorts on the beach, it also has some amazing Pool Villas, one of which you will be staying in.

I am so happy to say we are only £451 over the £5K per person we spoke about, with all your flights, Sri Lanka stay & Phuket stay in tow which is amazing, however I am conscious that flight pricing is particularly dynamic at the moment and regularly fluctuates, so to guarantee this price, if everything is perfect we will need to move swiftly to secure this amazing trip.

Excited to chat!

Best travels,

Maria Gardner

Prepared for: Trish Ewen
Date created: 18 January, 2024
Reference: Q106687

Maria Gardner

maria@outofoffice.com
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Your Itinerary In Detail

Tuesday 12th November 2024

Flight on EK 2

From	To
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)	Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Departs	Arrives
12-Nov-2024 13:40:00	13-Nov-2024 00:40:00
Airline	Cabin
Emirates	Economy

Wednesday 13th November 2024

Flight on EK 650

From	To
Dubai International Airport (DXB)	Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
Departs	Arrives
13-Nov-2024 02:40:00	13-Nov-2024 08:25:00
Airline	Cabin
Emirates	Economy

Welcome to Sri Lanka

Endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, oodles of elephants, rolling surf, cheap prices, fun trains, famous tea and flavorful food make Sri Lanka irresistible.

The Undiscovered Country

You might say Sri Lanka has been hiding in plain sight. Scores of travelers have passed overhead on their way to someplace else, but years of uncertainty kept Sri Lanka off many itineraries.

Now, however, all that has changed. The country is moving forward quickly as more and more people discover its myriad charms. Lying between the more trodden parts of India and Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka's history, culture and natural beauty are undeniably alluring. It's the place you haven't been to yet, that you should.

So Much in So Little

Few places have as many Unesco World Heritage Sites (eight) packed into such a small area. Sri Lanka's 2000-plus years of culture can be discovered at ancient sites where legendary temples boast beautiful details even as they shelter in caves or perch on prominent peaks. More recent are colonial fortresses, from Galle to Trincomalee.

Across the island, that thing that goes bump in the night might be an elephant heading to a favorite waterhole. Safari tours of Sri Lanka’s pleasantly relaxed national parks encounter leopards, water buffaloes, all manner of birds and a passel of primates.

It’s So Easy

Distances are short: see the sacred home of the world’s oldest living human-planted tree in the morning (Anuradhapura) and stand awestruck by the sight of hundreds of elephants gathering in the afternoon (Minneriya). Discover a favourite beach, meditate in a 2000-year-old temple, exchange smiles while strolling a mellow village, marvel at birds and wildflowers, try to keep count of the little dishes that come with your rice and curry. Wander past colonial architecture in Colombo, then hit some epic surf.

Sri Lanka is spectacular, affordable and still often uncrowded. Now is the best time to discover it.

Rainforests & Beaches

When you’re ready to escape the tropical climate of the coast and lowlands, head for the hills, with their temperate, achingly green charms. Verdant tea plantations and rainforested peaks beckon walkers, trekkers and those who just want to see them from a spectacular train ride.

And then there are the beaches. Dazzlingly white and often untrodden, they ring the island so that no matter where you go, you’ll be near a sandy gem. Should you beat the inevitable languor, you can surf and dive world-class sites without world-class crowds. And you're always just a short hop from something utterly new.

Private Vehicle from Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport to Lake Lodge Boutique Hotel

Upon your arrival in Colombo, you will benefit from VIP fast track assistance through the Airport, before being greeted by one of our friendly team who will invite you into your Private Transfer from Colombo International Airport for a stunning 3hr drive to the amazing Lake Lodge Kandalama.

Dambulla Cave Temple Tour

Enroute to your hotel, you will have the chance to explore the amazing UNESCO Dambulla Cave Temple. A sacred pilgrimage site for 22 centuries, this cave monastery, with its five sanctuaries, is the largest, best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. The Buddhist mural paintings (covering an area of 2,100 m2 ) are of particular importance, as are the 157 statues.

From the caves there are superb views over the surrounding countryside; Sigiriya is clearly visible some 20km distant.

Dambulla is thought to have been a place of worship since the 1st century BC, when King Valagamba (also known as Vattagamani Abhaya), driven out of Anuradhapura, took refuge here. When he regained his throne, he had the interior of the caves carved into magnificent rock temples. Further paintings were made by later kings, including King Nissanka Malla, who had the caves’ interiors gilded, earning the place the name Ran Giri (Golden Rock).

After a stunning couple of hours, your driver & guide will continue your journey to your hotel, for the remaining day at leisure.

Lake Lodge Boutique Hotel

Lake Lodge Boutique Hotel for 5 nights

Lake Lodge Resort is surrounded by paddy fields. Modern rooms boast picturesque views to the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle.

Guests at Lake Lodge Resort can enjoy relaxing spa treatments while a 24-hour front desk assists with laundry services, travel arrangements and room service.

Set in an open-air concept overlooking the lake, the in-house restaurant serves a spread of Sri Lankan and Western dishes.

Your room: Superior Room

Superior Rooms are located on the first floor and all have private balconies offering uninterrupted view of the jungle.

Thursday 14th November 2024

Polonnaruwa Ruins & Elephant Safari Tour | Private

This morning after breakfast, you will be ready for an amazing day out to experience some of the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa, and finish with an incredible private jeep safari in search for wild elephants in the afternoon!

Your driver & guide will collect you from your hotel and take you through the countryside for around 1.5hrs to Polonnaruwa, for a special insider tour. Polonnaruwa is arguably better preserved than Anuradhapura and is certainly more accessible. It’s made up of both Bramanic monuments built by the Cholas, as well as the ruins of a fantastic garden city created by Parakramabahu I in the 12th century. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s described as a ‘shrine to Buddhism and Singhalese history’, apparent in its enormous rock carvings.

The tour includes the King’s Council Chambers, the royal baths and ruins of Buddhist shrines such as the Vatadage, which is a circular relic house. It also takes in the ‘Hatadage’, where it’s believed the Sacred Tooth was placed for some time. The tour also includes a myriad of other monuments, including the gigantic rock sculpture of the Lord Buddha. Polonnaruwa is one of Sri Lanka undisputed highlights and an integral park of Sri Lanka’s ancient history.

After some time here, you will then be transferred to EKHO Lake House, where you will enjoy some delicious lunch (paid locally) before driving into Minneriya National Park for an afternoon of wild elephant sightings and memorable moments. This is one of the best places in the country to get up close to these majestic animals.

After an amazing day, you will head back to your hotel for one final night.

Friday 15th November 2024

Climb UNESCO Sigiriya Rock | Private

After breakfast, it will be time to meet your driver ready for a fantastic climb of the infamous Sigiriya Lion Rock. Even if you are not a keen hiker, the climb is certainly worth it for the sheer vast view you will experience at the top.

Sigiriya Lion Rock is a massive column of rock, just over 200 m high, jutting out between the foliage in the northern Natale District of Sri Lanka. The well-preserved site is one of the earliest examples of ancient urban planning and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sigiriya was established as a stronghold by a rogue king over 1,500 years ago, due to its elevated position which offers 360-degree views of the surrounds.

The king built his palace on top of the rock, and the colourful frescoes that it was decorated with, are still visible. A gateway in the form of a lion stands on a small plateau halfway up the side of the rock, giving it its name. After the king’s death, the site was abandoned until it was taken over by a monastery, which functioned there until the 14th century.

Saturday 16th November 2024

Discover Anuradhapura & Wilpattu National Safari Park | Private

This morning after a lovely breakfast, it will be time to head out for your full day experience, starting with the amazing Anuradhapura. Your expert guide will greet you at the site, and invite you for a beautiful two hour walking tour of the UNESCO sacred city. With many statues, ruins and monasteries still able to view, it truly is a remarkable walkthrough.

After your two hour tour here, you will be back in the car ready to take the drive to the amazing Wilpattu National Park for another amazing safari drive. Renowned for its high leopard density and vast size of 130,000 hectares your safari drive will last approx 3-5 hours, offering a unique opportunity to explore one of Sri Lanka's largest and historically significant national parks.

Wilpattu is famous worldwide for its leopard population, and its safari experience sets it apart from other national parks. The park's distinguishing feature is the presence of "Willus" (Natural lakes), which add to the park's wilderness ambiance. Keep an eye out for sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer, and wild pigs, as they are frequently spotted during the safari. Throughout the afternoon, water bottles and light cuisine will be provided to ensure your comfort and enjoyment.

After an incredible full day, your driver will meet you and drive you back to your hotel for an evening of rest and leisure.

Sunday 17th November 2024

Optional: Explore Ritigala Monastery with Local

Optional Tour

Price Not Included

You may want to take this day and relax at your beautiful hotel, but just in case you fancied doing some exploring I have included the details of an optional tour that you may wish to experience.

Ritigala is one of the island's lesser-known monasteries. But one of its most mysterious. It is home to 70 rock caves that were believed to have been inhabited by Buddhist monks, who wanted to attain enlightenment since the first century BC.

Ascent through the steep steps carved into rock, which lead up to a beautifully constructed pavement, a stone path 1.5 meters wide that meanders upwards through the forest, linking the major buildings of the monastery. Feast your eyes on the lush forest growth around you.

As you explore the monastic areas that are spread in 700 acres, your knowledgeable guide will bring Ritigala to life with their stories, giving you a glimpse of the monastery that once was. The area is rich in flora, some of which are medicinal and found only here and also fauna.

The dense jungle is inhabited by wild elephants, leopards and bears. The revered solitude of the Ritigala Monastery still pervades the air, while alongside it the Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve is a sanctuary of 1,582 hectares to which visitors are allowed only with special permission.

After a stunning day, you would return to your hotel for the remaining time at leisure.

Monday 18th November 2024

Private Vehicle from Lake Lodge Boutique Hotel to Colombo

After a stunning final night in your hotel, it will be time to head back to catch your flight to the Australia. Your driver will collect you from your hotel and drive you back on the journey to Colombo where you will have the chance to enjoy a lovely city tour on arrival.

Colombo City Tour & Transfer to Airport | Private

Upon arrival back into Colombo, your bags will be safely kept with your driver, and you will be invited by your private guide on a 3 hour tour of the city. Visit key landmarks including the Old Parliament building, Vihara Buddhist Temple, and St Lucia's Cathedral to learn more about the unique history and culture of Sri Lanka.

After a lovely tour, you will have a chance to freshen up and change at the lovely Jetwing Blue Hotel in your own private room for a few hours, before proceeding to the Airport with your driver for your flight to Aus.

Tuesday 19th November 2024

Flight on MH 178

From	To
Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)	Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)
Departs	Arrives
19-Nov-2024 00:25:00	19-Nov-2024 06:40:00
Airline	Cabin
Malaysia Airlines	Economy

Flight on MH 141

From	To
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)	Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD)
Departs	Arrives
19-Nov-2024 09:10:00	19-Nov-2024 20:35:00
Airline	Cabin
Malaysia Airlines	Economy

Australia Under Own Arrangements (3 weeks)

19th November – 10th December

Tuesday 10th December 2024

Flight on JQ 511

From	To
Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD)	Melbourne International Airport (MEL)
Departs	Arrives
10-Dec-2024 10:55:00	10-Dec-2024 12:30:00
Airline	Cabin
JetStar	Economy

Flight on JQ 17

From	To
Melbourne International Airport (MEL)	Phuket International Airport (HKT)
Departs	Arrives
10-Dec-2024 15:20:00	10-Dec-2024 20:05:00
Airline	Cabin
JetStar	Economy

Welcome to Phuket

Jade-hued waves concealing rainbows of fish wash white-gold beaches wrapped in Phuketian heritage: Phuket (ภูเก็ต), Thailand's dazzling largest island, is so diverse you may never want to leave.

The pearly white, palm- and casuarina-fringed beaches that ring Phuket's southern and western coasts are the island's key bounty. Each beach is different, from the northwest's upmarket Surin and Ao Bang Thao (with their luxe resorts and, in Bang Thao, glossy beach clubs) to mellow, jungled Rawai on far south Phuket, or the infamous west-coast sin city of Patong, home of hangovers and go-go bars. So there's space for everyone, whether you're a backpacking couple, a luxury jetsetter, a wandering budgeteer or a travelling family on the hunt for seaside fun.

Private Vehicle from to The Shore

Upon your arrival into Phuket, you will be greeted by one of our lovely drivers and invited into your private vehicle to head to your beautiful beachfront hotel, for a fabulous 5 night stay.

The Shore

The Shore for 5 nights

The Shore is an intimate collection of private pool villa hideaways and is secluded amongst lush, palm-filled gardens. Couples can experience the ultimate blend of luxurious seclusion and boundless space. This beautifully secluded villa property is the perfect place to celebrate a golden love story, in the resort’s perfect harmony of lifestyle and environment.

Each villa features a private infinity pool, sunken lounge, bath with rain shower, with the majority of villas having a panoramic view of the ocean and looking over Kata Noi beach. Along with the sophisticated interior design, combining soft colours and natural textures with gentle oriental touches, this wonderful resort offers the perfect location and service for couples wanting to escape for the perfect honeymoon.

This adults-only hotel boasts a main infinity pool, a beautiful spa and free WiFi throughout, and is located only a 50-minute drive from Phuket's International Airport.

Your room: Pool Villa

Surround yourself in nature as you gaze onto a lush green garden view from within your personal pool at your villa in Phuket. This spacious tropical hideaway features a bedroom, living/dining area and ample bath area.

This villa comes with air conditioning, a TV, minibar, bathrobes, a safety deposit box and a sound entertainment system, among a range of other amenities that will make your stay blissful.

Thursday 12th December 2024

Discover Phuket

Thailand’s largest island has been a popular tourist destination for decades, but what exactly are the best things to do in Phuket? Phuket sparkles in the day and comes alive at night, a 24/7 destination with endless entertainment and some of the best resorts in an area of the world where great resorts are ten a penny. Let’s delve into the best things to do in Phuket.

Phuket Old Town

A million miles away from the tourist packed beaches and night time hedonism on offer elsewhere in Phuket, this antiquated area of town is steeped in heritage and small enough to explore on foot. There’s a strong old colonial Chinese and Portuguese influence here, especially along the particularly charming Soi Rommannee, where brightly coloured old buildings house boutique shops, guesthouses and cafes.

Bangtao Beach

There are dozens of beautiful beaches on Phuket (Freedom, Kata and Karon all deserve mention) but Bangtao Beach is the pick for many in the know. Home to the upscale bars, beach clubs and resorts of Laguna Complex, where there’s a relaxed yet refined vibe that’s perfect for sunbathing and slow strolls in the sand.

Island hopping in Phang Nga Bay

There are dozens of tour operators offering all sorts of different day trips out from Phuket. If you’ve only got one day, head out on a Phan Nga Bay/James Bond Island trip, which takes you to the jaw-dropping limestone cliffs made famous by 007 plus a few other small islands for quality snorkelling and beach time.

Big Buddha

You can't go to Phuket and miss the big Buddha. Quite literally, as it can be seen from just about anywhere in the south of the island. But take the time to climb up the hill in Karon and you'll be treated not only to an impressive close-up of the religious icon, but also stunning views of the mountains and Andaman sea. While you're up there, make a pitstop in the cafe and pop into the gift shop.

Wat Chalong

The beautiful buildings and grounds are the perfect place to take a break from the beach. Always bristling with local worshippers and curious tourists, it can get really crowded here so try to come as early in the day as you can if you want time and space to take it all in – or get that perfect photo for the ‘gram. Remember: this is a sacred site, so make sure you cover up.

Diving

Even if you've never dived before in your life, you'll have a blast exploring the Andaman ocean. Phuket has numerous diving instructors on-hand at hotels, hostels and beach resorts ready to take groups and private tours out. We'd recommend Hin Daeng and Koh Dok Man to dive at and if snorkelling’s more your thing, head to Nai Harn beach.

Floating restaurants at Laem Hin Pier

It’s one of the most unforgettable and unique dining experiences you can have on Phuket. Jump aboard one of the free long tail taxi boats (five minutes) that run from Laem Pier and head out to the floating restaurants near Koh Maphrow. Fill your face with the freshest oysters, crab, prawns and fish – all cooked to traditional Thai methods – and then catch a boat back beneath the stars. There are a few restaurants here; Bang Mud and The Black Crab are two definitely worth your attention.

Saturday 14th December 2024

Optional: Half Day “The Giant Cliff” by Exclusive Long-tail Boat | Private

Optional Tour | Price Not Included

Today you will have the opportunity to explore the lesser-known beaches and snorkeling spots in Phang Nga Bay. Your private vehicle will collect you from your hotel and take you down to the port where you will be greeted by your skipper and crew for an afternoon of beauty and fun!

You will depart by exclusive private long-tail boat to the “Giant Cliff”. The highlight is a strange rocky cliff that resembles a giant face. Relax on the beach and explore “Thung Samed Khao”. Enjoy a Southern Thai lunch set and afterwards time for the first snorkelling stop at Khao Na Yak, an abundant coral reef and explore the colourful underwater world. Snorkel at Hua Gang, and look out for colour fishes and more coral reefs.

After an amazing few hours, you will depart from the Giant Cliff area back to the pier and be met by one of our friendly drivers on the other side, who will take you back to your hotel for one final night.

Sunday 15th December 2024

Transfer from The Shore to Phuket International Airport

After an incredible 5 night stay at the breathtaking Shore Resort, it will be time to return home. Your private vehicle will collect you from your hotel and take you to the Airport in enough time for your flight.

Monday 16th December 2024

Flight on EK 379

From	To
Phuket International Airport (HKT)	Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Departs	Arrives
16-Dec-2024 19:20:00	16-Dec-2024 23:00:00
Airline	Cabin
Emirates	Economy

Tuesday 17th December 2024

Flight on EK 7

From	To
Dubai International Airport (DXB)	London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Departs	Arrives
17-Dec-2024 03:10:00	17-Dec-2024 07:10:00
Airline	Cabin
Emirates	Economy

TO TOP

What's Included

Your itinerary includes

International flights from London Heathrow to Sri Lanka with Emirates

Checked baggage throughout
Economy seating

Private Transfers throughout Sri Lanka
Stunning 4 & 5* Accommodation

All breakfasts included
Upgraded Pool Villa in Phuket

Private Tours as listed
International flight from Sri Lanka to Sydney with Malaysia Airlines

Checked baggage throughout
Economy seating

Private Transfers to/from Phuket Airport
International flight from Phuket International Airport to London Heathrow with Emirates

Checked baggage throughout
Economy seating

24/7 emergency concierge service

Your itinerary excludes

Australia Portion (3 weeks)
Optional Tours
Lunches & Dinners unless specified
Travel insurance
Resort Fees / City Taxes
Visas (if applicable)
Gratuities

All Reviews

Important Information

Travel Advice

It is important to seek independent and up-to-date advice when travelling to any foreign country. Many of our customers ask us to keep them up-to-date on the existing legal position regarding LGBT rights in the country to which they are travelling. You can find up-to-date details on our website under the country which you are travelling to. They are provided as a guide only and laws can change frequently. You should seek advice from the relevant authorities and embassies before travel (if applicable).

Travel Insurance and Terms and Conditions

It is a condition of booking with Out Of Office that you have adequate insurance cover for your trip at the time of booking. Please also ensure you have referred to our terms and conditions which can be found at www.outofoffice.com/terms-and-conditions. Please note that as each booking is tailor-made for you we only confirm the itinerary once we have received a deposit. There is a small chance that availability on some items quoted may change. If this is the case we will book similar accommodation and let you know.

Total Price	£ 10,451
Deposit	£ 2,500
Final Balance Due	August 19, 2024

Your Expert	Maria Gardner

Your Reference	Q106687
Contact Details	maria@outofoffice.com

Trish & Kerry’s Fabulous Sri Lanka to Phuket Getaway

About your itinerary

Your Itinerary In Detail

Tuesday 12th November 2024

Flight on EK 2

Wednesday 13th November 2024