Hikkaduwa, with its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, promises the allure of a tropical paradise for travelers. Ideally, this coastal town is a sun-soaked haven for those looking to relax by the shores and explore its famous coral reefs. However, my dreams of basking under the sun were thwarted by relentless rain. Just a day into my planned retreat, the downpour has convinced me to cut my stay short and make my way back to Colombo. Mother Nature can be unpredictable…

While traveling, one always hopes for the best but prepares for the unexpected. Ironically, I had braced myself for the possibility of food poisoning during my trip, acknowledging the culinary adventures I was diving into. Yet, when it struck, it still caught me off-guard. The allure of local delicacies came with a price, and while I had somewhat anticipated this setback, enduring it is an entirely different story. It's a reminder that even with the best precautions, travel can sometimes throw you a curveball.