The first thing I have noticed about traveling with the kids (2 days in that is) is that they look to you for a reaction when things don’t seem quite right. We arrived in Sri Lanka to our hotel at 2.30am after 24 hours of travel and some minor immigration hiccups. The accommodation was more casual than my 5-star alter-ego would normally require and we found only 3 single beds. Now anyone that knows me, knows I’m a little precious about sleep and  I’m not a co-sleeping kinda parent (my babies were in their own rooms almost immediately out of hospital), but it was the middle of the night and even the hotel staff looked a little tired. So I kept a super happy face, told myself to embrace my new nomadic lifestyle and we pushed all three beds together and snuggled in for some much needed sleep. 

We woke fresh and excited for the day ahead, a rest day before we start our tour. The kids were none the wiser of my hotel concerns and seem completely happy with our surroundings. Stumbling out to our balcony we were treated with a fabulous view of the pool and bar, palm trees and a beautiful clean beach. My stiff snobby side was starting to crumble, while there were a few rough edges, Sri Lankan hospitality is genuine and their happiness is infectious.

A few learnings so far:

• Tag Team Parenting: A 5 hr layover at Changi Airport can be fun. The kids really enjoyed the butterfly garden, catching the skytrain and the playground was perfect entertainment while we took turns going for a massage.
• My kids can cope tiredness and lengthy travel days combined with patience, soothing words and of course a few bribes.
• Using a Trusted Local Guide: For the first part of our Sri Lankan trip, we decided to book a 12 day driving tour before home schooling started with NSW term 2. After taking a recommendation from a travel blog and trip-advisor we contacted Michael from Step Lanka Tours. He was incredibly efficient over email in arranging driver, accommodation and guides. Coming out the customs gate at the late hour to be greeted by our friendly driver and a beautiful orchid garland was a welcome relief.

We had a perfect first day, full of swimming, great food, a tuk tuk ride (sorry grandma) and even a spectacular sunset. Sri Lanka has us hook, line and sinker and we are ready for what ever it has to offer, a good lesson for me to live my mantra and find the INNER glow.

One of the ways Changi turns layovers into free fun!

Strong tea, delicious fruit and freshly made omelettes. Served by polite waitstaff who could not do enough to please you.
Swimming after breakfast and a game of beach soccer had me realising how silly my earlier concerns were.

Sri Lanka is a culture shock for kids with no Asian experience, but a friendlier alternative to Mumbai or Manilla.

Surprisingly delicious and inexpensive treats. Roadside rambutan and King Coconuts. We also found local lobster readily available at local prices.