Mixed experience in Sri Lanka — beautiful but overhyped

Sri Lanka is undeniably beautiful. Temple of the Tooth Relic and the area around Ella have a visual quality that photographs don't capture fully. I enjoyed rice and curry and appreciated stunning landscapes packed into a small island. That's all real.

But tuk-tuk fares need negotiating was more of a problem than I expected based on reviews I'd read. It coloured parts of the trip in ways I hadn't prepared for. I'd still go back, but I'd approach certain aspects differently. A 4 feels generous on a bad day but fair overall.