SPECTRUM SPECTRUM | Page 7

Spectrum May 30, 2016 stretch of Sri Lanka's southernmost coastline, Anantara Tangalle Peace Haven Resort boasts a unique location in a beautiful corner of the island. Set amidst a 42 acre coconut plantation and golden crescent shore with glorious Indian Ocean views, the resort offers a naturally exclusive hideaway for exotic beach life, as well as living out explorer dreams with easy access to iconic cultural sites, spectacular national parks, and whale watching destinations.     All Sri Lankan hotels practice exercises on the shore as you watch sunrise and discover the local area by bicycle or tuk-tuk. One can relax in paradise at a tropical pool, alongside with a refreshing cocktail in hand. One can always indulge in sensual pampering spa, including specialist Ayurvedic treatments. All hotels savor the charms and flavors of island life, partaking in the tradition of high tea and creating authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in a Spice Spoons cooking class. One of the most noted specialties about a Sri Lankan hotel is that it features one of the most expensive desserts that come up to approximately 58,000 Dirhams. The dessert is a gold leaf Italian cassata flavored with Irish cream. It is served with a mango and pomegranate compote and a champagne sabayon enlighten, and is complimented by a chocolate carving of a fisherman clinging to a stilt, an age old local fishing practice. What adds more value to the dessert is the crowning jewel that is an 80 carat aquamarine stone that rests on a sliver of chocolate shaped to resemble the Above: "The Fortress Stilt Fisherman Indulgence” Dessert traditional stilt fisherman that is part of The Fortress' logo.   Sri Lanka gained independence on February 4th, 1948. Ever since the independence Sri Lanka has evolved into an extremely cultural country. The culture of Sri Lanka mixes modern elements with traditional aspects and is known for its regional diversity. Sri Lankan culture has long been influenced by the heritage of Buddhism passed on from India. For a small island, Sri Lanka has many nicknames: Teardrop of India, Pearl of the Orient, etc. This colourful collection reveals its richness and beauty, and the intensity of the affection it evokes in its visitors. Consequently, this small island state contains an exotic mixture of languages, cultures and religions. Sri Lanka, the Isle of Serendipity is a tourist paradise with an abundance of tourist attractions like the sunny beaches, glorious ancient cities, salubrious hill country, beautiful fauna & flora, exquisite handicrafts, world renowned gems, traditional dance & drama, colourful festivals, smiling people and not forgetting the mouthwatering Sri Lankan cuisine. Hence, it is one of the best places for one to visit and not miss out on. 2