A Chartered Accountant by profession, Lesley is enjoying her retirement travelling to far flung exotic destinations. Now on her third visit to Sri Lanka where she is following her son’s cricket team in action, Lesley loves the island vibe of Sri Lanka. She is heavily involved in charity work supporting the provision of education for students in Wellawaya and Kantale with the support of her friends back in her home town of Reading, UK. Lesley likes spending time with her family, travelling, art classes and pilates while she dislikes spiders and putting on weight. 

Why do you love travel? 

I get a real thrill from experiencing something new (whale and bear watching in Canada), seeing something beautiful (sunrise from a volcano in Java), spotting fabulous animals (leopard in Yala), exploring amazing ruins (Machu Picchu in Peru) and meeting fascinating people from different cultures (tribesmen in Papua New Guinea). I believe travel broadens one's horizons and makes one a citizen of the world. 

Your favourite travel destination and why? 

There are so many, but to name a few, Sri Lanka as the people are very friendly and hospitable. Iceland for its amazing volcanic scenery and Costa Rica for its amazing wildlife. 

What do you need for a perfect holiday? 

A destination with lots to see and lots of new experiences to enjoy. 

In which country have you felt most at home? 

New Zealand - easy to travel around, didn't get ill travelling, no language problems, no huge spiders! 

Most unusual souvenir you have brought home? 

Bow and arrows from Papua New Guinea (with bone and boar tusks), giant fir cones from Corsica. 

Worst holiday or travel experience? 

A flight delay to Peru meant the travel time took 45 hours one way and seeing big hair spiders in Costa Rica, Ecquador and Peru amongst other places. 

Best piece of travel advice? 

Pack light and avoid travelling alone. 

What has travel taught you? 

Travel taught me to value how fortunate I am and to try to help those less fortunate. 

Which country did you taste the best ever cuisine? 

Egg hoppers in Sri Lanka, I would have it for all three meals if I could. 

Next travel destination? 

Croatia. 

By Tina Edward Gunawardhana