Checking Out: Gehan de Silva Wijeyeratne 

A banker by profession, respected naturalist Gehan can be best described as Sri Lanka’s answer to David Attenborough. His interest in wildlife is unparalleled and he is one of the few credited with bringing worldwide attention to the existence of leviathans in Sri Lankan waters, making the country a top whale watching destination in the world. 

Gehan likes photography, popularising science and writing. He has authored several books on the fauna of Sri Lanka. His pet peeve is people who talk big and deliver little. 

He lives in London, minutes away from the River Thames which is the cleanest urban river in the world. 

Why do you love travel? 
The sprit languishes like a caged animal if it is not allowed to run free.

Your favourite travel destination and why? 
The rainforest, fragile, wondrous, intricate, diverse, holding our wellbeing in its carbon sink and hydrological recycling. 

What do you need for a perfect holiday? 
Big skies, wild landscapes, bustling cities, museums and art galleries, and people and good food to enjoy it with. 

In which country have you felt most at home?
Britain, an inclusive nation of doers who continue to punch above their weight.

Most unusual souvenir you have brought home?
A fossil from Britain's Jurassic coast. To think that so many millions of years ago, the dust and gas from the birth and death of stars coalesced into life. 

Worst holiday or travel experience?
Soon after seeing a nocturnal Slender Loris in the Knuckles, having my camera fall and be smashed against a rock. 

Best piece of travel advice?
Don't take any unnecessary risks, but soak in the expereince.

Your top five travel destinations?
Sri Lanka (island magic), London, East Africa, Borneo and Paris.

Best place for an amateur birder?
Talangama Wetland and the London Wetland Centre.

In which country did you taste the best ever cuisine? 
Thailand, had two lunches when I backpacked. London is probably unrivalled for choice and standards. 

Next travel destination?
Madagascar.

Text by Tina Edward Gunawardhana