This morning we left Kandy via a stunning scenic viewpoint then took the coach up to Sri Lanka’s most pouplar hill resort - Nuwara Eliya. Why so popular? The invigorating mountain air and the breathtaking scenery of course. We had the option to take the local train up, but took one look at the truly evil spectre of third class carriages (bench seats... you know how we feel about bench seats) and decided taking the coach up - and having it all to ourselves - was just too good an opportunity to pass up. The driver and guide waited for us and we careered through town in a tuk tuk to catch up with them.

The drive was positively splendid. We had our music pumping, loads of room to spread out and the guys stopped for photo stops, a chance to see the tea pluckers in action at one of the plantations (pictured), views of distant waterfalls, etc. We beat the train up the hill by about an hour and met the rest of the tour group at the station. From there it was a tuk tuk ride around town and a walking a tour of ‘Little England’. The style of the houses and post office was undoubtedly English, but they make a bit much out of this aspect of Nuwara Eliya. We finally made it to the absolutely best part of the day - another Jetwing hotel - this time the Jetwing St Andrews.

We believe this hotel has only recently been taken under the Jetwing brand - and the refurbishment is supuerb. Jetwing St Andrews is a beautiful mix of history (well over 100 years old), altitude - 1890m above sea level, utter luxury, fabulous fabrics and soft furnishings, cosy bars, log fires and a riotous display of cool climate flowers in the manicured gardens - even a great topiary display. We dressed up to befit the suroundings and spent the evening ensconced in comfy sofas taking advantage of two for one bubbles. Dinner was delicous hot soups and a bread basket by the fire. Some of the tour group kicked on with late night games of pool and a thorough investigation of the whiskey menu. We knew we were leaving at 7.30 am... again - so it was back to enjoy our beautiful room with the window wide open to let in the chill night breezes. Once more, we were very sad to be spending so little time at a superb hotel - but what an experience.

Tomorrow? When one climbs a hill, one must of course head down again. A long drive is in store, 5 hours or more, to reach the elephants on the plains of Udawalawe (and the temperature will go through the roof again). Farewell Jetwing. Farewell 8 degrees.