Hikkaduwa, Galle

First day in Hikkaduwa had dinner in nearby restaurant which was ok. Unfortunately I became quite sick resulting in a day in bed. Others had a great day. First to Galle and the old Portuguese fort with a tour with a local guide who was very good. Had a nice cool drink at a hotel owned by a Sri Lankan who had lived in Australia for some time. After the tour they had good lunch in fort then on to a train trip. The train trip that was to be a feature of the tour had to be cancelled so this was added in to appease the train lovers. Travelled a number of stations. Following this they had a boat trip around the small islands dotting the coast line here. Stopped at an island to witness cinnamon harvesting. Back to hotel and Judy had dinner in the hotel.
Next day, I’m improved. Took a trip to a moonstone mining and jewellery making operation. Interesting. Judy bought ring and elephant pendant.
Rest of day was free. Judy and I and another of the group caught the train from Hikkaduwa to Galle. Had a walk through the fort s I could catch up. Fantastic huge fort with massive stone walls surrounding. Clock tower at one end and lighthouse at other. Huge area in the middle with many hotels, Grand and not so, restaurants, cafes, museums, working courthouses and other admin offices. Old buildings converted to hip hotels and cafes. Galle cricket ground opposite fort. International games played here.
We 3 squeeze into 3 wheeler (tuk tuk) for trip back. 18 kms $15. Good fun.
Special dinner of jumbo prawns and/or lobster tonight.