Kathie

Well, we felt like we didn't get enough time in Kandy with just two nights. Everybody is different. A couple of things that might interest you, Robbie, there is a famous Buddhist bookstore in Kandy. One guidebook I had said it was located at/near the Temple of the Tooth. There is a small bookstore there (very small), but the larger bookstore is some distance away. My driver knew what I was talking about and took us there. We also visited some other bookstores and found some excellent books that are not available in the US. Aslam purchased vanilla beans for us at the market. WHile I'm sure he got a better price for us than I could have, I still would have enjoyed wandering the market and bargaining for small items.

As you know, we did not make it to the botanical gardens there (What were we doing?!) even though it was something we were looking forward to.

Robbietravels

Things are still in process. You're right Craig, all prices at Tea Trails the same because TT deducts their commission. No true on all properties. For example, BSL charges a 10% service charge of total booking at Kandy House and Taru Villas but not at Kandalama acccording to their replies to my website queries.
Craig, thanks for the head up on loosy gposy reservations handling at Kandalama. I made one inquirry in February and another for fewer days but same time period and the rates quoted were different for exact arrangements. That doesn't feel comfortable to me.
Which beach bum can compare the sand, swimming and ambience at South coast beaches vs southwest beaches (Bentota)?

Craig

I'm not much of a beach bum but at least I can tell you about Tangalle in the south. The seas are rough at Tangalle - great for body surfing but not good for swimming. The beaches near Lansiya were pretty much deserted except in the very early morning when the fishermen were out - great for long undisturbed walks. It is not a pristine white sand beach but I don't believe the Southwest beaches are either.

Mohammed

Robbie, a lot depends on what one wants from the beach, sun and sand vast stretchs, snorkelling, corals, diving, surfing, fishing, sailing, spas, water skis, jet ski, lots of restaurants and beach bars nearby or a quiet away from it all place etc etc.

Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Galle/Unnawattuna, Koggala, Weligama, Dickwella, Tangalle ...all a bit differently flavoured.

Paradise is Nilaveli near Trincomalee on the East Coast, however tht would be out of season in December and also not the safest place to go to.