5 minute read
SRI LANKA
SRI LANKA 01
5/5 3/5 2/5
KITE OPTIONS?
A 9 and a 12m will be the main kites you’ll use.
WHICH WETSUIT?
Most of the time, you can forget the wetsuit, as essentially it’s the temperature of bathwater. But good sun protection is a must, so rashies/ boardies/sunscreen.
BEER
€1.70 | $2 | £1.80
TYPICAL DINNER
Big fan of curry and rice? Good. Because it’s a staple here.
LATE NIGHT…
Here it’s all about relaxing with friends in the tropical heat with a couple of bottles of Lion (the local beer of choice) to see away the evening before you get up and do it all again. And if the beer doesn’t cut it, you can always hit the ‘arrack’
THE LOWDOWN
Due to the trade wind consistency, the choice of butter-smooth lagoons or Indian Ocean, and authentic lifestyle that is laid back and non-expensive, the Kalpitiya Peninsular on the north west coast of Sri Lanka, is unsurprisingly popular with kiteboarders from around the world. Arugam Bay on the east coast is also an old favorite that continues to draw a faithful kite contingent. And should the wind drop, this is an island with plenty of potential for adventure…
KITING SET UP
The lagoon system here offers endless opportunities, with all year round 27°C waist deep water giving perfect teaching conditions. Silky flat waters made just so by gentle offshore breezes make for some pretty darn perfect (and reliable) freestyle options up and down the coast. It’s easy to hook up with local downwinders and day trips to nearby highly favorable spots, some of which you can reach by catamaran. The ocean is choppy during the strong wind summer months with a nice break some 700 meters off-shore, with smooth riding conditions on winter afternoons.
WHEN IS BEST TO GO?
If you want to be sure of having enough wind, summer is your season (May to October) - averaging at over 20 knots, with the peak part of the season having good winds pretty much every single day. Winter winds tend to be a little lighter and less reliable, but the odds of having some classic days are still high, with wind usually picking up in the afternoons offering good, solid conditions on the ocean and the lagoon. It’s also a perfect time to come with your family.
NO WIND?
Famous for its national parks, tea plantations and an elephant orphanage, Sri Lanka is an island with all manner of adventure options on land for when the wind drops, but the savvy kiteboarder should really figure some of this into their trip no matter the conditions. Rent a bike to explore the local villages, join a SUP or kayak tour on the mangrove fenced lagoon, head out to watch the dolphins, dive, snorkel or fish. But if you’re looking for a no-wind quick fix, then hit the seafood restaurants followed by a few beers – the wind will be back in no time!
HONDURAS 00
5/5 5/5 2/5 3/5
KITE OPTIONS?
We suggest medium size (8-10m) and larger size (11-14m) kites. Check the forecast before you leave and you can always put in a bigger or smaller kite if required.
WHICH WETSUIT?
No need, the water is a balmy 24-28 degrees, so boardies/bikini plus sun protection.
BEER
Expect $2-3 for a local beer.
TYPICAL DINNER
Rice and beans with chicken or fish and plantains.
LATE NIGHT…
Local nights are chilled. Take a trip across the island to West Bay for a bigger night out and a great choice of restaurants and bars. We recommend visiingt the West End on Saturday nights…
GETTING THERE
Conveniently the island of Roatan has great air connectivity, with year round direct flights from Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston and El Salvador. Plus seasonal flights and charters from other cities (including Montreal, Toronto, Newark, Milan and Madrid). Alternatively take the daily passenger ferry from the Honduras port city La Ceiba. MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND HELP THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
The founders, Dil & Leo, have been able to positively change a sleepy little fi shing village and create a new industry in Sri Lanka., an industry which gives hope and jobs to those who had none.
Kitesurfi ng Lanka aims to establish a more environmentally consious travel industry in Sri Lanka. By staying with us, you contribute to the conservation of this area and help the local community.
ENDLESS KITESURFING POSSIBILITES
From the Kitesurfi ng Lanka camp you can access several spots in the area and kitesurf at a diff erent location each day of the week! In winter we kitesurf in the lagon righ in front of our camp, and in summer we can take you for an insane 135km long downwinder!
KITESURFING LANKA
EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN EPIC KITESURFING HOLIDAY
We off er several accommodation options for you to choose from, all of which include full board. We off er kite lessons & rental and have a kite shop and kite repair in the camp.
If you need a rest day, KSL can help you with bike and motorcycle rentals or arrange a sightseeing trip for you. You can also indulge in a massage, yoga class, take part in our sustainability eff orts or explore the lagoon by kayak or SUP.
A SECOND LOCATION FOR EVEN MORE FUN – VAYU
Kitesurfi ng Lanka recently opened Vayu, a second kitesurfi ng location near Adam’s Bridge which is built on the KSL model of community, social and environmental awareness. www.kitesurfi ngmannar.com.
DESTINATION GUIDE
LOCATIONS: Kalpitiya & Adam’s Bridge (Vayu) LEVEL: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
