Ash Grats
POSTCARDS FROM SRI LANKA
Summer styling in Sri Lanka with Saint Valentine muse, Ash Grats.
Discover Ash’s most loved pieces from the Starburst collection, a wearable and energising symbol of hope, guidance and inspiration captured amidst the island’s serene beauty.
Where did you stay and for how long?
We were in Sri Lanka for an entire month, so we did quite a lot of moving around. We specifically wanted to spend time on the South/West coast so we spent a majority of our trip in the slower coastal towns like Madiha, Weligama & Ahangama. Swell Shacks in Madiha and Blue Waves Surf Hotel in Ahangama were two of our favourite stays.
What was your favourite local food or restaurant?
One of the best things about Sri Lanka is the local food, and some of our favourite meals were eaten in a low key, completely empty (aside from us), family run restaurant! We became really fond of Kottu (or Kothu) and came home with a new appreciation for Sambal. One stand out experience was Ant's Chef House in Madiha – a tiny restaurant run only by Ant himself!
What is something not many people know about Sri Lanka?
Gosh, there are so many things! Before we left for our trip, we were constantly asked "why Sri Lanka?" and it turns out that not many people have considered it as a holiday destination.
My partner wanted to surf there, and I was dying to go on a Safari. In the end, we both thought it was the perfect blend of culture, adventure & relaxation. The beaches look like they've hopped right out of a postcard, the locals are so incredibly friendly and the food is delicious and affordable.
What was your vacation style for this trip and how did you incorporate jewellery?
With the climate in Sri Lanka being hot & humid in November and lots of moving around on the cards, my style focus was on pieces that are versatile & lightweight. The same goes for my jewellery – whilst I had every intention of mixing up my combination each day, I ended up sticking with the same classic pieces because they were lightweight & went with every outfit.
What were some highlights from the trip?
Surfing with Turtles in Mirissa Bay, every single sunrise/sunset and definitely the safari in Yala National Park, I still dream about those Elephants!
