A Fashion Girl’s Guide To Sri Lanka With Influencer @ashgrats

On island time

By Ash Gratsounas | 31st March 2025

My partner James and I had been talking about travelling to Sri Lanka for years and years, so when we found the opportunity to finally head there we decided to make the most of it and stay for the entire month. We specifically wanted to spend time on the southwest coast, so we started and finished our trip there, spending the majority of our time in the slower coastal towns like Madiha, Weligama, and Ahangama. I was most excited about going on a Safari in Yala National Park, so we also stopped there for a night on our way to explore the central cities like Ella and Kandy for a week or so in the middle.

Why Sri Lanka?

Before we left for our trip, we were constantly asked “Why Sri Lanka?”, and it turned 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, and 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.

Packing essentials

If we’re being practical, I’d say you couldn’t go without mosquito repellant, hand sanitiser, sunscreen, and electrolytes. On a less serious note, a great hat and a few books are essential.

Favourite spots

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 after taking a cooking class in Ella.

One of the best parts about the southwest coast is that you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to a sunset spot. The first boutique hotel we stayed at was positioned right in front of the best surf breaks on the southwest coast, so we almost didn’t leave for the first week considering we had the best view right at our doorstep, sunrise to sunset. Big love to Swell Shacks in Madiha – we’ve both agreed that staying there was the best decision we made on this trip.

Holiday wardrobe must-haves

With the climate in Sri Lanka being hot and humid in November and lots of moving around on the cards, my style focus was on pieces that are versatile and lightweight. I also wanted to prioritise being sun-safe during the day and protected from mosquitoes at night, so certain pieces like my silk pants from Venroy scored a lot of air time. I’d recommend packing plenty of oversized shirts, flowy skirts, and comfy footwear.

One standout accessory was my woven crossbody bag by COS. I purchased this specifically for the trip and it was a game changer. It’s the perfect size for everyday use, beach trips, and scooting around the coastal towns.

Plane outfit

I wore this set by Pinky & Kamal on the plane both ways. The organic cotton/bamboo blend is ridiculously soft and breathable, I couldn’t recommend it more!