TheKiteMag - Guides Destination Guide Autumn 2018 | Page 5

VITALS GETTING THERE WHEN IS BEST TO GO? Summer is from May to October, the windiest bit, 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, as Sri Lanka is still a good year-round option. Bandaranaike Airport in Colombo is Sri Lanka’s main international airport, and most major European airports can get you here. It’s then a three hour drive north from there. Most kite centers can arrange your transfer. But the real adventurers arrange it themselves. TYPICAL DINNER Big fan of curry and rice? Good. Because it’s a staple here. LATE NIGHT… KITE OPTIONS? A 9 and a 12, with the 9 being the primary option. NO WIND? Famous for its national parks, tea plantations and an elephant orphanage, Sri Lanka is an island with all manner of adventure options for when the wind drops, but the savvy kiteboarder should really figure some of this into their trip no matter the conditions. 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! BEER €1.70 / $2 / £1.60 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. 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’. Sri Lanka | 5