Authenticities

10/05/2024

08/05/2024

In a world where modernism and technology race ahead, there exists an ancient dance of discipline and valour. Traditional martial arts, like memorials from centuries past, carry the echo of wisdom and the grace of warriors long gone. For us islanders, Angampora is a traditional martial art that has deep roots in the cultural and historical fabric of Sri Lanka. As a unique and indigenous form of self-defence, Angampora embodies the spirit of our island nation, blending physical prowess with cultural heritage.

Angampora is a martial art with a rich history that dates back centuries. It is shrouded in mystery and legend and has been passed down from generation to generation. The art is often taught through an oral tradition, which not only imparts combat techniques but also instils a deep sense of discipline and respect.
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01/05/2024

There lives a fisherman in the North, who spends his days sitting on the Karainagar Road causeway. He waits for customers to come by, hoping to sell his catch of the day. On his face is a map of the world, with wrinkles clear enough to read through all the hardships he's weathered in life. His expression and aura almost give away an astute perspective on life. And his long, enduring years have given him the wisdom to know the tidal shift like the palm of his hand. Perhaps he's got a family who's dependent on his livelihood, or maybe he's chosen to live a life in solitude, away from his children who have moved to the big cities for work. One thing is for certain though, when he casts his fishing net over the shallow waters, he seems to feel a sense of peace within, as if he has found stillness and his life's meaning, in the clear shallow waves of the ocean.
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&finesse

16/04/2024

සුබ අලුත් අවුරුද්දක් වේවා!!! 🌞
Happy Sinhala and Tamil New Year to all celebrating!

Finally, we decided to do a little photoshoot ourselves and show you a few happy faces behind Authenticities. Besides, we just love any reason to get into a sarong…

14/04/2024

Rest in peace 🕊️

10/04/2024

I once read the wise words of an ancient Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu, who wrote: "Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love." Sharing his reflective view of the world, our family at Authenticities made a remarkable gesture of organising a donation drive to collect essential items for the children at Kandurata Lama Niwasa in Badulla, as part of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations.

Upon arriving at "Lama Niwasa," we received a warm welcome and were treated to a delicious lunch prepared by all the children, which was nothing short of scrumptious. It can be difficult to find the right words to describe such feelings and warmth in moments like these. The sincerity exchanged through heartfelt conversations and smiles are the emotions one lives for in life.
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03/04/2024

The Elephant Transit Home (ETH) in Udawalawe has been a haven for gentle and extremely playful baby elephants since 1995. The facility's mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and release orphaned elephant calves back into the wild and provide protection for them from poaching, accidents, or natural disasters. As responsible wildlife advocates, we have always been passionate about the welfare of animals and support various animal welfare initiatives.

During our recent visit to the Elephant Transit Home (ETH), we donated powdered milk (replacer) to help provide nourishment and care to the young orphaned and injured wildlife that come through their doors. We have a lot of respect for ETH’s dedicated team of caretakers who ensure that the elephants receive proper nutrition and medical attention, as well as emotional support to help them cope with their traumatic experiences.
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31/03/2024

29/03/2024

The ISEFAC group who recently travelled to Sri Lanka found it incredibly rewarding to visit a rural school in Habarana. The happy volunteers provided their resources, time and energy to support these school children who often face limited resources and opportunities. Coming from all walks of life, the lively group embarked on a journey that exceeds mere charity; they were sending out a message of compassion and empowerment to the world. From painting classrooms to donating school supplies and providing books for the school library, the gesture was received a promise that was made to bridge the gap between strangers and kindred spirits.

At Authenticities, we are proud to support initiatives like this through our compassionate travellers. We would also like to thank Les Maisons du Voyage for organizing their dream vacation in Sri Lanka through us. We are grateful for the opportunity you have given us.
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25/03/2024

Our plantation located in Digana Kandy covers an area of 2.2 acres and is a heartfelt showcase of our commitment to sustainability. It boasts of over 6000 cinnamon and vanilla vines, which are grown in a distributed manner. Furthermore, we have also planted passion fruit and a few other varieties to explore alternative ways to decrease our carbon footprint while adhering to our ethical standards. We also grow vegetables and fruits, which are consumed by our caretaker and staff.

3rd picture - And our special thanks go to Lucky – Authenticities ambassador, mascot and the goodest boy who’s been guarding our plantation with utmost dedication and care. Hands down, he’s the best guardian we’ve ever had.
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16/03/2024

Welcome to a lively and colourful space that encapsulates the spirit of the Northern Province – the bustling Jaffna Market. You, our dear traveller, visiting this socially active hive will be engulfed in the local culture, appreciate the diversity of goods on offer, and experience the warm hospitality of the people who contribute to the market's vibrant atmosphere.

In Jaffna, life, as we know it mirrors a melting pot of cultural influences with the local Tamil population playing a significant role in shaping the market's character. The Jaffna Market is not just a commercial centre but also a space for cultural exchange. The vibrant atmosphere, interactions between sellers and buyers, and exchange of traditional recipes all contribute to the market's role as a cultural tapestry.
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08/03/2024

Here's to creating our own adventure with courage, compassion, and equality at its core.
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Cheers to the trailblazers, change-makers, and everyday heroes! Happy International Women's Day from all of us at Authenticities!

💼♀️ "

28/02/2024

A solid and imposing structure, high walls and bastions, here lies a pentagonal masterpiece - a living testament to time. Like a time-worn sentinel guarding the shores of history, the Jaffna Fortress is made from more than just stone and mortar; it is a time capsule of stories etched into its weathered walls.

So, pack your curiosity, wear wanderlust as your compass, and set forth into the captivating city in the northern reaches of Sri Lanka. Your time spent here is not just an experience, it’s a journey explored through not just vibrant culture and brilliant landscapes but also echoes of bygone eras.
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24/02/2024

If ever a photo could make you feel as if you’re actually riding the warm, salty waves of the tropical seas…
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If you are looking for a perfect beach holiday, look no further than Authenticities to craft you a memorable experience in Sri Lanka. We know all the tried and tested, hidden gems around the country!
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&finesse

17/02/2024

Alas, you’ll find a place not so far away in the region of Uva, a place of extraordinarity, a place where the earth speaks with the heavens if you’d listen. The stunning brilliance of this scenery truly captivates the mind of a wanderer, making him forget, unwittingly, the world he’s temporarily left behind, some far away, humdrum city. Approximately 9 miles away from Badulla (as the crow flies) is where you’ll find this land (we’re going to leave you to find the name of the place – as we have a penchant for suspense) to witness by far one of the most spellbinding sunrises on the island.

Can you guess ‘where’ we are gushing about?

Leave your answer in the comments
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10/02/2024

Graceful and formidable, the Sri Lankan Water Buffalo is what we islanders call the spirit of rural life. A creature of subtle contrasts, the water buffalo's dark, espresso-colored hide is decorated with patches of chestnut and sepia, creating a living canvas that easily blends in with the rich tones of its surroundings.

You'll often find these creatures during the sultry days of the season, dipping in the cool, muddy waters of shallow ponds and marshes - creating their own, special kind of spa experience. These stoic fellows not only serve as a symbol of agricultural plenitude but also as a living testament to the symbiotic relationship between humans and the land they cultivate. In the heart of Sri Lanka, where tradition and nature intertwine, the Water Buffalo stands as a regal guardian, enriching the canvas of this tropical paradise.
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07/02/2024

We are travel extraordinaires of Inspiring and elevating the explorer in you.
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31/01/2024

Sometimes, we find perfection in moments when the details are imperfect. The subtle aesthetics of green and auburn hues evoke an unearthly nostalgia for a place you’ve never been to. The falling Bo leaves glisten in spectres of gold and brown under the setting sun, and the temple in the distance, relishing in the blessings of the days yet to pass. Perched on a mountaintop, the temple stands alone from the rest of the world as perhaps how it intends to be. Imagine you here, standing near the edge of the precipice, hands held together in prayer position, honouring and celebrating this moment you are alive...

These are the moments you live for, the moments you find travelling to remote and far-off corners in Sri Lanka.
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29/01/2024

About Authenticities:

We are one of the leading tourism (inbound) organisations in Sri Lanka with an impressive portfolio of European, UK and North American clientele. With 10 years in the industry, we have made great strides in the tourism fraternity.

Our culture is unique which fosters talent and encourages those to embrace change, take on challenges and deliver impressive results to our partners and guests.

We are looking for like-minded individuals who could take on the following;

• Asst. Manager - Operations:

- We are looking for individuals with no less than 5 years in the tourism industry, with impressive track records, ability to manage people and a portfolio of tour operators.

- You should possess great interpersonal skills, work in a team, possess effective skills in communication, and take leadership in managing your operations and staff members.

- You are required to focus on efficiencies and the ability to change processes as and when required.

- You should have a sound command of working with internal systems, and display skills in managing vendors and suppliers.

• Senior Executives - Operations:

- We are looking for individuals with at least 3 or 4 years in the tourism industry, with a great positive mindset to achieve efficiencies and challenges in the industry.

- You should possess great interpersonal skills, and the ability to support the consultants and manage deadlines.

- You should have a sound command of working with internal systems, and display skills in working with vendors and suppliers.

20/01/2024

"Wrinkles are the roadmap of a life well-travelled, each line a story, each creases a lesson."
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&finesse

12/01/2024

Introducing children to cultures from around the world can help them understand and appreciate the differences and similarities that exist among people. It's a great way to promote open-mindedness and tolerance, and travelling to places outside of their comfort zone can create lasting memories.

Imagine a serene rural setting in Sri Lanka, where the locals greet you with hearty smiles and warm hospitality that makes you feel like you are at your home away from home. The culinary experience here is exceptional, with mouthwatering aromas and flavours that will delight both parents and children. These experiences can create a strong bond, unexpected across continents, that will shape a child's identity and instil a lifelong love of learning and exploration. We pour our hearts and souls into creating such experiences, and we believe they provide a strong foundation for personal growth and development.
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10/01/2024

Here’s to travelling far and wide, but always leaving a positive footprint behind. Let's choose sustainable paths that respect and preserve our planet.
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06/01/2024

In the heart of lush and fragrant cinnamon plantations, the artisans with hands that have perfected the art over the years carefully weave together tradition, expertise, and a connection to nature. The air is infused with the sweet fragrance of the spice.

The journey of cinnamon begins with the cultivation of the cinnamon tree followed by a meticulous process that transforms the bark of cinnamon trees into the beloved spice. Harvested branches are carefully stripped of their outer layers to reveal the inner bark. These strips are then laid out to sun-dry, allowing the spice to mature and intensify in flavor. Once perfected, the cinnamon strips are expertly rolled into quills, showcasing the craftsmanship involved. The final product, with its warm and sweet aroma, encapsulates the essence of this aromatic spice, ready to infuse kitchens with its distinctive flavour that we all know and love!

Have you experienced a cinnamon plantation in Sri Lanka? Let us know in the comments.
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03/01/2024

In the heart of the rural landscape, there, lives a man whose silent footprints of untold struggles are born by the earth.

The man stands stoic and resilient, mirroring a living testament to the endurance woven into the fabric of his existence. His weather-worn hands, tell a long-lost story of hardships, now, distorted in the cold mist of the highlands. Amidst the challenges, the man still treasures his relationship with the land – one is of reciprocity and bound by necessity. He still provides, unwaveringly, to make a living by selling firewood in the neighbouring communities.

The changing seasons pose a challenge to his ageing body, still, the man refuses to abandon hope. In the heart of toil, he continues to find the strength to survive, but also plant the seeds of hope, nurturing the belief that, despite the challenges, a harvest of better days will eventually grace his life.
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22/12/2023

As another year closes, we mark a new beginning with a commitment to nurturing sustainable, long-term growth. Yesterday, we received a fresh June Plum, Hog Plum or ‘Ambarella’ fruit tree from a team of consultants including , & Gerad Brown . What better way to hold ourselves accountable in real-time, than measuring the health and growth of this young fruit plant?

Native to the tropical belt, the Ambarella tree is resilient, versatile, and hardy. Its highly fibrous fruits are packed with nutrients, dense with vitamins and conveniently delicious! Ambarella fruit can be consumed raw or cooked, as a sweet jam or savoury curry. Its seed is deceptive; large and thorny- reminding us of the sensitivities and vulnerability of our ecosystems. The tree’s leaves, too, can be eaten by humans and animals alike. The plant lives long, continues to bear nourishing fruit with minimal effort and as such contributes to the well-being of biodiversity in its vicinity.

As Sri Lanka picks itself up after many consecutive crises, we’re reconsidering how we do tourism. While acknowledging the obvious economic benefits of tourism, we also recognize tourism’s ability to drive positive change and meaningful impact on host communities, indigenous heritage and native biodiversity across a destination. We’ve been working closely with Chalana, Shivya and Ged over the past 18 months to develop a first-in-market, purpose-led travel product.

This is only the beginning. As we nurture this new plant in our headquarters near Colombo’s biodiverse wetlands, we commit to nurturing our renewed vision for tourism. In the new year, we will continue to dive deeper into understanding our impact and purpose, while growing and delivering tourism experiences that are a force for good, for all stakeholders.

Watch this space for more updates on what’s been shaping up here at Authenticities. In the meantime, we’re wishing everyone a wonderful end to this year, and a meaningful start to the New Year!
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15/12/2023

As the holiday season is upon us, we find ourselves reflecting on the past year and the joy it has brought to our wonderful family. With immense gratitude, we extend our heartiest thanks to you for being an integral part of our journey.

It is your trust and partnership that have been the cornerstones of our success, and we are truly grateful to have shaped a thousand memories and adventures into effervescent stories for our beloved travellers, together as one.

This year has been filled with exciting challenges, growth, and shared accomplishments. Celebrating our decade-long journey, designing unconventional travel experiences to helping those in need, we wear our hearts on our sleeves to say that we have accomplished much and overcame every obstacle that came our way, rejoicing in every milestone.

We feel elated to explore the new year upon us, once again, with just as much excitement and spur, with you by our side. Together, let's rediscover our favourite kind of adventure.

Wishing you a festive celebration filled with moments so merry they become instant memories. Here's to a joyous holiday and a sparkling New Year ahead!

09/12/2023

Gal Oya National Park provides a canvas of diverse ecosystems that provide the perfect habitat for elephants to thrive. From expansive grasslands where they graze peacefully to dense forests that offer shade and cover, every corner of the park tells a tale of coexistence between these gentle giants and their environment.
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☀️🌿

02/12/2023

The forest-dwellers of Southeast Sri Lanka, also known as the Vedda people, have a story that weaves a rich tapestry of myths, legends, and wisdom more than any other group of people on the island. This indigenous community has been rooted on the island for centuries, with ethnic ties to southern India and Southeast Asia.

Poramala Eththo, pictured with sun-kissed skin and deep, profound eyes, is known among the surrounding communities for his extensive knowledge of the wilderness and innate grace, which reflects his strong connection to his ancestral roots. Though rarely a smile graces his face, Poramala Eththo's reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable guide in the wilderness precedes him. A man of few words (though they speak a language of their own), Poramala Eththo along with the rest of his community has a connection to the land, not merely pragmatic but spiritual communion. In the heart of Sri Lanka, there live these hearty forest folks, existing as custodians of living heritage, where the boundaries between humanity and nature blur into a timeless montage.
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