Welcome to a ‘land of smiles’ of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers emerald green tea plantations and awesome hilly hikes which contrast with lazy laid-back coastal retreats and perfect stretches of sand and bustling towns, writes Isabel Conway.

“Happy New Year” Lakmal smiles, pressing a coin wrapped in a betel leaf into my palm. “May the year ahead be auspicious, prosperous, filled with happiness and good health.”