Travel curation, for conservation.
Contribute to the well-being of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity and ecosystems, in exchange for insider tips to some of the island’s best kept secrets!
Photograph by C. Perera on the Senanayake Samudraya
A pro-bono service that exchanges insider tips to the best of Sri Lanka, for contributions towards scientifically-backed, professionally managed environmental conservation initiatives on the island. Experience Sri Lanka through a different lens, for the greater good!
How it works.
Step 1: Decide if you will be visiting Sri Lanka and if you want advice when planning your trip.
Step 2: If you do want advice when planning your travels to Sri Lanka, please contact chalana@retracehospitality.com to schedule a 45 minute “Call for Conservation & Travel Curation”. Calls are conducted in exchange for a fee that contributes 100% towards a professional ecosystems restoration or conservation project in Sri Lanka (paid directly to the recipient environmental organisations).
Step 3: In preparation for the call, please review the below list of conservation projects and/or organisations you can choose to donate directly towards:
The Pearl Protectors
Rainforest Protectors
Lanka Environment Fund
We suggest a minimum contribution amount of USD $50.- (Fifty United States Dollars) for each Travel Curation Call. When making a donation, please reference “RETRACE Hospitality - Travel Curation”. Chalana works closely with the Founders/Executive Directors of these organisations and visits the recommended projects, monitoring progress and use of funds.
Step 4: When your Travel Curation for Conservation Call is scheduled, please prepare any and all questions you have. If you’d like to email your tentative itinerary or questions in advance of the Call, please do so to chalana@retracehospitality.com along with a confirmation slip demonstrating your contribution towards one of the indicated environmental conservation organisations.
Step 5: Embrace the Travel Curation for Conservation Call, you’ll be asked questions, given options, shown maps and provided suggestions, so get ready to take notes! Travel Curation Calls can be conducted in English or French and are capped at 45 minutes**.
*RETRACE Hospitality receives no commissions or benefits from the businesses, service providers or experiences recommended, including restaurants, accommodation, guides, transport, tour companies or otherwise. Likewise, donations must be made directly to the suggested Environmental Organisations; RETRACE Hospitality will not handle any donations or transactions of any nature.
**Scroll down for testimonials of travellers who have used the Travel Curation for Conservation service.
Why Travel Curation for Conservation?
Travel is a catalyst for change; a transformative force for both the traveler and the destination they visit. Here’s an opportunity to giveback to Sri Lanka while planning your visit to the island.
Sri Lanka boasts the highest density of biodiversity in Asia and one of the highest rates of species endemism on Earth. This exceptional array of flora, fauna and ecosystems make this island a tropical paradise. Being a globally recognised biodiversity hotspot also makes Sri Lanka extremely vulnerable to climate change, compounded by poor governance that has enabled a rapid rate of deforestation across the island.
Home to over 25 National Parks, 100 rivers, 300 waterfalls, 12,000 lakes (yes, over twelve thousand lakes!), mangroves, estuaries, tropical rain forests, tropical montane and cloud forests, subtropical montane forests, dry zone evergreen forests, shrub lands, marshlands, desert islands, grasslands, wetlands, plains, plateaus, tropical thorn forests, riverine dry forests, marine national parks and over half a million square kilometers of exclusive economic area in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is the only place in the World where you can witness the largest land mammal (the elephant) and the largest marine mammal (the blue whale) within an hour of each other, in their natural habitats.
Sri Lanka’s government, however, is resource-strapped, and debt-trapped. Funds for environmental conservation, biodiversity restoration and ecosystems regeneration are sparse. A drive to increase tourism revenues has overshadowed the deep and wide need for environmental conservation.
Fortunately, many Sri Lankans are working diligently on the ground to restore a better balance between conservation (+restoration) and development. We recognise that when Sri Lanka’s biodiversity thrives, so will the island’s people and the wider economy.
Colombo District
Matara District
Galle District
Gampaha District
Kandy District
Kalutara District
Moneragala District
Badulla District
Puttalam District
Nuwara Eliya District
Hambantota District
Matale District
Trincomalee District
Kurunegala District
Testimonials
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"Chalana recommended several spots that never came up during my own research online nor in conversations with others who'd visited Sri Lanka. Two highlights were an incredible seafood restaurant in a converted heritage home, and an organic coconut estate, both well off-the-beaten path. True hidden gems!"
N. Virmani | Amsterdam, The Netherlands
December 2023
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"Chalana provided us with true gems of recommendations which fitted exactly our brief and allowed us to experience the best of Sri Lanka. Our trip would definitely not have been the same without his thoughtful guidance and tips along the way. Two highlights which by far exceeded our expectations: the Pekoe trail and the organic AMBA tea farm - don't miss them out!"
M. Peterschmitt | Paris, France
August 2024
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"Exploring this incredible island with our family was an unforgettable experience! Chalana provided unparalleled input by pointing us in the way of some hidden gems which otherwise we would never have known. Amazing to see authentic Sri Lanka and the huge potential it has for development... We will be back - thank you!"
J. Fidalgo & Family | Utrecht, The Netherlands
August 2024
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"Sri Lanka provides many options for travellers, there is lots to do and see. When planning our trip, although we had an idea of our travel itinerary, Chalana gave us some great and personalized tips on where to go based on our relatively relaxed travelling style. We experienced a great diversity at a nice pace. Thanks to him, the overall experience offered us insights into authentic experiences that may not be found in guidebooks and we could discover hidden gems that provide an authentic genuine taste of Sri Lanka while bringing awareness of local customs and traditions of the country - Thanks!"
C. Fiechter-Vassiliadi | Geneva, Switzerland
August 2023
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"When planning travel, it's never obvious where to start, but being pointed in the right direction early on can make all the difference. Chalana's recommendations, opinions, and his deep local knowledge have done just that for us. Our journey through Sri Lanka was truly enriched by his guidance."
Sophie & Sven | Stuttgart, Germany
January 2024
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“We got some great tips on how to avoid the commercial tourist hotspots and how to experience a more authentic, real Sri Lanka. An almost 'off-piste' hiking trail recommended by Chalana was something we would not have experienced otherwise., and we didn't see any other tourist on the trail!”
J. Brangert | Haarlem, the Netherlands
April 2024
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"I couldn't be more impressed with his approach to travel. Chalana masterfully curated a personalized Sri Lankan holiday for our family with our 2 girls, only 2 years and 6 months old, that seamlessly blends local authenticity with a deep understanding of Western expectations. His commitment to high-quality standards is evident, yet it never compromises the genuine, immersive experience or makes it ridiculously expensive. What truly sets Chalana apart is his dedication to regenerative travel. He goes beyond the usual notions of responsible tourism by ensuring that every aspect of the trip respects and benefits the environment and the local community. This focus on sustainability and community engagement is a refreshing and much-needed alternative to the typical mass tourism model. Chalana offers a rare opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Sri Lanka in a way that is both meaningful and sustainable."
J. Tensen | Haarlem, The Netherlands
April 2019 & October 2021
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"Exploring Sri Lanka through Chalana's eyes was an unparalleled journey into the heart of this vibrant island that allow me to discover hidden gems beyond the usual tourist spots. His insights led me to experience the vibrant local culture, savor authentic cuisine, and uncover breathtaking landscapes, making my adventure truly unique and unforgettable."
L. Brustier | Lausanne, Switzerland
April, 2023
Frequently Asked Questions
1. I/we have an itinerary already, would you be willing to review it? Yes, most certainly!
2. Do you book my/our accommodation, tours or anything in Sri Lanka for me/us? No.
3. Do you provide drivers, train tickets or other transport solutions? No. This initiative is not a substitute for travel agencies, tour operators, destination management companies or tour guides.
4. We want to travel with a specialist, locally owned tour operator or destination management company, can you help us filter through the options? Potentially, yes.
5. Do we get discounts or preferential rates if we refer to you when booking? No.
6. Do you get a commission or incentives from the places, services or businesses you recommend? No.
7. Do you specialise in a specific type of travel?
I cater to ‘free independent travellers’ . I do not advise on group tours of more than 8 people. I do not advise on specialised tours such as medical tourism, destination weddings, ayurvedic healing (which require substantial medical knowledge, subject expertise and background information), specific retreats or senior citizens travel.
8. Will you also tell us where not to go, and where not to stay? Yes, absolutely.
9. Can you provide guidance on budgeting for our trip to Sri Lanka? Yes.
10. Do you provide advice on insurance, visas and other administration for travel? No.
11. We would like a specialised tour operator or personal guide during our trip, can you help recommend? Potentially, yes.
12. If we book “A Call for Conservation - Travel Consultation”, what amount do you suggest we donate towards the Conservation project(s) of our choice? Ideally starting from USD 50.- per person or per trip.
13. Where will my money go?
You get to decide, and contribute directly to the implementing organisations; there is no transaction or managing of funds by Chalana or RETRACE Hospitality. RETRACE™ Hospitality supports a few environmental restoration and conservation organisations in Sri Lanka including the below, which you can chose from to make your contribution:
14. How can I see the impacts of my contribution?
All the recommended conservation agencies and environmental stewards are registered, liable entities that either publish annual reports, quarterly or monthly newsletters and/or both, and maintain websites that provide regular updates to their network for donors.
15. Who manages and monitors these ecosystems regeneration and conservation initiatives?
All the recommended organisations, projects and implementation partners are led by qualified and educated scientists, field experts, conservationists and program managers with support systems that are both voluntary and paid. Your contributions ensure that professionally-managed, science-based conservation efforts can continue in Sri Lanka.
16. Can I speak directly with the persons in charge of the operations on the ground for the specific conservation projects?
Certainly, with sufficient advance notice, I can arrange that! This can be arranged on request, being mindful that those spearheading and executing conservation initiatives across Sri Lanka are typically pressed with time and not always “digitally connected” as they are on the field. But by all means, let me know if you’d like to connect with the implementation partners and based on mutual availability, this can be done.
17. Is it possible to visit the restoration and conservation project locations?
Potentially, yes, this can be arranged although much prior notice is required. Some of these projects are not easily accessible and GPS coordinates are not accurate. They are not ‘gated’ projects, with limited-to-no signage and tricky road conditions (some require a decent walk, like Minuwanella and Rajawaka). While some restoration efforts exist on private lands, others are on state lands, therefore please indicate well in advance if you’d like to arrange a visit. Most of the projects are located off-the-tourist paths, tucked well away from traditional tourist hotspots and therefore may not be convenient to access during your holiday in Sri Lanka. In the future, this may change, and more ecosystem restoration work may take place in and around tourism hubs. Needless to say, the effort is needed there too.
18. Can I make an additional, recurring or regular contribution towards one (or more) of the initiatives and can I share the initiatives with my network?
Absolutely, yes you can! Please use the same links as above to donate directly to the organisation or initiative of your choice. Reference RETRACE Hospitality so I can follow-up and keep track of your contributions and their impact on the ground!
19. Will we meet you or someone from the conservation organisations in person when we arrive in Sri Lanka?
That would be wonderful, if our schedules allow us to do so! I can’t guarantee meeting everyone, but I make my best effort to. Likewise for the environmental organisation(s) you generously chose to support, meetings can’t be guaranteed but more often than not they have been possible!
20. Can I contribute to more than one conservation project in Sri Lanka?
Absolutely, yes. And if you are interested in a particular area of conservation that is not a part of our inventory, please do reach out and specify, I’d be happy to provide introductions more suitable organisations, where possible.
21. How many travel planning consultation calls do we get with you?
I typically do one call of 45 minutes with each traveller/group of travellers per trip, but you can schedule as many as you like. Each call = one contribution towards a conservation initiative. The more calls, the more contributions!
22. Is there a region in Sri Lanka that you know best?
I have travelled extensively in all of Sri Lanka’s nine Provinces (states) and 25 administrative districts (counties) within these Provinces. I am most familiar with the Southern, Western, Central, Eastern, Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces of the island, and parts of the North Western and North Central Provinces as well. Although I have travelled to all five districts of the Northern Province, this region is not my area of expertise but I may be able to make introductions.
A note from Chalana, Founder of RETRACE Hospitality:
I founded RETRACE Hospitality out of a deep love for Sri Lanka. My passion fuelled into action, as I witnessed the island’s biodiversity, native ecosystems, natural resources and landscapes being compromised for ‘economic development’. All stakeholders, including travellers themselves, can support the regeneration of the island’s ecosystems through destination stewardship.
I’ve had the privilege of an international up-bringing, visiting over 60 countries and lived, worked and studied in a dozen, making meaningful connections around the world. To connect this global network with impactful initiatives in Sri Lanka, I’ve set-up Travel Curation for Conservation. This is an informal initiative that facilitates the exchange of insider knowledge on Sri Lanka’s best kept secrets, for contributions towards conservation.
Throughout my travels, I explored new places and engaged with new communities, with purpose. To me, travel is about going light, going local and, sometimes, going legendary.
What could be more legendary than supporting scientifically-backed, professionally managed local conservation and environmental stewardship programs ahead of visiting Sri Lanka?
This is not a business, but a pro-bono service that encourages contributions towards conservation. It’s travel planning that embraces destination stewardship.
Light, local and sometimes, legendary.
When I travel, I do my own research but am often keen to speak with locals ahead of arriving, to get insider advice on the best places to stay, things to see and experiences to immerse in. And of course, what to eat and drink! I also avoid crowds (and despise over-crowded national parks!), while still ensuring I make the most of my time and money. Sound familiar? I know I’m not alone in my thinking - so hear me out.
I spend much of my time working on regenerative hospitality and tourism development projects across Sri Lanka. Fortunately, this work takes me to beautiful places, often away from conventional tourism. This work has allowed me to connect with local communities, remote villages, plantations, organic agricultural projects, various businesses and environmental projects across the island. I’ve also connected with owners and operators of boutique hotels, ecolodges, camps, retreats, luxury villas, homestays, heritage hotels, treehouses, BnBs, guesthouses, hostels and amazing (and some not so amazing) eateries across the island.
When people ask for tips and guidance on “how best to experience Sri Lanka”, I don’t rush to give answers. I try to understand the person, their wants, needs, desires and their prior travel experiences. Thereafter, I share my experiences and ideas on how best to experience Sri Lanka.
I’m not shy to admit that as a graduate of a Swiss hotel school, I have a penchant for detail and a low tolerance for low quality, but that doesn’t mean being fixated on luxury. Sri Lanka allows you to travel well, and still stay down to Earth. So, here’s a purpose-driven chance to connect with Sri Lanka and ‘OG’ Sri Lankans, as you plan your journey!
DISCLAIMERS
Chalana and/or RETRACE Hospitality shall not be liable for any loss, damage, injury, delay, or inconvenience arising out of or in connection with any advice provided through the Travel Curation for Conservation service. Chalana is not liable for any third-party services including but not limited to experiences, transportation, accommodations, events, businesses, tours, activities, guide services, attractions or other destinations and stakeholders. Chalana acts only as an informal advisor to the traveller and has no legal obligations or duties towards the traveller or any other parties involved in the Travel Curation for Conservation initiative. Chalana shall not be held responsible for any acts, omissions, or negligence of any parties or businesses recommended through the Travel Curation for Conservation initiative.
The traveller acknowledges that travel involves inherent risks, including but not limited to accidents, illness, theft, and force majeure events, and agrees to assume full responsibility for their own safety and well-being during the course of their travels in Sri Lanka.
The traveller acknowledges that the Travel Curation for Conservation initiative is purely voluntary and not a business or professional service but rather an informal platform to connect travellers with impactful conservation initiatives and grassroots environmental organisations in Sri Lanka.
The traveller recognises that the contributions they make towards the suggested environmental organisations and conservation initiatives are entirely voluntary and that there is no guarantee as to how the money will be spent unless otherwise specified in writing between the traveller and the conservation organisation.
In no event shall Chalana or RETRACE Hospitality be liable for any indirect, incidental, consequential, special, or punitive damages, including but not limited to lost profits, arising out of or in connection with the performance or non-performance of travel services under the Travel Curation for Conservation initiative, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
Chalana nor RETRACE Hospitality are liable for any of the actions (or inactions) taken by or on behalf of the third party organisations referenced and linked on this website, including but not limited to the suggested conservation and environmental organisations. Chalana nor RETRACE Hospitality take any responsibility for any damages, loss, theft, inconvenience, or issues arising out of donations and payments or contributions made towards the suggested environmental organisations. Chalana nor RETRACE Hospitality provide any guarantees or assurances on how contributions made towards the suggested environmental organisations are made, spent, used or dispersed.
Those that book a Travel Curation for Conservation Call with Chalana recognise that their decision to donate towards the suggested causes are entirely voluntary.
This liability clause shall survive the termination or expiration of this website page.