Back of Beyond - Safari Lodge Yala

By the time we reached this remote cottage the national parks had been shut down as part of the corona virus restrictions. This was a shame but Ehela Cottage, which we'd booked for two nights, was so secluded we felt as if we were miles from civilisation - a feeling enhanced by the fact that we were the only guests staying at the safari lodge. We were advised not to wander off out of sight of out cottage, especially at night, as wild animals could roam the area at will. The open air loo (complete with resident frogs) and shower area make our accommodation sound quite back-to-nature but in fact it was perfectly comfortable and even boasted air conditioning. Randika was a charming host and brought us breakfast and dinner, as well as the best fresh lime juice we've had anywhere. And happily, in lieu of a safari, the guide accompanying us took us on a tour of local lakes to marvel at flocks of fruit bats and a wealth of local birdlife.