Arriving...

It's been about a month since I've been on this peculiar island... and I have to admit, I've had to struggle at times. So far, I've been able to find few to no parallels to home, and this strangeness needs to be processed. However, what initially overwhelmed and stressed me out has now turned into awe and amusement, and I actually enjoy immersing myself in this uniqueness. As often is the case, it's the little things that distinguish a culture... whether it's street food wrapped in glued-together bank statements, math homework, or leaves. Whether it's the pleasure of eating rice & curry with your fingers at the shabbiest backyard diner. Whether it's the joy of bargaining for a tuktuk price or spending what feels like hours feeling the fruits to find the perfect mango. And then getting it for the local price instead of the tourist price.
Whether it's opening your heart and smiling as you float through the busy streets like you're on cloud nine after an intense yoga session. Without getting bothered by the numerous cows and uncoordinated scooter drivers. And instead of avoiding them, petting and cuddling with the stray dogs.

It's been almost a week now since I've been in Weligama, a surfer town on the south coast. After completely messing up with the first accommodation/employer and leaving after 2 nights instead of 2 weeks, I've now found a home for an indefinite period of time. At the Beatroot Hostel, I help out at the reception, with the preparation of breakfast for the guests, and various creative projects like signs and decorations. Although it sounds like an almost regular job, it's more of a pleasant pastime and a great way to chat and hang out with guests from all over the world (mostly Israel ;) ) and locals. The only activity that our "boss" Shehan considers mandatory is attending the numerous parties in the area. Allegedly, to promote the social life of the hostel ;) Besides the cool people and other workaways, the best thing about the hostel is its proximity to the beach. The best surf spot in town is a mere 2-minute walk away, which allows us to escape from the tiring hostel routine multiple times a day ;) During a shared session at sunset (amazing, I tell you), I got a nasty fin cut and had to leave my board for a few days. However, since I don't plan on moving on anytime soon, it's not a big deal and a good opportunity to further embrace the Sinhalese way of life ;)