The gum-popping kid with the lime green shirt suggests that I try Hikkaduwa but since he also mentioned that he and a couple of his friends would be scouring the streets there, I decided that somewhere else was a better idea.

While on one of my mini tea breaks, I managed to speak to a few of my other beach junky friends and they recommended Unawatuna.

Their description of the place could be summarized as in a pharse ‘the Che Guvera clad-afro sporting-city dweller would take off to for the weekend’.

I instantly liked that, the phrase, and even though I’m no beach bumm decided that if that’s where all these interesting people are heading, it’s time for me to wear my boho skirt, tee and flip-flops and find my way down south.

Echoing my sentiments were a pack of good like-minded friends, so we were off to uncover what seasoned ‘Unas’ never stop talking about.

We left on Friday after work and the drive wasn’t a very pleasant one, quite a number of people were escaping, which immediately prompted me to feel down in the dumps.

I didn’t want to run into the same people I was trying to escape from, but I wiped the grumpy look off my face as soon as I saw the sea dotted with ships in the horizon. Even the bumper-to-bumper traffic couldn’t jitter the instant relaxation I was feeling.

The bunch that I was with was suddenly experiencing the uncontrollable munchies, and at that point I didn’t mind a stop over to stretch my legs. The stop, after much debates and arguments was the famous Rotti Kade in Hikka.

My conservative choice of palate only let me have the Sausage, Ham and Tomato Rotti, washed down with a Chocolate Banana Shake and a Chocolate Rotti for dessert. For more ambitious food tasters, there are a host of tempting treats to try out. I wish I brought along a menu so I could tempt your taste buds, oh well but do stop by if you already haven’t. So along we sped with our bellies full to the place we were staying. It’s called Upul’s, run by a very amiable Upul.

The place I must tell you is a dodgy, steep 4 story building facing the sea, and when I mean facing, it isn’t a mile away from the sea; it’s actually almost in it, so a good crashing wave can end up on you whilst having dinner or a chat.

The friendly staff there will maneuver you through the barely foot grabbing staircase to your rooms, which are small but clean and for Rs,1500, worth it.

But do climb another set of steps to the top most floor, you will be greeted with a spectacular view. The wide paned glass at the end of the room is a treat for the eyes. Gape at the ocean disappearing into the horizon and the beach stretching for miles. It’s simply breathtaking and the ideal room to spend a weekend for an economical rate of Rs.2500. Upul’s is famous for its pizzas, so we decided that it’s a must try. The biscuit like crust with the choice of seafood was definitely enjoyed and the boys in my pack wolfed it down.

There are many places to eat. The coffee shop in front has Wi-Fi and an array of coffee, smoothies and munchies. Happy Banana is the party hub during the season, so if you’re in the mood, head over and dance to Trance, Techno and House.

Off-season it’s a bit dull, but they’re still open and their rooms are also nice but slightly pricier than Upul’s.

Walk around, on the beach or on the road leading to Upul’s. It houses a row of tiny shops with colourful drapes, swimwear, ethnic and rustic jewellery.

A great hunting ground if you’re looking for something unique to wear around your neck or tangle around your arm.

I bought a whole load of little trinkets to give some of my friends back in Colombo. Since I love Masks, I found it an absolute delight to find them in all shapes, sizes and faces.

There are also second hand book shops with books left over by foreigners so you can pick a copy or two for Rs.200 or less, always an extra delight if you are a book worm like me and love seeing a title for a pittance.

The most annoying thing about it is that most often the books are in a different language.

The famous Unawatuna beach with its turquoise waters is the ultimate attraction, and is safe for sea bathing.

There is also a temple located at the end of the beach, it is a bit of a climb but the view from the top is magnificent and the crashing waves against the rocks are a photographic opportunity.

The Galle Fort which is 15 minutes away is a great place to spend an evening, scouring around looking at the ancient architecture, the facades and posing for pictures.

Some of the restaurants there are quaint but not all that great with their food. Some places to try are Mama’s Rooftop and Anura’s. I

f you’re feeling slightly adventurous, you can drive up to Hikka to a place called Spaghetti and Co, though slightly expensive they have the best Italian food.

Although for a cheaper price you can have that Upul’s pizza I’ve been raving about.

After spending two days in Unawatuna we left hoping to visit again. But now, I’m back to battling the week ahead.