Middle-aged flash packers

Mixed feelings about moving on today. It’s time and we have lots of things still to see. On the other hand we’ve settled in nicely at the Trinco blu.
After a wobbly start, the staff have got to know us and are charming. I’m still puzzled as to what was up on that first day but it could have something to do with the rudeness of some of the guests towards them. Hopefully they realised we are not like that – also the odd tip here and there helps I think!
Watched the pool guy talking in sign language to the deaf gardener this morning. He’s such a nice guy and how sweet of him to learn how to communicate in sign language. I’d noticed the deaf chap covers for him if he goes awol! I don’t think they’re related as the deaf guy is definitely Tamil and the pool guy told us he was Bhuddist.
Had a final lunch at Tonics. It’s run by a Scottish lady called Claire who’s been here since the late 1990’s. She’s an ex social worker who came to Sri Lanka originally with VSO, then worked on micro funding, ending up in Afghanistan! Now she has bought some holiday cottages and a restaurant with a business partner in Trinco. . She still works in Afghanistan for 7 months of the year on a women’s empowerment programme. A truly inspiring person.
Our taxi to Sigariya was provided by Siva, a mover and a shaker. He knows everyone including Claire, who he helped set up her business. Feel like I’m almost part of the community!
Our taxi driver was a nice lad, probably about Charlies age, and he asked if it was ok if his girlfriend came along too. No problem!
Sigariya isn’t quite what we expected. Very much a one horse town with the rock as the main attraction. We quickly realised that 2 nights would be too long so we’ll climb the rock tomorrow am and make our way to Kandy in the afternoon, forgoing one night’s  accommodation.
Missing our lovely hotel room in Trinco already!