1. This was the first time you’ve been to Sri Lanka, how would you describe the place to someone whose never been before?
I’ve been asked this question a lot since Ive been back in South Africa and it’s really been a destination that people of all interests are wanting to explore. Ive got it down to the top 3 countries Ive ever been too! I fell head over heels for the country and the people. Arugam Bay and Ahangama in Sri Lanka (the two areas I was in) has the perfect combination of nature, culture, food and friendliness.
There are epic waves for all levels on the door step as well as that casual tropical vibe with palm trees on beautiful beaches. Sri Lanka is one of the few countries with a very vast and rich cultural diversity. The culture is itself very unique and thereby contributes to the Sri Lankan identity. Sri Lankan culture includes a lot of customs and rituals, which date to more than 2000 years which were handed down from generation to generation. The food is just incredible. Curry, CURRY and some more curry. Note this is not for everyone but I loved it. But it is the people who make the place really special. They are amazing, helpful, giving and ooze honesty. There is the odd heckling with Tuk Tuk drivers but thats all part of the experience.
2. You were part of a ‘Girls Only’ trip. How different is that trip compared to a mixed one?
Yes I ran the all Woman’s Trip, It was the first for me as well as for Ticket to Ride. It was an amazing experience and a free platform for woman to enjoy a male dominated sport with the freedom of taking it in there own stride whilst having the support of each other. With regards to comparing them, I don’t think one should. They both are amazing and I loved each trip and journey.
3. What was the best part of the trip for you?
Falling back in love for surfing and teaching, sharing my love, knowledge and passion of surfing with others.
4. Favourite food?
I don’t think I had one but I loved the local Curries, Kottu ( chopped up rotti in a curried stir fry) and the Veg Rottis (which are very different to those in South Africa).
5. How was running surf lessons over reef?
For the beginners we did a big majority of the lessons at the beach breaks but for the intermediate and confident ocean goers we explored the reefs. Coaching over reefs can be a little more challenging but luckily there are a few reefs that are pretty deep making it not so scary for your first experience surfing a reef. The more intermediate surfers enjoyed the reef out front of the hostel as it was always uncrowded and loads of fun.
6. You were on the WSL tour, how much has your surfing changed since then?
Taking a step back from competitive surfing has allowed for my surfing to progress a lot. Having fun with my surfing. Riding different boards and waves. At the end of the day I surf for the love of it. Whether I’m surfing a longboard, thruster, fish or even a mini-mal I’m all about enjoying my time in the ocean.
7. Any advice to any woman thinking about going on a surf trip but might be nervous?
Surfing is a lot more then just riding a wave, its a journey. Coming on a Ticket to Ride trip you have the safety of the best coaches and mentors. I’ve taught all levels of surfers from all backgrounds and surfing has always made some sort of impact in their life. So if your thinking about it just go for it because it will change your life.
8. Whose your favourite female surfer?
Steph Gilmore, Chelsea hedges,Lisa Anderson, Carissa Moore… the list goes on. I find inspiration from loads of the female surfers for some reason or another. Everyone has a story to tell, that inspires me.
Thanks Nikita! Here’s a few shots of her in Paradise.
Photos Balintham Balko