Sri Lanka – Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot
In this episode Dee interviews Roma Wells, the new BBC TV Travel presenter who shares her unique journey and experiences as an Irish Sri Lankan. They discuss Roma's career inspiration, her travels to destinations like the Arctic and Costa Rica, and delve into her childhood, highlighting how her heritage and passion for nature have shaped her.
Roma talks about her book, 'Seek the Singing Fish,' available widely in bookstores and online. She has launched her new company, Curious Fox Travel, which creates responsible and enriching travel experiences and the conversation covers how travellers and hoteliers can come together to make travel a force for good. Themes of sustainable travel, the power of nature, and the importance of human connection connect this conversation and show us how we can fill ourselves with awe and wonder and be kind to our planet at the same time.
Summary
00:49 Introducing Roma Wells: Nature Presenter and Author
02:13 Adventures in Costa Rica and the Arctic
06:33 Childhood Curiosity and Love for Nature
11:26 The Blend of Irish and Sri Lankan Heritage
21:59 Sustainable Travel and Compassion Fatigue
29:54 Embracing Awe and Living in the Moment
30:52 Connecting with Nature and Inner Self
31:58 Exploring the Spiritual Perspective
33:29 The Journey of Writing 'Seek the Singing Fish'
35:18 Nature as a Sanctuary and Source of Hope
44:38 Curious Fox Travel: Ethical and Enriching Experiences
52:23 The Importance of Community and Collaboration
55:50 Kalukanda House: A Haven of Rejuvenation
01:01:09 Future Endeavors and Final Thoughts
About Roma Wells
Roma Wells is an Author, Adventurer and Presenter who is wildly curious about life. She runs Curious Fox Travel which is all about travelling kinder, offering breathtaking trips which uplift local communities and support wildlife conservation. As a storyteller at the core, she is immensely passionate about uplifting mental health through exploring the wonders of our natural world.
www.romawells.com
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60101407-seek-the-singing-fish
Dee Gibson is the award winning designer and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka, www.kalukandahouse.com ~ Conde Nast Best Places to Visit in Asia 2024 & HIP Hotels Best Hotels 2025. You can follow on
instagram @deegibson2017 or @kalukandahouse
This podcast lifts the veil on what, and more importantly WHO this island is with conversations about all the things you never read about in the travel pages. Dee showcases a fascinating modern society reclaiming their identity and taking ownership of their narratives on the global stage. No subject is taboo so expect guests talking about everything from activism through art and yoga, why sari was modified by British colonisers, a performance on love and lust to episodes on forgotten heroines being narrated back into our history books and much more.