Damith Dilshan (Dam)

We chose Dam because he was ranked #1 on TourHQ, and because he was incredibly responsive in our communications with him.  This proved to be a fantastic decision!  Dam is truly the best, and Sam, his partner and driver, is also fantastic!  We are extensive travelers and have taken many tours with many guides, some provided by expensive companies that charge a lot, and Dam is head and shoulders above the next one we have ever had.  Why?  Because Dam is concerned about only one thing - the quality of your experience, AS YOU DEFINE IT.   So he will try to figure out the way to deliver the very best experience based on what you want.   With so manyh other guide we've had in the past, you always wonder if they are trying to figure in what works best for them - whether to steer you somewhere where they can get a commission, or trying to make their lives easier or more convenient.  Dam is committed to only one thing - making you happy.   We did a lot of safaris, and wanted to do some religious festivals that began very early in the morning.  On our 16 day tour, Dam and Sam showed up at 5:00 am probably 4 or 5 times. Not only did they not complaine and not only were they right on time, but Dam was often the one who said, "If you want to really experience this festival, you have to be there at 5:30 am."  One day, we started with a safari at 5:00 am, and came back from a Buddhist procession after midnight, and Sam and Dam were cheerful and fully engaged every minute of the day.   Dam figures out the absolutely best way to do what you want to do, even if it's more difficult for him, and he's constantly watching out for you - for your safety, for your comfort, for your enjoyment.  And he watches your pocketbook too, trying to keep the cost low when possible.  He clearly explains everything so you have no surprises.  He also works very hard to be fully informed about Sri Lankan history, religion, architecture, politics, etc., and is constantly studying to get more licenses and knowledge, and the result is that he's very informative in a helpful, not bothersome way (i.e., he gives you your space as well when you need it.)  He's very well connected in the tourism business, so he can optimize your experience.  For example, the safari driver he got for us in Yala was clearly the best - he knew the park and leopard behavior so well, that he was able to get us to the right palce to get fantastic views of the leopard (very hard to see like this!).  He also communicated with his Hindu friends to figure out exactly where and when we needed to be at the Hindu temple to see an important festival.  We are big lovers of Hindu rituals and religion, and this was absolutely the best experience we ever had.  We were the only western tourists there, and it was again thanks to Dam's work on our behalf that we were able to experience this in this way.  Dam is a bit more expensive than the others - but he is by far the best guide you can hire.  Plus, he's a VERY NICE PERSON, as is Sam.  We grew very fond of them both during our visit. Our advice - hire Dam and  Sam!  You will be happy you did!