Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Private Tour
Tour Overview
Discover the enchanting beauty of Sri Lanka and the Indian Ocean on the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Private Tour." This immersive journey takes you through the heart of Sri Lanka, starting in the vibrant city of Colombo, where colonial charm meets modern skyscrapers. Explore the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, the historic city of Polonnaruwa, and the aromatic spice gardens of Matale. Experience the cultural richness of Kandy, home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and the lush tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya. Embark on a thrilling safari in Yala National Park, witness the unique fishing techniques in Weligama, and step back in time in the fortified city of Galle. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and guided experiences. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : ARRIVAL COLOMBO (40km – 45 mins)
Location: Colombo
Accommodation Name: Pegasus Reef or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive at the International Airport in Colombo. Our representative will meet and greet before transferring you to the selected hotel. Vibrant, bustling, and colourful Colombo offers a stunning contrast to the rest of the country. Skyscrapers grow out of historic colonial-era districts near the port, but the modern metropolis proudly keeps its old-world charm. Enjoy a tour of the city, visiting several historical, religious and commercial sites, including the famous and bustling port in Pettah, also the elite residential neighbourhood in Cinnamon Gardens, Galle Face Green Square, Viharamahadevi Park and much more. Dinner included at the hotel.
Overnight in Colombo.
Day 2 : COLOMBO – SILVER TEMPLE – DAMBULLA – SIGIRIYA/HABARANA (150km – 6hrs)
Location: Dambulla
Accommodation Name: Sigiriya Village or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After having breakfast at the hotel, we head towards Ridi Viharaya (Silver Temple), a rock-cut Buddhist sanctuary that features a 9-meter reclining Buddha, surrounded by impressive walls and carvings. Get ready for a trek in the area. We continue to Dambulla, in the centre of the island, which is known for its impressive caves decorated with Buddhist frescoes and statues. The decoration of the five caves of this monastic complex began more than 2,000 years ago. It contains more than 150 Buddha images, of which the largest is the colossal 14-meter figure of Buddha carved out of the rock. Thanks to these impressive features, the temple is one of eight sites in Sri Lanka that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dinner included at the hotel.
Overnight in Sigiriya/Habarana.
Day 3 : SIGIRIYA/HABARANA – SIGIRIYA – POLONNARUWA – HABARANA/SIGIRIYA (100km – 2hrs)
Location: Sigiriya
Accommodation Name: Sigiriya Village or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to Sigiriya, one of the most mythical places in Sri Lanka. The arrival is impressive since the rock emerges about 200 meters above the jungle to dominate the horizon. At its top, it hides the ruins of a royal citadel dating from the 5th century. Access will be through a large door in the shape of a lion carved from the rock, and hence the name Sigiriya, which means' the rock of the lion 'in Sinhalese. With the passage of time, it was neglected until in the 19th century a British military man found the rock and its top already devoured by weeds. Admire the frescoes such as the 'heavenly maidens', which are painted with earth pigments on the plaster. We bid farewell to this UNESCO world heritage site to go to another then, crossing the jungle to tour the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Currently, Polonnaruwa has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. You can see and appreciate the ruins of the Royal Palace and other buildings and structures. Another interesting aspect is Gal Viharaya - with three magnificent Buddha statues in different postures: upright, sedentary and reclining - the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath and the statue of King Para kramabahu. There are also monuments to famous places of worship. Transfer to the hotel in Sigiriya or Habarana to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Dinner included at the hotel.
Overnight in Sigiriya/Habarana.
Day 4 : SIGIRIYA/HABARANA – MATALE – KANDY (200km – 4hrs)
Location: Kandy
Accommodation Name: Royal Kandyan or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Have breakfast at the hotel before heading to Matale. The Matale Spice Garden. This small town is known for its cosy climate and fragrant spices. In the garden, we learn about the intricate processes that make Sri Lanka produce some of the best spices in the world. Stop by the side of a spice garden and observe the therapeutic values of spices over a refreshing cup of herbal tea! We stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Kandy (not included, available as an optional extra). Tonight, we witness a Sinhalese dance performance in Kandy. Dinner included at the hotel.
Overnight in Kandy.
Day 5 : KANDY – TEA PLANTATION – NUWARA ELIYA (80km – 2hrs)
Location: Kandy
Accommodation Name: Araliya Red or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Breakfast at the hotel followed by a tour of the major attractions of the beautiful city of Kandy, on the shores of the lake of the same name. This world heritage city was the capital of the last Sinhalese state on the island to fall under foreign rule. We visit the Temple of the Buddha's Tooth. We can also appreciate the palace and the gardens that share the complex with the temple and the beautiful artificial lake that is surrounded by much of the city. Transfer from Kandy to a plantation and tea factory, stopping en route for lunch (not included, available as an optional extra). At the plantation, we observe the entire process and manufacture of tea. Then, we enjoy a tasting of authentic Ceylon tea, considered one of the best blends in the world. We drive through rolling green fields full of tea plantations on our way to Nuwara Eliya (which means 'City of Light' in Sinhalese), a picturesque village on the shores of a lake. The Nuwara Eliya district is known as 'Little England' for its lush atmosphere and colonial appearance. Dinner included at the hotel.
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 6 : NUWARA ELIYA – ELLA – YALA – TISSAMAHARAMA/YALA (160km – 4hrs)
Location: Yala
Accommodation Name: Chaarya Resort & Spa or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Ella driving through the green and beautiful landscapes of the Central Highlands, enjoying views such as the wild Ravana waterfall. From Ella, transfer to Yala National Park with a stop for lunch at a local restaurant (not included, available as an optional extra). Upon arrival at the park, we went on a safari of about two to three hours in a rustic Jeep without air conditioning. Elephants, wild boars, buffaloes, leopards, deer bears and crocodiles are found in this national park, as well as large flocks of native and migrating birds.
Overnight in Tissamaharama/Yala.
Day 7 : TISSAMAHARAMA – WELIGAMA – GALLE – BEACH AREA (170km – 4hrs)
Location: Galle
Accommodation Name: The Palms or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Breakfast will take place at the hotel and on the road along the Indian coast, heading to Weligama. We stopped in this coastal city to watch the fishermen practice their exceptional way of fishing, which involves attaching their nets to a stake that protrudes 20-50 meters out of the sea. We continue to Galle, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant (not included, available as an optional extra). The historic city of Galle is in the south-west of Sri Lanka and is the best example of a fortress built by the Portuguese during their 153 years of rule over the country, which they called Ceilão. We visit the Galle fortress, which occupies an entire peninsula and was built by the Portuguese. It is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site and within its walls, we find a series of buildings from the 140 years of Dutch colonization - which replaced the Portuguese domain - including a beautiful church with a typical Dutch facade, the old hospital, the residence of the governor and more. After the Dutch came the British and the Anglican Church and the Meera Mosque remain from their time. Transfer from Galle to the chosen beach area in the southeast of the country on the shores of the Indian Ocean. Dinner included at the hotel.
Overnight in Beach Area.
Day 8 : BEACH AREA - DEPARTURE COLOMBO (176kms – 2hrs)
Location: Colombo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up and enjoy breakfast at the hotel, before you are transferred to Colombo Airport.
What's Included
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Tour Guide
Operated with English-speaking chauffeur-guide, other languages upon booking of the optional extra.
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Accommodation
7 nights' accommodation.
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Meals
7 Breakfasts and 7 Dinners. 7 Lunches available upon an additional cost (full-board extra).
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Transport
Inbound/Outbound private transfer from/to Colombo Airport. Air-conditioned private transportation throughout the tour. Non-air-conditioned private 4X4 Jeep for Safari in Yala National Park (Day 6).
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Entrance Fees and Activities
All entrance fees and activities: Colombo City Tour, Visit Silver Temple and Trekking in the area, Dambulla caves, Citadel in Sigiriya Lion Rock, visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Spice garden in Matale, cultural dance show in Kandy, tea factory and plantation, Temple of the Buddha's Tooth in Kandy, Ravana waterfall, entrance and safari in Yala National Park and Galle Fortress. ...more ...less
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Other
Meet and greet. Government taxes.
What's Not Included
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Video Camera and Photography Permits
Video camera and photography permits at the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy.
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Entrance to Perahera Festival
Entrance to Perahera Festival in August.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees.
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Flights
Domestic flights and International flights.
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Drinks During Meals
Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise).
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Optional Tours
Optional tours (if any).
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City Tax
City tax not included, payable on the spot.
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Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the program.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program.
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Camera/Video Camera Fees
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any).
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Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Sri Lanka. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
Please Note
- We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
- Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed.
- In many hotels in Sri Lanka, the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are lower than the international standards of the triple room
- No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
- Visits to wildlife parks will be at the client's risk and expense
- The safari vehicles (without air conditioning) that are available are basic, the insurance coverage is basic (not exhaustive as in the case of vehicles used for travel)
- The validity of the passport must be six months from the date of departure
- Please note that alcoholic beverages will not be served in public areas in hotels and restaurants during religious days
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Colombo:
- Standard Hotel Category = Pegasus Reef or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Pegasus Reef or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lakeside or similar 5*
Day 2-3 Sigiriya/Habarana:
- Standard Hotel Category = Sigiriya Village or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Habarana Village or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lodge or similar 5*
Day 4 Kandy:
- Standard Hotel Category = Royal Kandyan or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Cinnamon Citadel or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Grand Kandyan or similar 5*
Day 5 Nuwara Eliya:
- Standard Hotel Category = Araliya Red or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Araliya Green Hills or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Araliya Green City or similar 5*
Day 6 Yala or Tissamaharama:
- Standard Hotel Category = Chaarya Resort & Spa or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Cinnamon Wild or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Wild or similar 5*
Day 7 Koggala/Beruwela:
- Standard Hotel Category = The Palms or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hikka Tranz By Cinnamon or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Bey or similar 5*
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Colombo:
- Standard Hotel Category = Pegasus Reef or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Pegasus Reef or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lakeside or similar 5*
Day 2-3 Sigiriya/Habarana:
- Standard Hotel Category = Sigiriya Village or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Habarana Village or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lodge or similar 5*
Day 4 Kandy:
- Standard Hotel Category = Royal Kandyan or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Cinnamon Citadel or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Grand Kandyan or similar 5*
Day 5 Nuwara Eliya:
- Standard Hotel Category = Araliya Red or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Araliya Green Hills or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Araliya Green City or similar 5*
Day 6 Yala or Tissamaharama:
- Standard Hotel Category = Chaarya Resort & Spa or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Cinnamon Wild or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Wild or similar 5*
Day 7 Koggala/Beruwela:
- Standard Hotel Category = The Palms or similar 3*
- Superior Hotel Category = Hikka Tranz By Cinnamon or similar 4*
- Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Bey or similar 5*
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with air-conditioned private transportation throughout the tour, including inbound/outbound private transfers from/to Colombo Airport and a non-air-conditioned private 4X4 Jeep for a safari in Yala National Park.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights' accommodation with options ranging from 3-star to 5-star hotels, including Pegasus Reef in Colombo, Sigiriya Village in Sigiriya, Royal Kandyan in Kandy, Araliya Red in Nuwara Eliya, Chaarya Resort & Spa in Yala, and The Palms in Koggala/Beruwela.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of guide will be provided during the tour?
The tour will be operated with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide. Other languages are available upon booking of the optional extra.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 7 breakfasts and 7 dinners. Additionally, 7 lunches are available at an extra cost (full-board extra).
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What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes inbound/outbound private transfer from/to Colombo Airport, air-conditioned private transportation throughout the tour, and a non-air-conditioned private 4X4 Jeep for the safari in Yala National Park.
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Are entrance fees and activities included in the tour package?
Yes, all entrance fees and activities are included. This covers the Colombo City Tour, visit to Silver Temple, trekking, Dambulla caves, Citadel in Sigiriya Lion Rock, visit to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Spice garden in Matale, cultural dance show in Kandy, tea factory and plantation, Temple of the Buddha's Tooth in Kandy, Ravana waterfall, entrance and safari in Yala National Park, and Galle Fortress. ...more ...less
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What should I wear when visiting temples and religious sites in Sri Lanka?
Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house.
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What is the policy on early check-in and late check-out at the hotels?
Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed. The official check-in time at all hotels will be between 12:00 pm and 02:00 pm, and the official check-out time will be 11:00 am.
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What is the passport validity requirement for entering Sri Lanka?
The validity of the passport must be six months from the date of departure.
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Do I need a visa to enter Sri Lanka?
Yes, all clients will need to check the website and obtain a visa prior to arrival in Sri Lanka, excluding citizens of Singapore and Maldives. The government has reported that all applications will be processed within 48 hours and payment can be made online by credit card. Details are available on the portal: www.eta.gov.lk.
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Are there any specific requirements for clothing and accessories during the tour?
Comfortable and light clothing is most suitable for travelling in Sri Lanka. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
YES, A friendly and professional tour leader tasked with ensuring the smooth operations of the tour, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the entire trip. His role primarily includes assisting with accommodation and transportation between locations while sharing the knowledge about social and cultural splendours of Sri Lanka.
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination with two monsoon seasons so there is a lot of confusion around when is the best time to visit. The weather doesn't run like clockwork here! However, there will rarely be weather so dramatic that it will stand in the way of a brilliant holiday with plenty of warm weather and sunshine. The temperature is constant at around 27°C on the coast, both the air
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What is the tipping policy?
Tipping is not mandatory and it's up tour personal wish.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
yes
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
yes, it is indeed
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?
The tour is guaranteed to departure even with a single person. However, in case of any cancellation, we'll inform you in advance and the full refund will be given.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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What is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official authorization for a Short Visit to Sri Lanka issued via an online system. You need ETA if you wish to visit Sri Lanka as a Tourist, on Business or on Transit. No passport copies, documents or photographs are required to obtain ETA. It will cost USD $30. However, during the sometime of the year government offers FREE visa for tourists.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Travellers are requested to maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 meters between two people at all times. > Travellers are requested to adhere to recommended hygiene procedures, such as travelling with and wearing a face mask and/or gloves when required to do so. > Keep 70% alcohol rub/hand sanitizer to use frequently.
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
Fairly good
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Up to 40KG per person
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Sri Lankan Rupees (you can exchange currency at the Sri Lanka airport or tour leader will assist you to exchange at the local banks)
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
yes, completely and according to our Health & Safety standards
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Low Deposit
Aitken Spence Travels requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aitken spence travels charges.
At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Private Tour
8 Days Starting and ending in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Visiting: Colombo, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kandy, Yala, Galle
Tour operator:
Tour code:
441420
Group Type:
Private
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 8
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat
