Tuesday 20th June 2023

How do you say goodbye to friends who are members of the International Expatriates Association who  you meet 4 years ago and spent much time with doing lots of events, meetings and social gatherings in order to connect and give something back to the local community?

At my last craft meeting our hostess Deepa made a cake for me, which was similar to Medovnik (Honey cake) we have in the Czech Republic. It was such a beautiful gesture from her and by just smelling it, I was transported back to the Cukrarna (‘Tsukranah’- sweet shop) in my home town of Krnov. Delicious, and a precious moment with friends to treasure.

The last sunset with cocktails and invited guests was in the popular seaside restaurant of King Of The Mambo at the Galle Face Hotel during a Senorita evening. Delicious food again, and as many cocktails as you can drink in 2 hours were enjoyed by all present. I was gifted my own personalised plaque from the IEA vice-president, which is now proudly standing on my desk in the office. 

The last 2 months of our stay in Sri Lanka, knowing I was doing many special things “for the last time” was tough and I cried on many occasions.  The IEA and it’s people was a huge part of my time in Sri Lanka, making so many friends, contributing to society on so many occasions, and doing so many memorable things to treasure forever that I know, I will miss it so much. 

Thank you Sri Lanka and IEA, you gave and taught me so much.

Rennie