While we prepared the 1st issue of the Explorer, Sri Lanka witnessed a rare occurrence in the skies. A celestial phenomenon of seven planets of the solar system aligned in a row perfectly in line.The celestial parade of Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn, Neptune and Uranus were in perfect alignment. The spectacular display is not expected to re-occur until 2040!
This week on March 14 we heard of yet another rare occurrence taking place -a total lunar eclipse that began and is known as the ‘blood moon’ when the Earth aligned perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that gives the Moon a reddish- orange hue. This effect known as Rayleigh scattering is the same reason for red sunsets.
This marks the first total lunar eclipse in nearly three years, with the last occurring in November 2022.The red glow of the blood moon is caused by the Earth filtering sunlight through its’ atmosphere, scattering blue light and allowing only warm hues to reach the moon’s surface offering a stunning display visible to anyone on the night side of the earth.
Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or just a watcher of a good sky show, this is an event that most didn’t want to miss in full view in certain parts of the world!
Although it was not visible in Sri Lanka this time, much of Europe, North/ East Asia, much of Australia, much of Africa, South America, the Pacific Atlantic, the Arctic and , Antartica were fortunate to catch a glimpse of this celestial wonder.
International endorsement Sri Lanka-Best for family holidays
Moving from the moon stars and the skies, onto mother earth and there’s so much happening. The sun is shining on Sri Lanka’s tourism with the latest news to reach us about accolades galore that our country is receiving which are so well-deserved.
With the International accolade Sri Lanka has received, the latest that we have secured is the top slot in being the most family- friendly country and going up the rankings of Sri Lanka as a destination, this would be the opportune moment to capitalise on the global spotlight to ride the wave as it were, to show up the ambitious ‘Sri Lanka -all seasons holiday destination’ campaign. Stronger global promotions are required right now!
We feature veteran hotelier and a leader in the hospitality industry, Area Vice President, Cinnamon City Hotels and Resorts and General Manager Cinnamon Grand, Kamal Munasinghe in the ‘Hot Seat’ this week for his views and feature the fine cuisine and expertise displayed at the Cinnamon entities that have secured centre-stage with their exceptional culinary offers for the city folks.
In Discover Sri Lanka Explorer gives you an account of article by an online couple who have penned their experiences. Their beautiful snapshots capture our country at its glistening best, especially the ones of the Mirissa beach.
The ‘Scene Around’ features the ladies unwinding on ‘Women’s day’ a day set apart for women to chill and enjoy as they wish. Women’s empowerment is a section that Explore will have space for always and also look forward to you sharing your travel experiences with us and welcome your stories that we can feature in the Travelogue.
Do not forget to enter the competition and fill in the coupon on this page 35, list your answers along with the printed coupon and mail it to Explorer to the address given on the coupon. You stand to win free Air tickets every two months. If you are the lucky winner you get to even choose the destination you desire from the four listed.
For photography and wildLife enthusiasts, Explorer will publish exceptional, exclusive shots of the lens, untouched. Watch out for more in the Explorer every Sunday up to April 6 when all of the ‘Impossible Shot’, will be unveiled.
Enjoy the Explorer
Wish you a wonderful week.
