One of the several reasons Sri Lanka offers such great numbers of returning visitors is the seductive warmth of the welcome; this is especially true of the ease with which one can traverse the country's main attractions by road and heritage railway, seeing coastal Galle's romantic fortifications by morning and the cool highland hiking trails of Ella in the afternoon. If outstanding tourist locations were ranked based only on diversity, Sri Lanka would undoubtedly claim the title. With each red dawn and orange sunset more magnificent than the last, its wide beaches and peaceful coves make touring the coastline an endless surprise trip. This island nation, which boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage sites including the lovely lakeside city of Kandy, has created an amazing 28 national parks eager to protect its most natural riches. More than simply herds of these majestic pachyderms will be observed by the keen-eyed heading out on an elephant safari in Yala or Udawalawe. Wild peacocks, sloth bears, mongoose and leopards. And should you miss them this time around, Sri Lanka's emotional appeal could have you returning for more.