AS YOU NEAR YALA SAFARI BEACH HOTEL,

don't be surprised if you see the odd group of monkeys chattering away in the shade of a tree, a wild peacock foraging in the dirt, or a herd of deer running across the track to the banks of a small lagoon nearby.

Yala Safari Beach Hotel sprawls over about ten sandy acres between the sea and a large lagoon. It has an open design of high slanting roofs supported by pillars, which allows for a constant light breeze. The grounds are dotted with hammocks, swings and benches and there are 21 different species of 'All Weather' trees that provide plenty of shade. The atmosphere here is relaxing and familiar, and there is a rustic charm about the place that blends perfectly with its truly lovely surroundings.

The reception, restaurant and bar form the center of the hotel. The 63 rooms (of which 21 are air conditioned) are all on ground level, along corridors that lead off the main body like the unmannered limbs of a daddy long-legs. The rooms are airy, comfortable with hot and cold water, fans, music and telephones. Best of all, you can have your morning tea or coffee seated on your private veranda watching the breakers race to the shore, or watching a couple of very small and shy marsh crocodiles sunbathe on the rocky outcrops that ring the lagoon.

With the inhouse naturalist, you can take guided Nature Walks through the mangroves, jungles, rocky outcrops and lagoon shores. You can cross the lagoon in a rowboat and take in the panoramic views, or persuade a local fisherman to take you fishing.

The birdwatching hide, the first by a Sri Lankan hotel, is an ideal place to relax in or view some of the hundred plus species recorded in the hotel grounds.

Then there is Ruhunu National Park, the main reason why most people visit here, and which is home to many endangered species. The most famous such species is the leopard, of which the Sri Lankan leopard is a distinct sub-species.

Jetwing Hotels, recognising the importance of wildlife research and conservation, are providing logistical support and accommodation for the researchers of the 'Leopard Project'. This project is concerned with learning all about 'our' leopard so that she may be protected and encouraged to stay among us.

Other places of interest for which tours are also provided include the culturally important towns of Kataragama and Sithulpahuwa, the centuries old man-made tank of Debara Wewa and the Bundala National Park.