One of the 'must do's' in the Hambantota region is to take a bird-watching safari on the Kalametiya Lagoon near the village of Gurupokuna. I have been lucky enough to experience this a number of times and with various boat operators but by far the most personable, well informed and experienced is Mr. Gayan Geeth. Having been born virtually on the shores of Kalametia he has grown up with the plethora of flora and fauna of the area and knows it like the back of his hand. Gayans English is superb which is crucial for a proper bird-watching experience. Another aspect of Gayans tour which I like very much is that it involves both his mother and father. Mom prepares small snacks for the guests while his father is often the second man paddling the raft with Gayan. Water, life jackets, binoculars and umbrellas/parasols are also provided for the guests comfort and convenience. I am the owner of a small hotel in the area and have been sending my guests out with Gayan since he began as the first lagoon tour guide in 2006 with 100% of them returning with glowing reports. So, to steal the slogan from a well know shoe manufacturer , "Just do it, and do it with Gayan, you wont be disappointed!"