We are the Isacks – and we love Sri Lanka
After having lived more than half our lives away from home, we have finally regrouped in Sri Lanka, starting with Callie who moved back in 2014, and Clement – who is currently going through the transition. Having lived in Dubai most of our lives, we are no strangers to travel and have been to a variety of destinations across the world as a family unit. We have been lucky enough to explore some of the world’s best destinations, such as Alaska in the far north, to Chamonix in the French Alps, Mount Sinai in Egypt and Queenstown in the South and are unanimous in our belief that Sri Lanka is and can be one of the best destinations for family holidays. It wasn’t just the places we visited – it was the memories we made, the experiences that shaped our family bonds, and the undeniable sense of discovery that kept us yearning for more. Our understanding of Sri Lanka goes back over 3 decades, through experience gained in arranging multiple tours across Sri Lanka for families, individuals and sports teams and believe Holidays by Isacks will help you discover this beautiful land from a whole new perspective.
The Family
Kyler was born and brought up in Dubai before moving to Australia for higher studies. He worked part time as a Barista and a Bartender in Australia, before moving to Sri Lanka and settling on a career as a Chef. Having lived in Dubai, Australia, and Sri Lanka, Kyler has developed a thorough understanding about the world of food and believes Sri Lanka offers some of the best cuisines on the planet given the availability of rich flavourful spices and a vibrant culinary culture. Kyler is currently employed as a Chef at a reputed chic café in southern Sri Lanka and continues to innovate and deliver food-par-excellence to its’ patrons, whilst trying out new dishes during family gatherings.
Callie, the ambitious entrepreneur, was the one who saw Sri Lanka’s potential long before anyone else in the family. After growing up and schooling in Dubai, Callie moved back to Sri Lanka in 2014 and is the proud owner of Curly Venture, the first and only curly hair specialist hair studio in the country. In a market where many struggled to understand curly hair, Callie found a niche that was not just profitable but deeply meaningful. “It was my mission to make people with curly hair feel beautiful and understood,” Callie often said. She didn’t just open a business; she created a community. But her passion for Sri Lanka didn’t stop there. It was Callie who convinced the rest of the family that this tropical paradise was worth a shot. “This place has everything. The beaches, the food, the culture… why not?” she said, and her enthusiasm was contagious.
Anu, the foundation of the Isacks family, was the one who kept everything – and everyone, running smoothly. She was the nurse, the cook, the driver, the organizer, and the glue that held it all together. In 2019, after 22 years of living away from her roots, Anu decided it was time to move to Sri Lanka to give company to Callie. From climbing Mount Sinai in Egypt, which she did with surprising grace to walking on top of Sydney Harbour Bridge, Anu has taken on every challenge, perhaps with every step making her question her life choices. “Some things you do because the family wants you to,” she would say with a smile. Despite her dislike for flying, she loved exploring the places those flights took her to – and no matter where they went, Anu always had her say when it was time for food, making sure the family was well taken care of.
Clement, the husband and dad, had always wanted to return to Sri Lanka – but just didn’t know when. His bold decision to acquire a derelict tea plantation bungalow in 2006 was greeted with protests from within the family, but his perseverance in restoring the old estate bungalow to its’ former glory has turned critics into admirers. A man of numbers, and an investment banker by profession, Clement is also a passionate rugby referee and has travelled to some of the most exotic places in the world – not only for leisure, but also for the love of the game. Rugby aside, Clement has also developed a deep understanding of the country’s natural habitat, spending weekends hiking in Sri Lanka’s dense jungles and tranquil hills, recharging for what lies ahead.
Together, the family has more than 30 years of travel experience under their belts, and it was no surprise that after all their adventures, they’d come to see Sri Lanka as the perfect family destination. The country, with its diverse landscapes and rich culture, offered something for every age group, making it a place where families could bond, explore, and grow together. Whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, or relaxation, Sri Lanka has it all – so go ahead, drop us a line, and we’ll help you get started with your own adventure.
