Fiction Published: February 2025
Nomads Colony in Paradise Island: A poignant tale of romance and remote working on the enchanting island of Sri Lanka
A story of a young Dutch couple seeking a life beyond borders, Nomads Colony in Paradise Island takes us on a journey to Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes, where Patricia and Bartolomeo embrace the digital nomad lifestyle.
In the secluded haven of Welisarane, they find a vibrant community of nomads, each searching for meaning in their own way. Yet, beneath the surface of paradise lies a deeper challenge – a test of love, resilience, and the boundaries of a shared dream.
With vivid storytelling and an evocative setting, this book is a captivating read for those drawn to the freedom of the nomadic life.
Available on Amazon in Paperback and Kindle.
Prologue
In the unhurried rhythm of tropical tides and skies painted in azure-blue with patches of clouds, there lies an enclave that beckons dreamers from distant shores—a place where the ordinary yields to the extraordinary.
Welisarane, nestled on the southern coast of Sri Lanka in Weligama, is more than just a secluded beachside haven; it is a sanctuary for those who live life unbound, for the souls who crave the freedom to wander, create, and connect. Here, the exotic blends seamlessly with the familiar, and time surrenders to moments rich with discovery and adventure.
For Patricia and Bartolomeo, a young Dutch couple chasing the elusive dream of life as digital nomads, Sri Lanka offers more than an escape from routine. It promises a journey into the heart of a paradise island that whispers tales of ancient kingdoms, verdant jungles, and azure waters teeming with life. Theirs is a story of shared aspirations and the search for meaning in a world where boundaries are blurred, and homes are ephemeral.
Arriving in the embrace of white sands, they are welcomed by Kanthi, the colony’s spirited guardian, whose warmth and local wisdom open the doors to a life that feels both surreal and intimately familiar. Alongside fellow nomads such as Rachel from the Netherlands, Gilbert from France, and Gabriel from Brazil, they form a patchwork community, each seeking their own version of fulfilment amidst the palm-fringed vistas and endless waves.
Yet, paradise is not without its trials. As they explore the island’s wonders—from the ancient relics of Anuradhapura to the lush depths of Sinharaja Forest, the vibrant coral reefs of Hikkaduwa, and the exhilarating surf breaks of Weligama—Patricia and Bartolomeo’s journey becomes more than just a geographical adventure. It evolves into a test of love, resilience, and the pursuit of a life less ordinary.
This is not merely a travel tale, but a chronicle of transformation; a narrative that captures the joys, heartbreaks, and unexpected revelations that come when two souls seek to find themselves in a place that offers the promise of freedom, yet demands a reckoning with the reality of dreams lived in the flesh. As their year in paradise unfolds, the island’s magic entwines with the couple’s fate, leaving behind memories that will linger long after the waves have washed away their footprints.
Available on Amazon in Paperback and Kindle.
About the Author: Zain Baba
Zain Baba is a British Asian educator and writer with a rich and indelible experience of travelling, learning, and working across Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. Most of his productive years were spent in Europe, both as a student and educator. At present, Zain lives in London with his family. He enjoys cooking, both Italian and South Asian.
In his memoir, published recently by Archway (Simon & Shuster), he reflects on the four enchanting and transformative years he spent living in Rome in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Based on the culinary experiences narrated in his memoir ‘Four Years of Dolce Vita,’ Zain is compiling a recipe book to be published later this year.
Zain’s latest book is a novella about a digital nomad couple from Europe discovering life in enchanting Sri Lanka. Zain has extensively travelled across his native Sri Lanka in his early years as well as frequently in later years.
In ‘Nomads Colony in Paradise Island,’ he vividly captures the experiences of a young Dutch couple who embarks on a year-long nomadic adventure of working remotely in the paradise island. It is a story of romance, friendship, heartbreak, and self-discovery. It is also a journal of travel, nature and heritage trails, surfing and snorkelling, and vibrant culture and exotic cuisine.
Sri Lanka: A Perfect Blend of Adventure, Culture, and Relaxation for Digital Nomads
Sri Lanka is a paradise for digital nomads and travelers looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Surfing enthusiasts will love the country’s famous surf spots like Weligama, Hikkaduwa, and Arugam Bay cater to all skill levels, while the coral reefs along the coast offer incredible snorkeling experiences. Whale watching in Mirissa provides a chance to witness majestic blue whales, and Kandy is a haven for yoga and meditation enthusiasts, surrounded by lush hills.
For those drawn to history, Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle is a must-visit. Anuradhapura’s ancient stupas, Dambulla’s stunning cave temples, and the royal ruins of Polonnaruwa showcase the island’s rich heritage. A climb up Sigiriya’s Lion’s Rock offers breathtaking views of the landscape below.
Whether you’re catching waves, immersing in culture, or enjoying a peaceful retreat, Sri Lanka perfectly blends work, exploration, and relaxation.
