Joanna James
As one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Asia, Sri Lanka is on the bucket list of many a traveller. From finding accommodation to making the most of your visit, here are 9 facts every tourist must know before touring Sri Lanka.
Although the official tourist season in Sri Lanka begins in December and ends in March, the tropical island enjoys sunny weather for most of the year. This means that unless one is travelling during the two monsoon seasons in Sri Lanka, one can rest assured that outdoor activities and excursions are accessible during most months of the year.
In spite of its stunning beaches and exquisite resorts, Sri Lanka really is an affordable travel destination for those on a budget. While it is possible to enjoy a luxurious getaway on the island, it is not the only option available for those with budgetary constraints as the food, accommodation and travel expenses in Sri Lanka are relatively low when compared to neighbouring countries.
Don't bother to exchange your dollars for Sri Lankan rupees in your home country as the exchange rate will be low. The easiest way to have access to local currency is to withdraw rupees using your debit or credit card from an ATM or go to a local bank to exchange the foreign currency.
Owing to the extensive public transportation network covering nearly every inch of the country, getting around by bus, train, three-wheeler or taxi is not only easy but for the most part, affordable.
Sri Lanka is one of the world's largest exporters of tea and those who book a room at the Mountbatten Bungalow or any one of the other hillside holiday bungalows in Sri Lanka will find out just how obsessed the locals are about a good cup of tea.
Rice and curry and other traditional meals in Sri Lanka are consumed by hand and foreigners who wish to forsake fork and spoon to dine like the locals should refrain from using their left hand to consume food. This is due to the fact that only the right hand is considered "clean" enough for food consumption according to the local culture.
While one is unlikely to get into a scrape with law enforcement over a kiss in public, it is wise to refrain from overt public displays of affection in public places. Hugging and hand-holding are permissible but kissing does not get a free pass according to local etiquette rules.
Tap water in Sri Lanka is not safe to drink so it is necessary to purchase bottled water or boil tap water before drinking it.
Unless one is shopping in one of Colombo's luxury malls, don't be afraid to haggle down the price of a product during a shopping spree in Sri Lanka as it is virtually expected.
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