Travel Tips

Keep an open mind to learning and experiencing new things when you travel abroad. Try local food, enjoy the sun and respect the culture whilst being mindful that the way of life might be different from yours. Be open to experiencing everything a country has to offer and it will be a truly enriching experience.

Visa

Sri Lanka is now one of the easiest countries in the world to visit. Any tourist can apply online (www.eta.gov.lk) and pay by credit card for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) that provides an entry permit on arrival for 30 days. (Check for an update on visa requirements)

Nature of Tropical Travel

Sri Lanka is a beautiful Island rich in fauna and flora, with many attractions from graceful sea creatures to the elusive leopards and majestic elephants! The two largest mammals – Blue Whales and Elephants, are found in this Island within a short travel time.

In most parts of Sri Lanka, the climate is generally hot & humid during the day. However, the highland hilly areas provide much milder & pleasant weather. Travel during peak hours is subject to traffic delays. Whilst most main roads are well carpeted, the interior parts of the country are mostly off the beaten track. A guest may experience delays, moments of discomfort and risks can naturally occur and as in all travel in the tropics; insects in rooms are common. It is definitely important to carry a Mosquito repellent and allergy tablets/cream.

Communication
Local SIM cards can be purchased on arrival at the Colombo airport. Some resorts may assist in providing local SIM cards. Wi-Fi is available island wide. However, some of the Eco properties in remote parts of the country may have limitations in Wi-Fi access.
Etiquette

The formal greeting, “Ayubowan” means, ‘May you have a long life ‘ said in a gesture with both palms pressed together at chest level. The greetings vary between generations, religious groups and where they live. Not everyone likes to shake hands. So it’s best to shake hands if offered and never with a Buddhist monk. Sri Lankan people are generally friendly and helpful and most understand English.

Dress

To avoid upsetting local sensibilities, beachwear and skimpy clothing should be reserved for the poolside or beach. We recommend covered shoulder blouses, knee length or longer skirts and shorts. Trousers and sleeved shirts are recommended when entering temples and remember, footwear and headgear must be removed. Casual cotton clothing is the most suitable in the sometimes humid climate. A sweater will keep away the chill of highland nights.

Getting Around

Most ground handlers provide English speaking chauffeur-guides armed with extensive knowledge of Sri Lanka and responsive to your individual needs. Most guests also enjoy hopping into a Tuk Tuk which is an experience in itself. However, it is advisable to obtain the assistance of your ground Agent or the Boutique/Villa when hiring a Tuk Tuk ride, to be safe.

Sri Lanka’s rail network gives access to most of the island’s attractions and reserved seats can be purchased in advance online, in air-conditioned private coaches attached to some trains. The best way to avoid the crazy roads is to travel around this beautiful island by air. Guests can also charter flights from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) to a point close to the resort.

Insurance

It is always advisable for every holidaymaker to have valid travel insurance. Please check the policy of the insurance prior to travel.

Healthcare

Colombo is home to many private hospitals with modern facilities and a vast choice from expert care to treatments to room categories! There are many pharmacies dotted all over and some within supermarkets. Most operate around the clock in Colombo. Other parts of the country may have facilities during regular working hours of the day.

Time
Sri Lanka is 5.5 hours ahead of GMT.
Business Hours
Usually Monday to Friday and 8.30am to 5.00pm, whilst most banks are open from 8.30am till 3.00pm.
Transaction
Sri Lanka’s currency is referred to as “Rupee.” ATM machines are available in all main towns and operate around the clock. American Express, Visa and Master Card are widely accepted. Diner’s Club is not accepted.
Important Contacts

Flight Information -Bandaranaike International Airport -1979
Immigration & Emigration – Suhurupaya, Battaramulla – +94115329000
Tourist Police – 78, Galle Road Colombo 03 – +94112421451
Emergency -119