Sri Lanka Flights and Travel Guide

Language

Most people speak Sinhala which is the national and official language. Tamil is also spoken, and English is spoken at most tourist establishments.

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Money

The unit of currency is the Sri Lanka Rupee (LKR), which is divided into 100 cents. Major credit cards are widely accepted, and travelers checks in U.S. Dollars are recommended. ATMs are becoming more common, but outside the main cities they are unlikely to accept international cards. Credit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud. Foreign currency can be exchanged at bureau de change, banks and hotels, but exchanging cash is more expensive than exchanging travelers checks. Banks are closed on Sundays.

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Communications

The international country dialing code for Sri Lanka is +94. The outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the U.S.). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)1 for Central Colombo. International direct dial facilities are available in Colombo and other major cities. Four mobile phone operators provide GSM 900 and/or 1800 frequency networks with coverage across all the main parts of the island. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts.

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Tipping

A 10 percent service charge is added to most restaurant and hotel bills. Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for almost all services and small amounts are sufficient, otherwise 10 percent of the amount due is standard. There is no need to tip taxi drivers.

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Safety

There is a risk of terrorism in the country, and although foreigners have not been the targets of previous attacks, there is a risk of being caught up in incidents.

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Health

Food and waterborne diseases are a primary cause for ill health in travelers. Visitors should only drink bottled water, avoid ice in drinks, and take care to eat well-cooked food. Cholera is regarded as a serious risk and precautions are advised, while typhoid is more of a problem in rural areas. Yellow fevervaccination certificates are required by travelers coming from infected areas. Malaria and dengue fever are a risk throughout the year. Travelers are strongly advised to take out good travel insurance, and seek medial advice at least three weeks before leaving for Sri Lanka. There is also a particular danger fromcontaminated seafood.

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Electricity

230 volts, 50Hz. Round, three-pin plugs are used.

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