Top Sri Lanka hotels
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Don't buy in a herb plantage! We did it and found out later, that these products are such a lot cheaper when you go and buy them in one of the specialised shops! To visit a herb plantage and been shown round and explained all the different herbs and "what they are good for" is definitely interesting and their "free-of-charge" massage really lovely! Moreover, it's a nice break and in the shade! Go and buy in one of the specialised shops, where Singhalese buy, too!
When you arrive at the airport at Colombo you'll have to change money there. The rate is understandably bad.Just change a small amount, and then change more in town. Or do what I do, if you pass through Singapore on your way to Sri Lanka change asmall wad there, they have Sri Lankan Rupees in abundance and they offer at times a better rate than the Sri Lankan banks. You'll find some of these changers in Singapore Chinatown, Little India and around the Geylang area in Singapore.
On thing that got me when leaving Sri Lanka was the old money Changing Ordeal.When in Sri Lanka keep all your ATM receipts, changing receipts etc, because you won't be able to change your Srilankan Rupees back into other countries if you don't have them. (:o( I didn't!)Also change money at the bank, because the official money changers at the airport will only take bank receipts.All and all, Sri Lanka is an easy country to travel in, and it is very cheap.
A friendly chap walks up to you he chats politely for a while, then he tells you his wife has had a baby, he is very worried, his wife cannot breast feed, powdered milk costs two months wages can you help him please!Sri Lankan men must be very fertile! I heard this story six times in one day. I'm not saying don't give, just be aware. Sri lankan con-men are very polite and not in the slightest bit threatening. Offering to pray for them is a good tactic and often means you all part as friends!
Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage. This children's home for abandoned elephants is located in the tropical highlands. The motherless elephant babies may look cute when they are bathing, but the whole surroundings are tastelessly touristic with the usual touts. Much overrated, stay in Kandy instead. Watch the bathing. Explore the Kandy region.
Many tuk tuk and taxi drivers will want to take you to the Moonstone Mines. You go there, you look at a hole in the ground, and are then subjected to a session of the most deceitful and underhand sales techniques in the world where they try to get you to buy gems. If you don't buy they are offended ! The introducers get a hefty commission. If somebody even suggests a visit here, be on your guard straight away, (better still tell him to poke his idea where the sun don't shine)because the people who run it and the commission agents are just a bunch of scammers, who are intent on ripping you off. Assume the worst of everybody. Take it for granted that all smiles are insincere and try and make a sport of being as offensive as possible with the people. As they are trying to defraud you.....why not....it can be fun. "My cousin lives in Australia and there they give away bigger and better...
In some places (not many places actually) you will meet children begging for money. For the sake of these children: don't give them money. They have the right to free education until they are 16. If tourists give them money, they won't go to school anymore. Sri Lanka is a poor country and needs skilled labourers. So, for the future of this country and for the future of these children, give them some candy or a ballpoint but don't give them money.
When on the beach you see people with animals including monkeys and snakes it is tempting to take a photo but be warned that they expect money for the picture usually anything from 50Rs to 100Rs. Be warned that the monkey looks cute and timid but if they bite they can carry Rabies and other diseases.
You will see a person with a python or a cobra on the beach and he will try and put the python on your shoulder it all seems fun but they will try and charge you if you take a picture and even if you don't, and be warned the snake seems docile but they do have very sharp teeth.
When you go to touristy sights etc , there are usually 2 prices, one for the Sri Lankans, and anothe rfor the tourists. Sometimes there is a third price for Indian Nationals. Beware because this can drive the costs of excursions up. i.e To get into Sigirya you have to pay $10 (US) each, just to walk around, which is extortionate if you're travelling on a shoe string!! I suppose, just accept that these people are a lot worse off than you, and that your expenditure is driving the tourist industry in this country, plus, the view at the top is pretty good.
Mount Lavina Hotel Colombo
5 Reviews and 395 Opinions This is the closest hotel you can experience the Beach as you come to Colombo. Good food, good rooms...
Earl's Regency Hotel Kandy Kandy
4 Reviews and 235 Opinions Kandy Perahara Starts on Esala Full Moon Poya Day in July & finishes on Nikini Full Moon Poya Day on...
Palm Garden Village Hotel Anuradhapura
3 Reviews and 111 Opinions The Palm Garden Village is like a colonial club, but one with a relaxed and freestyle-air. It was...
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Q: Thinking of traveling to Sri Lanka in the end of March for 3 weeks. I will go with my 6 yr old. Will take Medical precoushns bu...
A: Any special reasons why you want to stay in Colombo for 3 days. Everywhere in Sri Lanka is child friendly, but as you want to end up in Trinco (and spend part of your...
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