MONEY EXCHANGE AND LEGAL TIPS

Exchange foreign currency into Sri Lankan Rupees must only be done at banks, authorized money dealers at the Bandaranayake International Airport, Katunayake.

It is illegal to change money with any person or business other than the authorized dealers mentioned above.

Please keep any encashment receipts as proof of your travel costs and purchases as you May Have to declare to Customers at your departure.

TIPPING

Usually, 10% is automatically added to hotel & restaurant bills as s “service charge”. However, if you are satisfied with the service and if you think it is deserved, you can leave and additional tip which is about 10% of the bill. You may also tip room boys, porters, and guides as a sign of appreciation for the service you received. It always depends on their service quality.

PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILMING

It should be noted that posing for photographs in front of Buddha Statues are not allowed and considered offensive. When photographing/filming ancient monuments, temples, paintings, and Buddha Statues please ensure that you are not disrespecting the place as most of the ancient monuments and shrines are still venerated. You are required to obtain a separate permit for photography at each tourist site, especially for video and still cameras.

DRESS CODE & ATTIRE

Temples and Cultural sites are considered sacred. Visitors must not wear the following when entering religious places: See through clothes, sleeveless shirts, sportswear, tight/leggings, shorts, three quarters length trousers, robes, scarves, sandals, swim wear/beach wear, hats/caps. Safety Tips: do not leave cash and other valuables (passport/ camera) unattended, even for a short time.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Avoid drinking tab water, bottled water is widely available and relatively cheap.

Mosquitos can be very active, use repellent sprays to avoid being bitten.

As Sri Lanka lies just 7 degrees north of the equator the sun can be very intense, do take extra care while trying to perfect your tan.

See currents can be strong, please check the flags before wading in.