To make your trip to Sri Lanka not only safe but also really comfortable, follow these rules carefully:
- Sri Lanka's trains and buses are almost never air-conditioned, so it's worth considering this before traveling.
- The Colombo train station has three toilets: one for men, one for women, and one for foreigners. The foreigner's toilet is locked, and you can obtain the key from an attendant in a designated room. It is typically cleaner and more comfortable.
- On the road in Sri Lanka, an elephant or a cow can step out onto the roadway at any time. While you should be careful with elephants, it's advisable to give way to cows, as they are considered sacred here.
- To attend religious festivals, it's advisable to inquire locally to ensure you don't inadvertently disrupt the rituals of the local people.
- In Sri Lanka, few people speak English; the predominant language is Sinhalese.
- Be cautious when staying with locals, as ants and other insects may enter your room.
- Buses in Sri Lanka are often crowded, so be prepared for packed rides.
- Off the coast of Sri Lanka, you can spot blue whales and sperm whales.
- When it comes to road rules in Sri Lanka, locals often disregard traffic regulations. It's advisable to avoid renting a car. However, renting a scooter can be a convenient option.
- When taking a taxi in Sri Lanka, the most convenient option is to use a "tuk-tuk," which is a scooter with a small van.