Page 139 - Asian Paradises 2019-20

— Sri Lanka —

The Bentota River is ideal for sailing, windsurfing and cooling off in the evening while in the hilly regions cooler
waterskiing. Climb Adam’s Peak for a taste of trekking, or temperatures prevail.
walk across the Horton Plains near Nuwara Eliya to see the Getting around
700-metre drop at World’s End.
Train travel is comfortable but slow, with modern coaches
Shopping a better option. Local transport consists of buses, taxis
On the road linking Colombo and Kandy is a series of and auto-rickshaws. Car and motorbike hire is becoming
‘monoculture’ villages. One sells clay pots while others sell increasingly popular. Renting a car with a driver is not
brooms, roof tiles, cane chairs, cashews and coconuts. Not expensive, but it is important to negotiate beforehand.
surprisingly, the most popular purchase is tea, sold in many What to wear
flavours and all manner of gift containers and teapots.
Cotton clothes are useful at any time of the year but you will
Woodcarving, weaving, pottery and metalwork are all need light woollens for the hills and waterproof clothing or
popular crafts and Sri Lanka is especially renown for its an umbrella. Modest dress for women is advisable especially
gems and jewellery. off the beach and when visiting religious sites.
Currency Don’t forget comfortable shoes, sandals or trainers and
Sri Lankan rupee (SLR) consists of 100 cents. Tipping is cotton socks. If you are planning to trek and climb go
appropriate and major credit cards are widely accepted in prepared with suitable gear.
shops Most hotels, restaurants and shopping centres accept Visa information
credit cards.
Nationals from several countries who visit Sri Lanka for
Climate tourist purposes are exempt from visa requirements and
The climate is tropical, hot and humid during the day, automatically receive a free 30-day visa on arrival.

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