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Language

Sinhala is the official language, but many people also speak Tamil. English is spoken at tourist establishments.

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Money

The official currency is the Sri Lanka rupee, which breaks down into 100 cents. Major credit cards are usually accepted, and ATMs are becoming more common, although only the machines located in main cities will accept international cards. Be wary of fraud when using credit cards. It’s cheaper to exchange traveller’s cheques, but you can change money at banks, hotels and exchange bureaus.

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Communications

The international country code is 94. To call another country from Sri Lanka, dial 00 followed by the appropriate country code (0044 for the UK, for example). Main resorts and towns usually have Internet cafes.

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Tipping

Restaurants and hotel bills usually include a service charge, but a 10 per cent tip is standard. Taxi drivers do not usually receive a tip.

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Safety

There is a risk of terrorism in Sri Lanka. Visitors are not usually targets, but can be caught up in attacks, so be alert and use common sense.

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Health

If you’re coming from an area infected with yellow fever, you’ll need a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Cholera is a risk throughout Sri Lanka; the risk of typhoid is limited to rural areas. The risk of malaria and dengue fever lasts all year. The most common health complaints come from food and waterborne diseases. Drink only bottled water and drinks without ice, and make sure your food is cooked well. Contaminated seafood is also a risk.

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Electricity

The electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz (round, three-pinned plugs).

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    Cheap flights to Sri Lanka

    London (LHR) to Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB)
    from£421RTwith Travelup
    London (LGW) to Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB)
    from£530RTwith Asda Travel
    London (LHR) to Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB)
    from£478RTwith Southall Travel
    London (LGW) to Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB)
    from£519RTwith We Fly
    London (LHR) to Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB)
    from£552RTwith Qatar Airways
    London (LHR) to Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB)
    from£637RTwith HolidayGenie.com
    London (LHR) to Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB)
    from£571RTwith Travelsor
    London (LHR) to Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB)
    from£467RTwith Cheap Ticket
    Handpicked Deals

    The best bargains and up-to-the-minute deals

    1. The Great Adventure Sale fr £99 pp
    2. Unbeatable Worldwide Flight Deals fr £69 return fr £69 rt
    3. British Airways summer holiday offers fr £199 pp

    Approx flight times

    Heathrow to Katunayake:
    10 hr 45 mins
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