Sri Lanka flights and travel guide

Language

Most people speak Sinhala which is the national and official language. Tamil is also spoken, and English is spoken at most tourist establishments.

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Communications

The international country dialling code for Sri Lanka is +94. The outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)1 for Central Colombo. International direct dial facilities are available in Colombo and other major cities. Four mobile phoneoperators provide GSM 900 and/or 1800 frequency networks with coverage across all the main parts of the island. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts.

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Tipping

A 10 per cent service charge is added to most restaurant and hotel bills. Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for almost all services and small amounts are sufficient, otherwise 10 per cent of the amount due is standard. There is no need to tip taxi drivers.

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Safety

There is a risk of terrorism in the country, and although foreigners have not been the targets of previous attacks, there is a risk of being caught up in incidents.

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Health

Food and waterborne diseases are a primary cause for ill health in travellers. Visitors should only drink bottled water, avoid ice in drinks, and take care to eat well-cooked food. Cholera is regarded as a serious risk and precautions are advised, while typhoid is more of a problem in rural areas. Yellow fevervaccination certificates are required by travellers coming from infected areas. Malaria and dengue fever are a risk throughout the year. Travellers are strongly advised to take out good travel insurance, and seek medial advice at least three weeks before leaving for Sri Lanka. There is also a particular danger fromcontaminated seafood.

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Electricity

230 volts, 50Hz. Round, three-pin plugs are used.

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