What are the Sri Lankan people like?
What should I know about the local culture?
Are there any rules I should follow to be respectful around Sri Lankans?
Do people in Sri Lanka speak English?
Sri Lanka is a quite popular tourist country, so naturally, many Sri Lankans can communicate in English well.
Sinhalese and Tamil are the two primary languages spoken in Sri Lanka, but you’ll find that many people also speak or understand basic English. Most people who work in, or live around, major tourist destination cities like Galle, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, Colombo and Kandy will be able to communicate in conversational English. Many signs you’ll see on the street will have an English translation as well.
Though, it wouldn’t hurt to learn a few basic phrases before going to Sri Lanka:
- Ayubowan = may you live long, a formal way of greeting someone. You can also just say “hello” or “hi”
- Istuti = thank you
- Kohomadha = how are you?
- Hari = okay, got it, fine (you often say this twice – “hari hari”)
- Lassanai = beautiful
- Hondayi = very good
- Kiyeda? = how much?
Is there a tea and coffee culture in Sri Lanka?
... After The Commons became popular, many more coffee houses were established around town.
What do I need to know about driving in Sri Lanka?
... The department is located in Werahera (address: Department of Motor Traffic Rd, Boralesgamuwa, Sri Lanka), …
What are the restrictions regarding alcohol consumption?
... However, it’s not prohibited to consume alcohol that you purchased prior to the Poya days …
Am I expected to tip in Sri Lanka?
... There is a strong tipping culture in Sri Lanka; wages are low so it’s an …
Is there a special etiquette?
What am I allowed to export from Sri Lanka?
... Only export of goods for personal use is allowed.