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 type of adapter do I need for the outlets?
... Sri Lanka uses power outlets and plugs of types D & G. All power sockets …
Where to buy alcohol in Sri Lanka and how much does it cost?
... You can buy alcohol from wine stores, restaurant bars, hotel bars and from some supermarkets. …
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), …
Where to stay when traveling with kids?
... Sri Lankan hotels often have triple and family rooms, plus extra beds can be supplied …
What are the health risks for children in Sri Lanka?
... As far as diseases go, though, rabies and animal-borne parasites are present in Sri Lanka, …