Before we get into some of the more in-depth posts about Sri Lanka, I wanted to first give you some interesting facts and useful travel information before you visit.
The Democratic socialist republic of Sri Lanka is located in Asia.
Until 1972 and was known as Ceylon.
The colours of the Sri Lankan flag are dark red, orange, green, and yellow.
A gold lion appears on the flag also.
The island is approximately the same area as that of Ireland, about 5000 km² less, or to be exact about 65,000 km².
The main export of the country is Tea. It used to be coffee until leaf blight destroyed the main cash crop in the 1870s.
The official language of the country is Sinhala.
The main religion is Buddhism.
The currency is the Rupee.
The capital city of Sri Lanka is Colombo.
You need a permit before you can take photographs on certain sites within the country.
The best times to come to this country are between the months of December and March on the south and west coasts, and all the way through from May till September if you are visiting the east coast.
Tipping it is very much appreciated in this country and is normally given at 10% of the total bill.
Arthur C Clarke made the island his home in 1956 saying that it was the best place in the world to view the universe.
The country was devastated by the Boxing Day tsunami of 2004.
Make sure that you keep your passport with you at all times when you are travelling here.
Many people have complained of hassle in the more touristy areas.
Others say that there is plenty of magic to be found on this island.
Be careful of the humidity and the mosquitoes … plenty of water for the first and insect repellent for the second.
Photo by Guido Bramante
