The 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean', Sri Lanka is filled with interesting colonial history, beautiful beaches, rich culture and absolutely delicious food. What's not to love about a Sri Lanka holiday? For a chance to see leopards roam free take a trip to Horton Plains National Park or instead admire over 75 elephants at the Pinnewela Elephant Orphanage. The Galle Face Green Promenade, in the largest city Colombo, offers stunning views at sundown while the pole fishermen at Weligama are a sight to be beheld watching them climb up a pole between 20-50 metres out at sea!
The most common mode of transport in Sri Lanka is three-wheelers - a true Sri Lankan experience! Also known as tuk-tuks these operate in the same manner as taxis. Just make sure you agree a price before you jump in and don't be afraid to haggle! Alternatively rent a car complete with a driver during your Sri Lanka holiday - they'll more than likely be very knowledgeable and know all the best places to visit making them perfect as your very own personal tour guide! And if you haggle hard, you can often secure a good price.
There's accommodation to suit every budget so make sure you shop around before you book. You'll grab a cheap hotel in Sri Lanka for a bargain price if you book well in advance. If you're willing to go in the rainy season you can pick up some good deals – the weather's still pleasant enough to have a good time. As Sri Lanka has a tropical climate there's a chance you can have rain at time of year, not just the rainy season!
You'll never be short of tasty local food to sample during your holiday in Sri Lanka. As long as you stay away from tourist traps and stick to local eateries you'll be sure to eat like a king for little money. Hunt down little cafes on the side of roads - confusingly called hotels - and join the locals. Food usually consists of a rice and curry packet or 'short eats' (collection of spicy rolls). Alternatively pay a trip to the street vendors and ask for a kottu roti consisting of chopped roti, vegetables and a meat of your choice. Make sure you find out which street vendors are the best from the locals as some tend to use stale roti!
Updated 22nd May 2013
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