Sri Lanka: Pearl of the Indian Ocean or the Tear Drop of India. They’re both marvellous names and in many ways well deserved. I have just returned from a trip to the island with the specialist tour company Hayes & Jarvis, as a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers.

Hayes & Jarvis create tailor-made, bespoke or customised holidays to suit its customers and their needs. Their skilled and knowledgeable Destination Specialists will personalise every aspect of a traveller’s itinerary to their specific preferences. When you choose a tailor-made holiday, accommodations are hand-picked, and experiences are carefully selected based on what you want on the dates convenient to you. We enjoyed a compact but highly enjoyable and fascinating version of a typical Hayes & Jarvis trip to Sri Lanka

Before I go any further in arranging my notes and thoughts, here’s a very basic overview when it comes to the idea of travelling to this remarkable isle. I’ll be adding further more specific articles to this website based on experiences from the trip… 

1. Location:

Situated in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a dynamic island south of India with a unique mix of cultures, landscapes, and experiences.

2. Capital:

Colombo, a coastal city, is the commercial hub. For administrative purposes, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the legislative capital.

3. Language:

The dominant languages are Sinhalese and Tamil. English is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas and by service providers.

4. Currency:

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's wise to carry some cash, especially when venturing into smaller towns or purchasing from local markets.

5. Climate:

Tropical monsoon. The country can be split into two climate zones: wet and dry. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast depending on which part of the island you're planning to visit.

6. Popular Attractions:

• Sigiriya: An ancient rock fortress and palace ruin.

• Yala National Park: A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, home to a variety of animals including leopards.

  Cuisine:

A flavourful blend of local spices and ingredients. Some must-tries include rice and curry, hoppers (appa), and coconut sambal.

8. Local Transportation:

Trains and buses are the primary modes of transportation for longer distances. For city travel, tuk-tuks and cabs are common.

9. Visa:

Most travellers need a visa to enter. Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) can be easily obtained online before arrival.

10. Connectivity:

Wi-Fi is readily available in hotels, restaurants, and other public places. Buying a local SIM card for mobile data is recommended.

11. Health and Safety:

It's advisable to drink bottled water. Vaccinations like typhoid, hepatitis A, and tetanus are recommended for most travellers.

12. Sustainable Travel Tips:

Respect the local culture and environment. Avoid single-use plastics, and consider staying in eco-friendly accommodations.

13. Shopping:

Local crafts, Batik prints, tea, and gemstones are among the popular buys.

Optimising your Sri Lanka visit entails diving deep into the country's rich tapestry without leaning on cliché experiences. This fact file is your primer to kickstart that authentic adventure. Remember to update yourself with the latest local guidelines and recommendations for a smooth trip. Safe travels!