Colombo - Unawatuna

Hi,

Myself and my partner are travelling to Unawatuna for 3 weeks in february and was wandering what we should be paying for taxis from colombo airport. Does anybody know roughly the cost?

Many Thanks

Tom

Colombo - Unawatuna

Hi Tom,

From Colombo airport to Unawatuna it will be around 170 Kilometers. Normally a kilometer rate is around Rs.35 to Rs. 40. So if you calculate Rs.40*170 Kilometers it will be around Rs.6800.00.

Nishantha

Colombo - Unawatuna

Hmmmm... Nishanta misread it. Yes the distance is right BUT it%26#39;s a one-way drive, which has km rates of Rs 55-60. (The 35-40 is for two-ways, without empty return.)

So this will be around Rs 9,000 at least...

At your service,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Thanks Guys, 2nd thing is does anybody know how long in a cab this journey would take??

Many Thanks

Tom

Hi again Tom,

Daytime: 4-6 (!) hours, esp. when you hit Colombo area in the morning or evening rush hour.

Nighttime: 3-4 hours.

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Thankyou again for your quick reply. We are both really looking forward to a couple of weeks on that beautiful beach. If you know of anything happening from the 1st of feb onwards please let me know as we are keen to do and see as much as possible whilst we are there.

Many Thanks

Tom + Sophie x

Sorry 1 more thing are there places in unawatuna to exchange cash for sri lankan rupees or do you suggest changing money at the airport?

Thankyou

T

Hi

Change money at the Airport - or at Galle (about 5 km from Unawatuna), LKR 150/one-way by tuk tuk or LKR 10/one-way by bus.

Hans

We took the train which cost all of 400 roupees. It%26#39;s pretty rough in terms of seating (we didn%26#39;t get a seat in either direction) but it is a beautiful ride along the coast. The train stops at Galle and then its a quick touk-touk or bus ride to Unawatuna.

There are ATMs in both the Colombo airport and in Galle (near the bus station). Also, I was told there was a money changer in Unawatuna but I did not go there.

Have fun! We just spent New Years there and it was insanely fun. Stayed at the Happy Banana right on the beach for 2800 rupees a night and loved the curries at the Peacock.

Good luck!

Just arrived back from 3 fantastic weeks in Sri lanka a majority of which was spent in stunning Unawatuna. I stayed at The Banana gardens which is in a fantastic location overlooking the beach (i stayed in room no.1 which has air con and a fan and a balcony with a stunning view) and also has a great restaurant too. They had a driver pick me up from the airport which cost 8,000 rupees. I found the manager and staff at banana gardens to be excellent and cannot recommend them enough. http://www.unawatunabanana.com

Why not split your time between Unawatuna and Mirissa which is another 20-30 minutes down the road and has a far more beautiful beach. Maybe you could go there for a day trip to check it out when you are at Unawatuna. Can change money for a good rate easily at the bank in Welligama which is nearby.

reptiles

good massage in Unawatuna

Does anyone know of a good massage place in Unawatuna.I don`t mean one of those gentle strokey ones .I mean something more powerful.

favorite lipstick

Anyone know a beach backpackers in Colombo?

Hi Everyone!

I am looking for a backpackers or hostel on the beach in Colombo - any ideas??? Staying for a month :-)

Food in Negombo

Hello

I am going to Negombo for 2 weeks with my family and was wondering what sort of Typical food to expect.Last year we went to Goa and thoroughly enjoyed the cusine.Do the restaurants have tandor ovens,in which to cook ';tikka'; %26amp; ';naan'; breads?,these were widely available

in Goa or do they have different breads in Sri Lanka?

Thanks

Food in Negombo

Hi there,

These breads do exist but not widely. The main equivalent in Negombo will be roti, which as you might know from India is more a kind of (thin or thick) pancake. But for sure some Indian veggie restaurants are there selling naan!

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Food in Negombo

Also try hoppers (Appa) which is more like a bowl shaped crepe. It can be eaten with curries or butter and jam. They also cook it with an egg in the middle.

hi Devon

there are different kinds of foods in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan foods, Indian Foods, Chinese Food and Japanese foods. all the other asian foods also availabale. but if you are coming to negombo. i reccormend ';Restaurant Bijou'; at Ettukale, Negombo.

shehan

Thanks for the replies,sounds good !

Hi,

A couple of places I%26#39;ve eaten at many times spread over lots of visits,

The Palm Lanka,

39 Poruthota Road,

Ethukala.....Tel; +94-(0)-31-4876177

And

The King Coconut Restaurant,

11 Poruthota Road,

Tel; +94-(0)-31-2278043.

Both within a few minutes stroll of the main hotels .

Both serve asian and western food and I%26#39;ve always founf both of them excellent.

Rod.

Agree with Rod B on Palm Lanka, it%26#39;s very good.

Also Browns Beach Hotel. A lot of locals can be seen there at weekends for dinner and lunch and to me that speaks volumes.

Enjoy.

Bethspoon

Hi

Just jumped on this thread looking for a bit of information, please.

We first went to Sri Lanka in 1996 and a further 5 times after that (staying in various hotels in Negombo), our last visit was in Jan 2004.

We%26#39;ve been used to Goa over more recent years and I%26#39;d just like to know if there are still lots of good places to eat within walking distance of the main hotels in Negombo. We want to go B%26amp;B at the hotel.

We%26#39;re looking for traditional food (I can%26#39;t remember if it%26#39;s curry %26amp; rice or rice %26amp; curry etc) and some good seafood.

Also, are there bars to get drinks (G%26amp;T etc)?

What is the cost of an average meal?

What are drinks prices like?

Thanks

Prettypollycat,

there are still lots of places to eat in negombo, a few i would recommend are bijou(swiss) , king coconut - very cheap but the food is good, palm lanka and ebony %26amp; ivory (for english food if you need a change!), oysters (best burgers), and the old rani village. Most main meals will be around the fiver mark, but obviously certain fish dishes are more.

All are within walking distance of the hotels.

Personally I always recommend people not to get tied in to eating at hotels, as good as some of them are. Variety being the spice etc.

Drinks are cheap (a large local lion beer) is about 160 rupees. There are a few bars around so no probs.

Enjoy your trip

forgot to say that rice and curry can be bought almost everywhere

Hi all,

we are going to Negombo very soon. As a non-beer drinker I was wondering if there is a local equivalent to Martini and if so what are the prices like.

Thank you

Chris

Drinks at Ramada Resort

Going all inclusive to Ramada Resort in March. Quite patuial to a glass of wine.

What sort of drinks do they serve as part of the all inclusuive package?

Drinks at Ramada Resort

Hi there.....

Wine is available at Ramada, BUT !! only local wine by the glass would be served at Lunch %26amp; Dinner times.

Usual All Inclusive drinks there include, local beer (draught Lion), local vodka, gin, whisky, brandy and the local favourite Arrack !, all soft drinks except the diet varieties are available in the packsge.

Hope this helps

Regards

Dave

Will be ';popping in '; at Ramada to see friends who wrok there at end of March !

Drinks at Ramada Resort

Hi,

Can%26#39;t say specific for Ramada, but All Inclusive at most hotels in Sri Lanka include local spirits (gin, whisky, brandy, arrack etc), local beer (mostly draught), soft drinks, tea, coffee, snacks. Some hotels offer a glass of wine with the dinner.

You can contact the hotel for specific into

Contact Person:

General Manager - Niran Ratwatte - gm.kalutara@ramadaresort.lk

Assistant Manager - Nissanka Mangalagama - am.kalutara@ramadaresort.lk

Front Office Manager - Nilanga Weeraratne - fom.kalutara@ramadaresort.lk

Hans

Thanks Dave

I was under the impression that there was no local wine in Sri Lanka judging by other entries in the Forum. The wine may not be the best, but at least there is a choice so i am happy with that. I appreciate your reply.

Thanks

Vagn

Thank you for your reply.

Vagn

Fancy sharing a lift Airport to Hilton Hotel ?

Good evening All

we land in Sri Lanka on UL506 arrival time 0410Hrs%26#39; on 15/09/2009, does or is anybody going onto the Hilton Hotel that would like to share a lift ( yet to be sorted )

We then depart on the 17th around mid morning,and go to Kandy again anybody fancy sharing a lift.

Please contact me if you would like to join us

Best wishes

Billy

sexy hair

Lone traveller Hikkaduwa tips

Hi

I am a lone traveller visiting Hikkaduwa in the near future. I would welcome any tips whatsoever in terms of Do%26#39;s %26amp; Dont%26#39;s by any fellow travellers based upon their experiences when visiting the resort including favourable bars etc.

Also I would welcome ideas on %26#39;must sees%26#39; however I have a real phobia of snakes so want to avoid any potential experience of seeing them either in the wild or with owners who may offer them to tourists for photos!!

Tips %26amp; indicative cost of taxis from Colombo Airport to Hikkaduwa is also sought.

Please download your views, comments %26amp; experiences etc in order i can benefit from your experiences!!

Lone traveller Hikkaduwa tips

Hi there,

Long time that I%26#39;ve really stayed in town, recently I frequented the southern part (Narigama-Thirathgama) which has lots of decent GH%26#39;s.

Airport to Hikkaduwa: would be around Rs 8,000 with the airport taxi though with the individual drivers waiting at the exit you can possibly haggle for a slightly lower amount.

Nice tourist restaurants are in town, e.g. The Curry Bowl and another one close to the big hotels whose name I forgot...

Not much risk for snakes in the wild unless you visit the deeper jungles, so no reason to scare.

Hope this helps,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Security Concerns / Civil War / Terrorism

Hi everybody,

I%26#39;m planning a 3 week trip from February 23. until March 23. to Sri Lanka with my girlfriend. It%26#39;s our first time so please excuse all the stupid questions.

I read some chilling articles in the last days on the internet and a little researched resulted in serious doubts about going to Lanka. It seems the current offensive of the government troups against the LTTE will result in even more terroris attacks. Of course we don%26#39;t plan to go to the east or north but still there have been a lot of attacks e.g. in the area of Colombo in 2008. The US State Department even put a warning on their website:

';Since early January 2008, fighting between the Sri Lankan military, paramilitary groups and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has increased, and bomb explosions in densely populated areas have killed dozens of civilians, including in some areas frequented by foreign tourists. Although there is no specific indication that American citizens or institutions have been targeted, there is a heightened risk of American citizens becoming victims of violence just by being in the wrong place at the wrong time.';

I%26#39;m aware that this war is going on for about 25 years already, but still I%26#39;m worried.

So here are my questions:

* Is it generally a bad idea to go to Lanka right now?

* Has the situation got worse in the last weeks? Any info from people just returned or still there?

* Whats the best way to travel (we would like to avoid trains and busses)?

* We mainly plan a Palms/Sun/Beach holiday, where are good and safe places to go to?

* What are the DOs and DONTs in Lanka to stay safe?

* Any other tips, hints, helpfull advices?

Thank you so much!

Cheers, Ole from Berlin

Security Concerns / Civil War / Terrorism

Hi Ole,

Had 2 calls from Lankans today and returned one month ago, so should be up-to-date enough! There we go...

* Is it generally a bad idea to go to Lanka right now?

No, the opposite. As safe as ever as long as you stay outside the war zones!

* Has the situation got worse in the last weeks? Any info from people just returned or still there?

No not at all. Even slightly improved, now that most of the %26#39;separate country%26#39; in the north has been conquered also the possibilities for large-scale bomb production will lessen. So at most the risks will come at Spanish ETA-level, not as it was in some earlier periods.

* Whats the best way to travel (we would like to avoid trains and busses)?

Car with driver. Also fastest.

* We mainly plan a Palms/Sun/Beach holiday, where are good and safe places to go to?

Basically all of the tourist coastal zone, from Marawila in northwest to Hambantota-Tangalle in southeast. Avoid Colombo town (different from airport); it%26#39;s not touristy and the government buildings and convoys carry some risks for all bystanders.

* What are the DOs and DONTs in Lanka to stay safe?

DON%26#39;T spend time in Colombo, and upto a far lesser extent all public transport.

* Any other tips, hints, helpfull advices?

As for safety, for the rest nothing special. Same risks as any other poor country.

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Thank you so much!

Security Concerns / Civil War / Terrorism

Thanks very much, Erik! I really appreciate your fast and straight-forward answer!

You said spending time in Colombo is a Don%26#39;t. We%26#39;ll arrive with Qatar Airways at 4:30 pm in Colombo, so I guess we%26#39;ll leave the airport around 5pm - no time for a trip to the south. What%26#39;s a good option to stay for the night and how do we get there? I heard Negombo is not so far and beautiful.

I%26#39;m sill interested in the opinion of some other people. Anyone has time to post some info for me and other people asking the same question?

Thanks everybody!

Hi again Ole,

Yep Waikkal/Negombo is the most obvious place for the first night. Or even airport hotels like Taj Airport Garden and Ramada Airport, the first one has kind of beach (on the lagoon).

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Hi,

I%26#39;ll be someone else.

I agree with everything that Erik has said. I%26#39;m flying to Lanka on Thursday morning and will be travelling around most of the island.

And,, I%26#39;ll be travelling on public transport, buses and trains.

I do advocate train travel but must admit the buses are not for most people. Not because of the danger but because they are usually very crowded with half the passengers standing up.

Being a regular visitor, I know the island pretty well and have no safety concerns whatsoever.

One point that you made.

You%26#39;d heard that Negombo is beautiful.

I like Negombo and every trip spend some time there but I wouldn%26#39;t call it beautiful.

It%26#39;s a big, bustling, Sri Lankan town. Parts of it smelly and dirty but all the time, very interesting.

Ideal for a first night before travelling further afield.

Lots of hotels and guest houses to suit any budget.

Rod.

Hi Ole,

I agree with Erik.

I have visited Sri Lanka 43 times over the last 30 years and returned from a 10 weeks stay in Sri Lanka 12 days ago. I%26#39;m going back there in 6 weeks.

There has been very few terrorist attacks (suicide bombers) since May-June 2008. The most recent were on 28 December in Wattala in northern Colombo targeting a Civil Defence Forces camp and 2 January targeting the old headquarters of the Sri Lankan Air Force in Colombo.

The best (and easiest) way to travel is hiring an AC car/van with driver. For shorter trips tuk tuks are a good (and cheaper) solution. There is a slight risk going by train or bus, but avoid them as they are usually overcrowded.

All Sri Lanka is pretty safe except areas in the north and east.

Some governments advise against visiting Yala National Park and the areas around it. Recent report says the area is safe (I was there last April), but it can be a matter whether your insurance will cover visiting there.

DO

- comply with government and security force instructions

- carry some form of official identification (passport or photocopy) with you at all times.

DON%26#39;t

spend unnecessary time in Colombo City

stay near government buildings (army camps, police stations etc.) or large gatherings.

Negombo is a good place to stay the first night (20 minutes from the airport). There are plenty of both star class hotels and simple guesthouses.

The best beaches are south of Colombo - from around Beruwala and all the way to Hambantota.

Hans

I forgot the link to the German government%26#39;s travel advice for Sri Lanka:

auswaertiges-amt.de/diplo/de/Laenderinformat鈥?/a>

Hans

@ Erik: Thanks again!

@ Rod: Thanks for the second opinion. I just love travellers! Always helpful, always caring for each other! So as I understood you Negombo is a practical solution for the first night - but is there any nice place we could reach within 1-2 hours for the first night? Or should we go for Negombo?

@ Hans: Thanks for your reply too! Wow, 43 times, this place must have enthralled you! Of course I had a look at the German Office of Foreign Affair%26#39;s website first, but as a reference I chose the english text, because most people won%26#39;t understand German. They basically say it%26#39;s ok to go to Lanka, as long as you stay south of the A12 and west of the A2 and north of the A4.

Thanks also for the tip about the beaches. I will buy a guide book soon (any tips?) And we will stay away from crowds and anything interesting for terrorists.

One more question for our budget planning. We%26#39;re on a tight budget, around 10-15 EUR a day (1500-2200 Rupees) per day and person. Is that realistic? A little extra for traveling is ok. And how much is a car with driver say from Negombo to Beruwala for the two of us (by the rule of thumb)?

Thanks for your help!

Cheers,

Ole

Hi again,

EUR 10-15/day a day is tight even for Sri Lanka. You will get closer to LKR 140 for EUR 1 than LKR 150.

In Beruwala-Bentota you will not find many guesthouses for less than LKR 4000/night for a double room with breakfast, so it will not leave much for food, drinks etc.

You can have a meal for less than LKR 100 at the small restaurants called ';hotel';, but that%26#39;s only rice and curry. Tourist meals will cost you about LKR 500-600/pp for lunch and LKR 800-1200/pp for dinner

On a real tight budget you should consider going to Narigama (south end of Hikkaduwa or Unawatuna. These places you can have a double room with breakfast for less than LKR 200/night.

Negombo to Beruwala is around 90 km. For a one-way trip you will typically pay about LKR 60-70/km, so calculate LKR 5500-6000 for the trip.

Hans

Hi Ole,

With a tight budget I%26#39;d certainly recommend that you stay in Negombo 1st night, then get the tran from Negombo in the morning.

Changing at Colombo Fort, for Hikkaduwa.

A decent plae to stay in Negombo.

The Silver Sands,

229 Lewis Place,

Negombo.

Tel; +94-(0)-31-2222880... www.silversands.go2lk.com

A good guest house, good food and rooms. very friendly an helpful.

Owners name is Francis.

Fronts onto Lewis Place , although set back a bit from the road. Plenty of small bars, restaurants and shops around.

Rear opens out onto the beach but not a very good beach.OK for a stroll to check out the fishing fleet of catamarans and maybe join the local lads in a game of volleyball but not for swimming.

In the morning get a tuk tuk to the station. or walk , it takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

Trains for Colombo leave Negombo at,

07;18

07;50

10;40

11;40

12;25

13;50

Can%26#39;t remember for sure and most of my info is packed ready to leave in the morning for lanka bu I seem to remember the train at 10;40 doesn%26#39;t leave you too long to wait for the Hikkaduwa train in Colombo.

Rod.

favorite lipstick

Taxi

Good Evening Everyone

i wonder if i may pick the Brains of the Experts please.

I am just putting the last bits to our Holiday Sept this Year, and wonder can anybody give me a price or at least an idea how much a Taxi would be to the Hilton Hotel early A.M, and how much a Taxi would be from the Hilton to the Citadel Kandy,Midday Two Days%26#39; Later.

Also would it be worth asking the Hilton about the Drivers%26#39; they have.

To cut a long story short, best, quickest, safest and cheapest please.

Any ideas or suggestions

Best wishes and thanks in anticipation

Taxi

Hi,

I assume you want to go from the Airport to Hilton. The distance is about 32 km and as you go one-way (taxi goes empty the other way) the km-rate is around LKR 60-70/km. So the trip should cost you LKR 2000-2200.

Colombo to Kandy is about 115 km, so the trip should cost you about LKR 7500.

Asking costs nothing, but drivers supplied by star class are usually more expensive then freelancers.

Hans

Taxi

Hans

thanks very much for quick reply.

I guess you are correct asking Hotel might be more Monies, but having stayed with them last Year with a promise to return, we have opted out of the First part of our Holiday and are going it alone revisting old places and friends.

Thanks for quick reply

Billy

Please contact Jagath he will help you www.jagathtours.com

Anyone know a beach backpackers in Colombo?

Hi Everyone!

I am looking for a backpackers or hostel on the beach in Colombo - any ideas??? Staying for a month :-)

Anyone know a beach backpackers in Colombo?

Hi,

Why would you want to stay on a beach in Colombo for a month?

Colombo is just another boring, noisy and polluted city (and so are the beaches.

Go down south to Mirissa, Unawatuna or even Hikkaduwa. You will find loads of cheap accommodation (and other backpackers) there, and the beaches are wonderful.

Hans

Anyone know a beach backpackers in Colombo?

Agree with Hans. And IF for some reason you really need to be in Colombo, choose suburb beaches not far from it. Mount Lavinia (part of greater Colombo) has quite some budget accomodation, and Wattala (north of the Kelani river) might have some too.

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Hi, i am staying in colombo for work for the full month (will try get up to Kandy over weekends). Mount Lavinia sounds great - are there any beach backpackers in that area that you know of? Cheers

Hi again,

Simply go on Hotel Road in Mount, which leads to the star-class hotel with that name. On both the right (land) and left (beach) side you%26#39;ll find, on road and in sidelanes, lots of things to your liking...

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

thank you!

What a way to go on holiday.

Snow shovel,

Thick quilt in the boot in case of breakdown.

Flask of hot tea.

Mixed bag of rock salt and grit. In case I need grip

Tow rope.

I%26#39;d take snow chains if I had any.

Preparing for the artic ?

No, loading the car to get to Heathrow airort .

Flying off somewhere cold ?.

No, flying to hot, sunny , Sri lanka.

Strangest packing I%26#39;ve ever done for a holiday.

Time to go out now and play with the trafic on the motorway.

Rod.

What a way to go on holiday.

Hi Rod

Not that much better at Heathrow either !!, who you flying with?, some flights to Lanka sceduled for Sunday night did not take off till last evening !! , so could be be some disruption with thier schedules still.

Have a good one anyway, and save some of that sunshine and Lion beer for me......

Regards

Dave

What a way to go on holiday.

my flight is from Gatwick and I was afraid that they might cancel it but so far so good.

computer not booting up

A couple of bits of advice/information required please

I have been fortunate and have been to Sri Lanka 3 times, however most of the arrangements have been made by others. This time we are going under our own steam this time and I cant remember some stuff. We are planning 5 to 7 days there and then off to Maldives for some R%26amp;R ..

How far is it from Columbo to Pinawella ?

We want to stay in Pinawella but despite going there 3 times I cant remember any of the hotels or accommodations. I think there are 2 on teh left as you walk down to the river... Can any of you tell me?

How far from Pinawella to Sigiriya Rock, I cant remember it is a day trip?

We then want to go back to Hambatota we stayed in the Oasis hotel as it was the only one standing, but are there any others now?

We would like to hire a driver for 5 or 6 days and a car, we have someone in mind but would like a ball park of costs, please.

How long is the drive down from Columbo to Galle?

many thank in advance

Tazness x

A couple of bits of advice/information required please

Hi Tazness,

1) Colombo to Pinawela: make it 100 km, that means about 2.5 hours travel.

2) Pass on the GH%26#39;s at Pinawela. Tulip of Ceylon near Mawanella (about 10 km south of it) is the closest star-class hotel.

3) About 100 km to Sigiriya, but partly on byroads. Can be done in a day trip as long as you make sure you arrive at the Rock before 10:30 AM, so an early leave.

4) Hambantota still has Oasis and Peacock Beach as the main hotels, both equally old.

5) Use Rs 35-40 per km as ballpark. For distances this site

srilanka.travel/lang/鈥istancefinder.php

Comes in handy. A day rate of Rs 6,000, if you don%26#39;t make more than 4 hours driving per day, is also an option.

6) Colombo-Galle is 116 km, so 3 hours if you%26#39;re lucky.

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

A couple of bits of advice/information required please

Hi,

You turn off Colombo-Kandy road at 82 km post, so about 85 km.

There is a hotel at the river where the elephants go bathing. It%26#39;s called Elephant .... Hotel. However, I would prefer to stay a bit from the orphanage to avoid the noisy tourists. Tulip of Ceylon could be at good choice. It%26#39;s located between Kegalle and Mawanella, so it%26#39;s close to Pinnawala.

http://www.tulipofceylon.com/ENG/index1.html

Pinnawala to Sigiriya a little more than 100 km.

AFAIK Oasis is the only hotel in Hambantota. The area is very touristy.

Car with driver should cost you around LKR 5500/day based on an average mileage of maximum 150-160 km/day.

Colombo to Galle is 115 km, so it will take 3-4 hours depending on the time of the day you travel.

Hans

Tulip of Ceylon is a wonderful place from which to visit the elephant orphanage and, indeed, a fantastic place to stay. However, it is currently closed ... check the position if you are looking to go there in the immediate future.

Sue

Yep, The Tulip of Ceylon is currently closed. BIG shame as I wanted to stay there!!!

The manager is hoping to reopen as soon as he can get some legal problems sorted out.

I had an email from him yesterday.

Back to Hambantota:

Oasis is decent (about 3-star) but

http://www.peacockbeachonline.com/

_really_ also exists. It%26#39;s closer to town centre, whilst Oasis is more a resort-like location on a lagoon.

When we stayed at Peacock we rated it about 2 star, but both are in the TA hotels section so better compare quality and prices yourself.

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Thanks you everone.. Exactly the informaiton I wanted to know.

Good to know the Peacock hotel has been rebulit, there was only the Oasis when I was there both times in the past after the Tsunami.

Thanks for the tips on the other hotels near the Orphanage, but I particulary want to be in Pinewala this time.... I thought there was another on kind of behind the Elepahnt hotel ??

MelinB .. thanks for the note, but we are doing our own thing, not a trip but thanks anyway for the tip.

Taz x

Forgot to say

Thanks for the tip about the Tulip of Ceylon, it looks lovely. I will keep it in mind if its open and Pinnewala does not work out

Thanks

Weddings Sri Lanka

Has anyone booked a wedding in SRI LANKA direct with any of the hotels rather than through a tour operator in the UK. Mercury Direct offer really cheap holidays but not weddings.

Anyone%26#39;s info would help.

Thank you

Weddings Sri Lanka

Many of the hotels try and assist, but it really is best to go through a UK travel agent. Many of them are currently offering free weddings in Sri Lanka, so the costs work out.

I used to live in Sri Lanka and arrange wedding when working for a tour operator.

Your wedding is important so, you want to make sure it is right, and that you have all the correct paperwork ect, it would be awful if you got out there, and something was not right, and you could not marry.

Also, not all hotels do weddings, so this is also something to take into consideration.

If you need more info, please feel free to contact me.

Weddings Sri Lanka

Hi,

Most of the beach hotels organize weddings. Also inland hotels as well. If you like to organize a nature wedding you can organize it through Eco Team. www.srilankaecotourism.com

Also wedding planning is done by brides of Sri Lanka.

www.bridesofsrilanka.com

Nishantha

Thanks for your reply, can you recommend any?? I can only seem to find Virgin and First Choice but it doesnt look like they fly from Manchester - also wanted to add a 4 night trip in the Maldives.

Thanks again for your help

Jackie

Hi,

Kuoni (http://www.kuoni.co.uk/) do wedding/honeymoon tours to Sri Lanka, and probably also Mercury Direct (www.mercury-direct.co.uk/mercury/index.php)

Hans

To addd....

Yep, Mercury do do tours, and Maldives add ons, but alas they are not in the wedding market.

Weddings can indeed be booked direct with hotels in Lanka,, and to be honest would offer a much better deal that tour operators can.

Regards

Dave

Sri Lanka Aid Work

Hey all,

I spent a couple of weeks in Sri Lanka in late 2007 travelling and adored the place more than anywhere i have ever been.

Due to a few personal circumstances (age - i%26#39;m 24, lack of work here - ie the recession here in ireland, not married yet etc) combined with the current situation in sri lanka with the war possibly coming to some kind of end.

I%26#39;ve decided that now is defintely the best period in my life to do some aid work/volunteering and I would really like to do this in Sri Lanka. I have done some very vague googling of it but apart from that I don%26#39;t really know much in general about the possibility/type of aid work there is needed in Sri Lanka.

Bits of info, I would ideally like to go for at least 3-6 months maybe up to a year and am physically fit and quite intelligent. I have no skills as such (doctor/builder or anything like that) but would be adept at most things I turn my hand to. I wouldn%26#39;t be looking to leave for around 6 months so this is very much at the early stage of researching into this.

I would love to teach out there or help in whatever way is needed - ideally not in colombo but anywhere else really.

Can anyone help point me in roughly the right track on this one? is it going to be best setting all this up myself rather than going through some kind of aid agency?

on a completely random sidenote - does anybody have any interesting books about sri lanka they could recommend?

many thanks in advance for the help

s

Sri Lanka Aid Work

Hi S,

Just some general comments:

* On a tourist visa, even the ones for 3 months which might be extensible for upto 6 months per year, you can NOT do work. Not even any %26#39;volunteer%26#39; work where at least your cost of living is sponsored. Also if you hope to stay %26gt;6 months, really a sponsored visa is better than the uncertain paths of tourist visas.

* So, despite there being many options welcoming volunteers (who pay their own expenses), seems best to first try through a formal NGO. E.g. VSO in the UK which has a worldwide network.

* If you go self-organised, then indeed many many poor places where help is needed...

* Interesting books on Lanka - depends on what your angle is. If you want to understand the society more deeply and also part of it%26#39;s politics I%26#39;d recommend the two books organised by UNTHR-J (University Teachers of Human Rights-Jaffna.). I got my hands on one of them (and will at the right time find the other) and use it as kind of %26#39;bible%26#39; in the rare cases that I advice Western people on Lankan society - e.g. a talk for a small university audience last year...

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Sri Lanka Aid Work

have a look at the Foundation of Goodness (www.unconditionalcompassion.com) for details of a really well organised (and well resourced) Sri Lankan outfit, which I have personal experience of. If you need something less well sorted contact me for more details.

favorite lipstick

Sri Lanka in July/August

We are thinking about going to Sri Lanka in July or August and while there would like to do some scuba diving. From the brief research I have done it seems the east coast is best but I can find very little information on diving there can anyone help? Has anyone dived on the east coast, knows of a good diving operators, costs etc

Sri Lanka in July/August

Hi,

http://www.divesrilanka.com/ is the dive site for Sri Lanka.

There is not much tourism (and diving) on the east coast yet (tsunami, ethnic conflict etc.) and UK FCO advise against visiting there.

Hans

Sri Lanka in July/August

thanks maybe we will rethink where we go, or not dive if we go to Sri Lanka

Dashkath,

Dont b put off. I went last year for 2 weeks over july and august and had an excellent holiday. Such a lovely place with friendly, warm people. I enjoyed it so much, we booked again for 3 weeks over July and August. Did not visit the East, however, I did stay at Beruwala where I am returning this year) and it was lovely. I don%26#39;t dive to be honest, however, I have heard that Hikkaduwwa have water sports and glass bottomed boats.

There are lots of different price guides for travel to Sri Lanka, we are flying with Kingfisher which is a lot cheaper than our Emirates flight last year.

Good luck hunting for a holiday!

Mina.

Sunbathing on the beaches

Hi, Hope someone can help us! We are considering Sri lanka for a mainly beach holiday in January 2010.

It would appear from the brochures that none of the hotels in the Bentota region have sun loungers on the beach, is this the usual in Sri Lanka and is there a specific reason for it?

Also can any one recommend a good hotel, at least 4 star which is on the beach and within walking distance of some restaurants for the evenings?

We have been to Goa, Kerala and Gambia over the last 3 years.

Any comments / advice welcomed.

Sunbathing on the beaches

Hi,

It is usual in Sri Lanka that hotels do not have sun loungers on the beaches, but they have sun loungers in their gardens.

The beaches in Sri Lanka are public and AFAIK the hotels are not allowed to put sun loungers on the beaches. Another reason is security and to protect customers being harassed by touts. You are perfectly free to take a towel and sunbathe on the beaches, but at your own risk.

Taj Exotica is supposed to be 5 star, but it is in need of a refurbishment. So at the moment it can only be rated as a good 3 star hotel.

Bentota Beach Hotel is supposed to be a 4 star hotel, but also needs refurbishment. Also a good 3 star hotel.

Saman Villas (http://www.samanvilla.com/) - a couple of km south of Bentota - is the only 5 star hotel in Bentota area.

Hans

Sunbathing on the beaches

Bentota beach hotel is nice and in a good position.

Hi Thanks for the info, I now understand!

Will have a look at both the hotels you mentioned.

If you need sun loungers on the beach try the south end (best beach part) of Hikkaduwa. They%26#39;re more like beds and many have thatched roof shade covers as well. Don%26#39;t cost anyhting to stretch out on - the places they%26#39;re in frony of just hopr you%26#39;ll buy some food or drink during the day.

Paradise Beach Club in Mirissa also has loungers on the beach and is a gorgeous beach so you could consider there.

black hair care

visit Yala

Went to Yala yesterday. It was truly amazing. We saw Leopard, herds of elephants, wild boar, crocs and lots more. It was such an easy visit. There was one checkpoint on the way in and it too was very relaxed. It was the highlight of our trip to Lanka so far.

visit Yala

So pleased you had a great time in Yala without any problems. It concerns me that people are staying away from this great part of Sri Lanka because of outdated danger reports which make insurance companies refuse to cover. Good on you.

Contempory Furniture

Can anyone recommend a contempory furniture supplier in Colombo?

Thanks

Contempory Furniture

Hi there,

We%26#39;re almost preferred customers (for our 2nd house and family there) at Don Carolis, Nugegoda. Decent mixture of contemporary and classical Lankan furniture.

Hope this helps,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

drink prices at jetwing seashells

we are thinking of booking to go to jetwing seashells in march can any one advise me on price of drinks ie.beer, water, gin and tonic, tea, coffee we will be staying full board.Also do they provide beach towels. We stayed at browns beach 2years ago but to pricey to stay there this time how does jetwing compare.

drink prices at jetwing seashells

Hi,

I don%26#39;t think Seashells is quite up to the Browns beach standard but it%26#39;s a good 2/3 star hotel.

Rooms were fine, bug, spotless and well furnished.

From what I saw, the rooms at the pool end of the hotel were a little better than the ones at the other end.

The restaurant was fine, food good and a big terrace to eat looking out over the beach.As the restaurant is top floor youget a good view of the beach.

I can%26#39;t remember the drinks price as I only went in the bar once but there are penty of small bars, restaurants, etc close by.

Walk out of the hotel, turn right and you%26#39;ll find a bar called '; The Rodeo Bar '; which gets a bit lively. Food there is good as well but a bit noisy and crowded to eat. Just over the road from The Rodeo Bar is a restaurant called the Palm Lanka . Doesn%26#39;t look anything special but the food is excellent if you decide to eat out.

Room and pool towels are provided.

Rod.

drink prices at jetwing seashells

Hi

Seashells provides beach towels.

All below prices are with the TAX.

Lion Beer = 2 USD

Water 500ml = 0.8 USD

Gin 50ml = 1.8 USD

Tonic = 1.1 USD

Tea pot [including 2 or 3 cups]= 2 USD

Coffee = 2 - 3 USD

Fresh Juice = 3 USD

If you are taking full board.. you will have to pay the extras also.

If you are taking All includes.. you dont have to pay any money..

Shehan..

other companies go to sri lanka so allis not lost

while we have all heard of first choice %26amp; tompsons there are other tour companies out there offering same holiday very competitivly priced too we are travelling to sri lanka on the 25th april 2 weeks all in 2 freemassages free seafood dinner,all this for no more than we paid to go in nov with firstchoice,[no massages with them ] have a look happy hunting jude60x

other companies go to sri lanka so allis not lost

hijude60

could you let us no of the other companys do weddings we are going in sept when my brother is getting married if it was just a holiday we would go else where thanks

other companies go to sri lanka so allis not lost

Hi,

Kuoni does weddings in Sri Lanka.

Hans

favorite lipstick

colombo

hi flying into colombo looking for the best way to get TANGALLE (cheapest please) arrive 10th feb is the festival over in colombo

thanks chris

colombo

Hi Chris,

Best and cheapest don%26#39;t go together in Sri Lanka.

Best way is by AC car/van with driver. The distance to Tangalle is about 225 km, so it will cost you LKR 13000-14000.

The cheapest is by bus from the airport to Colombo Fort railway station and then by either AC intercity bus from nearby Pettah bus stand or by train to Matara and then by bus to Tangalle. Intercity buses in Sri Lanka is not good if you have more baggage than just a backpack. Most likely you will have to pay for a seat for you baggage. Bus from airport to Colombo will be less than LKR 100. Intercity bus to Tangalle will be about LKR 400. Train to Matara is about LKR 230/2nd class, LKR 130/3rd class.

Look here for how to get the bus from airport to Colombo:

tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g293961-i8983-k2…

Hans

colombo

thanks hans, most grateful.

just to check is the festival finish on the 10th feb

if so should make my way to tangalle, or is there something you would recommend on the way to stop at

chris

Which festival?

Hans

hi hans, navam perahera and if you could what is 13,000 in sterling

chris

Currently around 80 quid, but changing by the day. Www.oanda.com/convert/classic is a good site for following these things.

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

thanks, any veiws on the navam perahera

Hi again Chris,

Navam Perahera is on 8th %26amp; 9th February.

LKR 13000 is about GBP 82.

Om the way to Tangalle you could stop at Kosgoda (Turtle Project), Ambalangoda (Mask Factory %26amp; Museum), Meetiyagoda (Moonstone mine), Hikkaduwa (Glass-bottom boat) and Gall (Dutch Fort), but if you fly in from UK it will be better to stop the first night in Negombo and do the sightseeing the next day.

Hans

thanks

representative of male teenagers

places to stay in negombo

just got some good infor from hans so looking to stay one nite in negombo any help would be great

chris

places to stay in negombo

Hi Chris,

Hotel Silver Sands is cheap and decent hotel.

http://www.silversands.go2lk.com/

Ask if they can arrange pick up from the airport. It should cost LKR 1400-1500 (less than GBP 10).

Hans

places to stay in negombo

many thanks again

I checked out Silver Sands last July, would be happy to stay there on another visit. Plus is it is closer to Negombo town centre than a lot of the other accomodation on the beach strip.

Chris

If you aren%26#39;t looking for a place with a pool, check out Ocean View Guesthouse on Lewis Place. We had a great double room with fan, balcony and en-suite for 1500 rupees. Breakfast was another 300 each. You are a 3 minute walk from the beach and when we bought a drink there at Sunset Beach Hotel, we also got use of their pool, plus the loungers on the beach for free ...

Sue

places to stay in marissa

Hi can any one help my partner and I are travelling to sri lanka at the end of Feb for 17 days we are doing a 3 day trip first then 2 weeks at cpb in mariwella we would like to go down south to unawatuna or marissa for a couple of days can anyone reccomend reasonably priced accommadation maybe beachside cabana or similar looking for quiet beach with a few bars and restaurants maybe which is best would like to do some snorkelling too

places to stay in marissa

If you want it REALLY quiet, then Mirissa is the place. We had a night here a few weeks ago and stayed at the Mirissa Beach Inn. It cost us Rs2800 for two, half board.

Sue

places to stay in marissa

Mirissa has many reasonably priced guesthouses both on and just off the beach and it is a wonderful place to relax. Most places can%26#39;t be booked over the internet but this year it is pretty quiet and you can take your pick if you want to wait until you arrive.

I wouldn%26#39;t take the half board option that Mirissa Beach Inn snares so many people with as that takes away the pleasure sitting right on the beach at the other restaurants that are dotted along the beach - a truly magical experience.

Others you may consider on the beach are Sunset (has hot water), Ocean Moon, Dinu%26#39;s and Sunshine Guest Houses, all of which are absolutely fine and cheaper than Mirissa Beach Inn - which is also fine. There%26#39;s also Paradise Beach Club whicyh is a bit more expensive.

Unawatuna is fine for a visit but has very little beach and none at all for half of it at high tide. Mirissa is perfect, picture postcard stuff with no touts and just enough places to give a little night life too if you choose.

thanks for your help Ithink thats made up our minds thanks again

Hi

Just wondered how easy it is to get from Una to Mirissa. We have accommodation booked in Una after an island tour but we might like to visit Mirrissa for the day

Thanks

No problem!

There are buses whizzing along that main south coast road every few minutes. Alternatively, take a three wheeler for a few hundred rupees. You could also take the train, but the train station in Mirissa is a little way from the beach area, so maybe not quite so convenient.

Sue

Hi,

Just jump on one of the many buses that are going to either Matara, Tangalle or Kataragama. It%26#39;s about 25 km so a one-way will cost you LKR 35-40.

Or take a tuk tuk. Should be around LKR 600-700/one-way or LKR 900-1000 for the round trip.

Hans

Many thanks that sounds like fun.

H

Sun Cream

Hi sorry if this is a dumb question , having never been to the tropics Just how high sun screen should i take I%26#39;m there in late june early july . usuly take 12 to Rhodes in june / july

thanks Paul

Sun Cream

Hi Paul,

UV factor in Sri Lanka is %26gt; 9 all year round. If you intend to sunbathe use a factor 20+.

Hans

Sun Cream

Hi Hans

tanks for that i%26#39;ll get a few bottles here I asume it%26#39;s better that way

if any one is intrested sainsburys has Garnier Ambre Solaire factors 15/20/30 on offer at £3.24 for 150 mm

. I see the SL Rupee is a little better against the pound . hope it improves .

Regards Paul

Hi Paul,

due to the high sun rays in these days in beaches at least SPF factor 25 or more sun lotion should need.

Nishantha

Thanks Nishantha

Is it better to get the creams here or get then in Sri lanka I was thinking of the weight .

weather in may

Hi

looking to book honeymoon in late may early june. just found out that this appears to be during a monsoon period in the southwest of the country (particular interest around galle area.

Can any one suggest what the average daily weather pattern is like at this time.

Thanks

Claire

weather in may

Hi

looking to book honeymoon in late may early june. just found out that this appears to be during a monsoon period in the southwest of the country (particular interest around galle area.

Can any one suggest what the average daily weather pattern is like at this time.

thanks

weather in may

Hi,

Look this reply. Weather in Galle area is similar.

tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g612379-i12207-k鈥?/a>

Hans

favorite lipstick

pink hair

Sri Lankan Adventure, Virgin Holidays. January 2009

What an amazing 2 weeks! A holiday we will remember for all the right reasons. We travelled over 1,200 km during the first week, which meant a lot of time in the minibus, but it was air conditioned and comfortable.

We took our luggage with us throught the week and after an overnight stay at the Cinnamon Grand in Colombo we visited the elephant orphanage (of course) and we found this to be the most commercialised part of our fortnight. If you wanted to get anywhere near an elephant tips were required. (In fact take plenty of small change with you from the minute you arrive at the airport as it%26#39;s part of their culture that tips are always expected - 100 rupees is about right).

Then we had an evening jeep safari, and even the guides were surprised to see as many elephants at this time of the year as the water levels were high so the elephants were keeping in the forest. It%26#39;s amazing that they are able to %26#39;hide%26#39; behind trees and can be so close yet unseen.

We had a trek through a village (take some waterproof shoes or be prepared to cross a small stream in bare feet -it%26#39;s a bit slimy). Then we took a catamaran across a lake and had an oxen ride through the paddy fields.

White water rafting the following day is best done in swimwear as the water is so warm and it%26#39;s almost a pleasure to fall in. It%26#39;s a grade 3 river for rafting

The next day was the trek to Horton Plains which is quite high in altitude and took a bit of getting used to. But to arrive at Worlds End was worth it. You%26#39;ll need comfy trainers or even walking boots for this trek and the one the following day, which was longer and all downhill for about 2,000 feet,through tea plantations and scrub. There are no roads here, just dirt tracks and rocks. Take plenty of loo roll!!!! water, fruit, energy biscuits and wet wipes. Don%26#39;t be fooled by downhill - it%26#39;s hard on your knees and thighs and we were really tired after these 3 hard days. But to walk through the villages and be surrounded by beautiful happy children who love to walk along with you just holding your hand is a lovely experience.

The final stop at Udawalawe National Park was the direct opposite to our first day in Colombo%26#39;s Cinnamon Grand. We spent the night in a tent surrounded by elephants, leopards (didn%26#39;t see or hear any) and water buffalo, and woke to the sounds of the animals when we went on our early morning safari. Were chased by bull elephants, but the guides knew just how far to let them approach the Landrover before scaring them off. The food was excellent in camp, and the showers were basic but worked. Be prepared to be really dirty and tired.

The next week was at the Ranweli Holiday Village, which was set in beautiful surroundings, with all bungalows on the beach. It was very quiet with only 20% occupation due to the tsunami, the war and now our credit crunch. Take a travel kettle with you as they only provide water in the bungalows.

But PLEASE visit the island, it is so diverse and interesting and if you go in January you%26#39;ll see lots of weddings which are so colourful as it%26#39;s considered a lucky month to marry in. Not February as it%26#39;s a short month and so is thought to be unlucky

The most enduring memory is of the people who are always smiling and eager to talk to you as all the children learn English as their 2nd language. Many of those outside of Colombo have so little but we found they%26#39;ll give you food from their garden and a cup of tea and not expect anything in return.

An amazing holiday

Sri Lankan Adventure, Virgin Holidays. January 2009

What an enjoyable read ... thanks Grahame. It took me back to our first trip to Sri Lanka .. also a Virgin one which was, like yours, a week on tour and then some days at the beach to relax afterwards.

Like you, we chose Ranweli and came away so thrilled with it all that we have been back to Sri Lanka, again and again. Each time we return, we become more and more independent and now like to travel on public transport, stay in little guesthouses and spend more time away from the main touristy attractions. Each holiday is better than the last, although at the time, you feel it can not be improved. Sri Lanka is a country which has lots of surprises just waiting to be discovered, often in the most unlikely places.

You make some very good points and I agree with all of them. I was not impressed with the elephant orphanage either and I too carry toilet roll with me ... you learn from bitter experience, haha!

Oh well, roll on August when we will be back for our 5th trip in less than 3 years ..

Sue

Sri Lankan Adventure, Virgin Holidays. January 2009

plse can you tell me who you took your tour with and what sort of costs plese kind regards andy

CAlingendael,Kandy

I have tried to make a review about Clingendael,situated by the Victoria reservoir close to Kandy.This property is not listed under Kandy,and I have not been able to make the review.

I just wanted everybody to know that this must be the very best hotel in Sri Lanka.It is expensive,but FANTASTIC.Design,garden,staff,rooms( 5).......And the Chef is incredible-gourmet food.

We just loved it-one of the best in the whole world.Thanks Clingendael,I will try to get back some day in the future.

Raiza

Tenerife

CAlingendael,Kandy

Hi Raiza...

It is not possible for Trip Advisor to include all hotles or guest houses on their reveiw pages, but if you feel strongly about any particular one then you should e-mail them with all the details, i am sure that our good firends there will be happy to help where they can.

Regards

Dave

Sri Lankan airlines

Bit of advice needed, I booked my flights for SL back in sept 2008, since then the airline has reduced its surcharges by 拢50 per person, am I entitled to get this back, if so how.

Also anyone know of the luggage allowance on SL, e-ticket says 20kg, but a friends e-ticket says 30kg, both flying economy...

Sri Lankan airlines

Hi there,

1) Usually no refunds on surcharges, and (if the airline is nice) also no extras between paying and flying even when the petrol price would double!

2) It really depends on the ticket. For cheaper ones (usally part of an overall deal) it can be 20 kg, for full-price tickets purchased separately from London it%26#39;s 30.

That having said, combi-tickets from Amsterdam are usually 20 but I managed to do Amsterdam-Paris with 28 (and payd a little overweight charge for it), got my luggage there and checked in with Srilankan for the rest of the flight. No problem to have 28 kg on a 20kg-ticket because almost all other passengers had 30 kg there.

So maybe maybe they%26#39;re liberal at Heathrow too. In Colombo they%26#39;re NOT, 20 is 20 on Srilankan there.

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Sri Lankan airlines

Hi there...

Would agree with Erik on this one, SriLankan not normally that tight, especially with us poor tourists !, have seen though on several occasions locals having to make ';adjustments'; to thier hold luggage because they were over the top !!

Just a little extra info, maybe worth double checking your flights too, SriLankan Airlines are rescheduling thier services right now, they have dumped the only Wednesday flight and Thursday evening flight (9.25 pm) from London from thier services very recently, and pretty soon will be dumping thier only Friday evening one too, as i found out the hard way yesterday !, seems that the ecconomic turndown is having a bda affect on them !

Regards

Dave

Hi,

I don%26#39;t know how much you can trust their website, but it looks like they reschedule their services on more or less weekly basis until end of March.

The Wednesday flight, Thursday evening flight and the Friday evening seems to be on and off. In April it seems that all flights are evening flights.

Hans

Hi Hans

Did not get info from thier website, this was first hand via their reservations here in London, they called me yesterday to tell me that my planned return flight to London on a Friday was now not flying anymore after end of February !, so an extra night or so added to my holiday now !

Wednesday evening, and Thursday evening flights not flown for couple of weeks now, and tonights scheduled Male/Colmobo flight is not calling in on Male, going straight to Colombo.

Regards

Dave

weather

What is the weather like at the moment? I was wondering whether the sea is rough near Hikkaduwa as planning a snorkelling trip next week.

Thanks

weather

Hi,

The weather in Sri Lanka is HOT and SUNNY. Just a few drops of rain since Xmas.

The sea is very calm as there are only light winds. At Hikkaduwa the sea is always calm on the inside of the coral reef.

Hans

weather

Hi there...

Yep would agree with Hans, weather right now is REALLY nice down at Hikkaduwa, friends the sent text tonight to let me know that were enjoying some huge beach party there !, rubbing it in i think as they know what our weather has been like this week !

Regards

Dave

Was there last feb, and the sea was rougher than the previous 2 years. The sea at the coral

reef was not as good as usual. Just wondered how calm the sea was this year.

Thanks for the prompt reply

Safety in Sri Lanka

Hi,

I have booked a holiday at The Fortress in Galle for the beginning of Marbch but I have just been doing some further investigation into the area and noticed the British foreign advise not to visit Sri Lanka because of the terrorist activity.

Can anyone here give me a realistic view of how dangerous it is in Sri Lanka right now?

Thanks

Safety in Sri Lanka

Hi there....

Firstly the UK government via the FCO website has NEVER advised against all travel to Sri Lanka because of terrorism, only time it did briefly advise against travel was just after the Tsunami in December 2004/January 2005.

However !the FCO does advise against travel to certain parts of Sri Lanka, but this does not include Galle are at all, you should take heed of places to avoid on that website as it will invalidate your travel insurance if you choose to ignore that advice, this is same for any country visited by the way.

I was there for 6 weeks or so back in November %26amp; December last year, ok, there is increased security these days, but i never felt in anyway threatened or insecure at all, and will be heading of down there again at end of March for another 6 weeks or so too.

Hope this helps....

Regards

Dave

Safety in Sri Lanka

Hi again....

Just to add....

UK travel companies/airlines will NOT by law sell holidays to countries or places that the FCO advises against, so rest assured you will be ok.

Rrgards

Dave

Thanks Dave,

That has put my mind at ease. But the UK, Australian and US foreign affairs all suggest to carefully consider any visits to Sri Lanka because of political motivated violence. Which does not sound very appealing to me. But I know the reports they issue always sound worse than they really are.

Regards

Nathan

Hi Nathan....

Sri Lanka is really no different these days to most places that we as tourists visit, common sense is advised everywhere these days, even here in London, and to be honest i feel safer in Sri Lanka than i do in London !

Regards

Dave

Hi

I totally agree with Dave.

There are checkpoints (esp. in Colombo), but having stayed in Sri Lanka for the last 2 months and a bit (going home tonight), I have only been checked once while travelling around.

The political violence in Sri Lanka has never been directed towards tourists, and the present fighting is restricted to a 45 sq km at the far northeast.

I have visited Sri Lanka 37 times over the last 16 years and never felt unsafe. Ticket for my next trip (18th March) is already booked.

Have a nice (and safe) holiday in Sri Lanka.

Hans

what web site ???

Returned last friday from Sri Lanka.I felt safe all the time,we travelled for 9 days,Colombo,Bentota,Galle,Tea country,Kandy and Dambulla.Some checkpoints along the road,but they did not stop foreigners.

Obviously you can not travel up to the northern parts but the souoth is perfectly ok.

Regards

Raiza Tenerife

Hi,

Myself and my fiancee were considering our honeymoon in sri lanka, i have my heart set on it, of course friends and family as they would are suggesting that maybe its not such a good idea right now, as sri lanka is so small and you dont know what is going to happen. When you start reading news from the past 10 years , it makes you nervous, but as some of the other posts say, its as safe as any place these days from the news. I dont want to feel nervous on my honeymoom, but no other place right now convinces me for honeymoon, so i too understand your dilemma, its a place i want to go in my heart. we havnt booked anythign yet but need to soon....so sorry if ive scared you, but i think im looking for some encouragement and reasurance about it. When you dont understand the war , its hard to know....but i guess if you were there and you were fine, then its not a worry....oooh help.

Hi,

As mostly discussed here, Sri Lanka is not a place to be ignored due to the security reasons. Even now lots of tourists are visiting the island. You should avoid north and east other than that all the tourist excursions are safe to visit. Undoubtedly this small island is a place to visited to make your honeymoon unforgettable. Depending on your preference lots of things to be done.

Nishantha

microsoft office

Yala National Park

Hi

I am preparing to book a holiday to Sri Lanka for September 09 and one of the places we visit is Yala National Park. According to the Government web site this is an unsafe area?

Has anybody been or is anybody planning to go despite this advice?

Yala National Park

Hi there,

Search the forum with this keyword and you%26#39;ll read plenty, including recent visits. BUT...

a) The UK govt website usually means also that your travel insurance would be void during this part of the visit, also for totally different types of incidents.

b) If you%26#39;d still decide to go: Sept-Oct (sometimes from 15-Sept onwards) the park is in most years closed. Nothing to do with security situation but with the end of the dry season there, leading to quite reduced drinking pools for the nice beasties which in turn might make them agressive towards the humans.

Udu Walawe, about 80 km to the west of Yala, and closerby but much smaller Bundala are replacements-up-to-some-extent for Yala and safe.

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Yala National Park

Hi,

UK tour operators have Yala in their packages in the hope that the restrictions will be lifted before the actual tour takes place. If the restrictions are not lifted they will divert the tour to somewhere else. I have seen Horton Plains or Uda Walawe National Parks mentioned in the forum.

I went to Yala last April without knowing about the warnings and according to recent posts in the forum others have been there too. All found the area safe. BUT if you go there despite the warnings your travel insurance will possibly be invalid. So if you intend to go, check with your insurance company whether you will be covered.

Hans

Hello Tior

In my opinion, no visit to Sri Lanka would be complete, or even worthwhile, without a visit to Yala!

Minneriya is nice too if you like elephants but you won%26#39;t see much else there - I suppose that depends on the time of year. They have massive herds of jumbos there.

Leeds

I agree .. Minneriya is good for elephants, but not much else; so much of it is through scrubby forest and you do not see very much at all, whereas Yala is open and the wildlife is incredibly diverse.

You might not be lucky enough to see the leopards, but definitely crocs and elephants, aswell as a HUGE variety of birds and other animals.

I may be shot down for saying this, but in my opinion, the risk to anyone planning a jeep safari to Yala is nil ... I would not hesitate to go there again and give a much needed economic boost to the area. The mosquitoes pose more of a threat to be honest ...

Sue

haha I concur!

We took Yala out of our itinerary - not because we concerned for our safety, but because we woudn%26#39;t be covered by travel insurance if we went there. I%26#39;m starting to regret this decision! We travel in March - I guess we could always ask our agent to put it back in. IF I can persuade my husband to lose two of the 7 nights beach stay that we%26#39;ve included....

I think the possibility of seeing leopard might do it, we%26#39;ve never seen one in our trips to Africa, maybe Sri Lanka will be lucky for us ;-)

If you visit Yala or Bundula and are based in Tissa can recommend a Mr Lokka as a guide excellent !

favorite lipstick

Horse riding

We are traveling to SL on 19th Feb. we are planning to go to Kandy, ella, Marissa and then up the coast and have two and a half weeks. Does anyone know where there are any horse riding options, preferably with horses that are well looked after?

Thanks!

Horse riding

Hi there,

Riding is possible near N%26#39;Eliya (on the Kandy-Ella route) and, on a smaller scale, in a few beach areas. Negombo was mentioned once in the forum. The care for our four-footed friends is probably better in the Eliya area, as the climate there suits them much more and next to tourism there are other functions in that area for them - agriculture and even some horse-racing in the badly-maintained Eliya race court.

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

Tailor`s in Negombo

Hello Was wondering if anyone knew of a good quality tailor in Negombo?,as we are wanting to have a Tweed riding jacket made whilst we are out there.In Goa last year we had a black riding jacket made,but never noticed any Tweed material,Many Thanks

Tailor`s in Negombo

hi Devon

you can make your tweed riding jacket from the below places.

Tuan Tailors

No. 48,49, Shopping Complex, Negombo.

031-2239596 / 071-4801629

Clasic Tailors

No. 83, Sea Street, Negombo.

031-4931314 / 077-2926995

Dress Master

Thelvaththa Junction, Negombo.

Shehan..

Tailor`s in Negombo

Thanks for your help Shehan,we will check them out when in Negombo

Dear Forum

Please could anyone inform me of some tailors in Colombo because when I arrive in SL on 23rd February (first visit) for a wedding I intend to have suit made for me in SL .

Also please does anyone know price of a good suit made to measure in SL is it cheaper than in UK

Your kind help would be appreciated

Ian

Big time cheaper, I have two made on different visits in Negombo for between $125 and $150 Aus, now would be 30% more with Aus $ down in value, would still cost well less than $200.

chris

Hi Ian,

Hameedias in Colombo is a good choice. HERCULES TAILORS

is also famous name for wedding suits.

Try in search of

www.bridesofsrilanka.com/groomswear.htm

Nishantha

Dear Nishantha

Thank you for this information, which is noted.

Please do you know what streets for these tailors are and good general area for tailors

If you can assist I would be appreciative please.

Yours with thanks

Ian

Hameedia:

hameedia.com/Contents/Branches/branches.asp

Hercules:

http://www.manaali.com/hercules.htm

Hans

Dear Hans

Thanks so much for this info.

Please do you know what one would pay on average for a decent suit in Colombo?

Thank you again

Ian

Gampala

Dear Forum

Please does anyone know if the Gampala /Yakalla area has good birdwatching and perhaps can anyone recommend if there is any good spot nearby for birdwatching also what species can be seen

Thanks alot

Ian

is it safe to travel to sri lanka?

we%26#39;ve just booked a 10 day holiday in sri lanka - the south west area, in a place called Kosgoda. Can anyone let me know if you%26#39;ve heard of any trouble there or am i worrying about nothing - is the trouble in sri lanka really contained in the northern/ eastern area of the island?

thanks!

is it safe to travel to sri lanka?

Hi there....

You have nothing to worry about in Kosgoda at all, never been any problems in that area at all.

Yes, all problems right now restricted to the far north %26amp; east of the country.

Hope this helps

Regards

Dave

Will be 5 minutes away from Kosgoda for 6 weeks from March 25th !!

is it safe to travel to sri lanka?

Hey,

thanks for the speedy reply - that%26#39;s certainly helped! think i panicked slightly after i checked the government%26#39;s advice pages as they do paint quite a scary picture.

so to be a pain, but can you suggest any good places that are worth a visit whilst we%26#39;re there?!

Thanks again!

Hi there,

Search the forum with keyword %26#39;excursions%26#39;. Quite a few day trips possible from all of the southwest coast, including Kosgoda. And also even more interesting multi-day journeys to the real inland of the island...

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

microsoft web hosting

blue water hotel building work nearby

I%26#39;ve heard that the ministry of defence is building next door to the Blue Water hotel. Does anyone know how much noise or disruption this is causing. Thanking you in advance for any information.

blue water hotel building work nearby

Hi there,

If the information of Summer 2008 is still valid

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g499081-i10012-k21…

then it%26#39;s nothing to worry about!

All the best,

%26lt;Erik%26gt; %26amp; [Sandya]

blue water hotel building work nearby

Hi there...

Just to add.... it is the law in the UK that travel companies tell you in advance of your holiday of any building work ect that may have any disruption in any way, if they have not done that, then generally speaking there will be nothing to worry about.

Regards

Dave

Hi JO,

They do building constraction there but it is not noise to blue water.Blue water has big garden too.

It won%26#39;t make any disruption to the tourist at hotel.

Hi

Just back from the Blue Water - I will write a review soon but we had a great time with no disruption from any building work you will not be disturbed.

have a fantastic holiday

Rebecca

Hi

We got back from Blue water this morning and you will see the building work for a split second when you arrive, after that you wouldnt know it was there. There is no noise, no disturbance and not visual to guests, and we had a fantastic time. You will enjoy blue water it is lovely.

Regards

Nicola

Safety at the moment

Can anyone tell me if Marawila is safe from the civil war at the moment - we are going there in a few weeks time

Safety at the moment

Hi.

Yes Marawila is safe.

Nishantha

favorite lipstick

the blue water hotel,wadduwa. costs at hotel

Hi,

I%26#39;m travelling to the Blue Water Hotel in july on a half board basis for 14 nights and was wondering if anyone has travelled here recently or knows the hotel and can advise me on how much lunch/drinks/bottles of water, etc cost so i can budget my spending money. Any info would be much appreciated, thanks in advance.

the blue water hotel,wadduwa. costs at hotel

Hi there....

If above prices are correct ?? (lunch is expensive, even for a hotel !!), then maybe a better alternative to upgrade to All Inclusive when you arrive at Blue Water ??, would certainly be cheaper.

Regards

Dave

the blue water hotel,wadduwa. costs at hotel

thanks for your replies, will now try to find out the costing of a/i locally, as travel agent is quoting £27 pppn, another £756.00 for both of us..don%26#39;t think i%26#39;ll use that much as planning to tour as much as possible.

thanks again.

jo

Hi JO,

As I think it is too much to upgrad to all inclusive.Acctually if you travel around country no worth of doing it.

Lunch at blue water is 20 dollars.

Beer is 3.5 dollars

water bottle is 1 dollar.

better to get those locally.

Hi

Rucci is right, The Water is much cheaper to buy from the little shops just outside the hotel. We have just come back from Blue Water and were on B%26amp;B. To upgrade to half board is $20pppn and to upgrade to All Inclusive is $45pppn but it is worth it. The food at the hotel also deserves a mention becasue im not a fan of all inclusive option but on this occasion at this hotel it was fantastic. And i have come home a good stone heavier in just 1 week.

Nicola

Getting married in Blue Water

Hello,

Has anyone got married in th Blue Water, we are thinking about it but would love some feedback if anyone has!

What was the ceremony like etc?

Thank you in advance,

Karina :)

Getting married in Blue Water

We saw lots of weddings whilst we stayed at The Blue Water over Christmas and New Year. They all had Kandyan Dancers which look and sound wonderful. A UK couple got married on New Years Day, and had an elephant ride as part of the ceremony, photos on the beach and then a secluded beachside dinner for the wedding party, 20ish of them. It all looked very lovely. Hope your plans go well.

Getting married in Blue Water

Hi Karina

We have just come back from Blue water and whilst we were there, there was a Sri Lankan wedding taking place which was just beautiful. It is the perfect setting for a wedding. i would say go for it, Blue water is a very romantic place and has everthing you will need.

Nicola

Blue Water and Golden Wedding

Hi - my mum and dad are going to the Blue Water for their golden wedding in January on AI. Has anyone recently stayed there who have also celebrated a special anniversary? Wonder if any chance of a room upgrade or any special treats, any other information much appreciated.

Blue Water and Golden Wedding

Hi there...

Not stayed at Blue Water, BUT, when booking a special holiday for any hotel in Sri Lanka, like your parents for instance, then make sure that you tell the company that you are booking with.

They would almost certainly pass this info onto the hotels, you can of course e-mail the hotel yourself and make a ';special request'; too, i am sure that they would look on that favourably, and make sure that mum and dad add this info to the registration form when checking in too.

Regards

Dave

Blue Water and Golden Wedding

Hi

Blue water have a Suite which is lovely, i would recomend yu call the hotel as they are not quick in replying to emails. They also arrange special diiners which we had arranged for us whilst we were there which was lovely.

Nicola

Cats

few days in and!!!!!!!!!!

Well we arrived safe and sound Emirates were great , the hotel is basic and the food repetative but good the weather is hot hot hot , if you are thinking of going to the Neptune the poya days and any other day they can make a name up for,they wont serve alcohol but other places will. so will leave a full review soon . Rick n Josy

Malaria?

Hi

Have just booked a fortnight in Induruwa from April 1st. Can anyone advise on Malaria tablets, or not needed?

Thanks in advance

Malaria?

Hi there...

You do not nee Malaria Pills if staying in and around Induruwa, but should maybe take them if planning to travel up to the Cultural Triangle AND staying overnight, for example Dambulla and surrounding areas.

Regards

Dave

Will be a few minutes from Induruwa on April 1st !

Malaria?

Hi Dave

Thanks for that - didn%26#39;t really want to take as daughter had hallucinations and her hair fell out in clumps when she took them to go to Bali.

Where will you be on April 1st?

We will be staying at Emerald Bay Hotel [yes, I%26#39;ve heard the feedback!]

Can you suggest any must see places?

Thanks again

Hi again...

I will be around 10 minutes away at Ahungalla on April 1st, well there till May 9th too !

Ok, places to go and see?, well a 2 day one night trip to Kandy and the Elephant Orphange is always a very popular trip to do, so to is a day trip down to Galle, about an hour from where you will be, also Hikkaduwa, glass bottom boats over the corals there, mayeb a river safari at Balapitya too, always nice to do, that is around 15 minutes from you.

Also close by is Kosgoda, and the turtle hatchery there, go at sun down to release the babies back into the ocean, best time there.

Regards

Dave

Dont take any pills they make you ill!! And were you are you dont need them. You will meet our friends at Emerald Bay Hotel. It is a small but nice hotel with nice beach in a quiete area. You will enjoy. Sunile is one of the bar men and we speak every week with him. You are on the main road so use the local transport. ie air con buses or tuk tuk. we prefer the a/c buses. Go to Galle and Atuwana beach also as dave mentioned hickawadu beach is not to far. Also go inland by foot and you will see all typrs of creatures, Monkeys Snakes etc. Cinamon factory too. Do go to Kandy and try to see some of the waterfalls and elephant orphanage.

Hi

Thanks to Dave and Bladesboy for your replies. I will no doubt be contacting you again with questions as yet not thought of!

Regards

Carol