Is travelling to Sri Lanka a risk ?
Not only Sri Lanka, there is a certain amount of risk in any county for travelers. The risk comes with lack of information. The more you know about a certain country or region, specially the areas of a town or a destination with certain amount of gangs, mobs are dwelling, there is a risk. That risk is common to all countries and societies. comparing to some countries Sri Lanka is safer in that sense. Sri Lanka is having less rough neighborhoods than many countries.
People of Sri Lanka are mostly mild in temper and they are cultured and very friendly towards tourists. They are helpful and most of them can speak English. Hospitality is one of the key features among Sri Lankans by culture.
Having said that, the tourists are instructed to take precautionary steps in following instances.
- Use something like Uber or any reputed taxi service when hiring a taxi
- When you are targeted by locals who are trying to earn money by offering services
- When you are taking services from Spas ( beware of fake people )
- Do not mingle with drug addicts or alcoholics
- Prostitution is illegal and a punishable offense
- Underaged are protected with strict lows and beware of underage labor or prostitution
Here are some general safety precautions for tourists traveling to Sri Lanka:
Be mindful of your surroundings: Like any other country, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for anything that may seem suspicious. Be cautious when walking alone or at night and avoid areas that are known to be unsafe.
Respect local customs and traditions: Sri Lanka is a predominantly Buddhist country with its own customs and traditions. As a tourist, it's important to respect these customs and dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or clothing that may be deemed offensive.
Watch out for scams: As with any tourist destination, there may be people looking to take advantage of tourists. Be wary of scams such as overpriced taxis, fake tour guides, or people offering to sell you fake or counterfeit goods.
Be mindful of natural disasters: Sri Lanka is prone to natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and cyclones. Check the weather forecast and be prepared for any potential natural disasters that may occur during your visit. Follow the advice of local authorities in case of emergency.
In addition to these precautions, it's always recommended to do your own research and plan your trip accordingly. This includes booking your accommodations in advance, arranging for transportation, and ensuring that you have all the necessary travel documents. By being prepared and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Sri Lanka.