Changes

The climate really hits you in the face (ca 35 degrees celsius, humidity 85%). Seasons are rain monsoon and no little rain. Choose wisely.

People are super hospitable, generous, happy and laid back. Get to know them. Otherwise they will just rip you off (white skin means money). Speaking a few words of Sinhala (or Tamil when applicable) helps.

* Salli ne naha - No money

* Mage name nama (your name) - My name is* Sinhala kathakaranna epa naha- I don't speak Sinhalese* Ingrise kathakarannadekathakarannaduh? - Do you speak English?* Stuhtee istuhthee - Thank you (in Tamil: Nandri)* Epa! - Don't! (or "Stop!", "I don't want!)

Most Colombians (the rich people of Colombo) speak English. If you learn these few words and use them you can cut off two thirds of your travel budget. :) Please note: Don't expect Tamils to speak Sinhalese.

*[[Anuradhapura]] - ancient city with ruins and shit*[[Polonnaruwa]] - ancient city also with ruins and shit*[[Colombo]] - avoid... crowded and polluted during the daynot many attractions, silent and boring during the nightbut has some cool stuff

Pointless to go the cities. See the nature instead. Go to the hill country and visit tea factories. Hit the best beaches in the world (Beruwala for water sports, Unawatuna for parties, Mirissa for chilling and smoking free weed, Arugam Bay for surfing, etc). Visit rain forests or go and see the amazing bio-diversity of the "middle belt" - between low country and hill country (e.g. Belihuloya). Climb up to Horton Plains. Check out the water falls. Go to Adam's Peak after Christmas and climb 5000 steps to the top before sunrise. Check African-type like savannahs in Yala National Parkwith a wide variety of wildlife.