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Resources & References

Resources & References

The East, Sri Lanka

Digital Tools for Travel

Essential Apps

  • Google Maps

    Navigate with ease; download offline maps before travel.

  • PickMe

    Local ride-hailing for major city transfers.

  • WhatsApp

    Main communication with locals and businesses.

  • Surfline/Magicseaweed

    Surf forecasts and current wave conditions.

  • XE Currency Converter

    Quick currency exchange rate checks.

Planning Websites

  • Eta.gov.lk

    Official Sri Lanka ETA application.

  • Srilanka.travel

    Official tourism board for general information.

  • Railway.gov.lk

    Sri Lanka Railways schedules and booking.

  • Online surf forums

    Up-to-date info and tips from other travelers.

  • Local community pages

    For real-time updates and connections.

Print Resources & Reads

Recommended Guidebooks

Various general Sri Lanka guidebooks are available from major publishers, like Rough Guides Sri Lanka or Bradt Sri Lanka.

Literature on Sri Lanka

"Anil's Ghost" by Michael Ondaatje; "Island of a Thousand Mirrors" by Nayomi Munaweera; "The Cage" by Gordon Rohan.

Local Publications

Community flyers or newspapers, if available, can provide insights into local events and news.

Local Insights & Tips

Arugam Bay Etiquette

  • Polite gestures are valued in interactions.
  • Remove shoes when entering sacred sites.
  • Friendly demeanor for positive exchanges.
  • Bargain respectfully in markets.

Responsible Travel

  • Dispose of waste appropriately.
  • Support local and sustainable ventures.
  • Seek permission for photos of individuals.
  • Observe local beach safety advisories.

Deepen Your Insights

Visual Narratives

  • Documentaries featuring Sri Lanka.
  • "A Plastic Ocean" touches on environmental themes.
  • Surf films showcase Arugam Bay waves.
  • Explore visual travel vlogs.

Sound & Movement

  • Traditional Sri Lankan drumming.
  • Discover traditional dance forms.
  • Listen to Baila music rhythms.
  • Experience cultural performances.

Community & Learning

  • Travel forums for specific questions.
  • Facebook groups for real-time discussions.
  • Duolingo for basic Sinhala phrases.
  • YouTube tutorials for pronunciation.

Critical & Safety Information

Urgent Contacts

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 119
  • Ambulance: 1990 (Suwa Seriya)
  • Fire: 110
  • Tourist Police: 1938 (Colombo)

Medical Facilities

  • Arugam Bay has basic clinics.
  • Kalmunai for larger hospital access.
  • Colombo for international standard private hospitals.
  • Lanka Hospitals and Nawaloka Hospital.

Lost Documents

  • Report stolen passports to police.
  • Obtain a police report immediately.
  • Contact your embassy for assistance.
  • Expect time for emergency travel documents.

Health & Security Advice

Staying Healthy

  • Monitor food and water intake.
  • Practice good hand hygiene.
  • Wear masks in crowded areas if advised.

Safety Practices

  • Guard your personal belongings.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Avoid isolated areas after dark.

Diplomatic Support

Embassy Information

  • Locate your country's embassy in Colombo.
  • Keep contact details readily available.
  • Register travel plans with your embassy.

Emergency Communication

  • Ensure emergency contacts are accessible.
  • Keep your phone charged.
  • Familiarize yourself with local area exits.

Important Protocols

Natural Disaster Guidelines

  1. Move to higher ground if tsunami warning sounds.
  2. Follow all local authority instructions promptly.
  3. Identify local evacuation routes, often signposted.
  4. Stay informed via local news updates.
  5. Contact family or friends to confirm safety.

General Safety Measures

  1. Travel with a buddy or group when possible.
  2. Avoid walking alone at night.
  3. Inform someone of your daily itinerary.
  4. Secure valuables in your accommodation.
  5. Trust your instincts about situations.

Reminders

Emergency Calls

Dial 119 for police or 1990 for medical services.

Coastal Awareness

Be mindful of tides and currents during beach activities.

Local Advice

Always seek guidance from local residents for unfamiliar situations.

Safety Alert

Prioritize your well-being; stay aware of surroundings and local advisories.

Enhancing Your Journey

Cultural Immersion

Artistic Expressions

  • Explore local art galleries

    Discover contemporary and traditional artworks.

  • Attend traditional music performances

    Experience the rhythmic sounds of local instruments.

  • Discover traditional dance forms

    Witness captivating storytelling through movement.

Community Engagement

  • Participate in local festivals

    Join in celebrations and traditions.

  • Visit community projects

    See local initiatives and charitable work.

  • Engage in conversations with locals

    Gain personal stories and cultural understanding.

Traveler Wellbeing

Mindful Experiences

Seek peaceful moments amidst your adventures.

Rejuvenation Practices

Consider Ayurvedic treatments for relaxation.

Culinary Delights

Savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.

Exploration Beyond Beaches

Inland Adventures

  • Visit hill country tea plantations.
  • Discover hidden waterfalls.
  • Explore ancient temple sites.
  • Capture stunning landscapes.

Wildlife Expeditions

  • Safari tours in nearby national parks.
  • Birdwatching opportunities abound.
  • Explore diverse ecosystems.
  • Spot endemic species.

Sustainable Tourism

Eco-Conscious Choices

  • Reduce your environmental footprint.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle.
  • Conserve electricity and water.
  • Support responsible tourism.

Supporting Communities

  • Purchase goods from local artisans.
  • Dine at family-owned eateries.
  • Engage with community initiatives.
  • Contribute to local welfare.

Remember Your Impact

Your choices can foster positive outcomes for both the environment and local communities.