Sri Lanka is a beautiful and inspiring part of the world. Culturally, it has a great deal in common with neighboring India, but the island puts a greater emphasis on high-quality beaches and seafood.

If you’re a first-time visitor, then a little planning can go a long way toward making your trip unforgettable. Let’s take a look at what that planning might consist of.

Entry requirements

In almost every case, you’ll need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization before you travel. This document is issued online and linked to your passport. You’ll typically arrive in the country at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. Be sure that your passport has at least six months left to run on it, and that you have proof of where you’re staying and where you’re going to be moving on to. You may even be required to show proof of funds for your trip.

When to visit

Your experience will tend to vary considerably depending on when you arrive. There are two monsoon seasons each year, striking different parts of the island. The Yala Monsoon affects the West and South Coasts, predominantly, while the Maha affects the North and East.

If you’re visiting the south and west coasts, you’ll get dry season between December and April. If you’re visiting the east or north coast, then you’ll want to arrive between May and September.

Safety

The good news is that safety is rarely a concern for tourists in Sri Lanka, especially by the standards of the region. Check the advice of the Department of State. Get vaccinated against Yellow Fever, and make sure that you avoid political unrest and large demonstrations.

You should keep copies of all of your travel documents, and stash all of your valuables in a safe container. It’s also worth thinking about your online security, too – if you intend to make use of public Wi-Fi, then a free VPN might allow you to do so securely.

Getting around

There are a few options when it comes to transport. If you want to see the country and you have time to spare, then a train might provide a great view of the scenery. If you’re in a hurry, then hiring a private driver might be worthwhile. A tuk-tuk is a cost-effective and authentic option for those traveling from one urban location to another. At the same time, there are ride-hailing apps like Uber to consider.