Frequently Asked Questions
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- General Questions
- Food & Accommodation
- Flights & Visas
- Tour Confirmation
- What To Bring
- Daily Itinerary & Trips
What travel insurance do you recommend?
We highly recommend that you travel with insurance for complete peace of mind. Please click https://safetywing.com/nomad-insurance
What should I wear? Is there a dress code?
It depends on which project you have chosen. Some projects require formal dressing. Therefore, packing a few formal clothes won’t harm
Do I need to be fit/in shape for my project?
We should always be healthy and maintain our fitness. However, it depends on the project you choose and you should always be ready to work.
How old do I have to be?
We accept participants aged from 6Y and above. Participants under the age of 18 must travel with a parent or legal guardian. There is no upper age limit however, we recommend participants to check with the program options that are available.
How can I prepare mentally?
Our Culture week program covers most of the topics including culture shock and how to adapt to Culture and Traditions. One should come with an open mind. We suggest you to go through the program guide.
Do I need travel insurance for the tour?
We strongly advise obtaining travel insurance during your time abroad. It is an affordable way to ensure peace of mind during your trip. Travel insurance covers potential medical emergencies and the loss of personal belongings. After receiving your booking confirmation, we will provide you with a recommendation on where to purchase travel insurance.
Can I contact other people who have booked onto the same tour as me?
Of course! We encourage everyone to talk over our social networks. You can find a list of them at the bottom of this page. If you’ve joined a tour, we will send you an invite to a dedicated Facebook group made for your tour a few weeks before it starts. Your tour guide and a tour manager will also be in the group to answer any questions you may have.
Can I change by tour date after I have booked?
Yes, please just give us at 28 days’ notice in order to allow another traveller to take your spot.
Does it matter if I arrive before my starting date?
No problem at all – just make sure to arrive at the hotel for the starting date of the tour! We can arrange early night’s accommodation at the hotel and airport transfer or provide easy-to-use directions for getting from the airport in Negombo to our hotel where there are many other accommodation options if you prefer to shop around for pricing.
Can I do this tour alone?
Yes, many travellers—both male and female—travel alone throughout Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. Most group members on our trips will be solo travellers and we absolutely love it. Upon arrival, we will pick you up from the airport, you will meet your travel mates and the adventure begins.
Is there an age requirement to join a tour?
We have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old to join the tour. Group members aged 16-17 years old are welcome to join the tour but only with a family member that will act as their guardian whilst on tour. Aside from that, no age requirements at all! While our target age is 18-35, we have had many 35+ year old group members join us on tour. It is more about mindset than anything else so if you are looking for a backpacking experience, with backpacker style accommodation and expectations for transportation and evening activities (always optional), then we invite you to join us for an adventure.
Do I need to submit the full payment to reserve my spot on a tour?
Not at all! The deposit confirms your place on the tour. We kindly ask that you provide the remaining balance no less than 28 days before your tour begins.
Can I change my tour date after I have booked?
Yes, please just give us at 28 days’ notice in order to allow another traveller to take your spot
Can I pay off my tour in installments?
Yes! After placing your deposit, you can pay off the tour in installments of your choosing and at your convenience. The final remaining balance is due at least 28 days before your tour is set to begin.
Do I need any vaccinations?
Yes, please arrange an appointment with your local physician and explain your travel plans. Most hospitals have travel clinics with helpful information and vaccinations on site. We suggest doing this well before your trip is to begin to ensure there are no unexpected waiting periods during this process! Please visit here for more information >>>Link
How does the payment system work?
Your deposit secures your place on the tour. This holds your spot on the tour up until 28 days before your tour is set to begin when the remaining balance is due in full. If payment is not received by this point, your spot on the tour will be cancelled and the spot will be offered to another potential group member. The remaining balance is displayed in your account. Several reminders will go out before this date to remind you of when your payment is due!
What happens when my tour is complete?
We provide transfer to the airport in Negombo on day 15 of the tour. We will arrange this once we receive your flight itinerary. At the hotel, you have free use of the storage room if you want to spend some more time exploring the city before you depart. Or we can give you can head off for another adventure in a new country.
Mobile Phones And SIM Cards
At the arrival lounge of Colombo International Airport, purchase a pre-paid SIM card with data and voice facility either from Dialog or Mobitel, the two major mobile network operators in Sri Lanka.
Climate And Weather
Sri Lankan climate is tropical, with distinct dry and wet seasons in different regions due to elevation. Humidity is generally 80%, not as intense as Thailand or Singapore. Colombo and low-lying coastal regions have a temperature of 28-32ºC. In the hill country the temperature drops, Kandy averages 25ºC, Nuwara Eliya 16ºC with coolish nights. The sea maintains a comfortable average temperature of 28 ºC all year round.
Currency, Credit Cards And ATMs
Sri Lanka’s official currency is Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR). You can easily exchange any major currency notes such as USD, GBP, AUD and Euros at the arrival lounge of Colombo International Airport from a banking counter. If you forget or miss to do it, go to any bank in Sri Lanka in any city for currency exchange. You need to produce your passport for currency exchange in the banks.
Visa and Master Credit cards are widely accepted in Hotels, Restaurants and shops. Make sure you contact your card issuing bank before arriving in Sri Lanka to enable the card to use in Sri Lanka. American Express and Dinners Club Cards are not widely accepted.
ATM machines which supports Visa, Mastercard, Sirrus, Maestro and Plus networks are widely distributed in main and small towns. These will enable you to draw Sri Lankan currency at ease.
Where will I be staying?
During your stay, accommodation is provided in double rooms based on the specified meal plan. Our accommodations primarily consist of shared rooms, though private rooms may be available upon request for an additional fee, subject to availability. Regardless of the room type chosen, we ensure clean, tidy, secure, and basic facilities. If you have specific room preferences, we will do our best to accommodate them. Please note that hotel availability is subject to change until we receive final confirmation of your booking.
What type of food can I expect?
We’re all about serving up tasty veggie and non-veggie dishes, made with simple, fresh, and local ingredients. We’ve got your allergies covered, so no worries there. We’ve got you sorted with yummy meals on weekdays, and two awesome meals on Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays.
What are the included meals like on the Sri Lanka tour?
You will get to sample the best of Sri Lankan food… and it is so, so tasty. Breakfasts are typically Western dishes that you would expect to find back home. Sometimes you will have a buffet-style breakfast, and in other locations, you will have simple eggs on toast with fruit. We get that if you just need to satisfy that craving for a pizza or burger! Western food is usually available everywhere on the tour. As the tour explores different areas of Sri Lanka, you will have the opportunity to taste the various cuisine styles from around the country. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options will also be provided.
Is the street food safe to eat in Sri Lanka?
Yes and so delicious! If you see Sri Lankan locals eating it then that’s the best indication that the food is safe. Tip: Eat where the locals eat; the longer the queue the more delicious you can assume the food will be. But as with anything, use caution. If something looks or smells suspect, better to leave it alone. And never drink from the tap! We thought we had to mention this in case the idea ever crosses your mind!
Do you offer vegetarian options for included meals?
Vegetarians will be happy to know that Sri Lanka is very accommodating for vegetarians. Your tour guide can instruct any kitchen to create a local dish without meat. The meals will always have a vegetarian option. Please note vegan diets may not be available for some included meals.
What are some traditional dishes to try in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka offers a rich culinary heritage with must-try dishes like:
- Hoppers: Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour, often enjoyed with toppings like egg or chutneys.
- Kottu Roti: Stir-fried shredded roti bread with vegetables and meat or seafood, a beloved street food.
- Pol Sambol: Versatile coconut relish with chili flakes, red onions, and lime juice, adding flavor to various dishes.
- Watalappan: Smooth, creamy dessert made from jaggery, coconut milk, eggs, and spices.
- Rice and Curry: Fragrant rice served with an assortment of flavorful curries.
- Fish Ambul Thiyal: Tangy and spicy fish curry featuring chunks of fish cooked with a blend of spices, including dried goraka.
These dishes offer a delicious glimpse into Sri Lanka’s diverse culinary scene.
When should I arrange my flights?
Please wait for a confirmation email; this will provide information about when we recommend arriving and to depart. We recommend using Sky Scanner to arrange your flights.
We will provide you with airport transfer information 1-week before the tour/program begins
Which airport should I book my flights into and out of Sri Lanka?
Please arrange your flights to and from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). Feel free to arrive at any time, we provide transfers all day. Please note that your accommodation may not be ready until 2 PM. You can also book extra accommodation from your account, (this includes airport transfer and breakfast.
How does the airport transfer work?
After you have booked your tour and received confirmation from us, you can begin searching for flights. When you have booked your flight, please login to your account and enter the flight details under Flight Details. Please note that airport transfer is included in the cost of the tour and is available from 4 am – midnight on day 1 of your tour in Negombo (Bandaranaike International Airport) and from 5 am – 10 pm on day 15 of your tour also in Negombo. If you would like to come a few days early or extend your stay to get the most of your 30 day visa, then you can book extra days accommodation through our Additional Trips page located on the My Account page. This price includes airport transfer, whereas if you decide to book separate accommodation then airport transfer is restricted to days 1 and 15 of your trip.
Do I need a visa for the Sri Lanka trip?
Yes, you will need a pre-arranged visa to enter Sri Lanka. Most all passport holders – with at least 6 months validity remaining on their passport – will be granted a 30-day e-visa that is very simple to arrange online. You can find the government website for this process by clicking here(www.eta.gov.lk). The cost of the visa upon arrival at either airport is $20 USD. Please allow at least three days for the evisa to process. If you have any questions about the process, we’re always here to help!
Must my flight arrive at a certain time?
We recommend arriving before 4pm on day 1 of your tour. Check in at the hotel on day 1 is at 2 pm with early check in available subject to hotel vacancy. You are free to use the hotel facilities – including the pool – and leave your bags in a secure place if you arrive early before checking in. On departure, we suggest leaving after 12pm in order to enjoy a final breakfast with everyone but if you can find a cheaper flight early in the day, that’s no problem at all! Just let us know your flight details in the ‘Login’ area. If your flight arrives before the starting date, we can arrange extra accommodation which includes hotel transfer and breakfast. Please let us know if you want us to arrange this for you.
How does the payment system work?
Your deposit ensures your reservation for the tour or program. It guarantees your spot until 60 days prior to the scheduled commencement date, at which time the outstanding balance must be settled in full. Failure to complete payment by the specified deadline will result in the cancellation of your reservation, and the vacancy may be offered to another prospective participant. The remaining balance can be found in your account, and multiple reminders will be sent in advance of the due date to ensure timely payment.
When will my booking be confirmed?
For group tours, your place will be confirmed when 6 or more people have signed up and at least four weeks (28 days) prior to the start of your tour. For private bookings, please wait 2-3 working days.We will refund you the total amount if the tour is cancelled. Typically, group tours are confirmed six months before departure.
When are the tours confirmed?
Your place will be confirmed when 6 or more people have signed up for your tour and at least four weeks (28 days) prior to the start of your tour. After booking, we will email you to confirm and we will refund you the full amount if the tour is cancelled. Typically, tours are confirmed six months before departure.
Is there a dress code for entering the temples and other religious sites?
Yes, the dress code is seen as a show of respect to the culture, temple and monks that often live in the temples. Men should wear long pants and no cut-off sleeves. Women should wear trousers, a long skirt, or dress that extends fully below the knees and covers their shoulders – the knees should be fully covered. Tank tops and low cut shirts should also be avoided by both genders.
Will I have time to do laundry while I'm away?
Yes, please! Most accommodation offers the chance to do your washing at very reasonable prices.
What type of luggage should I use?
Backpacks are preferred and will be more convenient for you but suitcases work, too. You’ll never have to carry your luggage for too long at any one time. Try to find something that’s easily accessible and waterproof if possible. And please bring a smaller daypack for short trips throughout the tour.
What should I bring with me?
We recommend the following: – 1 pair of long trousers – 1 light but waterproof jacket (Nothing too thick!) – Simple padlock to lock up your belongings – 1 long sleeved top – 1 electrical converter (to avoid blowing out that hairdryer or beard trimmer) – Shoes that are suitable for hiking – Waterproof shoes if you have them – Shoes that are easily removed. (Upon entering temples and many buildings you will be expected to remove your shoes as a sign of respect. The easier, the better.) – Swimwear – A camera is highly suggested to remember your experience! – Insect repellent – Sunscreen. Lots of sunscreen And of course, the usual: passport, spending money, adventurous curiosity, positive attitude, etc!
Can I make changes to my itinerary or extend my stay after I have booked my trip?
This can be possible depending on the availability of accommodation and the project that you have chosen. We will try our best to accommodate your request.
Do we have free time to do our own things?
You sure do. After you finish for the day during weekdays, it is your free time to do whatever you like.However, we request you to follow the rules, that are explained to you, at all times. Saturdays and Sundays is your free days.
Can I skip parts of the itinerary?
Yes! This is your own time to explore Sri Lanka as you please. If you want to stay back at the hotel to relax or want to explore a bit on your own, just let your tour guide know.