Water
Buy bottle of water for drinking purposes. Avoid drinking
water from taps.
Beaches
The sea can be very appealing, at the same time very
dangerous. Do not swim where warning signs such as flags are
put.
Thievery
Sri Lanka has it's fair share of thieves and pickpockets,
but taking proper precautions - such as not openly flaunting
your wealth - can help keep you safe. Also, sleep with doors
locked ( if you're on the ground floor, keep the windows
closed too), and when moving around, always eye on your
belonging - unattended stuff disappears very fast.
Women Travelers
As in almost any other developing country of Asia, in Sri
Lanka too, women travelers - specially if they happen to be
traveling on their own - need to be careful. Dress modestly
and that means wearing trousers, or skirts that preferably
reach well below your knees and try, as far as possible, to
avoid lonely and deserted areas. Keep your belongings close
to you and sleep with doors and windows locked. It's
unfortunate, but a fact that in much of South East Asia
white woman generally considered to be a 'Fast' - don't give
people an opportunity to believe that is true of you.
Sunshine
Use a good sun tan lotion if staying in the sun for long
hours. The afternoon sun can be very hot. It's good to wear
hats, and cotton clothes. Drink Plenty of water.