Sri Lanka Foodie Tour

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), surcharges may apply

• 10 nights of premium 4 and 5-star accommodation

• 13 mouthwatering meals including traditional hands-on cooking experiences

• English-speaking tour guides
• Airline taxes and surcharges

• Transportation by private air conditioned vehicles

• Return airport transfers, including meet and assist

• Arrive Early: Arrive up to 60 days before your tour starts (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stay Behind: Return up to 60 days after your tour concludes (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location (see checkout for details)
• Optional Tours: Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary (see checkout for details)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class (see checkout for details)
• Preferred Airline: Fly with a preferred airline (see checkout for details)

Please note: Extra charges may apply, see the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details

Today, you'll depart from Australia (or New Zealand) for Negombo (Colombo), Sri Lanka!

Upon your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by a tour representative who will be on hand to assist with your transfer to the bustling capital city of Colombo. Your friendly chauffeur guide will take you to your hotel, where you can check in and unwind after your journey.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, exploring the vibrant cityscape or simply relaxing at your hotel.

Overnight: Galle Face Hotel, Colombo

Meals included: In-Flight

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you'll set off for a guided city tour of Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling trade capital. As you journey through this vibrant city, you'll witness its unique blend of old and new. While modern skyscrapers and luxury apartments have transformed much of the skyline, pockets of Colombo still exude historic charm. Discover colonial-era landmarks like the 100-year-old clock tower built by the British, as well as other well-preserved colonial buildings.

Your tour will also take you to see key highlights such as Independence Square, a symbol of Sri Lanka's freedom. Stop at the striking Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre, known for its lotus-shaped design, and the bustling Pettah Bazaar which is famous for its vibrant markets. You'll then head to the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), a monument to Sri Lanka's diplomatic ties.

Afterwards. you'll take a tantalising street food tour where aromas of sizzling spices and fresh ingredients fill the air. Dive into the local flavours with a stroll through bustling markets and hidden alleyways, sampling iconic dishes like hoppers, kottu roti and spicy fish ambul thiyal. Discover the art of Sri Lankan cuisine as you watch skilled vendors craft mouthwatering delights right before your eyes. Whether savouring a freshly fried samosa or sipping on a refreshing king coconut, this culinary adventure promises an unforgettable taste of Colombo's rich and diverse food culture.

Optional Activity: Dinner at Ministry of Crab Restaurant
On tour, you will have the option of joining the group for the evening at the world-famous Ministry of Crab restaurant. Dining will be at your own expense. Please see current details in Important Information.

Overnight: Galle Face Hotel, Colombo

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before checking out of your hotel and departing for Pinnawala, a charming village that is home to the world-famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Founded in 1975, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage has been a sanctuary for orphaned and injured elephants, some of whom have overcome incredible odds like those who are three-legged. To date, over 20 calves have been born here and some of the older elephants have even seen their grandchildren.

As you arrive at this 25-acre coconut plantation, be prepared for a truly heartwarming experience. Witness the remarkable care and dedication that goes into preserving these magnificent creatures, making this a visit you'll never forget. Watch as playful baby elephants are bottle-fed by their caretakers or observe them roaming freely across the grounds, exuding a gentle presence that captivates visitors of all ages.

Afterwards, you'll continue driving to Habarana to check into the hotel. This afternoon offers an exciting optional tour that shouldn't be missed.

Later this evening, enjoy a traditional dinner in a mud hut, depicting how traditional Sri Lankan life used to be whilst discovering everything about the most basic yet essential element of any Sri Lankan meal, the “roti”.

Optional Activity: Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Begin your ascent by passing through the towering 'Lion Paws' entrance, offering stunning views of the meticulously designed royal gardens below. As you make your way up, you'll be surrounded by imposing ramparts and moats, reminiscent of a mythical 'City of the Gods.' The Lion Rock itself is adorned with vibrant frescoes that bear a striking resemblance to the Gupta-style paintings of the Ajanta caves in India. Walk along the historic 'Mirror Wall,' once polished to a mirror-like finish, now etched with centuries-old graffiti that reveals the thoughts and feelings of ancient visitors.

If time allows, visit the museum at the base of Sigiriya to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this ancient fortress. Here, you'll learn about the innovative irrigation systems and grand vision of King Kasyapa, who transformed this rock into a floating palace above his kingdom. This optional excursion to Sigiriya is sure to be a highlight of your journey through Sri Lanka, offering a glimpse into the island's rich and storied past. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

After breakfast, embark on a journey to explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the island’s medieval capital which thrived during the 11th and 12th centuries AD. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, Polonnaruwa offers a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history, with many of its ruins remarkably well-preserved.

Begin your exploration at the great Parakrama Samudra, an impressive artificial lake spanning 6,000 acres. This vast body of water, created to support the city’s irrigation needs, still feeds a network of canals and minor tanks today. Wander through the ruins of the Royal Palace and marvel at the Gal Viharaya, a striking rock temple featuring four magnificent statues of the Buddha in 'Upright', 'Seated' and 'Reclining' postures.

You'll then continue to the Audience Hall, the ornate Lotus Bath and the imposing statue of King Parakramabahu. This is your chance to admire monuments of historic religious significance including the Shiva Temple, Lankathilaka, Vatadage, Galpotha, Kiri Vehera, and the remnants of the former Temple of the Tooth Relic.

Afterwards, you'll head to the hotel for a brief rest before heading to Waan Dora for a unique culinary experience. Here, you will participate in a hands-on cooking class where you'll learn to prepare a variety of traditional Sri Lankan dishes. Enjoy your meal served on a lotus leaf, savouring the authentic flavours while overlooking serene paddy fields.

This afternoon you can opt to take part in an optional safari at Minneriya National Park.

Optional Activity: Minneriya National Park Safari
If you're up for a serious rumble in the jungle, Minneriya is the place to go! Spread over 88 square kilometres, it's a sanctuary for elephants and home to herds of deer and ample birdlife. Your jeep will park on the bank of the reservoir with its engine switched off. You'll have the opportunity to see herds of elephants roll onto the grass-covered banks to feed on tender shoots. In fact, at certain times of the year, this is the largest elephant gathering in the world with over 300 at a time. It's an absolute must-do for wildlife enthusiasts. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Please note: If Minneriya National Park is flooded during the rainy season, you will visit Kaudulla or Eco National Parks as alternative options.

Overnight: Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

After breakfast, you'll check out of your hotel and set off to Kandy, a city that blends history and culture with natural beauty.

Upon arrival, embark on a guided city tour of the last royal capital of Sri Lankan kings and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming lakeside town, nestled amidst misty hills, was last ruled by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe before falling to British rule in 1815. As you explore, you'll discover why Kandy captivates visitors from around the world with its rich tapestry of culture, history and heritage.

Stroll through the lively streets and make a stop at the Kandy City Centre where you can browse a variety of world-class brands, local bazaars and more. Take in the vibrant colours and aromas of the nearby Kandy Market, filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, offering a true taste of local life.

Conclude your day with a captivating cultural show where you'll experience the rhythm and energy of traditional music and drumming. This enchanting performance will provide a perfect end to your day in Kandy, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.

Overnight: The Grand Kandyan Hotel, Kandy

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, set off for a unique culinary adventure at the Kandyan Manor House. Begin your experience with a visit to the bustling local market in Kandy, accompanied by a member of the Kandyan Manor family. Here, you’ll select the freshest fish and vegetables, ensuring only the best ingredients for your meal.

Following your market visit, return to the Kandyan Manor for an immersive cookery demonstration, focused on authentic upcountry cuisine. Under the guidance of an experienced local cook, you will learn the secrets of preparing a traditional Sri Lankan meal. The comprehensive program is designed to introduce you to the exotic flavours and techniques of Sri Lankan cooking. You’ll have the opportunity to watch and participate as the cook prepares a typical Sri Lankan menu, featuring a variety of popular dishes such as fish curry, prawn curry, lentils, vegetable curries, sambal and rice.

This hands-on experience is a perfect way to delve into the culinary heritage of Sri Lanka, leaving you with new skills and a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich flavours.

Please note: Depending on the market's daily catch, ingredients may vary.

Overnight: The Grand Kandyan Hotel, Kandy

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Nuwara Eliya. The city is often referred to as "Little England" for its charming colonial architecture and cool climate.

Along the way, you'll stop to visit a tea factory and plantation where you’ll delve into the rich heritage of Sri Lanka's world-famous tea industry. As you wind through the misty hills, you'll be surrounded by lush green tea plantations that stretch as far as the eye can see. Step inside a traditional tea factory to witness the intricate process of transforming fresh tea leaves into the prestigious Ceylon Tea. Experience the sights and sounds of the production line while inhaling the delightful aroma of tea being processed. Conclude your visit with a perfectly brewed cup of pure Ceylon Tea, savouring the flavours that have made this tea world-renowned.

Afterwards, you'll continue to Nuwara Eliya where you can check in to your hotel. Nestled amidst misty mountains and rolling green hills, Nuwara Eliya offers a taste of the British colonial era with its charming bungalows, manicured hedgerows and one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in the world.

Take a leisurely stroll through the town where the crisp mountain air and serene landscapes create a relaxing atmosphere. Wander through the green fields and past red-brick walls, or opt to take a scenic drive through verdant valleys dotted with cascading waterfalls and vibrant tea pluckers in brightly coloured saris. For a different perspective, you can rent a bike and enjoy a gentle ride along the picturesque shores of Lake Gregory.

Overnight: The Blackpool Hotel, Nuwara Eliya

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and set off to Udawalawe, a destination renowned for its wildlife and natural beauty.

Upon arrival, you'll visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transfer Home which is located within the Udawalawe National Park. Established in 1995 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, this facility is dedicated to the rehabilitation of orphaned elephant calves with the ultimate goal of releasing them back into the wild. The sanctuary plays a crucial role in conserving Sri Lanka’s elephant population, providing orphaned calves with the care and training they need to survive in their natural habitat. The elephants are housed within a section of the national park, allowing them to remain familiar with their natural environment while receiving essential food and medical care.

Optional Activity: Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari
For those seeking more adventure, an optional afternoon jeep safari at Udawalawe National Park is a must. This park is renowned for its impressive elephant population, offering one of the best opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures in the wild. Climb into a safari jeep and embark on an exciting journey through the park. As you traverse the rugged terrain, you’re likely to encounter large herds of elephants. Keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife such as spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, water buffalo and jackals.

Overnight: Centauria Wild, Udawalawe

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and begin your journey to Kosgoda with an enriching stop in the historic city of Galle.

Upon arrival in Galle, you'll set off on a guided city tour to discover the vibrant blend of history and culture that defines this southern gem. Galle, the capital of the south, is where classic Dutch architecture meets a tropical setting, creating a unique and picturesque atmosphere. Stroll through the streets of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort and listen to the echoes of the past as you walk on the cobblestone paths lined with old wooden saloon doors.

Explore the well-preserved ramparts and bastions that have stood for over 3 centuries, showcasing the enduring legacy of Dutch colonial influence. Walk clockwise around the fort to see the Old Gate which still bears the British coat of arms, a reminder of the island’s colonial past. Nearby, you’ll find the Zwart Bastion which is the oldest bastion in the fort, and the iconic lighthouse standing tall at 5 metres next to the Point Utrecht Bastion.

As you wander through the streets, admire the Dutch colonial-style verandas of the houses which are a charming and distinct architectural feature. Make a stop at the Dutch Hospital Shopping Complex where you can browse through a variety of shops offering unique souvenirs. Beyond its historic allure, the fort remains a lively community with its administrative offices, court complex, commercial buildings, churches and local residents who bring life to its storied streets.

Afterwards, you'll continue your journey to Kosgoda where you'll visit a renowned turtle hatchery. This experience is both educational and inspiring, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts to protect these incredible sea creatures. At the hatchery, you'll discover the life cycle of sea turtles who travel thousands of miles across the ocean during their lifetime. Remarkably, when it's time to lay their eggs, female turtles return to the very same beach where they were born.

At the hatchery, you can witness the vital conservation work being done to safeguard the eggs and support the hatching of baby turtles, giving them the best chance of survival before they're released back into the ocean. This visit not only allows you to observe the wonder of these ancient mariners up close but also offers a meaningful way to contribute to the preservation of their species.

Overnight: Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort, Kosgoda

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, embark on a captivating village tour with a visit to Cinnamon Island where you'll explore a cinnamon plantation and learn about the fascinating process of cinnamon production.

During your tour, you'll be guided through each step of the cinnamon-making process from scraping the bark off the trees to preparing the spice for drying. Discover the traditional methods used to harvest and process this beloved spice, and learn about the various health benefits that make cinnamon a staple in kitchens worldwide.

As you explore the plantation, you'll notice how the wooden cores of the cinnamon trees are ingeniously repurposed to adorn the walls of beautiful villas. Witness the areas where cinnamon is carefully dried for weeks to create aromatic cinnamon powder. Take in the delightful fragrance of the spice in the air and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of cinnamon tea, enhancing your appreciation for this versatile spice.

The serene waters surrounding Cinnamon Island are teeming with fish, offering a unique experience. Dip your feet into a shallow water hole brimming with fish and enjoy a natural fish pedicure as the fish gently nibble at your feet. This relaxing activity is the perfect way to round off your visit to this charming island.

Overnight: Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort, Kosgoda

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast today, get ready for checkout and your transfer to Negombo. Since your flight will not depart until late evening, access to common areas including a pool at a hotel in nearby Negombo will be provided so you may relax before transferring to the airport for your departure flight home.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Meals included: None

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.

Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information. 

Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.

Cancellation and Refund Policy
By placing a booking with us, you acknowledge the following important information:
• we act as your booking agent: TripADeal is a booking services provider, and curates the Travel Offers available on our website. We act as your booking agent, and we receive payment for the Booking Services as part of the booking price, however, we do not provide any of the Travel Services (flights, accommodation, tours or other products or services) included in your booking – the Travel Services are provided by a number of third party Travel Suppliers.
• each booking is unique: our Travel Offers are made up of a variety of different components and are, during the booking process, uniquely tailored to suit your requirements, for example, departure dates and ports, flight and room upgrades, tour inclusions, etc.
• changes/modifications to your booking may not be possible: once your booking has been made, changes or modifications may not be possible, and where possible, may incur a fee. It is important to ensure that the information you provide during the booking process is accurate and up to date, and that you read the Travel Offer carefully before placing your order.
• Travel Offers are a package: our Travel Offers have been curated into package offerings and must be used as a package – individual components cannot be used independently of the full package offering.
• our Travel Offers are generally non-refundable: in order to provide great value Travel Offers, we work with a variety of Travel Suppliers to find the best deals – this often means the Travel Suppliers’ offerings are non-refundable to ensure the best price. We recommend that you obtain travel insurance as soon as you make a booking with us.
To read more about our Cancellation and Refund Policy, please click here.

General Terms and Conditions
By placing your booking with us, you acknowledge and agree to our Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy and Cancellation Policy.

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 19th October 2025.

Minimum group size 15, maximum group size 20 per vehicle.

This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share.

Departure Dates         
2025
March: ^23
April: °6, ^^20, 27
May: 4, 11, 18, 25
June: 1, *15
August: *3, *17
September: 7, 14, *21
October: *5, 19

Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability.

Surcharges
Please note: 
• Dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $200 per person.
• Dates/months with a ^ incur a high season surcharge of $300 per person.
• Dates/months with a ^^ incur a high season surcharge of $400 per person.
• Dates/months with a ° incur a high season surcharge of $650 per person.

Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement of $960 applies. 

Please note: Accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability.

Child Policy
• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.
• Valid for children 8 years old and over.
Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.

Departure Cities         
Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, *Adelaide, Perth, *Auckland

Departure City Surcharges
• Brisbane: $200 per person
• Adelaide: $300 per person
• Auckland: $500 per person

International Flight(s)
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 

Preferred Airline Surcharge
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Singapore Airlines: $300 per person 
Please note: 
• Preferred airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Preferred airline refers to the marketing carrier and could include codeshare partners. 

Arrive Early and Stay Behind Options
Arrive Early
Negombo, Sri Lanka - From $300 per person, subject to availability.

Stay Behind
Negombo, Sri Lanka - From $300 per person, subject to availability.

Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• Flight booking changes or cancellations after air tickets have been issued are not guaranteed and may incur additional fees and fare difference, subject to the airline cancellation and change policies.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high-season Arrive Early or Stay Behind can be purchased for an additional charge, subject to availability. For pricing, please refer to the cart.
• An Arrive Early or Stay Behind can only be booked up to 60 days prior to your package’s start date, or after your package's end date. Should you wish to arrive earlier or stay behind for more than 60 days, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
• 6 December 2024 - 31 January 2025
• 28 March 2025 - 27 April 2025
• 16 June 2025 - 20 July 2025
• 15 September 2025 - 12 October 2025
• 1 December 2025 - 31 January 2026
• 3 April 2026 - 20 April 2026
• 26 June 2026 - 17 July 2026
• 18 September 2026 - 9 October 2026
• 12 December 2026 - 26 January 2027

Stopover Packages  
• Singapore
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Includes:
• 2, 3 or 5 nights in 4-star accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Return airport transfers 
For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note: 
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used.
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind.
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
23rd December 2024 - 3rd January 2025
2nd October 2025 - 8th October 2025 (Singapore only)
22nd December 2025 - 2nd January 2026

Flight Class Upgrades
Business or Premium Economy Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed

Missed Flights 
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements. 

Accommodation Used
Premium 4 & 5-Star Properties (Self-Rated)
• Colombo: Galle Face Hotel
• Habarana: Cinnamon Lodge
• Kandy: The Grand Kandyan Hotel
• Nuwara Eliya: The Blackpool Hotel
• Udawalawe: Centauria Wild 
• Kosgoda: Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.
 
Extra Nights
Not available. 
Please note: If you are interested in booking additional nights of accommodation pre or post-tour, please wait until you receive your travel documentation approximately 4-6 weeks before departure for the confirmed list of hotels. If booking your own additional accommodation directly with the hotel, please be aware that you may be required to change rooms at the start/end of your tour. 
 
Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.
 
Triple Share
Not available. 

Bedding Configuration
Twin or double (subject to availability).

• Day 2: Dinner at Ministry of Crab Restaurant (not available at checkout - payable directly on tour in the currency specified)
• Day 3: Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress - $80 AUD per person
• Day 4: Minneriya National Park Safari - $130 AUD per person
• Day 8: Jeep Safari at Udawalawe National Park - $140 AUD per person

Please note:
• The optional tours listed above, unless stated otherwise, must be purchased on checkout or over the phone before submitting your passenger information form (subject to availability). 
• Some tours require minimum numbers to operate.

• Visa fees and requirements 
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer
• Optional gratuities/tipping 
• Optional activities/tours 
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Any costs associated with an interruption to your tour as a result of an airline schedule change or cancellation
• Mandatory city tax

Land
Gratuities (tips) are not included for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The recommended tip is 2000 LKR (approximately $12 AUD) per person per day. This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour. 

Please note: Tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 

Tour Leader
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 

Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 

CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Sri Lanka is a year-round destination with two monsoon seasons so there is a lot of confusion around when is the best time to visit. The weather doesn’t run like clockwork here! However, there will rarely be weather so dramatic that it will stand in the way of a brilliant holiday with plenty of warm weather and sunshine. The temperature is constant at around 27°C on the coast, both the air and the water!

FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

Passport Validity
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

COACH TOUR
Meals
For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements. 

Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.

Luggage
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

OTHER
Mobility
If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.

Fitness Level Required
A moderate level of fitness will be required. Expect a moderate pace of touring with a focus on guided tours that may include full days with extended activity, guided city tours or nature walks. You will require a general level of fitness for unassisted navigation of stairs and inclines, longer distances with possible periods of standing when visiting sites, walking on sloping, uneven ground or elevations. You will be responsible for your own luggage and have the ability to board all modes of transport without assistance. Please note: Many areas may be inaccessible to wheelchairs or mobility scooters, where the unassisted use of personal walking sticks and other aids may be required. Although some assistance may be available, every traveller should be self-reliant during all aspects of their travel.

Please note:
• It is expected that every traveller be self-reliant and able to undertake all aspects of their own travel. Please speak to your booking agent about your personal circumstances and any assistance requirements to
ensure this tour is right for you.
• If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

Sightseeing
Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

Shopping
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

Sri Lanka
A tourist visa for Sri Lanka is a strict requirement if travelling on an Australian or New Zealand Passport. You will need a visa in the form of an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. Limited facilities to obtain an ETA are available at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport, however ETA's can be obtained prior to departure.

Important: Please check with the nearest Sri Lankan embassy, consulate or immigration department for the current tourist visa requirements and any updates regarding the e-visa for Sri Lanka.

Important: 
• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.
• Visa rules are subject to change. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination/s you are visiting once you receive your travel documentation to ensure you have the most up to date information.
• It is your responsibility to be travel-ready and ensure that you are aware and comply with any destination or travel requirements, including the validity of all required travel documents.
• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Embarking on your next trip is exciting, and while you hope the unexpected does not happen, it is best to be prepared. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance when making your booking. Whether it’s a potential medical emergency, a flight cancellation, a delayed suitcase, or an unforeseen event, it's important to ensure you're adequately protected. For more information or advice visit https://www.tripadeal.com.au/travel-insurance

Voluntary Changes
This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

Supplier Fees
In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.