Sri Lanka travel ban lifted

Many Britons looking to travel to Sri Lanka this year should be glad to hear that the British Foreign Office lifted its travel ban restricting travel to Sri Lanka this week. Previously travel was restricted in the northern districts (including Mullaitivu, Vavuniya, Kilinochichi and Mannar) because of violent fighting between the government army and the national separatists.

So if tourism is up by 50% to Sri Lanka since this time last year, where is everyone going?

Arugam Bay.

Considered the most traveller-friendly village in Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay is a surfer's paradise with a touch of Asia. The best waves come in between April and October. Surfers come from all over the world to catch a wave or two from one of the nearby beaches. Everyone else enjoys watching of course, while enjoying local seafood and other local delights.

When tourist season dies down, the village loses its party scene and quiets down. It's a perfect place for a quieter holiday and a chance to swim in the calm waters. No matter what time of year, there are endless opportunities to see exotic birds, crocodiles and even some elephants.

Little did I know that Sri Lanka is also a completely affordable travel destination as well. Emirates, Kuwait Airways, Kingfisher Airways, among others, fly from London. You can find cheap flights to Sri Lanka for as little as £300.

Although the Foreign Office says that the travel ban is lifted they still recommend practising some caution. Westerners also need to adjust to Eastern culture; here are just a few things to keep in mind when travelling to Sri Lanka:

• Remove your shoes and wear respectful clothing while visiting any temples. It's also customary to remove your shoes before entering anyone's home.

• Never touch the top of Buddhist monks, even the children who are practising at the temple.

• Do not by any means turn your back to a Buddha statue, this means even posing for a photograph. Of course this only applies to being within a reasonable distance of the statue. If you're unsure, just follow what the locals are doing.

• It's illegal to be nude in public in Sri Lanka. This including skinny dipping in the ocean.

• Use your right hand when shaking hands, handing over money, etc.

• Public signs of affection are usually frowned upon such as kissing or hugging. It's considered culturally only something that happens in the privacy of the home, in private. This is only really acceptable at private parties, in casinos, nightclubs, etc but not in the streets. Locals are however quite lenient towards foreigners.