Are you planning a holiday to Sri Lanka? The sunny island is full of delightful surprises including beach days, wildlife, luxury camping, green spaces, heritage sites and indulgent fun. Unless you’re planning a luxury vacation on a cruise, flying is the only option to reach the island. Let’s talk about reaching Sri Lanka, getting around and how to prepare for a holiday in the island nation.

The main and functioning airport in the country is called the BIA (Bandaranaike International Airport). You can find flights from Europe, USA, India and Australia to Sri Lanka. But direct flights might be a bit hard to get. You might need to prepare for a layover in Dubai or Singapore. Sri Lankan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Malaysia Airlines, China Eastern, Gulf Air, Air Asia and Cathay Pacific fly to Sri Lanka. Book your tickets in advance to avoid hefty prices. The same goes for Sri Lanka hotel bookings. Check with properties by Avani Hotels & Resorts for early booking deals.

You can apply for a visa online for stays up to 30 days. Simply visit their official website, and the process is fairly straightforward. If you’re planning for a longer stay, contact the Sri Lankan embassy in your country. You won’t be able to convert the visa status once in the country.

Check with your hotel to organize a private transfer. This is the most hassle-free way to get to your hotel from the airport. There are taxis outside the arrival area, but the rates are high. Alternatively, you can book a cab online using either Uber or PickMe apps. If you’re planning to use public transport, there is a free shuttle service from the airport to the nearby bus station. Take a bus to Pettah or Fort, and then catch a bus going to your location inland. There is a railway station in Fort. You can also board a train to your first destination.

If you’re looking to travel in comfort, rent a chauffeur-driven car. You can drive in Sri Lanka if you’ve got an international license. But, navigating the road system and traffic can be difficult. Alternatively, download taxi-hailing apps and use those. You can book cars for long-distance travel and Tuk Tuks for short distances.

If you’re planning to use trains to go long distances, use the online system to reserve a seat in advance. Both observation cars and first-class tickets are affordable. It is wise to avoid going to the train station at the last minute for tickets.

Bus rides are inexpensive in Sri Lanka. But, air-conditioned buses offer more comfort than non-air conditioned ones. If you plan on using buses, avoid peak hours from 7am to 9am, 1 30 pm to 2pm and then 4pm to 6pm.

· Plan for a slow-paced indulgent holiday – Book a few spa sessions, and avoid over packing your schedule.

· Always carry cash. Exchange USD to local rupees, and carry some change to pay for small items.

· Pack for a tropical holiday – Bring plenty of sunscreen, bug spray and your sunglasses and hat. Pack a sarong or pashmina to cover yourself when you visit heritage sites. Don’t forget your hiking boots and beach flip flops.

· Plan to relax (not rave) – the island nation is not known for super charged parties. But, you can enjoy lots of leisurely beach days, spa time, slow food and captivating sights.