Guidelines for Colombo (CMB) Layovers

Trains in Sri Lanka:

• Sri Lanka has an extensive railway network connecting major cities and towns.
• Trains are a popular and affordable mode of transportation, offering scenic views of the countryside.
• Crew members can easily access train schedules, routes, and fares online or through mobile applications.
• It is recommended to book train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Buses in Sri Lanka:

• Buses are the most common mode of public transportation in Sri Lanka, offering convenient access to various destinations.
• Sri Lanka has a well-established bus network covering both short and long-distance routes.
• Crew members can find bus terminals and bus stops in major cities, and bus schedules are readily available online and at terminals.
• It is advisable to carry small change as buses usually accept only cash for fares.

Tuk Tuks in Sri Lanka:

• Tuk Tuks, three-wheeled vehicles, are a popular mode of transportation for short distances and exploring local areas.
• They are easily accessible and can be hailed from the roadside or hired through mobile apps.
• Negotiating fares beforehand is common, and it is recommended to agree on the fare or use a metered Tuk Tuk.

Personal Transport Services:

• Crew members can also opt for personal transport services provided by Airlines Crew Tours, a reputed service provider in Sri Lanka for airline members.
• These services offer convenience, comfort, and customized itineraries based on crew members’ preferences.
• Booking personal transport services in advance ensures a hassle-free experience during layovers.

Airlines Crew Tours, as a trusted service provider, can assist crew members in arranging reliable and safe transportation options, including train travel, bus routes, Tuk Tuks, and personal transport services. Enjoy the convenience of exploring Sri Lanka with ease during your layovers while relying on their expertise in catering to the needs of airline members.

If you are staying in Colombo:

• Gangarama Temple: A renowned Buddhist temple known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings.
• Viharamahadevi Park: A lush green park offering a serene escape with walking paths, a lake, and a children’s playground.
• Colombo Zoo: Home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, lions, and birds, providing an opportunity for an enjoyable wildlife experience.
• Colombo Museum: Discover Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture through a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits.
• Shopping Malls in Colombo: Indulge in retail therapy at popular malls like Odel, Liberty Plaza, and Majestic City, offering a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• Cloth Shops in Colombo: Explore the vibrant fashion scene and find unique clothing items at stores like Barefoot, House of Fashion, and Cotton Collection.
• Galle Face: Enjoy breathtaking ocean views, take a leisurely stroll, and savor delicious street food at this iconic promenade.
• Dutch Hospital: A historic building turned into a shopping and dining complex, offering a blend of colonial architecture and modern amenities.
• Red Mosque: Admire the striking architecture of this vibrant mosque, a prominent landmark in Colombo.

If you are staying in Negombo:

• Negombo Beach: Relax on the golden sands, enjoy water sports activities, or simply soak up the sun at this beautiful beach.
• Fish Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the local fish market and witness the daily catch being traded.
• Boat Safari: Embark on a boat safari along the scenic Negombo Lagoon and observe the diverse birdlife and mangrove forests.
• Temples: Visit nearby temples like Angurukaramulla Temple and St. Mary’s Church to explore the religious and cultural heritage of Negombo.
• Ayurveda Massage: Indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage to relax and revitalize your mind and body.
• Shopping in Negombo Alleys: Explore the charming alleys of Negombo and discover local shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional clothing.

Crew members can conveniently arrange tours to these attractions and landmarks through Airlines Crew Tours, a reputed service provider in Sri Lanka catering specifically to airline members. Take advantage of their expertise and local knowledge to make the most of your layovers and explore the nearby highlights of Colombo and Negombo.

Colombo:

• Star Hotels Dining: Experience exquisite dining at renowned star hotels like Taj Samudra, Cinnamon Grand, and Galle Face Hotel, offering a range of international cuisines.
• Food Court Dining: Explore food courts in shopping malls such as Crescat Boulevard and Liberty Plaza, offering a variety of local and international food options.
• Pizza Huts: Enjoy familiar flavors at Pizza Hut outlets located in Colombo, serving delicious pizzas and sides.
• Local Restaurants: Discover authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at local restaurants like Nuga Gama and Raja Bojun, offering a range of traditional dishes.
• Chinese/Japanese/Indian Restaurants: Savor flavors from around the world at popular restaurants such as Chinese Dragon, Nihonbashi, and Mango Tree, specializing in Chinese, Japanese, and Indian cuisines respectively.
• Seafood Restaurants: Indulge in fresh seafood delicacies at renowned restaurants like The Lagoon at Cinnamon Grand and Ministry of Crab, known for its world-famous crab dishes.

Negombo Area:

• Local Food Courts: Explore local food courts like Porutota Food Court and Diklande Food Court, offering a variety of Sri Lankan dishes and street food.
• Restaurants: Discover a range of dining options in Negombo, from casual restaurants serving traditional Sri Lankan food to international cuisine.

Crew members can arrange food taste tours to explore these local dining options through Airlines Crew Tours, a reputed service provider in Sri Lanka catering specifically to airline members. They can guide you to the best dining spots, ensuring you have a memorable culinary experience during your layovers. From luxurious star hotels to local food courts and authentic restaurants, Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of dining options to satisfy every palate.

• Travel Safety: Sri Lanka is considered a safe destination for travelers. The country has made significant progress in terms of security, and incidents that could affect tourists are minimal.
• Friendly and Helpful People: Sri Lankans are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. Locals are often willing to assist tourists and provide guidance when needed.
• Effective Local Police: The local police force is vigilant in maintaining safety and security for both locals and visitors. They work actively to minimize criminal activities and ensure a safe environment for everyone.
• Political Stability: Sri Lanka enjoys political stability, and there are no major protests or collapses at present. The government is focused on maintaining peace and stability across the country.
• Economic Recovery: Sri Lanka’s economy is steadily recovering, with infrastructure development and tourism playing a significant role. This progress contributes to a safer and more stable environment for travelers.
• Safe Tours: Crew members can arrange tours around Sri Lanka with a safe and secure mindset through Airlines Crew Tours, a reputable service provider dedicated to airline members. All vehicles used for transportation are equipped with passenger insurance, and the drivers are professional and experienced in working with tourists and airline members.

These guidelines ensure that crew members can explore Sri Lanka with confidence, knowing that the country prioritizes safety and security. By partnering with Airlines Crew Tours, they can enjoy their layovers and tours in a secure and protected manner.

• Shopping in Colombo: Colombo offers a range of shopping options for crew members to explore during their layovers. Some popular shopping destinations include Odel, One Galle Face Mall, Liberty Plaza, Majestic City, Colombo City Center, Spa Ceylon, Barefoot, Paradise Lane, Lakmedura, and Lakpahana. These places offer a variety of products such as tea, spices, sapphire and gems, handcrafted items, and clothing.
• Shopping in Negombo: Crew members staying in Negombo can also enjoy shopping experiences in this vibrant coastal city. Negombo offers local markets, shops, and alleys where visitors can find unique souvenirs, traditional crafts, and beachwear.
• Shopping Tours: Crew members can make the most of their layovers by arranging shopping tours through Airlines Crew Tours, a reputed service provider dedicated to airline members. These tours provide convenient transportation and guidance, allowing crew members to explore the best shopping destinations and find the perfect souvenirs or items of interest.
• Dance Clubs in Colombo: Colombo boasts a vibrant nightlife with numerous dance clubs where crew members can unwind and have a great time. These clubs feature a variety of music genres and offer lively atmospheres for dancing and socializing.
• Karaoke Clubs in Colombo: For those who love to showcase their singing talent, Colombo has several karaoke clubs where crew members can enjoy a fun-filled evening of singing and entertainment.
• Casinos in Colombo: If you’re feeling lucky, Colombo is home to several world-class casinos where crew members can try their hand at various games of chance. These casinos offer a thrilling and upscale gaming experience.

  These guidelines ensure that crew members have a delightful shopping and entertainment experience during their layovers in Sri Lanka. By availing the services of Airlines Crew Tours, they can embark on curated shopping tours and discover the diverse offerings of the country’s local markets and shopping centers.

• Respect Religions: Sri Lanka is a multi-religious country, and it is important to show respect towards all religions practiced. Be mindful of religious sites, customs, and traditions.
• Remove Shoes When Entering Temples: When visiting temples, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering. This shows reverence and respect for the sacred space.
• No Photos with Buddha Statues: It is considered disrespectful to take photos with Buddha statues, especially if you are posing in a disrespectful manner. Instead, appreciate the statues from a respectful distance.
• No Smoking in Temples: Smoking is not allowed within temple premises. Ensure you adhere to this rule to show respect for the sanctity of the surroundings.
• No Alcohol Consumption in Temples: Consuming alcohol within temple premises is not appropriate. It is important to refrain from drinking alcohol when visiting temples.
• No Handshakes or Hugs with Monks: When interacting with Buddhist monks, it is customary to greet them with a respectful bow rather than shaking hands or hugging.
• Dress Properly When Visiting Temples: To show respect, dress modestly when visiting temples. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing.

These guidelines aim to help crew members navigate the local customs and cultural etiquette in Sri Lanka. By respecting religious practices, adhering to temple rules, and dressing appropriately, crew members can show their appreciation for the local culture. Airlines Crew Tours, a reputed service providing company in Sri Lanka for airline members, can assist in arranging tours that include visits to culturally significant sites.

• Tropical Climate: Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season (December to March) and the wet season (April to November).
• High Temperatures: Average temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) throughout the year, making it warm and humid.
• Rainfall Patterns: The southwest monsoon brings rainfall to the western and southern regions from May to September, while the northeast monsoon affects the eastern and northern parts of the country from November to February.
• Pack Accordingly: When visiting Sri Lanka, it is advisable to pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for hot and humid weather. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
• Be Prepared for Rain: If you are visiting during the wet season, it is recommended to have a compact umbrella or a raincoat handy for sudden showers.
• Coastal Areas: Coastal areas offer a refreshing sea breeze but can be more humid. It is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
• Hill Country: The central hill country, including places like Nuwara Eliya and Ella, experiences cooler temperatures. Layered clothing is recommended for these areas.
• Plan Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the pleasant weather during the dry season for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, beach visits, and hiking.

Crew members can rely on Airlines Crew Tours, a reputed service providing company in Sri Lanka for airline members, to arrange tours and activities that take into account the local weather and climate conditions

• Sinhala: The majority of Sri Lankans speak Sinhala, which is the official language of the country. Learning a few basic Sinhala phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
• English Proficiency: English is widely spoken and understood in Sri Lanka, especially in urban areas, tourist destinations, and among service providers. Communication should not be a major barrier.
• Tamil Language: Tamil is spoken by a minority in Sri Lanka, primarily in the northern and eastern regions. English or Sinhala can generally be used for communication with most Tamil-speaking individuals.
• Language Assistance: Airlines Crew Tours, a reputed service providing company in Sri Lanka for airline members, can arrange for guides who speak different languages based on crew members’ preferences and requirements.
• Translation Apps: If needed, crew members can make use of translation apps on their smartphones to facilitate communication or seek assistance from hotel staff, tour guides, or local authorities.
• Cultural Sensitivity: It is always appreciated to make an effort to learn a few local greetings and phrases, as it shows respect for the local culture and can enhance interactions with the Sri Lankan people.   

• Ayubowan – May you have a long life (Greetings)
• Istuti – Thank you
• Bohoma Istuti – Thank you very much
• Kohomada? – how are you?
• Oya koheda yanne? – Where are you going?
• Mage nama [your name] – My name is [your name]
• Mama hodhin – I’m fine
• Samawenna – Sorry
• Mama – Me/I
• Oya – You

Crew members can rely on Airlines Crew Tours to ensure smooth communication and language assistance during their layovers in Sri Lanka. The company can cater to specific language preferences and provide guides who can facilitate effective communication with locals.

• Currency Exchange: Money can be exchanged at bank outlets located at the airport, as well as through ATMs found throughout the country or at hotel receptions.
• Accepted Currencies: Hotels in Sri Lanka commonly accept LKR, USD and Euro. The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
• ATM Services: ATMs in Sri Lanka accept Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and Union Pay cards for cash withdrawals. They are widely available and convenient.
• Card Acceptance: Many restaurants and hotels accept bank cards for payment, providing convenience for crew members during their layovers.
• Excursion Entrance Tickets: It’s important to note that entrance tickets for excursions and attractions mainly accept Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) as payment.

Crew members can rely on Airlines Crew Tours, a reputed service providing company in Sri Lanka for airline members, to assist with currency exchange, provide information on ATM locations, and ensure smooth financial transactions during their layovers.

• Relaxed COVID-19 Rules: Sri Lanka has relaxed its COVID-19 guidelines. PCR tests or vaccination certificates are no longer required to enter excursion places or public areas.
• Mask Usage: Currently, wearing masks is not mandatory in Sri Lanka. However, it is advisable to follow the recommendations of health authorities and use masks in crowded or enclosed spaces as a precautionary measure.

   

  Crew members can rely on Airlines Crew Tours, a reputed service providing company in Sri Lanka for airline members, to stay updated on the latest COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions. They can assist in organizing safe and enjoyable tours, ensuring the well-being and comfort of crew members during their layovers.