It’s best to wear closed-toe shoes.

Do take in a Singhalese or Tamil musical performance at night. Many hotels offer dinner and performance packages, which sometimes include fire-walking

Do handle all security delays as the Sri Lankans do—with a smile.

Do try arrack, an alcoholic beverage made from fermented coconut milk.

Do send postcards from post offices, and ask the attendant to cancel the stamp, or it’s unlikely the postcard will reach its destination.

Do be aware that not all "gem museums" in Ratnapura are true museums—some are nothing more than showrooms.

Do take along toiletries, cosmetics, medicine and film.

Do declare all currency and traveler’s checks upon arrival. Change money only with authorized dealers (not on the black market), and keep all currency-exchange receipts to show upon departure.

Do watch your step—Sri Lanka leads the world in death by snake bite per capita..

Don’t approach men who are crouching alone. At first glance they may appear to be entranced in prayer, but they are probably relieving themselves.

Don’t buy the Sri Lankan version of fast food—the curried lamb, fish or vegetables wrapped in newspaper. Their cleanliness is marginal.

Don’t drink tropical fruit juices except in clean restaurants.

Don’t wear skimpy clothing at holy sites or on city streets.

Don’t expect to find a line at a bank, post office or anywhere else. Sri Lankans don’t form lines, so don’t be shy about pushing forward.

Don’t wander into the countryside without first checking locally to see if it’s safe.

Don’t forget to take off your shoes if you enter a temple or mosque.

Don’t take pictures of people unless you ask their permission.

Don’t take photos of people if there are religious buildings or shrines in the background (posing next to a Buddha is especially frowned upon).