My favorite visa-free country so far has appeared!!!

🇱🇰 Though small in size, this island nation in the Indian Ocean packs beaches, historical sites, wildlife, tea plantations, and delicious cuisine—truly the "ultimate blind box for travelers." 💐 Essentials Checklist Passport + passport holder + copies (store digital copies in the cloud) Wallet (for storing spare SIM cards or coins) VISA card + security lock, UnionPay card (as backup in case VISA fails) Cash (~2000 RMB equivalent, exchangeable during the trip) Universal adapter (Sri Lanka has varied plug standards) Mugwort sticks/patches (crucial for seaside rheumatism relief) Travel insurance (keep digital copy handy) Gear: Sun protection: outdoor/beach/sun hats, high-SPF sunscreen Skincare: cleanser, moisturizer, after-sun care, face masks Sunglasses/contact lenses + solution Portable thermos (only iced water available locally) Power bank (high temps drain phone batteries fast) Toothbrush, toothpaste, tissues Mosquito repellent patches/spray 🌷 Clothing: Tank tops, shorts (pack a sunshirt if prone to burns) Long pants/skirt for temples (quick-dry pants double for safaris) Light jacket (airports/vehicles get chilly) Vibrant resort dresses (photogenic!) Swimwear (bikinis work for pools/beaches) Sneakers + sandals Extra socks (laundry may be inconvenient) Spare underwear Separate bags for clean/dirty clothes 🛩️ Long-haul flight prep: Slippers (for swollen feet during flights) Neck pillow/eye mask (better sleep) Shawl/scarf (planes/buses are cold) Pre-downloaded videos/podcasts or a pocket book Headphones (essential for in-flight entertainment) Post-landing: Connect to airport WiFi (revival begins!) Get a Dialog SIM (10GB suffices—hotels have WiFi) Exchange currency (include small bills for tips, or regret later) 💰 Tipping guide: Hotel porters: 100-200 LKR per bag Driver: $10 total/day (VIP rate if solo) Sigiriya "guides" (scammers!): Ignore or haggle down 75% Beach boys: Avoid engagement Safari staff: 2000 LKR per jeep Stilt fishermen: 500 LKR per photo op