Archive for the ‘Sri Lanka’ Category
A reminder to U.S. citizens traveling to Sri Lanka – a visa is now required before arriving in the country. Previously, a traveler was granted a no-cost visa upon arrival, valid for 30 days. Now, U.S. citizens must have either an Electronic Travel Authorization or a visa to enter Sri Lanka. Travelers will require an approval notice from Sri Lanka’s new Electronic Travel Authorization System, passport, onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. The application process is completed online or at a Sri Lanka Embassy or Consulate.
Please contact us with any additional questions.
Sri Lanka has re-emerged as a hot destination for savvy travelers. It is an exotic confluence of ancient kingdoms, tropical shorelines, earthy cuisine, tea plantations, and religious sites. Sri Lanka was also recently named one of the top 15 most affordable destinations for 2012. Check out my recent article on Travelhoppers, Sri Lanka: A Paradise Rediscovered, where I explore 5 must-see attractions in the Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean.
It is that time of year to be thankful! Last week, I received an email from Deanna, a Sodha Traveler who visited India and Sri Lanka in September. Deanna was feeling very thankful for her experiences abroad and wanted to share it with our team (reprinted with permission):
As I am making my lists in preparation for the Thanksgiving holiday, my mind keeps wandering to the sounds, sights and smells of my trip. What I am most thankful for this year was the ability to experience such a remarkable part of the world. It was an indulgence. This gratitude extends to you and all of Sodha Travel for planning everything so beautifully. I look forward to sharing my photos and memories with the family at Thanksgiving. Thank you again and wishing you a wonderful holiday.
Thank you, Deanna. We also feel very thankful for the opportunity to meet and serve so many diverse clients. Every traveler has a unique and captivating story!
*In recognition of Thanksgiving, our office will be closed on November 24 and 25. The Sodha Travel team wishes you a wonderful holiday!
As you may have read in our monthly newsletter, Sri Lanka is the August Featured Tour. Many of you have started reserving your packages to the “Emerald Isle” and saving $100 per person!
Sri Lanka is the teardrop island nation that rests at the toe of India. With rows of coconut palms, dense forests and clear waters of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is an incredible offshore garden. In this package, spend 8 days exploring Colombo, Habarana, Kandy and Bentota. Also included is a visit to Pinnawala, the famed elephant orphanage that houses retired, abused, or orphaned elephants. John Richardson once wrote, “Sri Lanka has long been described as a paradise by travelers.” And remember – reserve
As I was sitting here tonight watching the Superbowl, my mind started to drift to another upcoming sporting event. Cricket fans, the time is coming…The 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup will be held between February and April in India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. The opening ceremony will be held in Dhaka, Bangladesh on February 17th with the closing ceremony in Mumbai, India on April 2nd. This will be the 10th Cricket World Cup and Bangladesh’s fist time co-hosting the event.
The following 14 teams qualified for the finals: Canada, West Indies, Kenya, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, England, Ireland, Netherlands, Australia, and New Zealand. In many countries, especially India, cricket is considered more than a game. It is a national pastime. The people come together, sometimes dozens crowding in small rooms, just to watch the matches on television. Traffic jams block the roads, offices shut down, and the priority shifts to this treasured bat and ball team sport.
For a complete list of schedules and teams, as well as updated news, please visit the official ICC Cricket World Cup website.