Is it safe to rent a scooter in the south, and do I need an international license?
2 Answers from travellers
Renting a scooter in the south is very popular, but you need to be aware of the laws and the risks.
Legally, your home country license is not enough. You must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) with the motorcycle endorsement. Furthermore, technically, you are supposed to take that IDP to the Automobile Association in Colombo to get it endorsed for Sri Lanka. In practice, police checkpoints in the south usually just look at your IDP. If you only have your home license, or an IDP without the motorcycle stamp, you will be fined (usually around 25,000 LKR).
Regarding safety: the main coastal road (Galle Road) is busy. You will be sharing it with large red public buses that drive very aggressively and will not stop for you. Always pull over to the left if a bus is coming up behind you or overtaking towards you.
If you are an experienced rider, it is a fantastic way to beach hop. If you have never ridden a scooter before, the busy Sri Lankan coastal road is definitely not the place to learn. Wear your helmet (it is strictly enforced) and do not drink and ride.
Also, take photos and a video of the scooter when you rent it, documenting every scratch. Most rental places are honest, but a few try to charge tourists for pre-existing damage. Rentals cost around 2,000 to 3,000 LKR per day. Make sure they give you a helmet with a functioning strap and visor.
Scam Watch: galle
Someone befriends you and offers a "once in a lifetime" opportunity to buy gems at wholesale prices and resell them abroad for huge profit. They may show you fake export certificates. The gems are worthless glass or low-quality stones.
Restaurants without visible prices. Bill arrives with inflated charges (500 LKR coconut becomes 1500 LKR). "Service charges" added without disclosure.
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