Sri Lanka best hidden fees tourists face - beware of?
3 Answers from travellers
Common hidden fees:
Hotel 'service charge' 10% + 'VAT' 8% = 18% added to bill (should be transparent in booking - check inclusive rate).
'Foreign card surcharge' 3-4% at some hotels/restaurants.
Airport 'transfer' fee inflation vs metered/PickMe.
Site 'entry fee' for foreigners (10-20x local rate - legal but shocking - e.g., Sigiriya USD 30 vs local USD 1.50).
Ayurveda 'consultation fee' after quoted package.
Safari 'jeep tips expected' on top of price.
'Tourism development levy' at some hotels.
Currency exchange fees (spread at money changers). Always ask 'is this rate inclusive of taxes and service?' at hotels.
Also: 'guide expected' at some sites (Sigiriya, Anuradhapura - not required, refuse politely). And restaurant bills sometimes have 'chef's tip' or 'staff appreciation' added. Read bill carefully. Not scams - customary fees, but stack up.
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