How to gain respect in Sri Lanka

There are several customs that, specially for Western travellers, would take a bit of getting used to. It is customary to remove shoes and wear respectful attire (i.e. no miniskirts, tank tops, short pants, etc…) when visiting temples. It is also the custom to remove shoes before entering a home, though this is not as strictly followed as in places such as Japan. Never touch or pat Buddhist monks, including younger monks and children who practice at a temple. Do not display tattoos that depict the Buddha. This can be regarded as highly insulting in Sri Lanka, even if acceptable in other Buddhist countries and regions.Arrest and deportation are realistic scenarios. Do not turn your back to a Buddha statue while within a reasonable distance. This includes posing for photos, where you should not make arm or body contact with the statue. It is advisable to photograph a Buddha statue with all persons facing towards it (as observing it),rather than posing alongside. Public nudity is illegal in Sri Lanka – nude/topless sunbathing and skinny dipping should be avoided, except in the private beach resorts which allow it. Although much latitude is given to tourists, it is more polite to use your right hand when handing money and small objects, etc… Of course you can use both hands for something big and/or heavy. Be respectful to monks. There’s no particular etiquette for Westerners – just be polite.Always give them a seat on a crowded bus (unless you’re disabled or very elderly). It is highly controversial to discuss politics, particularly the Sinhalese/Tamil divide or the LTTE. The 26-year civil war which ended in 2009 saw thousands of attacks throughout the country, including suicide bombings and massacres which have killed scores of politicians and civilians on both sides alike. No photography of sensitive locations (inside and outside), and inside of shopping malls and tea factories (outside OK).Be especially careful in Fort, Colombo (except on the beach). If soldiers are guarding something, it probably shouldn’t be photographed. Don’t rely on signs alone, as sometimes they are old or missing. For example, one end of a bridge may have a “No Photography” sign, but not the other. Seemingly innocuous public displays of affection between lovers such as kissing and/or hugging may be culturally frowned upon as it is considered to be private behaviour but it is acceptable in functions and establishments designated for adults such as nightclubs, casinos and beach parties. Much lenience is given to foreigners and holding hands and public affection between parents and their children is not frowned upon.