Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
PETTAH'S SHOPPING STREETS
Pettah's market stalls and shops sell seemingly everything. When plunging into the age-
old district's commercial madness, it's handy to note that many thoroughfares have their
own shopping specialities:
1st Cross St at Bankshall St
plastic flowers
2nd Cross St at Bankshall St
lace & ribbons
2nd Cross St
jewellery
Gabo's Lane at 5th Cross St
Ayurvedic medicines
Dam St
bicycles
Sea St
sapphires
Information
DANGERS & ANNOYANCES
Crime
Violence towards foreigners is uncommon, although you should take the usual
safeguards. Solo women should be careful when taking taxis and three-wheelers at
night; if, as sometimes happens, your taxi turns up with two men inside, call another.
Scams & Touts
Colombo has its share of touts and con artists. You may be approached
by someone who, after striking up a conversation, asks for a donation for a school for
the blind or some such cause - these people are invariably con artists. Street offers for
guides and 'special' tours should also be shunned.
EMERGENCY
Fire & Ambulance
EMERGENCY
( 242 2222, 110)
Medi-Calls Ambulance
HOSPITAL/MEDICAL
( 534 3343, 255 6605;
www.medicallsonline.com
)
Private ambulance company.
Police
POLICE
