Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Coffee, while not traditionally favoured, is now literally a hot commodity in Colombo
and areas popular with tourists. Cafes with full-on espresso machines are catching on,
though are not widespread as yet. Out in the sticks be prepared for instant, or something
fresh-ish that tastes like instant.
Other Soft Drinks
Lime juice is excellent. Have it with soda water, but ask for the salt or sugar to be separate.
If not, you could be in for another serious sugar hit. Indian restaurants and sweet shops are
a good spot for a
lassi
(yoghurt drink). Ginger beer is an old school, very British option,
offering refreshment with a zing - look out for the Elephant or Lion brands.
Thambili
(king coconut) juice still in the husk can be found on sale at roadside stalls everywhere.
Beer
Locally brewed Lion Lager is a crisp and refreshing brew that is widely sold. Lion also
sells a very good stout, with coffee and chocolate flavours. Three Coins and Anchor are
less delicious local lagers. The licensed versions of international brands like Carlsberg,
Heineken and Corona offer no surprises at all.
Other Alcoholic Drinks
Toddy is a drink made from the sap of palm trees. It has a sharp taste, a bit like cider.
There are three types: toddy made from coconut palms, toddy from
kitul
palms and toddy
from palmyra palms. Toddy shacks are found throughout the country, but are very much a
male preserve. Arrack is a fermented and (somewhat) refined toddy. It can have a powerful
kick and give you a belting hangover. The best mixer for arrack is the local ginger ale.
