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You're not the only one. Travel insurance companies are now offering some cover for coronavirus. So you can travel with more peace of mind.
From white sand beaches to lush rainforests and arid plains, Sri Lanka has in recent years established itself as one of the most popular tourist destinations of South East Asia. However, travelling is never without its risks, and travellers are advised to get travel insurance before leaving Australia to help ensure their safety. This guide will outline some of the risks that you should be wary of when travelling in Sri Lanka and what to look for when comparing travel insurance options.
It's not mandatory for travellers to Sri Lanka to purchase travel insurance but the Australian Government strongly suggests you have a policy that covers at least overseas medical costs. A comprehensive travel insurance policy will provide protection against the specific risks of travelling in Sri Lanka and common travel mishaps including:
Keep reading this guide for further information on finding travel insurance for Sri Lanka and if you'd like to compare travel insurance quotes.
It's been a long time since the Sri Lankan Civil War ended and the country's overall safety and security has dramatically improved since. There are still, however, certain risks that travellers should be aware of when considering what cover you'll need for your trip.
Large demonstrations and public gatherings have been known to turn violent. Avoid protests and demonstrations and be aware that the legal liability cover included in your travel insurance will not necessarily cover legal fees incurred if you're detained for being caught near a demonstration.
Intercity buses, three-wheeler taxis and many other vehicles are not maintained or driven to the same standards as in Australia, and fatal accidents are frequent on Sri Lankan roads. Consider rental car excess insurance if you'll be driving a hire car, overseas health cover in the event of an accident and death benefits for the worst-case scenario.
During the monsoon season, there's a much higher risk of flooding, landslides and tsunamis. Consider travel cancellation cover in the event of you being delayed or needing to reschedule due to blocked roads, poor weather or other circumstances beyond your control.
Here are the prices for different policies and age groups for an individual who’s travelling in Sri Lanka for one month. Note that prices will vary between insurers and a higher or lower price usually means more or less cover or a higher or lower excess.
Age | 60 | 65 | 70 | 75 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Basic | $114.46 | $134.61 | $195.77 | $500.04 |
Comprehensive | $169.25 | $188.29 | $243.35 | $529.26 |
These prices are not indicative of all policies and are to be taken as a rough guide. Note: prices are correct as of September 2017
Sri Lankan healthcare punches above its weight, considering how relatively little has been invested in it. The Sri Lankan government provides universal healthcare to all its citizens, although public hospitals can be crowded and waiting times long.
With the right overseas health cover, however, your travel insurance should allow you to access private hospitals in Sri Lanka in the event of a medical emergency. When looking for a travel insurance policy, consider:
You're not the only one. Travel insurance companies are now offering some cover for coronavirus. So you can travel with more peace of mind.
Watch out for certain exclusions in your travel insurance policy and make sure you're covered for what you need.
You should have the contact details of three parties while travelling:
The local embassy or consulate: In Sri Lanka, this is the Australian High Commission.
Your insurer: When you take out a travel insurance policy, carry your insurer’s details with you. You need to be able to reach them quickly if you have to make a claim.
Friends and family: Share your travel plans with friends and family and try to make sure that someone knows where you’re going and what your schedule is like. Arrange regular check ins so that they can alert the embassy and other authorities if you go missing.
Short-stay visitors to Sri Lanka need to get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) prior to arrival. This serves the same purpose as a visa. Once you have your ETA you must submit it for approval to be allowed into Sri Lanka.
If you've been in a country affected by yellow fever or cholera, you'll need a yellow fever vaccination certificate, even if you've only transited through.
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