Your Bentota Bliss Guide: Staying Healthy, Safe, and Happy in Paradise

 Welcome to Bentota, a slice of Sri Lankan paradise where golden beaches meet lush rivers! As you dream of sun-soaked days and tranquil evenings, a little preparation is the key to ensuring your holiday is as carefree as possible. At Bentota Life, we want your visit to be nothing but bliss. That’s why we’ve compiled these essential health and safety tips to help you stay healthy and fully enjoy the magic of Bentota.

Savoring the Flavors: Food and Water Safety

Sri Lankan cuisine is a magnificent explosion of flavors, but your stomach might need a moment to adjust. Follow these simple tips to enjoy the local food without any issues.

Drink Smart: Stick to bottled or purified water. Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water. Avoid tap water for drinking and brushing your teeth unless you are certain it has been purified. When in doubt, choose sealed bottles.

Enjoy Street Food Wisely: The aroma of street food is irresistible! To enjoy it safely, opt for stalls that are busy with locals, as high turnover means fresher food. Ensure the food is cooked thoroughly and served hot.

Fruits and Veggies: Enjoy the incredible tropical fruits! For fruits you peel yourself, like bananas and mangoes, you’re good to go. For raw vegetables or fruits with edible skin, wash them in purified water or peel them.

Follow the Rule: "Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it." This is a great traveler's mantra to live by.

Biting Back: Avoiding Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

While the risk in tourist areas is generally low, mosquitoes are present in tropical climates. Preventing bites is the best defense against illnesses like dengue fever.

Use Effective Repellent: Pack an EPA-registered insect repellent containing ingredients like DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Apply it regularly, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

Dress for Protection: Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants in the evenings. This is especially helpful if you’re planning a river safari or a walk in greener areas.

Choose Accommodation Wisely: Most hotels and villas in Bentota are well-maintained with screens on windows and doors. Many also provide mosquito nets or electric plug-in repellents. Use them for a peaceful night's sleep.

Sun and Sea Smarts

Bentota’s sun is beautiful but strong, and the Indian Ocean can have strong currents.

• Sun Protection: The equatorial sun is intense. Use a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen, reapply it every two hours and after swimming, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: The combination of sun and humidity can lead to dehydration quickly. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Water Safety: Always swim in designated areas, preferably where lifeguards are present. Heed warning flags on the beach. The lagoon side of Bentota offers calmer waters for a more relaxed dip.

Preparing for the Unexpected: Medical Emergencies

We hope you never need it, but it’s crucial to be prepared.

Travel Insurance is a Must: This is non-negotiable. A comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and theft will give you immense peace of mind. Double-check that your policy is active and you understand the procedure for making a claim.

Know Your Location: Familiarize yourself with the name and address of your hotel. In an emergency, this information is vital for getting help quickly.

Local Medical Facilities: Bentota has several local clinics and pharmacies for minor issues. For more serious emergencies, the nearest major hospital is in Galle, approximately a 30-minute drive away. Your hotel reception can assist with directions and arranging transportation.

Emergency Numbers:

• Ambulance Service / General Emergency: Dial 1990
• Police Emergency: Dial 119 or 118
• Tourist Police: The main Tourist Police division in Colombo can be reached at +94 11 242 1052. It is advisable to primarily rely on your hotel for immediate assistance and to have them contact the local police if necessary.

Final Tips for a Happy Trip

• Pack a Small Health Kit: Include basics like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, rehydration salts, and any personal prescription medications.
• Respect the Ocean & Wildlife: Admire animals from a safe distance and avoid touching coral or marine life.
• Listen to Your Body: Rest when you’re tired, seek shade when you’re hot, and don’t push yourself too hard. You’re on vacation!
• A little preparation goes a long way. By following these simple tips, you can minimize worries and maximize your enjoyment. Your health and safety are the foundation of a truly unforgettable holiday.

Have a wonderful, safe, and incredibly happy time in beautiful Bentota!