What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Colombo?

We asked people in Colombo if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...

"Not yet :-) But I have heard, you should never mistake Sri Lankans as Indians which apparently drives them up the wall," commented one expat who made the move to Colombo, Sri Lanka.

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"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Colombo. It is considered disrespectful to wear revealing clothing, such as shorts or tank tops, in public places. It is also important to be aware of religious customs and to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as not touching someone's head or feet, as this is considered offensive. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly or using offensive language. Finally, it is important to be aware of local customs regarding food, such as not eating with your hands or eating in public places," remarked another expat in Colombo, Sri Lanka.