Quick answer
Many Sri Lankan hotels quote rates before taxes and a service charge, sometimes shown as plus plus, so the final bill can be noticeably higher than the headline rate. Booking platforms may show prices with or without these. When comparing hotels for a cricket trip, check whether each price is inclusive, ask for the total in writing, and apply the same to meals, laundry and drinks, which usually carry the same charges.
Key takeaways
- Many Sri Lankan hotel rates exclude taxes and a service charge.
- Rates marked plus plus have taxes and service charge added.
- Meals, drinks and laundry usually carry the same charges.
- Booking platforms vary in whether prices include them.
- Ask for the total price in writing before booking.
How prices are shown
Sri Lankan hotels often quote rates before taxes and a service charge. The term plus plus, written as ++, signals that both will be added. The service charge goes to staff, and taxes are set by the government and can change.
Some hotels quote inclusive prices, especially smaller guesthouses and villas. Booking platforms may show either, sometimes adding taxes at the final step.
The rates for taxes and charges change, so check current figures rather than relying on old information.
Taxes in Sri Lanka have changed several times in recent years, including value added tax and a tourism development levy, so charges on hotel bills can differ from what friends paid on an earlier tour. Hotels should show them clearly on the bill.
The service charge is distributed among hotel staff and is an important part of their income in many properties. It is separate from any tip you choose to leave.
- →Plus plus means added taxes and charges.
- →Some hotels quote inclusive.
- →Rates change over time.
Where to check
On booking platforms, look at the final price before payment, and the price breakdown. On hotel websites, look for notes such as subject to taxes or plus plus. When booking by email, ask for the total including all charges.
Restaurant and bar menus often show prices before charges too.
Lankan Stays & Trails quotes cricket tour prices with hotel taxes and charges included, so there are no surprises at check-out.
Package prices from tour operators and supporters' tours usually include taxes and charges for rooms and included meals. Extras such as drinks, laundry and additional meals are normally charged at the hotel, with taxes added.
- →Final price on platforms.
- →Notes on hotel websites.
- →Ask for totals by email.
Meals, drinks and extras
The same charges usually apply to meals, drinks, laundry and minibar. A dinner bill at a hotel restaurant can be noticeably higher than the menu prices.
Local restaurants usually charge less and may or may not add service. Check the bill.
Tipping is still appreciated in addition to service charges, especially for staff who go out of their way.
Minibar, room service and spa treatments often carry the same charges, and room-service menus may add a delivery fee. Check the small print on menus in the room.
For a long Test stay, these extras add up. A few drinks on the terrace every evening for ten nights can make a noticeable difference to the final bill.
Comparing hotels fairly
Compare total prices, including taxes and charges, not headline rates. A hotel with an inclusive rate may be cheaper than one with a lower plus plus rate.
For groups, compare total cost per person across villas and hotels, including taxes, meals and staff tips.
Villas and guesthouses more often quote inclusive prices, but may charge separately for meals cooked by staff, electricity for air conditioning or extra guests. Ask what is included before comparing with a hotel.
When an operator or supporters' tour quotes a package, ask whether drinks, laundry and extra meals are included, as these are the items most often charged on top at the hotel.
- →Compare totals.
- →Inclusive vs plus plus.
- →Per person for groups.
Tips
Keep receipts and check bills at check-out. Ask about any charges you do not understand.
Pay in the currency of the quote where possible to avoid conversion fees.
Budget a margin for charges on extras.
If a bill looks wrong, ask politely at the desk for a breakdown. Errors happen, especially on busy check-out mornings after a Test, and staff are usually quick to correct them.
- →Check bills at check-out.
- →Pay in quoted currency.
- →Budget a margin.
Frequently asked questions
Do Sri Lankan hotels add tax to the room rate?
Many Sri Lankan hotels quote rates before taxes and a service charge, so the final bill is higher. Some quote inclusive prices. Check whether the rate is inclusive and ask for the total in writing before booking.
What does plus plus mean in Sri Lanka?
Plus plus, written as ++, means taxes and a service charge will be added to the quoted price. It is common on hotel rates and restaurant menus in Sri Lanka. Ask for the final amount to avoid surprises.
Is the service charge a tip in Sri Lanka?
The service charge goes to hotel staff, but tipping is still appreciated in Sri Lanka, especially for staff who give good service. Many guests leave a tip for housekeeping and the driver.
Do booking platforms include Sri Lankan taxes?
Some booking platforms include taxes and charges in the displayed price; others add them at the final step or at the hotel. Check the price breakdown before paying. When in doubt, contact the hotel and ask for the total.
Do restaurant meals at hotels have extra charges?
Restaurant and bar prices in hotels usually have taxes and service charges added, so the bill is higher than menu prices. Local restaurants may charge less. Check your bill. Local restaurants are often better value for dinner.
How can I avoid surprises on my hotel bill?
Ask for the total price including all taxes and charges in writing, check whether meals and extras carry the same charges, keep receipts and review your bill before check-out. Settle extras the evening before checking out.
Why is my Sri Lankan hotel bill higher than the booking?
The usual reason is that taxes and a service charge were added to a rate that excluded them, or that extras such as meals, drinks, laundry and room service carry the same charges. Ask the hotel for a breakdown. Check your booking confirmation to see whether the original price was inclusive.