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Where & how to buy
Sapphires, Ceylon tea, true cinnamon and handmade masks: where to buy each one, what a fair price is, and how to avoid tourist traps.
Money, cards & tipping
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Changing money? See today's official Central Bank rates, all licensed money changers by town, and the airport counters on our Money & exchange page.
Common scams to avoid: "the temple is closed today, let me show you a gem shop"; tuk-tuk drivers who insist on spice gardens; and "government" gem sales on the street. Shops that pay drivers commission add 20–50% to prices.
Customs: keep receipts for gems (needed for export). Antiques over 50 years old need a permit, and you may not export protected wildlife products or coral.