A basic transportation vehicle in Sri Lanka is the economical "tuk-tuk," a three-wheeler with room for two passengers to sit behind the driver. The tuk-tuks and drivers were not allowed inside the harbour so waited for passengers just outside the gate. Many cruisers had favorite drivers they considered more reliable and honest than others. We often walked to town, but the 10-minute tuk-tuk ride usually cost only $1.00 or $1.50. We were pretty sure we were routinely charged "tourist rates" higher than those charged to the locals. It was important to negotiate every price carefully in advance to avoid surprisingly high charges. This was necessary not only in Galle but throughout the country because tourists were seen primarily as sources of income for locals.