This is just my gut feeling with experience.
Don't ask me for stats to back this up. If we dig enough, we could probably find some stats too.
An average Sri Lankan middle class family is definitely richer than 50% (or more) of tourists who come to Sri Lanka. I'm talking about the total net worth (including properties, cash and other assets).
It's the attitude that makes the difference.
In general, Sri Lankans don't see traveling as a way of enjoying life.
Sure, there are Vlogs everywhere now. But this is just a small minority who make the noise and I'm not even sure about their true objective as well.
The definition of a happy and successful life is very different in Sri Lanka compared to the West.
In the West, you'll see waiters/waitresses who save their tips for an entire year and then escape for a vacation in a country like Sri Lanka/Thailand.
In my opinion, economies in their countries are stable(even though a little shaken from Covid-19). Even a person with a small salary can live a quality life. So they don't have to worry much on 'saving money'. (But I think, their taxes are also high)
In Sri Lanka conservative people engrave children's mind with 'save money' mantra. (Which I think, not useful). Because in SL without money our future is uncertain. Also we have to spend too much for vehicles and houses(due to taxes). And Sri Lankans spend too much for weddings.
In SL even average middle class families are richer than those tourists, they don't live a quality life as those tourists. They are constantly running the rat race to 'save money'.
In general, Sri Lankans don't see traveling as a way of enjoying life.
The definition of a happy and successful life is very different in Sri Lanka compared to the West.
Yes. Sri Lankans' happiness is mainly depend on stability of their future. And opportunity to have a drink with friends. Most of the Sri Lankan women don't have a way for entertainment or happiness. They just run the rat race or help their husbands to run the rat race.
This is my opinion. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Fun = Wasting money in SL terms
So we save everything for our children.
On point Mr. admin.
Therefore conservative SL parents try to claim their children's future. Parents expect their children to take care of them when they are old. They don't like to see their children move away after marriage.
This is one of reasons for නැන්දම්ම-ලේලි fight.
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Post added on Feb 14, 2022 at 11:52 AM