Readers of US-based Travel and Leisure magazine have ranked Sri Lanka as the best island in the world to visit in 2019, adding to the accolades the country received recently.

Sri Lanka debuted at the top of the list, for its diversity of experiences.

By Andrea Sachs -- A recent conflict in Sri Lanka has interrupted travelers’ reveries of sacred Buddhist sites, languorous beaches and Ceylon tea moments. But careful planning — and heightened awareness — are helping keep dream trips to the Southeast Asian island alive.