Radio-operated metered taxi cabs and motorized trishaws are freely available in the Colombo area. International direct dialing is available and cellular telephones have become increasingly popular. Several five-star hotels provide accommodations and a wide range of amenities and services for business travelers in Colombo. There are also dozens of fine beach resorts two to three hours away. Housing facilities for expatriates are satisfactory, and options are steadily improving.
Medical facilities are limited, but generally adequate.
Doctors and hospitals often require immediate cash payment for health services. A serious illness or injury might require evacuation to the nearest country where more comprehensive medical facilities are available, usually Singapore or Thailand. Because U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States, supplemental insurance with specific overseas coverage, including medical evacuation coverage, may prove useful. Several well-stocked supermarkets are located in Colombo. The Overseas School of Colombo offers programs for pre- school through twelfth grade, and is the only international school offering an International Baccalaureate diploma, which is the equivalent of a diploma from an American high school.