Ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death. While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Traffic in Colombo is very congested. However, fatalities of foreign visitors are low.
Many visitors hire cars and drivers or use radio taxicabs.
Sri Lankan customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Sri Lanka of items such as firearms, antiquities, business equipment, obscene materials, currency, gems and precious metals. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington, D.C. or one of Sri Lanka s consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country s laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Sri Lankan laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned.