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Listly
14-07-2025
- Listly
How to Navigate Colombo's Public Transport? - A Practical Guide for Locals and Visitors
REPORT Listly by Joanna James Colombo, the bustling commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is merely the gateway to the island nation for many people. But, the lively metropolis offers more than just that; it is a collage of colonial heritage, tropical vibrancy, and rapid urban development. If you are a tourist visiting for the first time, understanding how to get around the city can only make for a worry-free experience. Not only is it affordable and reasonably reliable, but it also offers a glimpse into the rhythm of daily Sri Lankan life. Understanding Your Options You have a variety of transportation options to choose from based on your needs, budget and distance. The main options include the bus, train, tuk-tuk, and ride-hailing apps like PickMe and Uber. Buses are the primary mode of transport for most locals as they operate across all major roads and neighbourhoods in Colombo. When it comes to trains, the city does not have a metro or light rail system, but it does have suburban trains that run in and out of the city, connecting it with nearby towns and suburbs. For short distances or when in a hurry, tuk-tuks are arguably the best choice. They are everywhere in the city and offer point-to-point convenience, although they can be more pricey than taking the bus. Finally, ride-hailing apps such as PickMe and Uber have become increasingly popular among locals and tourists alike, especially for their affordable and transparent pricing. How to Use the Bus System Colombo's bus system, while efficient, isn't the easiest for a first-time visitor, especially due to the sheer number of routes. Each bus has a number and a route displayed on the front and side of the vehicle. So, familiarising yourself with the key route numbers for areas you frequent would actually make commuting smoother and straightforward. Navigating the Train System For those holidaying in Colombo, things to do might be plentiful, but your city getaway wouldn't be complete without a little train adventure. Colombo Fort Railway Station is the central hub for navigating the train system in Colombo, which connects to a variety of destinations in the north, south, and hill country of Sri Lanka. However, when it comes to the use of the train by the people of Colombo, what's most popular is suburban trains that connect the metropolis with nearby towns and suburbs. Taking Tuk-Tuks Three-wheelers, known locally as tuk-tuks, are a quintessential element of Colombo, which can be found no matter where you go in the city. They are a convenient way to get around the city for short trips, especially if you are in a hurry. However, pricing can be inconsistent, particularly for tourists. Therefore, always make sure to ask if the tuk-tuk is equipped with a meter and if the trip is metered. Meters generally start at around Rs. 100–120 for the first kilometre and increase with distance. Using Ride-Hailing Apps Ride-hailing apps, particularly PickMe and Uber, have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. They offer a wide range of vehicles, from tuk-tuks and cars to even minivans and slightly bigger passenger coaches. Both PickMe and Uber work like almost any other ride-hailing app in any other part of the world. However, they are most popular for their affordability, reliability and transparent pricing compared to regular tuk-tuks. Useful Tools for Navigation Google Maps is highly reliable for planning routes irrespective of the mode of transport, such as when getting from your hotel, like Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, to a tourist attraction of your choice. The PickMe and Uber apps are also essential if you plan to rely on ride-hailing.
NDTV
11-05-2025
- NDTV
Travelling To Sri Lanka? 10 Tips To Follow For A Memorable Vacation
Sri Lanka, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean', is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Whether you are drawn to its ancient Buddhist temples, mesmerised by the golden sunsets on its pristine beaches, enchanted by the aroma of its tea fields, or eager to explore its lush forests teeming with wildlife, this island nation promises an unforgettable experience. However, to truly immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Sri Lanka, it is essential to be aware of some key travel tips. Here Are 10 Invaluable Tips To Help First-Time Visitors Navigate Sri Lanka: 1. Get a local SIM card Most foreign networks do not work in Sri Lanka, and you do not want to waste time searching for a signal. Purchase a local SIM card at the airport and top it up with enough data for your internet needs. 2. Use specific bank ATMs to save money Keep in mind that many Sri Lankan ATMs charge a fee for withdrawals. However, Bank of Ceylon and Commercial Bank ATMs typically do not charge these fees, making them a better option to go for. 3. Carry cash everywhere Many establishments, especially in beach towns like Mirissa, do not accept credit or debit cards. It is always wise to carry sufficient cash, even if you are in a city like Colombo. 4. Be aware of tuk tuk scams Avoid tuk-tuks without meters, and be cautious of drivers who offer to take you to popular attractions, spas, or stores. Several travel experts explain that these tuk-tuk drivers often receive commissions from these places, which may inflate your final bill. Instead, use the PickMe app, Sri Lanka's own ride-hailing service, or Uber, which is available in major cities. 5. Go north for peace The Northern Province, once off-limits to tourists, is now open and ideal for those seeking a less crowded experience. It has yet to be overrun by large resorts or mass tourism, offering a more authentic and peaceful getaway. 6. Take the train for affordable travel Trains are one of the most cost-effective and scenic ways to travel between cities. A train ride through the picturesque town of Ella is a must – it takes you past tea plantations, forests, waterfalls, hills and iconic bridges. 7. Choose your travel season wisely Many believe December to April is the best time to visit Sri Lanka, especially the southern beaches. However, from May to October, the East Coast offers sunny weather and fewer crowds. Off-season travel can also mean lower prices and a more relaxed atmosphere. 8. Pack for the climate Sri Lanka is hot year-round, with places like Colombo and Galle experiencing temperatures up to 37°C and humidity over 90%. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing. If you plan to visit highland areas like Nuwara Eliya, bring a sweater and a raincoat – nighttime temperatures can drop below 10°C. 9. Learn about poya days Buddhists in Sri Lanka observe every full moon as poya day. On these public holidays, most places shut down, and the sale of alcohol is prohibited. It is best to check the calendar before making bookings. 10. Respect customs at religious sites When visiting religious places like mosques, Hindu temples, or Buddhist temples, remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees. In some Hindu temples, men may be required to remove their shirts. Always follow the signs and respect local traditions. Sri Lanka, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers an unforgettable experience for every traveller. Whether you are exploring ancient temples, savouring local cuisine, or soaking in the beauty of its beaches and tea fields, Sri Lanka promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Boston Globe
21-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Boston Globe
Ellen Pompeo talks ‘Grey's Anatomy,' Boston memories, and money on ‘Call Her Daddy' podcast
Advertisement The wildly popular ' Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up Ellen Pompeo in Burbank, Calif., in February 2025. For 20 years, the star of "Grey's Anatomy" has rarely worked elsewhere. RYAN PFLUGER/NYT On Wednesday's episode, titled 'Pick Me, Choose Me, Pay Me More,' Pompeo told Cooper she worked at Dunkin' Donuts at the time in her life when she could have gone off to college. Pompeo's mother died of a drug overdose when the actor was 4 years old and money was tough from then on, until she landed 'Grey's Anatomy' at age 33. 'Being raised in Boston and growing up the way I grew up, which was pretty intense, I became aware at a very early age that people with money had power, and I didn't have any power as a young woman,' Pompeo said. Pompeo compared her childhood neighborhood to the mob movie 'Good Fellas,' and said she remembers men with mafia ties running the community and buying their girlfriends fur coats. 'They were all mafia guys and really bad people. Super nice to me... they were great to all of us, but really they probably weren't the best guys,' Pompeo said. 'But they were the ones who had all the power... and literally the sea parted when they walked through, and they just had this command.' Advertisement Alex Cooper attends SiriusXM & Unwell Present "Date Night With Daddy" at Avalon Hollywood on Feb. 13 in Los SiriusXM In Hollywood, Pompeo said she played small roles for years, aiming for projects based on the director and which star would be the lead. Playing surgeon Meredith Grey on 'Grey's Anatomy' was her first role as a 'smart' woman, Pompeo said, and working under legendary screenwriter Shonda Rhimes changed her life. 'Shonda is magic,' Pompeo said, explaining how the brain behind 'Bridgerton,' 'Scandal' and 'Inventing Anna' made it easier for the actor to balance filming and raising her kids, two of whom she had via surrogate. Re-signing with 'Grey's Anatomy' at age 40 was perhaps the best decision of her life, Pompeo said, because it allowed her to have 'a really full home life as an actor.' The money that came with the Grey's contract helped too, Pompeo said, telling Cooper she hopes more women get a taste of true financial independence, across different industries. 'For women, financial freedom is true independence and those little patriarchal [expletives] are shivering in their panties right now,' she said, referencing the mafia characters from her childhood. 'To be financially independent to me is what makes me the happiest and feel the most free, I don't ever have to do anything I don't want to do.' Claire Thornton can be reached at
