Does the driver speak English?

There is a known problem in Sri Lanka. You tell a driver one thing, he smiles, nods, and does the opposite. Tourists complain about it a lot.

So we look for drivers who truly speak English and are used to European travellers. You say you need a stop, and he stops. He understands you, is comfortable chatting, and can tell you about the places you pass, which makes the drive part of the trip, not just a way to get there.

You are not left guessing whether you were understood. You say what you want, and it happens.