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What is the etiquette for eating in the Maldives?

Eating Customs in the Maldives. Eat with your right hand. Also try not accept or give the plates or anything for that matter with your left hand. The right hand is for eating, left for cleaning one's butt.



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A strictly Muslim country, the Maldives has a list of prohibited items that will not be allowed past customs. These include alcohol, any kind of drugs, pork, religious materials for distribution, and dogs.

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Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Men and women rarely show affection in public. It has traditionally been considered respectful for men and women to maintain some from one another. Foreigners are expected to dress appropriately.

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It is an offence to import the following items into Maldives: explosives, weapons, firearms, ammunition, pornographic material, materials deemed contrary to Islam including 'idols for worship' and bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol. Alcoholic drinks are only available on resort islands.

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Prohibited Items
It is prohibited for tourists to bring firearms, alcoholic beverages, pork products, pornography and idols of worship into the Maldives. Additionally, strict penalties apply to those attempting to bring illegal drugs into the country.

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Generally speaking, if you have had a memorable ride on a small boat with a friendly crew, a modest $5-10 tip is a great compliment. Some of the transfers in the Maldives are private or chartered and the price reflects this, so tipping here is not necessary.

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The only time you are likely to need the local currency is if you are staying in a local guesthouse or if you are visiting Malé City and would like to purchase something from a local market or shop. However, US dollars are widely accepted.

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The temperature doesn't drop very much at night so take your lightest weight clothes in natural, breathable fabrics such as silk, linen or cotton. Avoid synthetic fabrics as they are just too uncomfortable in the heat.

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Yes, unmarried couples are allowed in the Maldives. If you're a tourist visiting the archipelago with your partner, there won't be an issue. Maldives is a famous honeymoon destination amongst travellers, but that doesn't mean you have to be legally wedded to share a room or enjoy a vacation in the country.

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Yes, you can carry water to the Maldives. From a regulatory point of view, there are no restrictions on carrying it into the country. But you may be limited by baggage weight restrictions. Most resorts offer water bottles in the package.

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