Eating & Drinking (Maldives)

 Maldivian cuisine is a rich fusion of Indian and Sri Lankan influences. The diet relies on three main oceanic and tropical staples: seafood, coconut, and starches like rice, taro, and cassava.

 Tuna is the most commonly used fish, and you may find it grilled, curried, smoked or dried. Coconut milk and grated coconut add richness to many meals, while chilli, curry leaves and fragrant spices provide flavour without being overwhelmingly spicy. 

Fresh tropical fruits such as papaya, mango, pineapple, watermelon and bananas are widely available, particularly when in season. 

Please note that the Maldives is a Muslim country, and so almost all locally prepared food is halal. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets are easily accommodated at major resorts, though options may be more limited on smaller islands or outside the major resorts.

Drinking Water

Tap water in the Maldives is generally not recommended for drinking, particularly on local islands where water quality can vary. Most resorts offer purified drinking water through desalination and filtration systems, and this water is typically safe to drink.

Because the Maldives consists of coral islands with no natural rivers or lakes, the local water supply is created through advanced seawater desalination or rainwater harvesting, so guests may prefer the flavour of bottled water, which is widely available. As with any destination, avoid ice and uncooked foods if you have concerns about hygiene, particularly when dining away from established tourist resorts. 

Alcohol

Outside resort islands, the Maldives is a Muslim country and alcohol is prohibited; however, licensed resorts, liveaboard boats and a small number of tourist venues are permitted to serve beer, wine and spirits.