It is prohibited to consume alcohol in public places (outside) the resort area. Bottled water and soft drinks are recommended. Although local water is purified quite thoroughly (often it is desalinated sea water), it quickly becomes unusable due to high temperatures. Traditional Islamic norms of behavior are strong in the country, but without the slightest signs of fanaticism. The restrictions are the same as in Oman. Photography is prohibited in mosques. Mosque guards usually insist on accompanying tourists in hopes of getting paid, but you can actually explore the mosque on your own. Nude swimming is prohibited on all islands of the archipelago except Kuramatti Island. You can bargain at markets and in private stores, but the amount of the “discount” is usually small. River and unauthorized fishing is prohibited (all types of sea fishing are freely organized in hotels), corals (both living and dead) are strictly prohibited, and large fines are provided for violations. The country has one of the largest markets in the region where shells, corals and various exotic sea animals are sold, so you can always buy these souvenirs without breaking local laws. Officially, tips are not accepted, but unofficially, if the service is truly worth it, it is customary to leave a small amount for the service person ($10 per week for a hotel employee or 5% for a waiter). Some spas include a service charge (usually 10%) on the bill, in which case tipping is optional. When renting a boat or motorboat, the amount must be agreed upon in advance.

19 February 2024, Monday | 696