Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
almost everywhere has a vegetable curry on the menu. Pescatarians will be spoiled for
choice as almost every eatery in the country offers fresh seafood and freshly caught fish
cooked to perfection.
Vegans will find things harder, but not unassailably so - most resorts will be able to of-
fer vegan options with advance warning, and again Indian restaurants will offer the most
choice.
Habits & Customs
Eating habits vary across ethnic groups. Some groups eat with their fingers, others don't
eat meat on Fridays and some abstain from eating pork - it's hard to generalise across the
community.
Other than in hotels and
chambres d'hôtes
where buffets are the norm, breakfasts are
normally very quick and informal. Lunch is also a fairly casual affair, although at the
weekend it tends to be more formal, when family and friends gather to share the pleasures
of the table. In restaurants, special menus are offered for weekend lunches. Before dinner,
which is a very formal occasion,
gajacks
(predinner snacks) and
un apéro
or
un ti punch
(pre-dinner drinks) are commonly served; during the meal, wine or beer is usually served.
As eating and drinking are important social activities, behaviour at the table should be
respectful. Locals can be strict about table manners, and it's considered rude to pick at
your food or mix it together. You are also expected to be reasonably well dressed. Unless
you are in a beach environment, wearing beachwear or other skimpy clothing won't be
well received - casual but neat clothing is the norm. When invited to dine with locals,
bring a small gift (perhaps some flowers or a bottle of wine).
If you are attending a traditional Indian or Chinese meal or a dinner associated with a
religious celebration, follow what the locals do. Generally, your hosts will make you feel
comfortable, but if you are unsure, ask about the serving customs and the order of dishes.
Definitely attend an Indian or a Chinese wedding if you get the opportunity - these celeb-
rations are true culinary feasts.
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