Comoros

Refusing food or drink can be seen as impolite; it's best to accept at least a small portion to show respect for the host's hospitality.

Avoid pointing with your finger, as it's considered rude; instead, use your whole hand or a subtle nod to indicate direction.

Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas, to show respect for local customs and religious practices.

Local ferries and small boats are common but can be unreliable; chartering a private boat or booking domestic flights is more efficient but costlier.

It's customary to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean, and always wait for the host to start eating before you begin.

Support local eco-lodges, avoid single-use plastics, and respect marine life by not touching coral or disturbing wildlife while snorkeling or diving.

Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially women, and avoid taking photos of military or government buildings, as it may be prohibited.

Plan your visit around the Grand Mariage (Great Wedding) season, typically between June and September, to witness vibrant traditional celebrations.

Try 'Mkatra Foutra,' a savory pancake-like dish, or 'Langouste à la Vanille,' a lobster dish flavored with vanilla, a local specialty.

Opt for shared taxis, eat at local markets, and stay in guesthouses run by locals to save money while immersing yourself in authentic Comorian culture.

Bargaining is expected in markets, but do so politely and with a smile; starting at half the asking price is a common practice.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and alcohol consumption is restricted in some areas, especially during Ramadan.

Most tourists can get a visa on arrival for €30-50, valid up to 45 days. Check your nationality beforehand.

Comorian Franc (KMF). Euros and US dollars are accepted in hotels and larger shops. ATMs limited to Moroni.

No, French and Comorian (Shikomoro) are the main languages. English is rarely spoken outside hotels.

Taxi-brousse (shared minibuses) for budget travel; car rental for flexibility. Domestic flights between islands are recommended.

No, stick to bottled or boiled water. Avoid ice in drinks.

Yellow fever (if from endemic area), typhoid, hepatitis A & B, and malaria prophylaxis are recommended.

Rice, fish, coconut, and spices dominate. Try langouste (lobster), mkatra foutra (breadfruit), and vanilla-infused dishes.

Only at major hotels in Moroni. Cash is king; bring euros or dollars to exchange.

Modest dress is expected, especially outside beach resorts. Women should cover shoulders and knees in towns.

Slow and unreliable. Mobile data (3G/4G) is better; buy a local SIM at the airport.

Avoid pointing with your finger, use the whole hand. Don't eat with your left hand. Respect Ramadan if visiting during that period.

Yes, but domestic flights are the only reliable option. Ferries are infrequent and can be dangerous.