Food, drink and dietary needs

Expect rice, coconut, curry leaves, spices and, on the coast, a lot of fish and seafood. Breakfasts like appam, puttu and dosa are a highlight. A sadya is a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, especially at festivals and weddings.

Vegetarian food is easy to find; look for 'veg' restaurants. Vegans should ask about ghee, curd, milk and honey, which appear in many dishes and sweets.

Coconut, coconut oil and cashew nuts are common, sometimes in dishes where you wouldn't expect them. If you have a serious allergy, carry a clear written note and mention it in your Southside enquiry and we'll pass it on to the host.

Food can be spicy. Asking for 'less spicy' is normal and understood.

Drink bottled or properly filtered water, and avoid ice of unknown origin. Many restaurants serve warm water that has been boiled with herbs, sometimes with a pink tint; it's what many locals drink. Carry a refillable bottle: many stays offer filtered refills, which avoids plastic waste.