
Food and drink
Keeping healthy when sampling the local cuisine
Eating and drinking can be some people's favourite part of their holiday.Its also a time when we eat and drink differently to how we do at home.Here is some good advice to help keep you well and able to enjoy the local specialities.
If you suffer from a food allergy, it is your responsibility to inform the crew on the plane, the transfer/excursion driver (if applicable), and the hotel team immediately upon arrival. Please note that notifying us at the time of booking does not replace the need to inform these teams directly. On your flight, please let our cabin crew know when you board so they can support you; we will always do our best to help, including making onboard announcements and stopping the sale of nut products where possible.
You must also personally inform the hotel, restaurant, or bar when you arrive. You should advise your server on every occasion and make sure they understand exactly what you are communicating to them. If ever in doubt, ask to speak to a manager or supervisor, and consider learning how to say or write down the name of your allergy in the local language to show staff.
It is important to be aware that destinations do not all manage or communicate allergies in the same way. Legislation and local standards regarding allergens in other countries may differ from those you are used to at home. Because of this, please familiarise yourself with how things are done at your specific hotel and never assume that a food is free from an allergen if it isn’t mentioned in the name or ingredient list.
Buffets and open food displays can carry a higher risk of cross‑contamination for customers with allergies, because utensils may be shared and ingredients aren’t always clearly separated. Where possible, requesting a freshly prepared dish gives you more control and reduces this risk.
Always carry your allergy medication (such as an EpiPen) on your person while travelling. If you are on holiday with others, make sure someone you trust knows where it is kept and how to use it.
If you have any specific dietary requirements, it's your responsibility to ensure the hotel, restaurant or bar is aware of these on your arrival. Please ensure that your server understands what you are asking for.
There are some countries where dietary requirements aren't well known or are uncommon, so do some research and prepare yourself accordingly. It's always good advice to write down your requirements in the local language to refer back to. Please note that you can't get halal food in Iceland.
Food and drink can be one of the real highlights of travelling. The delights of the local cuisines and customs enrich the holiday experience. However to keep you feeling good, here are some recommendations that are worth remembering:
- Always wash your hands with antibacterial soap before eating
- Where appropriate, drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks
- Be aware that alcohol measures abroad may be larger than in the UK – drink in moderation
- Follow the advice of: boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it.
- Make sure your food has been thoroughly cooked and is still hot when served
- Avoid any uncooked food apart from fruits and vegetables or food that can be peeled or shelled
- Avoid ready to eat foods that have been left out in the heat for prolonged periods of time
- Different cuisines prepare foods in different ways and with different ingredients that your body may not be used to. You may wish to ease your way into a completely new diet
- Ask for information on meal ingredients if you have food allergies or dietary requirements and carry your medication with you
- Take care when handling lava rocks, hot stone grills and other cooking equipment
If you start feeling unwell, contact your hotel reception who will be able to call you a doctor, if needed. And don't forget to let us know too.