Water quality varies from area to area, depending on the source, but in most regions is excellent.
Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay.
Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are considered safe to eat. Local chemists can diagnose and supply a wide selection of drugs. There are often long waits for treatment at public hospitals. Hospital facilities on outlying islands are sometimes sparse, although many ambulances without adequate facilities have air ambulance backup.