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Respecting culture

Statues at a Buddhist temple. Photo: Inger Vandyke / Christmas Island Tourism Association

Statues at a Buddhist temple. Photo: Inger Vandyke / Christmas Island Tourism Association

Follow these simple rules during your stay to show respect for Christmas Island’s diverse religions and cultures.

  • Dress modestly when visiting the Kampong area, where many Muslim people live. You might like to carry a wrap or sarong to cover bathing suits, bare arms or revealing clothing.
  • Swimwear is perfectly acceptable on the beach, but public nudity is not allowed anywhere on Christmas Island.
  • You are welcome to visit the island’s Chinese temples and take photos if you like. However, please remember that these are places of worship and show respect at all times.
  • Take off your shoes before entering a temple, mosque or somebody’s home.
  • Muslims use their right hand for eating, giving and receiving. Our Muslim residents will appreciate you doing the same when interacting with them.
  • Avoid touching another person on the head.