The Coco de Mer is endemic to only two islands in the Seychelles, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vallée de Mai on Praslin and parts of Curieuse. Over the years the nut has given rise to many legends among the local Seychellois people.

The traditional dhoni is one of the oldest known sea vessels in the Maldives, originally constructed using coconut palm timber. Local fisherman and traders have since mechanised their dhonis which are vital to their way of life.

Rose water has been distilled in Oman since the early ninth century. It’s used for medicinal, culinary and celebratory purposes, particularly for preparing fast-breaking meals during Ramadan.

Falconry has been practised throughout the Middle East for centuries and Arab poets have always lauded falcons in their poems. In the philosophy of the region, falconry teaches patience, endurance and self-reliance.