Water is a basic need that needs to be met every day of our lives, and while some are better at drinking water than others, one cannot just skip it altogether for a few days, as research suggests you are likely today because of it.

If you’re a regular traveler, or are new at the game, knowing where you can drink water and where not to, is extremely important.

Considering how dangerous water can be, you should respect your health and life enough, to first do adequate research on the country you plan on traveling to, before even booking your flight, and if you’re not allowed to consume tap water, you should investigate alternative options in that country.

Where to never drink tap water

#1 Brazil

Ah, Brazil is the best, right? Well, yes and no.

See, this beautiful, exotic country has been suffering from water shortages for a long time, and with just over 200 million people residing in the country, close to 5 million already don’t have access to drinkable water. These areas are not likely to be specified, so do buy the water in Brazil.

#2 Ukraine

When visiting Ukraine, be sure to take note of the tourist sites, which specifically says not to drink tap water.

Water sources in the country are very polluted by agricultural and industrial run-off, which dates back all the way to the Soviet era. So please, don’t drink from the tap water. You will get sick.

#3 Fiji

Why, oh why the beautiful island of Fiji?

Even though Fiji is the fifth most-visited island for honeymoons across the globe, only 47% of their tap water is considered safe to consume.

If you’re planning on living in a resort, there should be filtration systems installed, but whatever you do, don’t drink from the sink.

#4 China

Home to the world’s biggest population, this economically-thriving country is struggling with polluted water sources.

These polluted/ unsafe water sources account for nearly 85% of all rivers. So again, do buy bottled water when visiting China.

#5 Mexico

All tourists who make their way to Mexico have been told to avoid the country’s tap water. The water crisis in the country has led to it becoming the third biggest consumer of bottled water in the world.

Get bottled water coolers and mains water coolers from Living-Water in London.