Kosrae, Micronesia ๐ซ๐ฒ
#1773
5.317148, 162.967656
Nomad Score:
49%
Essentials
๐๏ธ City | Kosrae is one of the four states of the Federated States of Micronesia, known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforest, and rich cultural heritage. |
๐ฅ Population | Approximately 7,500 |
๐ป Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 5-10 Mbps, with connectivity varying by location. |
๐ธ Currency & Banking | Currency is the US Dollar (1 USD โ 1 USD). ATMs are limited; cash is recommended. |
๐ฐ Tap Water | Generally safe to drink, but it's advisable to use bottled water in some areas. |
๐ Power | 120V, 60Hz, ๐ Type A/B sockets |
๐ถ SIM Card | Local providers include FSM Telecom and Digicel. Prepaid SIM cards available at local shops. |
๐ณ Banking for Expats | U.S. banks are not present, and local banking services can be limited. ATM availability varies. |
๐ Accommodation | Options include guesthouses, local inns, and a few hotels. Airbnb listings are available but limited. |
๐ณ Cashless Friendly | Cash preferred; limited acceptance of cards in many locations. |
๐ Short Term Rentals | Limited options; best to check Airbnb or similar platforms. |
๐๏ธ Budget Accommodation | Kosrae Village Ecolodge offers dormitory-style rooms at affordable rates. |
Working and Networking
๐ข Best Coworking Space | There are no dedicated coworking spaces; local cafes are popular for remote work. |
โ Best Cafe for Work | Mokey's Restaurant provides a relaxed atmosphere with WiFi. |
๐ผ Networking Events | Limited organized events; local community gatherings are informal. |
๐ฅ Social Events for Expats | Expats connect through local fishing trips and cultural exchanges. |
Transportation
๐ Best Taxi/Ride App | No popular ride-hailing apps; local taxis are available. |
๐ฒ Bike/Scooter Rental | Some local shops offer bike rentals for exploration. |
๐๏ธ Best Beach Nearby | Lelu Island Beach is renowned for its beautiful setting and snorkeling. |
โ๏ธ Top Regional Airline | United Airlines provides limited flights to and from Kosrae. |
โ๏ธ Top International Airline | United Airlines is the primary carrier with connections through Guam. |
๐ฃ๏ธ Highway Access | Kosrae has a single main road that circles the island. |
๐ Main Train/Transit Hub | N/A, public transport is minimal; personal transportation is encouraged. |
๐ Public Transport Passes | No formal public transport pass system; local buses run irregularly. |
โ๏ธ Regional Travel | Limited flights connect Kosrae with other FSM states. |
Health and Wellness
๐ฅ Best Hospital | Kosrae State Hospital is the primary healthcare facility, providing basic healthcare services. |
๐ง Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited wellness centers; private yoga classes may be available. |
๐๏ธ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic fitness facilities are available at the local community center. |
๐งบ Laundry Services | Local laundromats are available but limited; some hotels offer laundry services. |
Food and Drink
๐ฑ Best Food Delivery App | No specific food delivery apps; local restaurants provide dining on-site. |
๐ฝ๏ธ Best Local Dish to Try | Sashimi Plate - fresh fish served with local vegetables. |
๐ฑ Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegetarian options available at local eateries. |
๐ซ Best Dessert Spots | Likely to find local desserts at Kosrae Village Ecolodge. |
๐ Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets sell fresh produce and goods, especially on Saturdays. |
๐ E-commerce/Online Store | Access to international e-commerce is limited; local online marketplaces exist but are basic. |
๐ Grocery Delivery | Limited options; better to shop in person at local stores. |
๐ธ Bar/Nightlife Area | Most nightlife occurs at local bars, particularly on weekends. |
๐ป Local Brewery | No local breweries; imported beers are common. |
๐ท Wine Bars | No dedicated wine bars; available in some restaurants. |
๐ฒ Street Food Stalls | Local food vendors offer quick bites in various neighborhoods. |
๐ Popular International Cuisine | Limited; mostly local and some imported foods. |
Culture and Attractions
๐๏ธ Must-See Landmarks | Lelu Ruins - ancient stone structures that are significant to Kosrae's heritage. |
๐๏ธ Museums & Art Venues | Kosrae Museum offers insights into local history and culture. |
๐ฐ Historical Sites | Visit the ruins of the ancient city of Lelu. |
๐ Religious Sites | Kosrae features several small churches representing local faiths. |
๐ Annual Events | Cultural festivals occur sporadically; check local announcements. |
๐จ Cultural Districts | Local villages showcase traditional Micronesian culture. |
๐ญ Theater Venues | No formal theater venues; local performances may occur during festivals. |
๐๏ธ Local Markets | The Kosrae Municipal Market is the hub for local crafts and food. |
๐ผ Music Scene | Local bands perform at community events; limited nightlife. |
๐จ Street Art | Limited; community artwork resides on public buildings. |
๐งโ๐ณ Cooking Classes | Cooking classes focusing on traditional Micronesian cuisine are sometimes offered. |
๐ฉโ๐จ Art Galleries | Not prominent; art is mainly represented in local markets. |
๐ฐ๏ธ Historic Buildings | Traditional houses and structures are scattered throughout Kosrae. |
๐ด Local Heritage | Kosrae's culture reflects a blend of indigenous traditions and influences. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
๐ Nearby Nature Escapes | Kosrae features lush rainforests and numerous trails. |
๐๏ธ National Parks Nearby | Kosrae is home to the Kosrae State Park, featuring hiking and nature trails. |
๐ฒ Cycling/Walking Paths | The island can be cycled around, but paths are not always marked. |
๐ Scenic Viewpoints | Sipin waterhole offers beautiful views and is a great spot for photography. |
๐ฆ Birdwatching Locations | Kosrae hosts diverse bird species; check out the wetlands for sightings. |
๐ฅ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Beaches with designated areas; request local knowledge for best spots. |
Other Services and Amenities
๐ฆ Parcel Delivery Service | US Postal Service operates, but delivery times can be delayed. |
๐ ๏ธ Tech Repair Services | Limited options; residents often need to travel to Guam for major repairs. |
๐ Table Tennis Spots | Available at local community centers. |
๐งโ๐ซ Language Classes | Basic language courses may be available informally within the community. |
๐ Libraries & Study Spots | Kosrae Public Library offers space for reading and study. |
๐๏ธ Community Centers | Various community centers host local events and meetings. |
๐น๏ธ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming venues; community gaming may occur during events. |
๐ฐ Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos; local games are played in private settings. |
Business
๐ข Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approximately $1,000 per mยฒ (e.g., 40 mยฒ = $40,000) |
๐ข Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approximately $800 per mยฒ (e.g., 40 mยฒ = $32,000) |
๐ 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approximately $1,200 per mยฒ (e.g., 60 mยฒ = $72,000) |
๐ 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approximately $1,000 per mยฒ (e.g., 60 mยฒ = $60,000) |
๐ก 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approximately $1,500 per mยฒ (e.g., 80 mยฒ = $120,000) |
๐ก 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approximately $1,200 per mยฒ (e.g., 80 mยฒ = $96,000) |
๐ผ Corporate Tax | In Kosrae, corporate tax rates vary; consult local regulations. |
๐ต Dividend Withholding Tax | Dividends are generally not taxed at the local level. |
๐ฆ Tax System | Local taxation is limited; check with state guidelines. |
๐ Highest Income Tax Bracket | Progressive tax rate, maximum around 20%. |
๐งพ VAT | No value-added tax; sales tax is minimal. |
๐ Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Minimal regulation on foreign companies. |
๐ Property Tax | Annual property tax applies; rates vary by property size. |
๐ Property Transaction Tax | Low rates; consult local officials for specifics. |