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Guide
Pohnpei, Micronesia π«π²
#1700
,
Nomad Score:
39%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Pohnpei is the largest island in the state of Micronesia, known for its lush landscapes, rich culture, and historic sites. |
π₯ Population | approx. 34,000 |
π» Internet Speed | average of 5 Mbps |
πΈ Currency & Banking | United States Dollar (USD), 1 USD = 0.84 EUR |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended |
π Power | 120V, 60Hz, π Type A/B sockets |
πΆ SIM Card | Local providers include FSM Telecom and Digicel, with basic prepaid plans available. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Popular services include Bank of Guam and ANZ Bank; credit/debit cards accepted. |
π Accommodation | Rental options include Airbnb, hotels like the Pohnpei Island Hotel, and guesthouses. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Partially; cash is preferred, but some places accept cards. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses offer short-term rentals. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Seaside Guesthouse and Pohnpei Yoga Retreat offer affordable options. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Kolonia is the main town and a good base for tourists. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Collaborative spaces around Kolonia, which has more amenities and Wi-Fi. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | No dedicated coworking spaces, but cafes such as Cafe Expresso offer Wi-Fi. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Expresso has a relaxed atmosphere and good internet. |
πΌ Networking Events | Informal meetups at local cafes and monthly community gatherings. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Expats often gather for beach BBQs and local festivals. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available; no ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Limited; some guesthouses offer bicycles for rent. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Naneong Beach, accessible from Kolonia. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | United Airlines serves regional destinations. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | United Airlines and Fiji Airways are key international carriers. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Limited highway access; public transport is minimal. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | No trains; local buses operate irregularly. |
π Public Transport Passes | No formal public transport passes available. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Travel via local flights or rented vehicles. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Pohnpei State Hospital is the main healthcare facility. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Pohnpei Yoga Retreat offers yoga classes. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Limited; local gyms are available but may be basic. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundromats are available in Kolonia. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | No major apps; local restaurants may offer direct delivery. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the traditional dish 'Bwai' (fermented breadfruit). |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited; check out Island Paradise Restaurant. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | The local bakery offers fresh pastries and treats. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets in Kolonia offer fresh produce. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Limited; local services prefer cash transactions. |
π Grocery Delivery | No specific grocery delivery service. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Main bars are located in Kolonia, near the waterfront. |
π» Local Brewery | No local breweries, but imported beers are available. |
π· Wine Bars | Limited; local restaurants serve basic drinks. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street vendors sell local snacks, especially during festivals. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Options include Chinese and pizza restaurants in Kolonia. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Nan Madol, an ancient city built on coral islands. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Pohnpei Cultural Center offers insights into local heritage. |
π° Historical Sites | Nan Madol Ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
π Religious Sites | Sacred sites include the Catholic Cathedral in Kolonia. |
π Annual Events | Cultural festivals occur throughout the year, celebrating Micronesian traditions. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Explore the local markets and craft fairs in Kolonia. |
π Theater Venues | Limited theater options; local events are often held outdoors. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Pohnpei Farmers Market, held weekly, showcases local goods. |
πΌ Music Scene | Local music is primarily traditional; catch performances at community events. |
π¨ Street Art | Limited but increasing interest in public art. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Local chefs offer informal cooking classes upon request. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Few galleries; local arts can be found in markets. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Check out the former Japanese Administration Building in Kolonia. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Traditional Pohnpeian culture is strong, with festivals celebrating its history. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Sokehs Rock provides hiking opportunities with scenic views. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Pohnpei is home to several protected areas but lacks formal national parks. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited infrastructure for cycling; walking is common in town. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoints at Sokehs Rock and lakes offer stunning vistas. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | The rainforest areas around Pohnpei are rich in bird species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated beach areas allow bonfires, especially on weekends. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Limited options; local post office handles most deliveries. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Few small shops offer basic electronic repairs. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Some community centers have table tennis tables. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Informal language exchange groups may meet periodically. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Limited public libraries; best to find quiet cafes. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Community centers in Kolonia host various cultural events. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Limited; some cafes might have gaming setups. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos or formal gaming halls on the island. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $3,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 30 mΒ² = $90,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 30 mΒ² = $75,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 50 mΒ² = $140,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 50 mΒ² = $110,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,700 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $216,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $160,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | A flat rate of 21% |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% |
π¦ Tax System | Residents taxed on income derived from Pohnpei. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum tax rate is 8% |
π§Ύ VAT | No formal VAT; sales tax is applied to certain goods. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Not applicable. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax based on assessed value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | No formal property transaction tax. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Zero taxes on foreign income for tax residents of Pohnpei. |