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Guide
Yap, Micronesia π«π²
#1772
,
Nomad Score:
45%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Yap is one of the four states of the Federated States of Micronesia, known for its traditional culture, stone money, and beautiful natural scenery. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 11,000 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | Average download speed is around 10-25 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | US Dollar (USD). Most transactions are conducted in cash, but some locations accept credit cards. |
π° Tap Water | Generally not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | 120V, 60Hz, and uses Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Local providers include FSM Telecom and Digicel, offering prepaid SIM cards. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Bank of the FSM and various local credit unions are available. |
π Accommodation | Options include guesthouses, motels, and limited Airbnb availability. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Limited cashless facilities; cash is king. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb availability is limited; local guesthouses are preferred. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Yap Homestead Hotel offers reasonable rates and a local experience. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Colonia is the main town with access to amenities and attractions. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Colonia provides the best balance of connectivity and local culture. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | No dedicated coworking spaces exist; local cafes are commonly used for remote work. |
β Best Cafe for Work | The Cornerstone Cafe offers Wi-Fi and a relaxing work environment. |
πΌ Networking Events | Limited formal networking events; engaging with local community events is encouraged. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Monthly community events occur; check local bulletin boards for information. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | No specific ride-sharing apps; local taxis and private arrangements are used. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Rentals are limited; it's best to explore on foot or by local transportation. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Yap has numerous beautiful beaches; TongKong Beach is a notable spot. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | United Airlines services Yap with flights from Guam. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | United Airlines is the primary international airline connecting to the U.S. mainland. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Limited highway access; most travel is conducted on small local roads. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | No train service; connections are primarily by road or boat. |
π Public Transport Passes | No public transport system; taxis and arrangement with locals are common. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Local ferries connect Yap to nearby islands for exploration. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Yap State Hospital provides basic healthcare services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga classes may be available at community centers periodically. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Limited fitness centers; outdoor activities are popular. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundromats are available in Colonia. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Limited options; most food is available through local restaurants. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'bwiich,' a traditional Yapese dish made of taro and coconut. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited veggie options; local markets offer fresh vegetables. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Local bakeries offer traditional pastries, try coconut buns. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Colonia markets provide fresh local produce at reasonable prices. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Limited access; local businesses may have basic online presence. |
π Grocery Delivery | No grocery delivery services available; local stores operate. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Limited nightlife; most socializing happens in local restaurants. |
π» Local Brewery | No local breweries; most drinks are imported. |
π· Wine Bars | No wine bars; local establishments primarily serve beer and cocktails. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Limited, but local markets may offer snacks on occasion. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Local seafood and Pacific fare dominate; international restaurants are scarce. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Stone money banks, traditional villages, and the island's cultural festivals. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Yap State Museum displays local history and culture. |
π° Historical Sites | Visit the ancient stone money sites, crucial in Yap's cultural heritage. |
π Religious Sites | Various local churches reflect the diverse culture on Yap. |
π Annual Events | Yap Day Festival held annually in March celebrates Yapese culture. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Colonia is the cultural heart of Yap, showcasing local traditions. |
π Theater Venues | Limited venues; community events take place in various local spots. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Coloniaβs weekend markets offer a variety of local produce and crafts. |
πΌ Music Scene | Traditional music is part of local community events. |
π¨ Street Art | Limited street art; local culture is more preserved through traditional means. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Occasional cooking workshops available through local community centers. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Limited galleries; community art exhibits occasionally take place. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Traditional Yapese architectural styles are visible in villages. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Yapese cultural heritage is reflected in their lifestyle, including fishing and weaving practices. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Yap is surrounded by stunning coral reefs; diving and snorkeling are popular. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | No major national parks, but natural reserves and beautiful landscapes abound. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited paths; best explored by walking through villages and beaches. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Various viewpoints near coastal areas; perfect for sunsets. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Yap is home to unique bird species; look for them in natural reserves. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated beach areas allow bonfires; check with locals for proper spots. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Limited options; USPS and FedEx service available. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Limited to local shops; generally less accessible for expats. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have table tennis available. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Limited language classes; local community may offer informal lessons. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Yap State Library offers basic resources for reading and study. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Active community centers provide various programs and activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming options; social gaming may occur in local gatherings. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos in Yap. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $150,000 for a studio in Colonia. |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $120,000 for a studio outside of Colonia. |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $200,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment in central Colonia. |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $160,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment outside of Colonia. |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $250,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment in Colonia. |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $220,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment outside of Colonia. |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 0% corporate tax for registered businesses in FSM. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 0% on dividends. |
π¦ Tax System | Taxation varies; no local income tax for many residents. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | No income tax imposed on residents. |
π§Ύ VAT | No VAT in Yap. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No strict CFC regulations in place. |
π Property Tax | Very minimal property tax applied. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Typical transaction fees apply; usually less than 1%. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No income tax; appealing for remote workers seeking a tax-friendly living. |