Yap, Micronesia 🇫🇲
#1772
,
Nomad Score:
46%
Essentials
| 🏙️ 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. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 11,000 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average download speed is around 10-25 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | US Dollar (USD). Most transactions are conducted in cash, but some locations accept credit cards. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Generally not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 120V, 60Hz, and uses Type A/B sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Local providers include FSM Telecom and Digicel, offering prepaid SIM cards. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Bank of the FSM and various local credit unions are available. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include guesthouses, motels, and limited Airbnb availability. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited cashless facilities; cash is king. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb availability is limited; local guesthouses are preferred. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Yap Homestead Hotel offers reasonable rates and a local experience. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Colonia is the main town with access to amenities and attractions. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Colonia provides the best balance of connectivity and local culture. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | No dedicated coworking spaces exist; local cafes are commonly used for remote work. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | The Cornerstone Cafe offers Wi-Fi and a relaxing work environment. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Limited formal networking events; engaging with local community events is encouraged. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Monthly community events occur; check local bulletin boards for information. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | No specific ride-sharing apps; local taxis and private arrangements are used. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Rentals are limited; it's best to explore on foot or by local transportation. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Yap has numerous beautiful beaches; TongKong Beach is a notable spot. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | United Airlines services Yap with flights from Guam. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | United Airlines is the primary international airline connecting to the U.S. mainland. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Limited highway access; most travel is conducted on small local roads. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | No train service; connections are primarily by road or boat. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No public transport system; taxis and arrangement with locals are common. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Local ferries connect Yap to nearby islands for exploration. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Yap State Hospital provides basic healthcare services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga classes may be available at community centers periodically. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Limited fitness centers; outdoor activities are popular. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Local laundromats are available in Colonia. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Limited options; most food is available through local restaurants. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'bwiich,' a traditional Yapese dish made of taro and coconut. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited veggie options; local markets offer fresh vegetables. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Local bakeries offer traditional pastries, try coconut buns. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Colonia markets provide fresh local produce at reasonable prices. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited access; local businesses may have basic online presence. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | No grocery delivery services available; local stores operate. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Limited nightlife; most socializing happens in local restaurants. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | No local breweries; most drinks are imported. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | No wine bars; local establishments primarily serve beer and cocktails. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Limited, but local markets may offer snacks on occasion. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Local seafood and Pacific fare dominate; international restaurants are scarce. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Stone money banks, traditional villages, and the island's cultural festivals. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Yap State Museum displays local history and culture. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Visit the ancient stone money sites, crucial in Yap's cultural heritage. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Various local churches reflect the diverse culture on Yap. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Yap Day Festival held annually in March celebrates Yapese culture. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Colonia is the cultural heart of Yap, showcasing local traditions. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Limited venues; community events take place in various local spots. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Colonia’s weekend markets offer a variety of local produce and crafts. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Traditional music is part of local community events. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Limited street art; local culture is more preserved through traditional means. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Occasional cooking workshops available through local community centers. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Limited galleries; community art exhibits occasionally take place. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Traditional Yapese architectural styles are visible in villages. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Yapese cultural heritage is reflected in their lifestyle, including fishing and weaving practices. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Yap is surrounded by stunning coral reefs; diving and snorkeling are popular. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | No major national parks, but natural reserves and beautiful landscapes abound. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited paths; best explored by walking through villages and beaches. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Various viewpoints near coastal areas; perfect for sunsets. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Yap is home to unique bird species; look for them in natural reserves. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated beach areas allow bonfires; check with locals for proper spots. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Limited options; USPS and FedEx service available. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Limited to local shops; generally less accessible for expats. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have table tennis available. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Limited language classes; local community may offer informal lessons. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Yap State Library offers basic resources for reading and study. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Active community centers provide various programs and activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming options; social gaming may occur in local gatherings. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos in Yap. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $150,000 for a studio in Colonia. |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $120,000 for a studio outside of Colonia. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $200,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment in central Colonia. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $160,000 for a 1-bedroom apartment outside of Colonia. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $250,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment in Colonia. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $220,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment outside of Colonia. |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 0% corporate tax for registered businesses in FSM. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 0% on dividends. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Taxation varies; no local income tax for many residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | No income tax imposed on residents. |
| 🧾 VAT | No VAT in Yap. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No strict CFC regulations in place. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Very minimal property tax applied. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Typical transaction fees apply; usually less than 1%. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No income tax; appealing for remote workers seeking a tax-friendly living. |