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Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Oyem is the capital city of the Ngounié province in Gabon, known for its lush scenery and friendly atmosphere. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 35,000 people, providing a small-town feel with local charm. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 20 Mbps, suitable for casual browsing but may not be sufficient for heavy streaming or large downloads. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | The currency in Gabon is the Central African CFA franc (XAF). 1 EUR is approximately 650 XAF. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is generally not considered drinkable; it is recommended to purchase bottled water. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity supply is typically 220V, 50Hz with Type C and E plugs used. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Providers include Airtel Gabon and Gabon Telecom, offering prepaid options for local and data services. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | International credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted at some establishments; however, it's advisable to keep cash for smaller transactions. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Accommodation options include local guesthouses, hotels, and Airbnb listings with typical prices ranging from $20 to $60 per night. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Cash is preferred for most transactions; very few places accept cards. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb options are available with homes and apartments that can be rented on a weekly or monthly basis. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostels and budget guesthouses like Auberge Les Cocotiers provide affordable lodging, typically around $15 to $30 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Central Oyem is recommended for its proximity to local markets and cultural sites. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The Oyem town center offers more stable internet and is close to cafes and services useful for long-term stays. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Currently, there are no dedicated coworking spaces in Oyem; remote work is mainly done from cafes or accommodations. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe de l'Amitié offers free Wi-Fi and a quiet atmosphere, making it a popular spot for remote workers. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Local meetups are infrequent; however, connecting through social media platforms or expat groups can yield networking opportunities. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Check FB groups for expatriates in Gabon for community events and gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Yellow taxis are prevalent in Oyem; however, no major ride-hailing apps are currently available. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are not common; it is advisable to travel by foot or taxi. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | The nearest beach is around 50 km away, at Pointe Denis, requiring a day trip. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Gabon provides regional flights; however, service is somewhat limited. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Air France and Ethiopian Airlines offer international flights to and from Libreville, the capital. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Oyem is accessible via the N1 highway, connecting to other major cities. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Oyem does not have a significant train station; bus services are primarily used for intercity travel. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport options include shared taxis (sept-place); cash payment is required. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses connect Oyem to Libreville and other regions, typically costing around $15 for a trip. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Centre Hospitalier d'Oyem is the main hospital in the area but may lack advanced services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited options; occasionally classes may be held in local parks or community centers. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic gyms exist; facilities may vary in quality; membership around $20/month. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundromats are limited; many guesthouses offer laundry services for a fee. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Local delivery services are rare; food is usually consumed at restaurants. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try Nyembwe chicken, a local dish made with chicken cooked in palm oil and spices. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegetarian options can be found in local restaurants, though it's mostly meat-centric cuisine. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Juice bars offer local fruit blends; however, traditional dessert spots are few. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets sell fresh produce and snacks at reasonable prices. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | E-commerce is still developing; small local stores dominate retail. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Grocery delivery services are currently unavailable; shopping requires visiting local markets. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | A few local bars and clubs exist, offering a casual nightlife experience. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Limited local beer options, mostly international brands available in stores. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Very few wine bars; wines are typically found in restaurants or supermarkets. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street food offers a variety of snacks, including grilled meats and fried plantains. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | There are limited international options; preference is given to local cuisine. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the Oyem Cathedral for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | No significant museums in Oyem; cultural events may occur occasionally. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Local historical sites mainly feature colonial architecture and indigenous heritage. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Catholic and Protestant churches are prevalent, showcasing local spirituality. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Oyem Festival celebrates local culture, music, and traditions, typically in August. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Local markets and neighborhoods showcase the vibrant culture of Gabonese people. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Limited theater productions; occasional events may be hosted in community centers. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The Grand Marché de Oyem is a popular market for food, crafts, and local goods. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local music events occur at community gatherings, featuring traditional Gabonese music. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Street art is minimal; however, public murals can be found in some areas. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Occasional cooking classes may be offered by local families to tourists. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Very few galleries exist; most art is found in local markets. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Classic colonial buildings can be found scattered around the city. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Cultural events and festivals showcase Gabonese heritage and pride. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Visit the nearby Ivindo National Park for stunning wildlife and lush rainforest. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Ivindo National Park provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited official paths exist; many residents walk or cycle along local roads. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Natural viewpoints around Oyem feature sprawling landscape views, particularly in the hills. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching is popular around the riverbanks; diverse species can be spotted. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Check local regulations; some parks may allow bonfires in specific areas. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL provides parcel delivery services, limited to major cities like Libreville. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Limited options available for tech repairs; may need to travel to bigger cities. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have table tennis facilities, though they are rare. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language classes for French might be available at local community centers. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Public libraries are minimal; studying is typically done in cafes. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local community centers offer gatherings and activities for residents. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming lounges; local gaming events may occur occasionally. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Oyem; nearby cities may have more gaming options. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per m², typically priced around $30,000 for a 20 m² studio. |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per m², typically priced around $24,000 for a 20 m² studio. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per m², typically priced around $54,000 for a 30 m² one-bedroom. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,500 per m², typically priced around $45,000 for a 30 m² one-bedroom. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,000 per m², typically priced around $160,000 for an 80 m² two-bedroom. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,800 per m², typically priced around $144,000 for an 80 m² two-bedroom. |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 30%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Dividend withholding tax is 16.5%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Gabon has a progressive tax system; tax rates vary based on income. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | The maximum personal income tax rate is 35%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard VAT rate is 18%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, Gabon has strict rules governing foreign companies. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Yes, property tax is applicable based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Approximately 5% is charged during property purchases. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Digital nomads can explore tax benefits but should consult local authorities for specifics. |