Toliara, Madagascar 🇲🇬
#371
,
Nomad Score:
48%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Toliara, also known as Tulear, is a coastal city in Madagascar, located in the south-western part of the country. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 150,000 |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 10-20 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 4,400 Ariary. ATMs are available but it's wise to carry cash as not all places accept cards. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable; always use bottled water. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is 220V, 50Hz with Type C sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Providers include Airtel Madagascar and Orange Madagascar. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Visa and MasterCard are accepted at banks and some hotels; however, carrying cash is recommended. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include local guesthouses, small hotels, and Airbnb listings. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited; cash is preferred in many places, especially local markets. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses generally offer short-term stays. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Toliara Backpackers is a popular option with budget-friendly rates. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The beachfront area near Anakao is recommended for its beautiful views and proximity to activities. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The city center offers more amenities, coworking spaces, and cafes with Wi-Fi. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Cocoloco Coworking Space, offering stable internet and a friendly atmosphere. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe de la Poste, known for its good coffee and reliable Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Local expat meetups often arranged through Facebook groups. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | The Toliara Expat Community group on Facebook hosts regular gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | No specific apps available; taxis are available at stands throughout the city. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Local rentals available near the beach area. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Anakao Beach is just a short boat ride away and is popular for its beauty. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Madagascar offers flights to Antananarivo. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Air France and Ethiopian Airlines provide service. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Route nationale 7 connects Toliara with Antananarivo. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Toliara does not have a railway service. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No specific transit passes; minibuses and brasseries operate on fixed routes. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Local buses connect Toliara to other cities like Morondava and Antananarivo. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Centre Hospitalier de Toliara, offering basic healthcare services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga classes are available at local fitness centers. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness Center Toliara offers various gym facilities. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Local laundromats available, mostly in the city center. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Local delivery services can be found, but options are limited. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Romazava, a traditional meat and vegetable stew. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Ravintzina offers local vegetarian dishes. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Chez Tato is known for its pastries and ice cream. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets like Marché de Toliara for fresh produce. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Online shopping options are limited; local markets are preferred. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Some local shops may offer delivery, but services are sparse. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | La Boussole is a popular bar with live music. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | N/A; local beers are produced but not widely marketed. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Occasional local wine offered in restaurants. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Available near the markets, try local snacks like sambos. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Several pizza and French restaurants around the city. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the Toliara lighthouse and nearby botanical gardens. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Musée de la mer showcases local maritime history. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Explore the ruins at Fort de Toliara. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Cathedral of Toliara is a prominent landmark. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Toliara Cultural Festival occurs in October, showcasing local music and dance. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The coastal area has numerous local artisans and markets. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local theaters host occasional performances but are rare. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Marché de Toliara offers a vibrant shopping experience. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music can be found at local bars, particularly African music. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Murals can be found throughout the city center. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Local chefs offer occasional cooking lessons in Malagasy cuisine. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Few, but some local art is displayed at community centers. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Colonial-era buildings can be seen around the city. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Rich cultural heritage influenced by multiple ethnic groups. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | The Tsimanampetsotsa National Park is nearby, known for unique wildlife. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Andohahela National Park is within reach for hiking and wildlife viewing. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Scenic routes along the coastline offer beautiful views. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Views from the Toliara lighthouse are breathtaking. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The wetlands near the city are ideal for birdwatching. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas on the beaches allow for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Limited service available; private courier services can be arranged. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops can handle basic tech repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | No specific spots available. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Local language schools offer Malagasy and French classes. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The municipal library has a collection of books, though limited. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Various community events held at the local cultural center. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Very limited options for gaming venues. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos are available in Toliara. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 1,200,000 Ariary per m² (e.g., 40 m² = 48,000,000 Ariary) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 800,000 Ariary per m² (e.g., 40 m² = 32,000,000 Ariary) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 1,500,000 Ariary per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 90,000,000 Ariary) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 1,000,000 Ariary per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 60,000,000 Ariary) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 1,800,000 Ariary per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 144,000,000 Ariary) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 1,200,000 Ariary per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 96,000,000 Ariary) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 20% |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% |
| 🏦 Tax System | Based on residence principle, taxing worldwide income. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 20% for income above a certain threshold. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard VAT rate is 20% |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | N/A in Madagascar. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax based on valuation. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Approximately 7% on property purchases. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No specific tax incentives for digital nomads. |