Rabaul, Papua New Guinea 🇵🇬
#1851
-4.198459, 152.172828
Nomad Score:
43%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Rabaul is a town located on the northeastern tip of New Britain Island in Papua New Guinea, known for its volcanic surroundings and historical significance. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 12,000. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 5-10 Mbps, but can vary based on location. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 PGK (Papua New Guinean Kina) ≈ 0.28 USD. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable, bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 240V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type I sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Digicel and Bmobile offer mobile services, with good coverage in urban areas. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Westpac and ANZ are the main banks, but ATMs are limited. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include guesthouses like Rabaul Hotel and Airbnbs; average price is around 100 PGK per night. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited, cash is preferred; some places do accept cards. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb operates in the area, with prices starting at around 75 PGK per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options are limited; guesthouses like Gazelle International Hotel offer budget rooms. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Rabaul does not have traditional coworking spaces, but Rabaul Hotel offers suitable working areas. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Treetops is a popular spot for remote workers. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Informal meetups often occur at local cafes; check expat community groups. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Look for events on Facebook groups like 'Expats in Papua New Guinea.' |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Taxi services are available, but grab a local taxi for better rates. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | No dedicated rental services; personal bikes can be seen around. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Kokopo Beach is about 20 minutes away. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Niugini connects to other major cities. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Air Niugini and Qantas operate international flights. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | The East New Britain Highway connects Rabaul with Kokopo. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Rabaul does not have a train service; local transport is by bus or taxi. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport is minimal, use taxis or buses. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Bus services run regularly to Kokopo and other nearby towns. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | St. Mary's Hospital offers basic healthcare services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited options; few private instructors may offer classes. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Rabaul Fitness provides basic gym facilities. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Local laundromats available; some accommodations offer laundry services. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Food delivery services are limited; check local options. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try Mumu, a traditional Papua New Guinean dish. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Local markets have fresh produce; some restaurants offer vegetarian meals. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Try Rabaul Bakery for local pastries. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Rabaul Local Market offers fresh fruits and local goods. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited options; consider using international shipping services. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Limited availability; local markets are best for fresh produce. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Check out the Rabaul Tavern for night-time socializing. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | SP Brewery is the local producer; visit for brewery tours. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited wine bars; local drinks are preferred. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Local stalls sell fresh fish and tropical fruits. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Many eateries offer Asian cuisine due to local population. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Rabaul Volcanological Observatory and the Japanese War Memorial. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Rabaul Museum showcases local history and culture. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The remnants of the old town after WWII are significant. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | St. Mary’s Cathedral is a notable landmark. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Rabaul Show is a major cultural event held yearly. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Kokopo offers a mix of local and expatriate cultures. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local venues host celebratory events, but there are no dedicated theaters. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Rabaul Local Market for crafts and fresh produce. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local music often features traditional instruments at festivals. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Limited street art; local crafts are more prevalent. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Check with local guesthouses for traditional cooking classes. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Local art can be found in community centers and local shops. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Remnants of German colonial architecture can be found around the town. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Kastom (custom) practices play a significant role in local culture. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Dive spots around the islands nearby are stunning, like the Tavanipupu Island. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Nautilus diving near Rabaul is renowned, though formal parks are scarce. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Some trails are available along the waterfront and through local villages. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The top of Mt. Tavurvur offers breathtaking views of the area. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The area is home to various tropical bird species; local guides can help. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Some beaches allow bonfires; check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Post PNG handles local parcel delivery; International shipping available through DHL. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops offer basic tech repairs; parts may take time to arrive. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Local clubs may set up tables; inquire at pubs. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Some language schools offer Tok Pisin classes if needed. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Limited; local cafes provide a relaxed environment for reading. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local cultural centers provide programming around arts and crafts. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited options; some bars have gaming facilities. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No major casinos are present; small local gaming available. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 1,200 PGK per m² (e.g., 40 m² = 48,000 PGK). |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 900 PGK per m² (e.g., 40 m² = 36,000 PGK). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 1,700 PGK per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 102,000 PGK). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 1,200 PGK per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 72,000 PGK). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 1,500 PGK per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 120,000 PGK). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 1,100 PGK per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 88,000 PGK). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 30%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 15%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Residence-based taxation for locals. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 42%. |
| 🧾 VAT | 10%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, applies to foreign subsidiaries. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Yes, based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 1% on property purchases. |