Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Airai is a tranquil municipality located on the island of Babeldaob, Palau. It is recognized for its blend of traditional culture and modern amenities. |
| 👥 Population | Approx. 2,000 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average speed is around 15 Mbps, but can vary significantly based on location. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Currency is the United States Dollar (USD). ATMs are available, with USD being the widely accepted currency. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is not reliably drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is 110V, 60Hz, with Type A/B sockets commonly used. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Local providers such as Digicel and Smart offer prepaid SIM cards with competitive data plans. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Most major international debit/credit cards are accepted; local banks have varied services for expats. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Airbnb and local guesthouses are available for short stays; prices range from $50 - $150 per night. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | No, cash is preferred in most local shops and eateries. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb options available, prices typically start from $55 per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Guesthouses like 'Palau Backpacker' offer budget options starting around $30 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The area near the Ngardmau Waterfall is popular for its scenic views and access to nature. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Central Airai, close to coworking spaces and cafes. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The 'Palau Creative Hub' is a popular coworking space featuring fast internet and a comfortable working environment. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Biyang offers a conducive atmosphere for work with good coffee and reliable Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Monthly meetups organized by the 'Palau Digital Nomads' group on Facebook. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Weekly potluck events in local community centers allow for networking opportunities. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Palau Taxi app is available for on-demand transport; local taxis are also commonly used. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available at the Airai bike shop for around $10 per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Ngeremeduu Bay, approximately 15 minutes drive, is the best beach for relaxation and water sports. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | United Airlines connects Airai to Guam and other regional locations. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | United Airlines is the main carrier for international flights. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | The main road to Koror facilitates easy transportation. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train system; local buses and taxis provide transit options. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport is minimal; taxis are recommended for convenience. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Local buses operate between Airai and major cities, with tickets around $2. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Belau National Hospital is the primary healthcare facility in Airai. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga classes at local wellness centers like 'Palau Wellness Center' offer sessions around $15. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | The Palau Sports Complex has gym facilities available for public use. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services are available at various local laundromats. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Palau Delivery is popular for food deliveries from local restaurants. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Tinola', a traditional Palauan soup. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | 'The Green Plate' offers various vegetarian-friendly options. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | 'Sweet Treats Bakery' is known for its delicious pastries. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets like the Airai Fresh Market offer budget-friendly produce. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | No major local online store; use international services like Amazon. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Grocery delivery is limited; local stores like 'Palau Mart' require in-person shopping. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | 'T-Shirt Bar' is a popular spot for nightlife and socializing. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Palau Brewing Company offers local craft beers. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | 'Wines of Palau' has a good selection of international wines. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | The night market in Koror serves popular local street foods. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | 'Italiano Ristorante' is renowned for its pasta and pizza. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the historic 'Babeldaob Island' for cultural insights. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Belau National Museum showcases Palau's history and culture. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Explore the ancient Bai (meeting houses) scattered across Airai. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Airai Church is a beautiful landmark reflecting local architecture. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Belau Festival, celebrated in August, showcases Palauan culture. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Visit the traditional villages in Babeldaob for authentic cultural experiences. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local theaters host performances featuring traditional Palauan dance and music. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The Airai market on Saturdays offers local crafts and foods. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music events occur monthly at local bars, featuring traditional Palauan music. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Murals reflecting Palauan culture are found in central Airai. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | 'Palau Cooking School' offers hands-on classes featuring local cuisine. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Local artist galleries display traditional and contemporary art by Palauan artists. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The old Japanese occupied structures in Airai represent significant historical architecture. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Traditional Palauan beliefs and customs are preserved throughout the community. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | The Rock Islands are a nearby paradise for diving and snorkeling. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Bai National Park offers hiking trails and wildlife watching opportunities. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The paths around Ngardmau Waterfall provide beautiful walking trails. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint at Babeldaob offers breathtaking panoramic views. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Explore the forest reserves for a chance to see diverse Palauan birds. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated beach areas allow for bonfires, especially during community events. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local courier services like 'Palau Mail' assist with shipping and delivery. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Palau Computer Repair offers services for devices and technology. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers host ping pong tables for public use. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Local libraries offer English and Palauan language courses. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The Airai Public Library provides a quiet space for reading and studying. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | The Airai Community Center hosts various public events and gatherings. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Local gaming cafes feature popular video games and arcade options. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Airai; entertainment mainly revolves around social gatherings. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $100,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $80,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $168,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,300 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $138,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $3,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $240,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,500 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $200,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 29%. Limited economic activities sustain this rate. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 0% for most non-resident entities. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Taxation is based on Worldwide income for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 30% for high-income earners. |
| 🧾 VAT | No VAT; sales taxes apply to imported goods. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, Palau has regulations affecting foreign earnings. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Property tax is minimal, primarily collected at the municipal level. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Standard rate of 5% applies to property purchases. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Palau offers a peaceful environment with relatively low taxation on income. |