Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Babeldaob is the largest island in Palau, representing about 70% of the nation's land area, known for its lush rainforests and traditional culture. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 18,000 residents live across Babeldaob. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speeds are around 15-30 Mbps, with Wi-Fi available in many cafes and coworking spaces. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | The currency used is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are available, but card acceptance can be limited in some areas. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is generally not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity supply is 110V, 60Hz, with Type A/B sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Local providers include Digicel and ElMobil, offering prepaid SIM cards with data options. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Local banks including Bank of Guam and Bank of Hawaii serve international clients, and online banking options are available. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Accommodations include hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals, particularly around Ngaraard and Melekeok. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Generally, cash is preferred; however, some establishments do accept credit/debit cards. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Platforms like Airbnb are available for short-term housing, with prices starting around $50 per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Budget options like guesthouses can be found, starting at approximately $40 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The area around Melekeok is recommended for its proximity to attractions and beaches. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Babeldaob’s central region offers good connectivity and access to cafes, making it ideal for remote workers. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Palau Coworking is a popular spot for remote work, located in the central Ngerulmud area. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Café A Healing Place offers free Wi-Fi and a comfortable working environment. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Monthly meetups are organized by local groups to connect entrepreneurs and digital nomads. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | The Palau Expat Community Facebook Group hosts regular social gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Private taxi services are available; there are no major ride-hailing apps like Uber. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bicycle rentals are available in select hotels and shops in Ngerulmud. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Ngardmau Waterfall, approximately a 30-minute drive, has beautiful beaches for a relaxing day. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | United Airlines provides regular flights to and from Baberdaob. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | United Airlines is the primary international carrier servicing Palau. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | The Compact Road connects Babeldaob’s main regions, making it easy to navigate. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no rail service; transportation is primarily by car and local buses. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | There are limited public transport options; most travel is by private vehicle. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Local mini-buses connect major towns, with schedules available at local information centers. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Belau National Hospital in Ngerulmud offers comprehensive healthcare services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Kiana Yoga offers classes and wellness sessions regularly. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Palau Gym is available in Ngerulmud, equipped with essential fitness facilities. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Several laundromats are located in Ngerulmud for convenient laundry services. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Delivery services are limited; local restaurants may offer direct delivery. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the 'Babeldaob Chicken'—a local specialty using fresh island ingredients. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Fresh greens and fruits are available, with several cafes offering vegetarian dishes. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Enjoy local desserts at the Palau Pie Shop, known for its fresh pies and pastries. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets in Ngerulmud offer fresh produce at affordable prices. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon ships to Palau, though delivery times may vary. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Many local grocery stores offer delivery services on request. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Nightlife is limited; local beachfront bars offer a relaxed atmosphere. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | The Palau Brewing Company produces local beers available in various bars. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wine options are limited; some restaurants have a small selection. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street food is available primarily near local markets and during festivals. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Several restaurants offer international dishes, including Italian and Thai. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the historic Ngardmau Waterfall and traditional Bai shelters. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Palau Museum highlights the island's rich cultural history. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The Japanese WWII Memorial located in the central region is a notable historical site. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Roman Catholic Cathedral of Immaculate Conception is a significant landmark. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Belau Day Festival celebrates Palauan culture each July. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Explore the traditional village areas to experience authentic Palauan lifestyle. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local cultural shows often feature at the Palau Community Center. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The Palau Night Market offers local crafts and food every Saturday evening. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local bands often perform at beach bars, showcasing traditional Palauan music. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Public murals and art installations can be seen around Ngerulmud. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Classes focusing on Palauan cuisine can be found through local community centers. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Local artworks can be found in various cafes and cultural stores throughout Babeldaob. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Babeldaob is home to various traditional Palauan structures and historical buildings. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Palauan culture emphasizes the importance of family, community, and nature. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Explore the Ngeruangel Waterfall, a hidden gem for hiking and relaxation. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | The Palau National Marine Sanctuary is a must-visit for marine biodiversity. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The Compact Road offers scenic routes for cycling and walking enthusiasts. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Babeldaob offers stunning views from the cliffs overlooking the ocean. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The mangroves around Babeldaob are excellent for birdwatching enthusiasts. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas along the beaches are available for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local services such as FedEx and DHL operate for international shipping. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Electronics repair shops can be found in Ngerulmud for device troubles. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers have table tennis facilities available. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools offer Palauan language classes, focusing on conversational skills. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The Palau Community College library provides study areas and resources. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local community centers host various activities and cultural events. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming options are available; some cafes offer gaming consoles. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Palau does not have casinos; activities are mostly recreational. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $72,000) in central areas. |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,300 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $52,000) in suburban locations. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,700 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $102,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $72,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,600 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $128,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,100 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $88,000). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | No corporate tax for income earned outside Palau; standard tax is minimal. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Dividends paid to foreign entities attracted a 15% withholding tax. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Palau has a territorial tax system applied to income generated within its borders. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | The maximum personal income tax rate is approximately 18%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Palau does not impose a VAT. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Palau does not have strict CFC rules; this can be beneficial for expat investors. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Property tax is minimal, encouraging investment in real estate. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Standard property transaction tax is around 5%. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Palau is considered attractive due to its low tax rates and no capital gains tax. |