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Guide
Koror, Palau π΅πΌ
#1175
,
Nomad Score:
46%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Koror is the largest city and former capital of Palau, known for its stunning marine life and proximity to natural attractions. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 11,000 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | Average speeds are around 25 Mbps which can vary during peak hours. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD = 1 USD (there is no exchange rate). ATMs are available, but bank services can be limited. |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | 110V, 60Hz, with Type A and B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Providers include Digicel and Smart; prepaid SIM cards are available at the airport and local stores. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Locally, only a few banks operate such as Bank of Guam, and international banking options may be limited. |
π Accommodation | Options vary from hotels, guesthouses, to Airbnb listings, with prices generally ranging from $50 to $200 per night. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Limited; cash is widely used, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. |
π Short Term Rentals | Available through platforms like Airbnb, with prices starting from $60 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options are limited, but guesthouses can be found starting at $30 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Palau Royal Resort Area and the area near Koror's waterfront. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Kyle's Guesthouse for longer stays with amenities catering to remote workers. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Currently, there are no dedicated coworking spaces, but cafes with Wi-Fi provide a working environment. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Coffee Berry offers a good atmosphere for working with decent Wi-Fi and coffee. |
πΌ Networking Events | Occasional expat meetups are organized through social media platforms. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Look for meetups at local cafes and community events advertised on Facebook groups. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Palau Taxi services; no ride-sharing apps are available. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Scooter rentals available at various shops around town for around $20 per day. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Sand Bar is a popular nearby beach, accessible via boat tours. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | United Airlines serves regional flights to Guam and other nearby islands. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | United Airlines is the main carrier, with limited flights from Asian hubs. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | The main road connects Koror to Babeldaob island, which is the second largest island in Palau. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Transit options are limited primarily to taxis and rented vehicles. |
π Public Transport Passes | Not included; public transport is minimal, primarily consisting of taxis. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Travel between islands is mainly done via ferries or chartered boats. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Belau National Hospital is the main healthcare facility with limited services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga is offered at local community centers occasionally. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Limited; the best option is Vida Fitness with basic equipment. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Several laundromats offer services, costing around $5 per load. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | No notable food delivery app; local restaurants offer takeout. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Taro and seafood dishes are popular local foods to sample. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegan options are scarce, but some restaurants offer salads and local vegetables. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Choco Deli serves local-style desserts and cakes. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets in Koror offer budget-friendly food options. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Limited internet makes online shopping a challenge; Amazon could be an option with shipping. |
π Grocery Delivery | No established grocery delivery service; supermarkets are available for shopping. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Waterfront Plaza has some local bars and nightlife options. |
π» Local Brewery | Bai's Craft Beer is a local option, producing limited batches. |
π· Wine Bars | Wine selection is mostly found in restaurants with limited offerings. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Local markets host food stalls with traditional Palauan food. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Various restaurants in Koror serve Japanese, Korean, and Chinese cuisine. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Rock Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site and must be visited. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Palau National Museum offers insights into local culture and history. |
π° Historical Sites | Babeldaob's ancient stone monoliths are featured on a historical tour. |
π Religious Sites | The Ngardmau Waterfall and nearby churches are worth visiting. |
π Annual Events | The Belau Games holds cultural and sporting events annually. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Koror has various local markets showcasing traditional crafts. |
π Theater Venues | Cinemas exist but are limited to major film releases only. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Koror's main market offers a variety of local goods and food. |
πΌ Music Scene | There is a small but vibrant local music scene at bars and festivals. |
π¨ Street Art | Street art is limited; traditional cultural art can be seen throughout. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Local culinary schools occasionally offer classes on Palauan cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Art can be found in local workshops but not specific galleries. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The historic Pristine Paradise is a notable building highlighting Palau's heritage. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Palauan culture emphasizes family and respect for the environment. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | The Rock Islands and Paddling Palau offer stunning natural views. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | The Palau National Marine Sanctuary protects numerous marine species. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited paths available; popular biking routes are found along the main road. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Ngerbuesang Beach offers breathtaking views of the sunset. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching is popular at the Ngeruangel Marine Reserve. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Some beaches allow bonfires, but itβs best to ask locally first. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | UPS and FedEx have limited services available in Koror. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local shops can repair basic tech issues, but services are limited. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have recreational tables. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language classes for both English and Palauan can sometimes be arranged. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Very limited; best options are at the Palau Community College. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Local community centers host workshops and activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Gaming venues are scarce, limited to private homes. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos or major gaming halls in Koror. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $100,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $88,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $3,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $180,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $150,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $3,300 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $264,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,600 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $208,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 31% for corporations. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 14% on dividends. |
π¦ Tax System | Territorial tax system; only local income is taxed. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 28% for individuals. |
π§Ύ VAT | No VAT; taxes are generally low. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Not applicable; minimal regulation. |
π Property Tax | 1% of the assessed value annually. |
π Property Transaction Tax | 3% on the full sale price. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | 0% tax on foreign income earned outside Palau. |