Gizo, Solomon Islands 🇸🇧
#1003
,
Nomad Score:
45%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Gizo is the capital of the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, known for its scenic beauty and rich culture. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 8,000 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speeds are around 10-20 Mbps, suitable for basic work tasks but may struggle with heavy data usage. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 AUD ≈ 6.12 SBD (Solomon Islands Dollar). ATMs are available, but cash is predominantly used. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable. It is advisable to use bottled water or water purification systems. |
| 🔌 Power | 230V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type I sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Providers include B mobile and DigiCell, with options for prepaid plans available. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Commonly accepted payment methods include cash and some credit cards, but ATMs may be limited. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include guesthouses, bungalows, and short-term rentals, typically ranging from AUD 50 to AUD 150 per night. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited cashless services; it is recommended to carry cash for most transactions. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses are available for short stays, averaging AUD 70 per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Budget options include the Gizo Hotel and the Solomon Islander Hotel, with rates starting at AUD 50 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The waterfront area near the Gizo Fair Trade Store offers beautiful views and easy access to amenities. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Try the Gizo Hotel area, which provides more reliable internet access and proximity to cafes. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | No dedicated coworking spaces, but public areas of cafes serve as good spots for remote work. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | The Coffee Shop offers a decent atmosphere for work with Wi-Fi access. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Local expat groups can be found on social media for networking opportunities, albeit informal. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Meetups are organized monthly through local Facebook groups or community centers. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | No major ride-hailing apps; local taxis are available but should be arranged in advance. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Limited options available; inquire at local hotels or shops for rentals. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Kawili Beach is a short boat ride away and offers pristine sandy beaches. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Solomon Airlines and Air Solomon operate regional flights. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Air New Zealand and Qantas provide routes to Gizo. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Limited road infrastructure; travel is primarily via boat or small aircraft. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Gizo Airport is the main transit hub for air travel. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | There are no public transport passes; local transport is organized by taxis and boats. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Boat services are the primary means to reach nearby islands and villages. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Gizo Hospital is the main public hospital, but services may be limited. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Few wellness centers available; inquire for local classes. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Limited fitness facilities; some hotels offer basic gyms. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Basic laundry services are available at local guesthouses. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | No established food delivery apps; most food is ordered directly or consumed in restaurants. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the local fish 'Kokoda', a marinated ceviche dish. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited options available; most restaurants focus on seafood and meat. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | The Coffee Shop offers local treats like coconut buns and cakes. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Visit the Gizo Market for fresh fruits, vegetables, and local produce. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited online shopping availability; local shops are preferred. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | No grocery delivery; local markets are the main source for food supplies. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Local bars such as 'The Coral Sea' provide a lively atmosphere. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | No local breweries; consumption of international brands is common. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited wine bar presence; wine is available in local shops. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street food is commonly found market vendors. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants tend to serve Pacific Island cuisine; options are limited. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the local cultural center and the Gizo Lighthouse for scenic views. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Limited museums; the cultural center showcases local art and heritage. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Explore WWII relics along the coast. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | St. Peter's Anglican Cathedral is a notable local religious site. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Cultural festivals celebrate local heritage, typically held in July. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Gizo town offers a glimpse into local life and culture. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Limited with informal gatherings for performances at local community centers. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The Gizo Market offers local crafts and food, bustling with energy. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Traditional music can often be heard during local celebrations. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Limited street art; local craftsmen showcase work within the market. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes available upon request; inquire at local guesthouses. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Artisan shops may sell local crafts; no formal galleries exist. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The colonial architecture around Gizo town reflects its history. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Local traditions and crafts are part of daily life in Gizo. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Visit the surrounding islands for untouched beaches and nature reserves. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | The closest national parks are located on neighboring islands, accessible by boat. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited; best explored on foot along the coastal paths. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Promontories near Gizo offer stunning vistas of the ocean. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Various islands nearby serve as birdwatching havens. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Beaches invite bonfire gatherings; inquire about local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local postal services exist, but international delivery may take time. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Limited tech repair services; check local shops in Gizo. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Some community centers may have tables available for use. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Limited options; local schools may offer basic language courses. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The local community center may have resources for study. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local community centers host various events and activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited video gaming facilities; social gaming occurs in casual settings. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos are available in Gizo. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. AUD 2,500 per m² (e.g., 50 m² = AUD 125,000). |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. AUD 1,800 per m² (e.g., 50 m² = AUD 90,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. AUD 2,300 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = AUD 138,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. AUD 1,600 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = AUD 96,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. AUD 2,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = AUD 160,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. AUD 1,500 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = AUD 120,000). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Corporate tax rate is approximately 30%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 25% on dividends. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Residents are taxed on income earned locally. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Up to 40% income tax. |
| 🧾 VAT | Value Added Tax is 10%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are CFC rules in place. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Property tax applies based on rental income for landlords. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Transaction tax is approximately 5% for property purchases. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No specific tax incentives; standard rates apply. |