Saint-Louis, Senegal 🇸🇳
Nomad Score:
55%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Saint-Louis is a historic city located at the mouth of the Senegal River, also known for its colonial architecture and vibrant culture. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 180,000 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average broadband speed is around 20 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 EUR ≈ 655 CFA Franc. ATMs are available, and Visa is widely accepted. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 230V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type C/D sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Providers like Orange and Free offer good coverage and prepaid packages. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Local banks like BCEAO and international banks such as BNP Paribas are present. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Variety includes hotels, guest houses, and long-term rentals via Airbnb. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Moderate; cards are accepted in larger establishments, but cash is recommended for smaller vendors. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Platforms like Airbnb and local real estate offices offer short-term rental options. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options like Le Kora offer affordable lodging. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | CoLab is a popular coworking space with reliable Wi-Fi and a collaborative environment. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe de la Plage offers a pleasant waterfront view and is conducive for working. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Regular meetups are organized by local entrepreneurs, check Café de la Plage for announcements. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Facebook groups like 'Expats in Senegal' often host community gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Yango is widely used for affordable rides. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available at local shops; electric scooters are not common. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Ngor Island Beach, approximately 25 mins by ferry. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Senegal serves domestic flights. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Air France and Brussels Airlines operate international routes. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Key roads connecting to Dakar are accessible. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Saint-Louis has a local train station with limited service. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Local buses are available; passes can be purchased at stations. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses connect to Dakar and other major cities. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Centre Hospitalier Regional de Saint-Louis is the main healthcare facility. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga classes available at 'La Maison de la Yoga'. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness centers like 'Fitness Club Saint-Louis' are available. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laverie Service in downtown Saint-Louis provides laundry services. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Jumia Food is popular for local delivery. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Thieboudienne (fish and rice) is the must-try local specialty. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Options are limited; however, restaurant 'L'Atelier' offers vegetarian meals. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Patisserie La Boulangerie is famous for its pastries. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets such as Marché de Saint-Louis offer fresh produce. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Local services like Jumia offer various products online. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Some local supermarkets may offer delivery; inquire at your accommodation. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The waterfront area is vibrant with bars and nightlife. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Brasserie de la Mer produces local beer. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Le Terroir offers a selection of wines. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street vendors near Place Faidherbe offer delicious local snacks. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants like 'Le Relais de l'Atlantique' serve international dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The UNESCO-listed Île de Saint-Louis is a must-visit. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Museum of Black Civilizations is worth a visit. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Faidherbe Bridge and the governor's palace reflect the city's colonial history. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Mosque of Saint-Louis is an architectural highlight. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Saint-Louis Jazz Festival attracts international musicians every May. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The Historic Island, with its colonial buildings, is a cultural hub. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Centre Culturel Francais hosts various performances. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Marché Central is known for handicrafts and local products. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | The city has a lively music scene with local clubs hosting live performances. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Various murals can be found throughout the city, reflecting local culture. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are offered at local culinary schools. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | The Biennale des Arts tracks contemporary local artists. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Colonial houses showcasing French architecture are prevalent. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The city showcases a unique blend of African and French heritage. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Langue de Barbarie National Park offers birdwatching and nature trails. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Niumi National Park is accessible for wildlife enthusiasts. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | There are scenic paths along the river for cycling or walking. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The riverfront is ideal for stunning sunsets. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Langue de Barbarie is famous for birdwatching; bring binoculars. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas near the beach are available for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local courier services operate within the city. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Tech services are available at local markets. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have table tennis available. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools offer classes in French and Wolof. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The local library at Place de la Republique is a quiet study spot. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Maison des Jeunes often holds community events. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Gaming lounges are rare; local internet cafes may offer gaming options. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | International hotels may have small gaming facilities. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 350,000 CFA per m² (e.g., 30 m² = 10,500,000 CFA) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 250,000 CFA per m² (e.g., 30 m² = 7,500,000 CFA) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 300,000 CFA per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 18,000,000 CFA) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 220,000 CFA per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 13,200,000 CFA) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 280,000 CFA per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 22,400,000 CFA) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 200,000 CFA per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 16,000,000 CFA) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 30%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Usually 15% for foreign entities. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Senegal has a progressive tax system based on residency. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 40%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard Value Added Tax rate is 18%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, CFC rules are in place to tax foreign entities. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax is based on market value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Property transfers incur a tax of 5%. |