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Guide
Príncipe, São Tomé and Príncipe 🇸🇹
#1764
,
Nomad Score:
51%
Essentials
🏙️ City | Príncipe is a small island in the Gulf of Guinea, part of the São Tomé and Príncipe archipelago, known for its lush landscapes and eco-tourism. |
👥 Population | Approximately 8,000 residents. |
💻 Internet Speed | Average download speed is approximately 10 Mbps, but it can vary. |
💸 Currency & Banking | Currency is the São Tomé and Príncipe dobra (STN). 1 EUR ≈ 24,000 STN. |
🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable, recommend using bottled water. |
🔌 Power | Electricity supply is 220V, 50Hz, with Type C and Type F sockets. |
📶 SIM Card | Available from providers like Unitel and CST, offering reasonable data packages. |
💳 Banking for Expats | ATM and banking are limited. Bring cash; credit cards accepted in few places. |
🛌 Accommodation | Options include beachfront chalets and local guesthouses like Pousada Porto Real. |
💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited cashless options; carry cash for most transactions. |
🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb options available, particularly around the capital, Santo António. |
🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hotels like Hotel Praia and local guesthouses provide affordable stays. |
🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The northern coast around Santo António is recommended for access to amenities and beaches. |
🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Consider staying in Ponta Boi for tranquility and natural views. |
Working and Networking
🏢 Best Coworking Space | Currently, no dedicated coworking spaces, but many cafes offer Wi-Fi. |
☕ Best Cafe for Work | Café Central is popular among expats and provides a relaxed atmosphere. |
💼 Networking Events | Informal meetups often happen at local bars or popular accommodations. |
🥂 Social Events for Expats | Check local Facebook groups for expat social gatherings. |
Transportation
🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | No ride-hailing apps available; local taxis are on-call. |
🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bikes are available for rent at local guesthouses. |
🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Praia de Figueira is the best nearby beach, about a 15-minute drive. |
✈️ Top Regional Airline | STP Airways services flights between islands. |
✈️ Top International Airline | TAP Portugal and Royal Air Maroc operate flights to São Tomé. |
🛣️ Highway Access | Limited; most travel within the island is done via local roads. |
🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Príncipe does not have a train service; transport is largely by road. |
🚍 Public Transport Passes | No formal public transport pass system; minibuses are common for travel. |
✈️ Regional Travel | Travel by small ferry services is available between islands. |
Health and Wellness
🏥 Best Hospital | Hospital de Príncipe offers basic health services. |
🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Currently, no specific yoga centers, but you can find yoga classes at some resorts. |
🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Limited options; some hotels have small fitness facilities. |
🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services available at some guesthouses. |
Food and Drink
📱 Best Food Delivery App | No food delivery apps available; local takeaways provide food delivery. |
🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try Calulu, a local fish stew with vegetables and spices. |
🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited, but some restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes. |
🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Visit Confeitaria Central for local pastries and sweets. |
🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Visit the local markets for fresh produce and local goods. |
🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited e-commerce options; local shopping is more common. |
🛒 Grocery Delivery | Grocery delivery is not common; shop in-person at markets. |
🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Visit bars in Santo António for a lively atmosphere. |
🍻 Local Brewery | Check out the locally produced Açaí beer. |
🍷 Wine Bars | Limited options; few bars serve a selection of imported wines. |
🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street vendors near Santo António offer local treats. |
🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Some restaurants offer pizza and burgers alongside local dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the historic fortress of São Antonio and the beautiful natural surroundings. |
🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Small local museums showcase São Tomé and Príncipe's heritage. |
🏰 Historical Sites | The old colonial buildings in Santo António are notable. |
🕍 Religious Sites | The São António Church is a key local landmark. |
🎉 Annual Events | Cultural festivals are held in July celebrating local traditions. |
🎨 Cultural Districts | Santo António has vibrant local markets and cultural expressions. |
🎭 Theater Venues | Limited; check local listings for occasional performances. |
🛍️ Local Markets | Santo António market is vibrant with local crafts and produce. |
🎼 Music Scene | Local bars feature traditional music performances. |
🎨 Street Art | Limited; however, local artists often showcase work in community centers. |
🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are offered at some hotels focusing on local cuisine. |
👩🎨 Art Galleries | Limited, but some local artisans have small galleries. |
🕰️ Historic Buildings | Notable colonial architecture can be found around Santo António. |
🏴 Local Heritage | The rich cultural heritage of the island is celebrated through community events. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Exploration of Obo National Park nearby offers stunning rainforests and wildlife. |
🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Obo National Park encompasses much of the island and is accessible. |
🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Trails along the coastline and in the national park provide great opportunities for hiking. |
🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Visit viewpoints like Ponta do Sinó for breathtaking coastal views. |
🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The abundant forested areas are excellent for birdwatching. |
🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Available at certain beaches, but check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Limited international delivery services; use local postal options. |
🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Limited tech repair options available in Santo António. |
🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Find table tennis games setup at local community centers. |
🧑🏫 Language Classes | No dedicated language schools; some locals offer informal lessons. |
📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Small libraries exist within community centers. |
🏘️ Community Centers | Local community hubs provide gathering spaces and events. |
🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited; mostly available at hotels with gaming rooms. |
🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos exist; gaming is typically done in local social settings. |
Business
🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €1,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = €60,000) in Santo António. |
🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €1,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = €40,000) in peripheral areas. |
🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €1,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = €108,000) in Santo António. |
🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €1,200 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = €72,000) in peripheral areas. |
🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €1,700 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = €136,000) in Santo António. |
🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €1,300 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = €104,000) in peripheral areas. |
💼 Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is around 25%. |
💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Generally around 15%. |
🏦 Tax System | Progressive tax system based on residency. |
📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 30%. |
🧾 VAT | Standard VAT is 10%. |
🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are regulations governing foreign income. |
🏠 Property Tax | Property tax is based on property value assessments. |
🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Typical rate on property purchases is around 10%. |
💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Digital nomads can benefit from a simple taxation system with few complex regulations. |