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Port Vila, Vanuatu 🇻🇺
#1084
,
Nomad Score:
53%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Port Vila is the capital and largest city of Vanuatu, located on the island of Efate. |
| 👥 Population | approximately 45,000 |
| 💻 Internet Speed | average download speeds of 15-20 Mbps |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 VUV (Vanuatu Vatu) ≈ 0.009 USD. ATMs are available, but cash is preferred. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable, bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 220V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type I sockets |
| 📶 SIM Card | Mobile providers include Digicel and Vodafone, with options for prepaid plans. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | ANZ and BSP provide services, but online banking is limited. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Moderately cashless, with cards accepted in major hotels and restaurants. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses offer short-term rental options. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel style options are available, starting at around VUV 2,000 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The town center and waterfront are popular for tourists. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Central Port Vila offers easier access to co-working spaces and amenities. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The Office Vanuatu is a popular coworking space with good ambiance. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe du Village is favored for its atmosphere and internet connectivity. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Regular meetups are held through social platforms, often in cafes. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Facebook groups and local events provide a chance for networking. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Taxis are available but it is recommended to negotiate the fare beforehand. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Local businesses offer scooter rentals starting at VUV 1,500 per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Pango Beach is the closest beach, about 15 minutes by car. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Vanuatu is the main regional carrier. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Air New Zealand and Qantas offer international flights. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | The main road around Efate links Port Vila to various attractions. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train service; public transportation is limited to buses and taxis. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Buses operate on a schedule, tickets are paid in cash. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Local ferries connect to nearby islands. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Port Vila Hospital is the main healthcare facility. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga on Efate offers classes in various locations. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness First Vanuatu is a popular gym in Port Vila. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundromats are available, as well as hotel laundry services. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | No major apps; local restaurants often provide delivery services. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Don't miss out on Laplap, a traditional dish made with taro or yam. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Healthy options can be found at many cafes, such as Market Meal. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Sweet Treats Café offers a lovely selection of pastries. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Fresh food markets like the Port Vila Market are budget-friendly. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited local e-commerce; international shipping available through major retailers. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Limited services, best option is shopping in-store. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The waterfront area has a variety of bars with lively atmospheres. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Vanuatu Brewing Company offers local beer tasting. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | The Melanesian Hotel has a popular bar with a decent wine selection. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Look for local vendors selling BBQ and fresh fruits. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Many restaurants serve Asian-inspired dishes, such as Salamander Restaurant. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The Parliament House and the Port Vila Market are essential visits. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Vanuatu Cultural Centre showcases local heritage. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | See the remnants of old cannons and WWII bunkers in Port Vila. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Anglican Cathedral is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Vanuatu Cultural Festival occurs every 4 years, showcasing cultural performances. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The town center is vibrant with local artisans and markets. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local shows are sometimes held at the cultural center. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Port Vila Market is a hub for local produce and handcrafted goods. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music can be found at numerous bars, particularly on weekends. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Look for murals around the town showcasing local talent. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Look for local cooking workshops at the cultural center. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | The Art Gallery Vanuatu features local artists. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Visit the old post office building for its colonial architecture. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The traditional custom boat making is a local heritage skill to watch. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Explore Mele Cascades, a beautiful waterfall just 15 minutes away. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | The national park in Efate offers hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Pathways along the waterfront are great for walking or cycling. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Visit the lookout at the top of the hill for panoramic views of the bay. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The nearby forests are home to diverse bird species. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Some beaches allow bonfires, check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local courier services operating in the area. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | A few local shops offer mobile and computer repair services. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Port Vila has a few community centers with table tennis amenities. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Check local community centers for language learning opportunities. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The Public Library in Port Vila offers quiet study space. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local community centers provide cultural and recreational activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | There are limited options, mostly casual gaming at cafes. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no major casinos in Port Vila. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. VUV 28,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = VUV 1,120,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. VUV 20,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = VUV 800,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. VUV 26,000 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = VUV 1,560,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. VUV 18,000 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = VUV 1,080,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. VUV 24,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = VUV 1,920,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. VUV 16,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = VUV 1,280,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 30% |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 20% |
| 🏦 Tax System | Progressive tax system based on income levels. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Tax rates up to 35% |
| 🧾 VAT | No VAT but import duties may apply. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, strict with foreign business operations. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Yes, based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 4% standard rate on property transfers. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Residency permits can lead to favorable tax conditions. |