Welcome to Tuvalu 😊
Tuvalu is a small island country located in the Pacific Ocean, and is one of the smallest countries in the world. The country is made up of nine islands, and is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters and friendly people. Tuvalu is a great place for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of big cities, and enjoy a relaxing holiday on a remote island. The culture in Tuvalu is rich and unique, with traditional dances, songs and rituals still practiced today.
Quick Facts About Tuvalu
- Currency: Australian dollar
- Population: 11,792
- Languages: Tuvaluan,English
Money and Finances
The currency of Tuvalu is the Australian dollar, which has denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 notes, as well as coins of 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as $1 and $2 coins.
ATM Network
There are limited ATM networks in Tuvalu, mostly located in Funafuti, the capital city. It is recommended to bring cash in Australian dollars.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are not widely accepted in Tuvalu, and it is recommended to bring cash or traveler's checks. Visa is the most commonly accepted credit card, followed by Mastercard, with limited acceptance of AMEX.
Internet and Phones
Internet in Tuvalu is fairly limited and slow, with an average upload speed of 1 Mbps and a download speed of 2 Mbps. There is no government interference in internet use.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
The main telco company in Tuvalu is Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation (TTC). The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around $20 per month. Some phones may not be compatible with TTC's network.
Dialling to Tuvalu
To call Tuvalu from another country, dial +688 followed by the 4-digit Tuvalu country code. Within Tuvalu, dial the 4-digit area code followed by the local number.
Transport Around Tuvalu
Air Travel
Tuvalu has one airport, the Funafuti International Airport, which is located on the island of Funafuti.
Train Travel
There are no inter-city train networks in Tuvalu.
Metro / Local Trains
There are no local trains within major cities in Tuvalu.
Buses
There are no bus networks in Tuvalu.
Rideshare
There are no rideshare companies in Tuvalu.
Driving by Car
Driving in Tuvalu can be difficult due to the narrow roads and lack of streetlights outside of the main island. The speed limit is 40 km/h and Tuvalu uses left-hand drive.
Local Customs
In Tuvalu, tipping is not a common practice. Locals typically greet each other with a handshake and a smile. There is no particular custom for addressing strangers, but it is common to be friendly and respectful. Men and women typically address each other with the honorific 'Mrs.' or 'Mr.' followed by their first name. It is also a custom to remove your hat when entering someone's home or a place of worship.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
Tuvalu has a small healthcare system with limited resources. There are no private hospitals, so visitors must rely on the two public hospitals for medical treatment. While medical care is generally affordable, it can be difficult to access and of limited quality. A visit to a doctor in Tuvalu can cost between $20-$50 USD.
COVID Situation
Tuvalu has not reported any COVID-19 cases. Entry to the country is limited, and all visitors must undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival.
Common Health Risks
While there are no major health risks in Tuvalu, visitors should still take precautions to avoid common illnesses such as diarrhea and respiratory infections. There is a risk of dengue fever, so it is important to take measures to avoid mosquito bites during the day. It is recommended to bring medication for common illnesses and to travel with comprehensive medical insurance.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol consumption is legal in Tuvalu, but there are restrictions on purchasing and consuming it in public places. Selling alcohol to minors is also prohibited.
Recreational Drugs
Recreational drug use in Tuvalu is illegal and can result in severe punishment, including imprisonment. This applies to all drugs, including cannabis and party drugs.
Pre-Marital Relationships
Pre-marital relationships are generally accepted in Tuvalu, but sex outside of marriage is frowned upon in traditional communities. Couples who engage in pre-marital sex may face social ostracization.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Homosexuality is illegal in Tuvalu, and same-sex relationships are not recognized. LGBTQ individuals may face discrimination and even imprisonment.
Firearms / Guns
Gun ownership is heavily regulated in Tuvalu, and firearms can only be obtained with a license. The use of firearms for hunting or sport is allowed, but using them for any other purpose can result in severe punishment.