Why should you visit Tuvalu? Because Tuvalu is one of the least visited countries on earth (most people won’t have even heard of it) there’s fairly scant information online about visiting Tuvalu. Yet, like anywhere it’s always useful to have a bit of pre-tour information! Tuvalu
Tuvalu is a remote island in the Pacific Ocean that is a member of the Commonwealth, which means Queen Elizabeth is head of state. This has been confirmed twice by referendum. Most visitors will arrive at Funafuti airport and be given a 30-day tourist stamp on arrival.
Why should you visit Tuvalu – They use the Aussie Dollar
Whilst the country does mint a few of its own coins, the currency is still the AUD. You generally cannot use cards here at all! And even changing money is not that easy.
Tuvalu is off the beaten track
At under 1000 tourists per year so do not expect much in the way of tourist infrastructure. Do not expect things to always go your way; instead roll with the punches and enjoy island life.
Most people in Tuvalu can speak English
Tuvaluans have their own language but pretty much everyone speaks English and it is the lingua franca of business, but hey you’re in their country so learn a few words in Tuvaluan. ‘Lalofa’ is hello, and that’s a good start.
Getting around Tuvalu
The ONLY way to travel in style in Funafuti is by scooter, which can be rented for as little as $10 a day. This is how everyone gets around and is a fabulous way to see the real Tuvalu.
The runway is also a road
When you land in Funafuti you will notice that it’s not like any other airport and that is because the runway is also an open road. If you hear air raid sirens that means there’s a flight coming and it’s time to get off said road.
Little to no Wi-Fi
Internet addicts beware! There’s very little Wi-Fi in Tuvalu, with the 4G network being the best bet to get online, although even that periodically goes offline. Use your time to take a rest rom cat memes.
God is a big deal in Tuvalu
Religion in Tuvalu is a big thing, with almost every Christian denomination represented. If you eat with Tuvaluans don’t be surprised if they say grace first, and be prepared for EVERYTHING to be closed on a Sunday, bar your hotel bar.
You might not get a fridge magnet here
When you visit the 3rd least visited country in the world don’t expect too many creature comforts. There’s no malls here and few souvenirs, although you can buy t-shirts and handicrafts from the airport when flights are due to leave.
Go island hopping!
One of the best things about going to a tropical set of islands, islets and atolls is exploring them, so rent a boat and go do that! There are unexplored gems you can visit.
Eat, drink and be merry with the wonderful people of Tuvalu
Tuvaluans truly are friendly people. Their cuisine might not be world famous, but food is simple, flavorsome, and you are more than likely to get invited to some kind of party or home-cooked meal when you travel here.
Experience the laidback tranquility of Tuvalu yourself on our Least Visited Countries tour!
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