Essential travel info for Micronesia

Electricity

Electrical current in Micronesia is generally 110 to 120 volts, 50Hz. Plug types are similar to those in the US and Canada, with three blades.

Language

English is the official language of Micronesia.

Money

The official currency is the US dollar. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels; ATMs are limited.

Tipping

As locals regard visitors as guests and hospitality is an honour in their culture, tips are neither expected nor encouraged.

Health

Visitors to Micronesia should be up to date on vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and measles. Medical facilities are adequate for simple treatment, but more serious problems may require medical evacuation to Guam of Australia. Adequate travel health insurance is a must and should cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad, as well as repatriation, including medical evacuation by air ambulance.

Safety

Though crime levels are low, the risk of crime is higher at night, particularly if alcohol is involved. The risk is also higher in the state of Chuuk.

Local customs

Social etiquette in Micronesia is underpinned by non-assertive, respectful behaviour. Visitors should ensure at all times that they behave in a humble fashion, and especially that they do not indulge publicly in bawdy or overtly sexual behaviour. Visitors should always ask permission before taking someone's photo and should not click their tongue (in frustration or disappointment) if they refuse, as this is considered a form of swearing in Micronesia.

Male visitors should not rub their bellies, nor beckon someone toward them with their palm facing skyward, as both actions are construed as sexual overtures. It is often considered inappropriate for women (foreign or local) to be alone in public, which can make solo travel in Micronesia somewhat difficult for women.

Doing business

The dress code usually involves lightweight suits or shirt and tie, and appointments should be made in advance. Business cards are exchanged; building trust and rapport is hugely important in this region. Gift-giving can be a sign of respect and can be used to initiate or solidify a business relationship, though it's important to research appropriate gifts to avoid cultural missteps.

Duty free

Travellers to Micronesia may import up to 200 cigarettes, 20 cigars or 450g of tobacco, and 1.5 litres of liquor. Guns and ammunition are prohibited.

Communications

The international access code is +691.

Passport & Visa

To enter the Federated States of Micronesia, travellers' passports must have an 'expiry date' at least 120 days after the date they arrive. Travellers will need to clear immigration even for a domestic flight, so they will always need their passports when they fly in the FSM.

Entry requirements

US passports must be valid for a minimum of 120 days beyond the period of intended stay. Visitors can get a tourist visa on arrival. It's valid for 30 days.

UK passports must be valid for a minimum of 120 days beyond the period of intended stay. Visitors can get a tourist visa on arrival. It's valid for 30 days.

Canadian passports must be valid for a minimum of 120 days beyond the period of intended stay. Visitors can get a tourist visa on arrival. It's valid for 30 days.

Australian passports must be valid for a minimum of 120 days beyond the period of intended stay. Visitors can get a tourist visa on arrival. It's valid for 30 days.

South African passports must be valid for a minimum of 120 days beyond the period of intended stay. Visitors can get a tourist visa on arrival. It's valid for 30 days.

Irish passports must be valid for a minimum of 120 days beyond the period of intended stay. Visitors can get a tourist visa on arrival. It's valid for 30 days.

New Zealand passports must be valid for a minimum of 120 days beyond the period of intended stay. Visitors can get a tourist visa on arrival. It's valid for 30 days.

Micronesia