Fast Facts

CURRENCY

The National Bank of Tuvalu (NBT) opens from 10:00am to 2:00pm Mondays to Thursday and 9:00am to 1:00pm Fridays. Tuvalu uses Australian currency. CREDIT CARD services are not available anywhere in Tuvalu so visitors are advised to travel with travellers cheques. Overseas payment amounts of over $2000 need exchange control approval.

CLIMATE

Tuvalu has a pleasant tropical climate, usually with little variation day or night from about 30 degrees Celsius. Average rainfall varies considerably, but is usually more than 3000mm annually.

COMMUNICATION SERVICES

International and local telephone services are available at the Telecommunications as well as access through the Internet.

CUSTOMS

Visitors over 18 years of age are each allowed duty free on arrival a litre of spirit or wine and 200 cigarettes.

DEPARTURE TAX

AUD$30.00 per person

DRESS

Dress is normally very casual. However, there is a sensitivity about the way women dress. Therefore wearing brief clothing such as swimming suits in villages is not advisable.

EMERGENCY

A general Hospital exists on Funafuti, full medical and dental services are available.

FOOD / RESTAURANT

There are several restaurants inTuvalu offering a variety of local and foreign dishes. A few also have licensed bars.

ECONOMIC

Import is high, as there is very little manufacturing on the island due to the lack of resources and water. Some marine resources and coconut products are exported but much of people's income is derived from Seamen through remittances sent to their families. In addition, the people fish and engage in agricultural activities for their daily use.

HANDICRAFT

Tuvalu fans, mats, baskets, necklaces, woodcarvings and fishhooks are famous throughout the Pacific. These can be purchased at the Women's Handicraft Center at the airport and on each of the outer islands.

LANGUAGE

Tuvalu and English

POPULATION

Tuvalu has a population of 9,561 people (2002 Census). 4,492 of these people resided on Funafuti, the Capital of Tuvalu

POSTAL SERVICE

Full international postal services are available. The Tuvalu Philatelic Bureau provides some of the most sought-after stamps in the world

WATER SUPPLY

There are no rivers or lakes. The Country relies on rainwater stored in tanks for its water supply.