In planning mode - how much budget should I keep in mind for Nauru - any experiences?
My trip to Nauru was more about the experience than a typical vacation, and the cost reflected that. I'd say $180 USD per day is a reasonable budget. hotels are limited to a couple of options like the Menen Hotel or OD-N Aiwo Hotel, and they're pricy. The best way to save on food is to buy basics from Capelle & Partner, a main supermarket. Don't rely on credit cards; while the bigger places might take them,cash is king everywhere else. The island is small but offers a fascinating look at a country with a singular history.
Planning for Nauru? A daily budget of $120 to $200 USD is a good starting point. You can reduce this by eating at local canteens instead of the hotel restaurants. My experience was centered around the island's unique history and the landscape from the phosphate mining. I stayed at the Menen Hotel and found it comfortable. The only ATM is at the Bank of Nauru, so have cash handy. Getting around the island is easy and quick; you can walk or rent a car to drive the 19km circumference in about 25 minutes.
Honestly, Nauru is not a budget destination. A realistic daily budget for a solo traveler is at least $200 USD if you want any comfort. The island's remoteness means everything from food to fuel is super costly. Public transport is basically non-existent, so you'll need to rent a car, which adds a significant daily expense. I used my Visa card at the hotel, but most places like the smaller cafes and shops are cash only. It's a surreal place to visit, and definitely off the beaten path, but be prepared to pay for the privilege.
You'll want to budget around $150 USD a day as a baseline. The main reason is everything is imported, so costs are high. The Menen Hotel is probably where you'll end up staying, and rooms are not cheap. Food is expensive at the few restaurants, so you might be better off grabbing groceries from one of the small shops. Don't expect to withdraw cash easily, there's only one bank, Bank of Nauru, so make sure you have enough cash with you before you arrive. It’s an unusual place, but the experience is unique for sure, especially seeing the phosphate rock formations.