General
Yaren
Aiwo
Meneng
Overcharging by Informal Vendors
Exaggerated Souvenir Prices
In Nauru's informal markets near beaches or community areas, vendors often quote inflated prices in Australian dollars (AUD) for local handicrafts like shell jewelry or woven mats, such as demanding AUD 40 for an item worth AUD 15, exploiting tourists' lack of familiarity with local costs and the island's limited bargaining culture.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Research average prices online or through local expat forums before purchasing.
- Politely negotiate by starting with half the quoted price, as subtle haggling is accepted in Pacific island interactions.
- Pay with exact change to avoid fake currency excuses and keep receipts for disputes.
Fake Mobile Top-Up Scams
Travelers buying SIM cards or mobile top-ups from street vendors in general areas may be sold invalid or tampered codes for AUD 10-20, which don't activate, taking advantage of Nauru's reliance on Digicel services and tourists' need for connectivity upon arrival.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Purchase from official Digicel outlets in Yaren or Aiwo instead of street sellers.
- Verify the code immediately using a nearby official store or free Wi-Fi spot.
- Use international roaming plans to avoid local vendors altogether.