Palikir Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Palikir.
Healthcare System
Healthcare in Palikir and Pohnpei is basic, with the Pohnpei State Hospital in nearby Kolonia being the primary facility. The hospital can handle routine medical issues and minor emergencies, but lacks advanced diagnostic equipment and specialist care available in larger countries.
Hospitals
Pohnpei State Hospital in Kolonia (about 10km from Palikir) is the main facility. The Genesis Clinic offers private medical services with slightly better amenities. Dental care is available but limited. For any serious condition, medical evacuation will be necessary.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies in Kolonia carry basic medications, but selection is limited. Bring sufficient supplies of any prescription medications, as specific brands may not be available. Over-the-counter medications for common ailments are generally available but more expensive than in larger countries.
Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended and essentially mandatory. Medical evacuation can cost $50,000-100,000 USD, and the hospital may require upfront payment or proof of insurance for treatment.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a complete supply of prescription medications plus extras in case of travel delays
- Carry copies of prescriptions and medical records
- Ensure your travel insurance explicitly covers medical evacuation from FSM to major medical centers
- Bring a basic first aid kit including antibiotics if prescribed by your doctor
- Consider a pre-travel medical consultation for vaccinations and preventive medications
- The nearest advanced medical facilities are in Guam (approximately 2-3 hours by flight)
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Opportunistic theft can occur, particularly of unattended items, but is relatively uncommon. The tight-knit community means most crime is quickly identified.
Poor road conditions, limited lighting, stray dogs, pedestrians on roads, and variable driving standards create accident risks. Roads become particularly hazardous during heavy rain.
Tap water may not be safe to drink, and contaminated water can cause gastrointestinal illnesses including bacterial infections and parasites.
Dengue fever occurs in FSM, and mosquitoes are abundant in tropical conditions. Zika virus has also been reported in the region, though cases are currently low.
Coral cuts, sea urchins, jellyfish, strong currents, and occasionally dangerous marine life pose risks to swimmers and snorkelers. Coral cuts can easily become infected in tropical climates.
High heat and humidity year-round can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, especially for visitors not acclimated to tropical conditions.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some vendors, taxi drivers, or tour operators may quote inflated prices to tourists, particularly for transportation or handicrafts. This is generally mild compared to major tourist destinations.
Individuals may offer tour services without proper knowledge, safety equipment, or insurance, potentially leading to disappointing experiences or safety issues.
Smaller guesthouses may have informal policies about deposits and refunds, potentially leading to disputes about damages or cancellations.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Register with your embassy if staying for an extended period
- Keep photocopies of important documents separate from originals
- Share your itinerary with someone back home
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language (though English is widely spoken)
- Respect local customs and traditional practices
- Ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites
Money and Valuables
- US dollars are the official currency; bring sufficient cash as ATMs are limited and often unreliable
- Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels
- Keep valuables in hotel safes when available
- Carry only what you need for the day
- Keep emergency cash hidden separately from your main wallet
Transportation
- Rental cars are available but inspect vehicles carefully before accepting
- Taxis don't use meters; negotiate fares in advance
- Avoid hitchhiking despite it being common among locals
- Be extremely cautious driving at night due to poor lighting and road conditions
- International driving permits are recommended along with your home license
Food and Water
- Choose restaurants that appear clean and busy with locals
- Avoid raw or undercooked seafood unless you're confident of the source
- Peel fruits yourself when possible
- Be cautious with street food, ensuring it's freshly cooked and hot
- Always drink bottled water and check seals are intact
Communication
- Mobile coverage is limited outside Kolonia; don't rely on your phone in emergencies
- Consider purchasing a local SIM card if staying longer
- Internet connectivity is slow and unreliable; download maps and important information before arrival
- Know the location of your country's embassy or consulate
- Keep your accommodation's contact information written down
Cultural Sensitivity
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or away from tourist areas
- Remove shoes when entering homes or certain buildings
- Ask permission before entering villages or traditional areas
- Don't touch people's heads, which is considered disrespectful
- Participate respectfully in sakau (kava) ceremonies if invited
- Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Palikir and Pohnpei are generally safe for women travelers, including solo female visitors. Serious incidents are rare, and local culture is generally respectful. However, as a small, traditional society, women may receive attention, particularly if traveling alone. Conservative dress and behavior aligned with local customs will help ensure comfort and respect.
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially outside resort areas
- Avoid isolated areas alone, particularly beaches and trails
- Be aware that solo women in bars or drinking establishments may receive unwanted attention
- Consider staying in established hotels or guesthouses rather than very remote accommodations
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself politely
- Having a local contact or guide can provide additional security and cultural insight
- Be prepared for friendly curiosity from locals; this is usually harmless
- Avoid walking alone at night on unlit roads
- Swimming alone, especially in isolated areas, is not recommended
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is not illegal in the Federated States of Micronesia, and there are no specific laws criminalizing same-sex relationships. However, there are also no legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Exercise discretion regarding sexual orientation and gender identity
- Avoid public displays of affection, as these are generally frowned upon for all couples
- Be aware that local attitudes tend to be conservative on LGBTQ+ issues
- Don't expect to find LGBTQ+-specific venues or events
- Consider the cultural context when deciding how open to be about your identity
- Respect local customs and sensitivities while maintaining your personal safety and comfort
- Same-sex couples may wish to book accommodations with two beds to avoid potential issues
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is absolutely essential for visiting Palikir and FSM. The remote location, basic medical facilities, and high cost of medical evacuation make comprehensive insurance critical. A medical emergency requiring evacuation could cost $50,000-100,000 USD or more, and local facilities cannot handle serious conditions. Additionally, weather-related disruptions are common, potentially affecting travel plans.
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