Cultivation is difficult on Nauru owing to the poor soil, irregular rainfall and the impact of mining. There are no local fruit or vegetables and most of the available food is canned, refined and imported. Fresh food is limited to a small amount of fish and, very occasionally, beef. The island is, however, very well served with restaurants with a wide range of international dishes, especially Chinese, but little is fresh. Hotels sometimes offer Western food. Most international brands of alcohol are available.

Tipping: Not generally practised.

Nightlife is limited to a bar and restaurant at the Menen Hotel and a handful of Chinese restaurants.

There are a number of shops on the island, although service and goods at government shops tend to be of poor quality. There are numerous supermarkets, the largest being Capelle’s, but visitors should buy essential goods in advance. There are no sales taxes but customs duties are levied on a range of goods.

Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1700, Sat 0900-1300.