Can You Really Live for Less Than $1000 in Shefa Province?

If you’re someone who is looking for an affordable place to live, you might have heard that there are cities around the world where you can get by with less than $1000 USD per month. Shefa Province in Vanuatu is one such city that has been gaining popularity as a budget-friendly option for digital nomads, retirees, and expats. In this blog post, we’ll explore whether it’s really possible to live for less than $1000 in Shefa Province and what you can expect from living there.

The Cost of Living in Shefa Province

Shefa Province is located on the island of Efate, which is the third-largest island in Vanuatu. It’s home to the capital city of Port Vila, which is the main commercial hub of the country. The cost of living in Shefa Province is relatively low, especially when compared to other cities in the region. According to Numbeo, a website that provides cost of living data for cities around the world, the cost of living index for Shefa Province is 49.77 as of August 2021. This is much lower than the cost of living index for cities like Melbourne (75.86) and Sydney (80.09).

Accommodation Costs in Shefa Province

One of the biggest expenses when it comes to living in any city is accommodation. In Shefa Province, you can find a variety of accommodation options to fit your budget. If you’re willing to live in a shared space or outside of the main city, you can find rooms for rent for as low as $200 USD per month. If you want your own apartment or house, you should expect to pay around $500-$700 USD per month in rent.

Food and Drink Costs in Shefa Province

Another major expense you’ll have to consider when living in Shefa Province is food and drink. Eating out at restaurants can be expensive, but if you’re willing to cook your own meals, you can save a lot of money. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Shefa Province will cost you around $8 USD, while a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will cost you around $30 USD. The cost of groceries is also relatively low. You can expect to pay around $3 USD for a loaf of bread and $1.50 USD for a liter of milk.

Transportation Costs in Shefa Province

Getting around in Shefa Province can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you don’t have your own vehicle. Public transportation is limited, and taxis can be expensive. If you’ll be living in the main city of Port Vila, you can get around on foot or by bicycle. If you need to travel further, you can take a bus for around $1 USD per trip. Renting a car can be expensive, with prices starting at around $50 USD per day.

Other Expenses in Shefa Province

Other expenses to consider when living in Shefa Province include healthcare, utilities, and entertainment. Healthcare in Shefa Province is relatively affordable, with a doctor’s visit costing around $20 USD. Utilities are also affordable, with a monthly electricity bill for a small apartment averaging around $50 USD. If you’re looking for entertainment, you can find plenty of beaches and hiking trails to explore for free. If you’re interested in cultural events and activities, you might have to spend a bit more.

Conclusion

While it may be challenging to live in Shefa Province for less than $1000 USD per month, it’s definitely possible if you’re willing to live frugally and make some sacrifices. The low cost of living, combined with the beautiful scenery and laid-back lifestyle, make it an attractive option for anyone looking for a change of pace. Before making a decision, it’s important to do your research and determine if Shefa Province is the right fit for you.

Experience Shefa Province Like a Local: An Insider’s Guide

Are you tired of visiting the same old tourist spots and missing out on the real vibe of the city? Shefa Province, situated in Vanuatu, has much more to offer than just the conventional hotspots. As a local, I have put together this insider’s guide to help you navigate Shefa Province and experience it like a true resident.

Uncovering Shefa’s Hidden Gems

The allure of Shefa Province goes beyond merely its mesmerizing beaches and scenic beauty. For a truly offbeat experience, you must explore the lesser-known gems that our beloved city offers. Check out the Haos Blong Handikraf Market, where you can indulge in locally handcrafted items, including pottery, jewellery, and woven baskets. Another well-kept secret is the Eton Village, where you can hike to the top of the hill and relish a beautiful view of the ocean and nearby islands.

Taste the Local Cuisine

Vanuatu is famous for its unique blend of flavours, which you cannot experience anywhere else in the world. You can’t leave Shefa Province without trying laplap – a traditional dish that uses yam, taro or manioc as a base and is often served with freshly caught seafood. If you are feeling adventurous, try getting your hands on some Nangai nuts, harvested from the local Nangai trees. We also recommend stopping by Mama’s Market, where the locals flock for the freshest produce.

Immerse Yourself in Shefa’s Culture

Experience our vibrant culture through music, art, and festivals that will leave you wanting more. The Naghol land diving ceremony attracts visitors from all over the world, but if you want to immerse yourself in our local theatre, check out the Wan Smolbag Theatre, featuring plays that reflect the local life of Vanuatu. You can also indulge in the local instrument, tam tam, which is a wooden percussion instrument. There are plenty of places where you can admire traditional music and dance forms.

Discover Shefa’s Compelling History

Shefa Province has a rich history, which has impacted our way of life and culture. Shefa’s oldest established town, Port Vila, holds many historical treasures, like the National Museum of Vanuatu and the colonial buildings of the French and British era. Also, check out the World War II sites like the US and British War Memorials at Mele Village. These sites are an essential part of Shefa’s history and culture and must be experienced to appreciate fully.

A Non-Touristy Must-Do

For an unforgettable experience, visit the water music village on Vanuatu’s North Pentecost Island. Here our locals uphold the age-old tradition of using the water as a musical instrument, which will leave you spellbound. Take a dip under the waterfall and experience its soothing and calming effect on your senses. You can also indulge in the breathtaking natural pools, which offer a sublime experience.

Shefa Province is much more than what meets the eye. Our local treasures and beautiful customs are the soul of our city. So, the next time you are in the glamorous Vanuatu, turn yourself into a local and experience Shefa Province to the fullest.