Monday, November 2, 2009

Purchasing Power in Micronesia

Most things considered, it's unfortunate that we use American currency here on Kosrae. There are a few "good deals" on the island, but alas, we cannot live like kings on the cheap.
Staples:
  • Eggs (doz. med.) = $2.50 (Not sure how much these are in the States, probably similar, but I do know that they're not still selling August dates over there...)


  • Cheese (American yellow, 16 slices) = $5.75

  • Peanut Butter (8 oz. Skippy Natural) = $3.75

  • Oatmeal (box of 6) = $2

  • Milk (1 liter, Whole) = $2.95 (Conversion rate = $11.15 for a gallon)

Beverages:

  • Charles Shaw = $12.95 ("Two-Buck Chuck" doesn't exist over here)

  • Vella Box Wine = $32.95 (Micronesia obviously isn't Europe)

  • Beer (refrigerated from the market) = $2.50 ea. (if warm, reduce the price by $0.50)

Best Deals on the Island:

  • Ice cream (2 scoops, cake cone if available) = $0.50 (amazing...)

  • Sunset Cruise = $5 for volunteers on the island. Every Thursday evening one of the restaurant/hotel owners takes people out on his boat for unlimited appetizers (usually consisting of fresh sashimi, chips, sushi, nuts, and the occasional eggroll) and beers. Again, amazing...

And that concludes my research on the purchasing power of the dollar over here. Any questions on other specific items, let me know and I'll investigate.


All the best,

Tyler


Currently listening to: Bob Seger

Currently reading: Robinson Crusoe (ugh...old English is not very fun to read)