Language
The official language of Tuvalu is Tuvaluan, a Polynesian language which is similar to Hawaiian. English is also spoken in Tuvalu, although not as commonly as Tuvaluan.
Currency
The official currency of Tuvalu is the Tuvaluan dollar, although the Australian dollar is also used. The Tuvaluan dollar is pegged to the Australia equivalent, and so the two are interchangeable in Tuvalu. You will mainly see the cent subdivisions as Tuvaluan currency, and the T$1 coin. For bills, only Australian dollars are used. Visitors should exchange currency to Australian dollars before arrival or seek the currency exchange services of a major bank in the country. ATMs are not common in Tuvalu and credit cards are only accepted for large purchases.
Time
The time zone for Tuvalu is GMT +12. Daylight saving isn’t observed in Tuvalu.
Electricity
Electricity in Tuvalu runs at 220-240V/50Hz variable. You may need a transformer if your electrical appliance differs from this standard (most North American appliances run at 110-120V). The country uses a flat, two-pinned, angled Australian style plug with a grounding pin. You will need an adaptor if your plug does not meet these standards.
Communications
The international dialing code for Tuvalu is +688. The cellular telephone network is reasonable on certain islands, although by no means extensive throughout the country. Do not expect 3G networks, only talk and text. The landline telephone network is developed. There are a few internet cafés in touristic areas and hotels.
Duty-free
Duty-free goods can be purchased at Funafuti International Airport, although it is best to wait until you reach Fiji to make these purchases as facilities at Funafuti’s airport are limited. Visitors entering Tuvalu can import the following duty free: 200 cigarettes or 225g of cigars or tobacco; one liter of wine and one liter of spirits (must be over 18 years). If you are traveling to the US, you are allowed to import: one liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or four pounds of tobacco.
Tourist Office
Tuvalu Ministry of Tourism: http://www.timelesstuvalu.com/
Consulates in Tuvalu
There is no diplomatic representation of US in Tuvalu. For the closest assistance, you must contact the US Embassy on the Pacific Island of Fiji. The closest diplomatic support for British and Australian citizens is also in Fiji.
American Embassy, Fiji: +11-679-331-4466 British High Commission, Fiji: +11-679-322-9100 Australian High Commission, Fiji: +11-679-338-2211
Emergency
Emergency services: 911