Nauru, a small island nation in the Pacific, is known for more than its phosphate reserves. It is also a popular film location, with its unique landscapes and untouched beauty. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the best film locations in Nauru, famous movies shot in the country, children’s and animated films set in Nauru, and Nauru’s presence on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and Apple. We’ll also explore the best TV shows and series set in Nauru, famous books set in the country, where to stay and eat, the best itinerary day by day, the best month to visit Nauru, how much it costs to travel to Nauru, things to know before visiting, local legends and curiosities, hidden gems, what to be careful of, what to pack, how to dress, travel documents needed, and transportation tips.
Introduction to Nauru and its Film Locations
Nauru is a small island nation located in the Pacific Ocean, northeast of Australia. It is known for being one of the smallest countries in the world and for its phosphate reserves. However, what many don’t know is that Nauru is also a popular film location due to its unique landscapes and untouched beauty.
One of the most popular film locations in Nauru is the Buada Lagoon, which is a freshwater lake surrounded by lush vegetation. It has been used in multiple movies, including the 2008 film ‘The Children of Huang Shi’. The Anibare Bay is another popular location that has been used in many movies, including the 2001 film ‘The Thin Red Line’. It is a beautiful beach that provides a stunning backdrop for any film.
Famous Movies Shot in Nauru
Nauru has been the backdrop for many famous movies over the years. One of the most famous movies shot in Nauru is ‘The Thin Red Line’. Directed by Terrence Malick, this 1998 war epic was filmed on location in Nauru’s Anibare Bay. The beautiful beach and lush vegetation of the island provided the perfect backdrop for the movie’s battle scenes.
Another famous movie shot in Nauru is ‘The Children of Huang Shi’. Directed by Roger Spottiswoode, this 2008 movie tells the story of a young English journalist who travels to China to cover the Japanese invasion in 1937. The movie was shot on location in Nauru’s Buada Lagoon, which provided the perfect backdrop for the movie’s scenes set in rural China.
Children’s and Animated Films Set in Nauru
Nauru has also been the setting for many children’s and animated films over the years. One of the most popular is the animated movie ‘The Wild Thornberrys Movie’. Released in 2002, the movie tells the story of the Thornberry family, who travel to Nauru to film a documentary about endangered species. The movie features many of Nauru’s unique landscapes, including its lush rainforests and coral reefs.
Nauru in Streaming Platforms – Netflix, Amazon, and Apple
Nauru has also made its way onto streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and Apple. One of the most popular shows set in Nauru is the Australian drama series ‘Top of the Lake’. The series, which premiered in 2013, tells the story of a detective who returns to her hometown in New Zealand to investigate the disappearance of a pregnant 12-year-old girl. The series was partly filmed in Nauru, which provided the perfect backdrop for the show’s haunting and mysterious atmosphere.
Best TV Shows and Series Set in Nauru
Apart from ‘Top of the Lake’, there are many other TV shows and series set in Nauru. One of the most popular is the British TV series ‘The Island with Bear Grylls’. The show, which premiered in 2014, sees a group of British men and women stranded on a deserted island and forced to survive on their own. The show was partly filmed on location in Nauru, which provided the perfect backdrop for the show’s rugged and isolated setting.
Famous Books Set in Nauru
Nauru has also been the setting for many famous books over the years. One of the most popular is ‘The Great Shame: A Story of the Irish in the Old World and the New’ by Thomas Keneally. The book tells the story of the Irish in Australia and their involvement in the exploitation of Nauru’s phosphate reserves. It provides a fascinating insight into Nauru’s history and the impact of its phosphate industry on the world.
Where to Stay in Nauru
Nauru may be a small country, but it has plenty of accommodation options for visitors. The best place to stay in Nauru is in the capital, Yaren. There are many hotels and guesthouses in Yaren that cater to a range of budgets. Some of the most popular options include the Menen Hotel, the Od’n Aiwo Hotel, and the Bayview Hotel.
Where to Eat in Nauru
Nauru may be a small country, but it has plenty of delicious food options for visitors. The best place to eat in Nauru is in Yaren, where there are many restaurants and cafes that serve a range of cuisines. Some of the most popular options include the Bay Restaurant, the Capelle & Partner Cafe, and the Buada Lagoon Restaurant.
Best Itinerary Day by Day
Nauru may be a small country, but it has plenty of things to see and do. To make the most of your trip to Nauru, it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully. Here’s a sample itinerary for a seven-day trip to Nauru:
Day 1: Explore Yaren and visit the Parliament House and the Nauru Museum. Day 2: Visit the Buada Lagoon and go for a swim. Day 3: Explore the Anibare Bay and go for a hike. Day 4: Take a boat tour around Nauru and see the island from a different perspective. Day 5: Visit the Moqua Caves and go for a walk through the lush rainforest. Day 6: Take a guided tour of the phosphate mines and learn about Nauru’s history. Day 7: Relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Best Month to Visit Nauru
The best time to visit Nauru is between April and October, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, and there is little rain. The wet season, which runs from November to March, can be very humid and rainy, and there is a risk of tropical storms.
How Much it Costs to Travel to Nauru
The cost of traveling to Nauru can vary depending on your travel style and budget. Flights to Nauru can be expensive, with prices starting at around $1,500 USD for a round-trip ticket. Accommodation in Nauru is also relatively expensive, with prices starting at around $100 USD per night for a budget hotel. Food and drink in Nauru are also relatively expensive, with meals costing around $20 USD per person.
Things to Know Before Visiting Nauru
There are a few things you should know before visiting Nauru. Firstly, Nauru is a small country, and there are limited options for transportation and accommodation. It’s important to plan your trip carefully and book everything in advance. Secondly, Nauru is a conservative country, and visitors should dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. Finally, visitors should be aware of the impact of Nauru’s phosphate industry on the country’s environment and people.
Local Legends and Curiosities in Nauru
Nauru has a rich culture and history, and there are many local legends and curiosities to discover. One of the most interesting is the story of the Moqua Well, which is said to be the home of the island’s guardian spirit. Legend has it that if you throw a rock into the well and it doesn’t make a splash, it means the spirit is pleased.
Hidden Gems in Nauru
Nauru may be a small country, but it has plenty of hidden gems to discover. One of the most beautiful is the Moqua Well, which is a small freshwater pool surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s a popular spot for swimming and picnicking and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Nauru.
What to Be Careful of When Visiting Nauru
Visitors to Nauru should be careful of the impact of the country’s phosphate industry on the environment and people. The phosphate industry has had a significant impact on Nauru’s landscape, and visitors should be respectful of the country’s natural resources. Visitors should also be aware of the country’s conservative culture and dress modestly.
What to Pack for Your Nauru Trip
When packing for your Nauru trip, it’s important to pack for warm weather. Nauru is a tropical country, and temperatures can be high all year round. It’s also important to pack modest clothing, as Nauru is a conservative country. Finally, it’s important to pack sunscreen and insect repellent, as there are many mosquitoes in Nauru.
How to Dress in Nauru
Nauru is a conservative country, and visitors should dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should wear shirts with sleeves. It’s also important to remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship.
Travel Documents Needed to Visit Nauru
To visit Nauru, visitors need a valid passport and a visa. Visas can be obtained on arrival in Nauru, and the cost is around $100 USD. Visitors should also be aware of any vaccination requirements and check with their doctor before traveling.
Transportation Tips in Nauru
Nauru is a small country, and there are limited options for transportation. The best way to get around is by taxi, which can be arranged through your hotel. It’s also possible to rent a car, but visitors should be aware that driving can be challenging due to the country’s narrow roads and lack of signage.
Conclusion
Nauru may be a small country, but it has plenty to offer visitors. From its unique landscapes and film locations to its rich culture and history, there’s something for everyone in this Pacific island nation. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the country’s hidden gems, Nauru is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
