PALAU

Pacific’s Hidden Gem

Palau, officially the Republic of Palau, is an island country in the Micronesia subregion of Oceania. It consists of approximately 340 coral and volcanic islands, forming a stunning archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean. Palau’s crystal-clear waters are home to 1,500 fish species and over 700 coral species. The capital city, Ngerulmud, is the world’s smallest capital, offering colonial architecture and a tropical town feel.



Rock Islands: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Palau’s most iconic attractions.
The Rock Islands are a group of limestone islets surrounded by turquoise lagoons.
These islands offer a diverse range of landscapes, from lush jungles to crystal-clear waters.
Long Beach in Palau is a fascinating natural wonder. The name “Long Beach” can be a bit deceiving because it’s not your typical sandy beach. During low tide, Long Beach reveals itself as a sandbar that connects two rock islands.
Carp Island is a small island surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches.

go

Palau’s best season is the dry period from December to April. During this time, you’ll experience ideal weather for water sports and island exploration. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourism season, so prices may be higher, especially during the New Year holidays (both Western and Chinese). If you’re planning a visit, consider these months for a memorable experience!

do

 Here are some of the must-do attractions::

Milky Way: the Milky Way Lagoon is a natural wonder located in the Rock Islands of Palau.
The turquoise Lagoon boasts some of the brightest turquoise water you’ll ever see, visitors can indulge in a unique mud bath experience. The white limestone mud found here is believed to have health benefits for the skin. You can generously apply it all over your body! Locals swear by the rejuvenating effects of the mud. It’s like a natural spa treatment.

Long Beach: Long Beach is a soft white sandbar in the Rock Islands. Depending on the tide, Long Beach can extend up to 800 meters in length. Take a leisurely walk along this seemingly endless stretch of pristine sand. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, Long Beach offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. Keep in mind that the visibility of Long Beach varies with the tide.

Jellyfish Lake: Swim with thousands of harmless jellyfish in this unique lake. These jellyfish undertake a mesmerizing daily migration across the lake. They move horizontally, creating a stunning spectacle of bright orange colors.

Belau National Museum: Learn about Palau’s history and culture. the museum’s primary purpose is to preserve and protect Palau’s cultural heritage

Palau Aquarium: Explore marine life and conservation efforts. The aquarium aims to nurture respect and understanding among visitors and residents for Palau’s marine and natural environments.

eat

Here are some must-try Palauan foods:

Spam Musubi: This tasty snack consists of a marinated, grilled piece of Spam on top of a small slab of soft sushi rice, wrapped in omelette and held together with nori (seaweed). It’s affordable and delicious! You can find it at local places like Yanos Market in Koror.

Ulkoy: These shrimp and squash fritters are deep-fried until golden, offering a satisfying crunch. They’re typically served with a vinegar-based dipping sauce or other popular condiments.

Tempura Fish: Fish is prepared in various ways in Palau, and tempura-style fish is a delightful option. Crispy and flavorful, it’s a must-try for seafood lovers.

Halo-Halo: While not exclusively Palauan, this refreshing dessert is also considered a national dish in the Philippines. It’s made with shaved ice, sweet beans, and fruit—perfect for beating the tropical heat.

tips

Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:

Currency: The official currency in Palau is the United States dollar (USD). You can use USD for all financial transactions in the country.

Duration: If you’re on a short visit, 2 to 3 days are enough to explore highlights like Koror’s museums, a boat trip to the Rock Islands, and a hike to Ngardmau Waterfall. For more time, consider diving or exploring Peleliu Island.

Getting There: Palau’s Palau International Airport (ROR) is connected by direct flights from Seoul, Brisbane, Taipei, and other Pacific islands. Expect stunning views as you fly over the endless blue waters.