Where is Palau Country? A Comprehensive Guide to the Micronesian Archipelago

Palau, officially the Republic of Palau, is an archipelago nation located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is part of the Micronesia region, and it is situated approximately 500 miles east of the Philippines and 800 miles north of Papua New Guinea.

Historical Background

Palau was first inhabited by Micronesians around 3,000 years ago. Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, and the islands were claimed by Spain in 1885. In 1899, Spain sold Palau to Germany, which ruled until the end of World War I.

After the war, Palau was administered by Japan as part of the South Pacific Mandate. In 1947, Palau became a United Nations Trust Territory administered by the United States. Palau gained independence in 1994, and it has been a member of the United Nations since 1995.

Geography

Palau consists of over 340 islands, of which only nine are permanently inhabited. The islands are located on the Palauan Ridge, which is a series of extinct underwater volcanoes. The highest point in Palau is Mount Ngerchelchuus, which has an elevation of 2,188 feet.

Palau has a tropical climate, with an average temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season lasts from May to November, and during this time the islands are prone to typhoons.

Demographics

Palau has a population of approximately 18,000 people. The majority of the population is Palauan, but there are also significant communities of Filipinos, Chinese, and Japanese. The official languages of Palau are Palauan and English.

Economy

Palau's economy is based on tourism, fishing, and agriculture. The country is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, which attract divers and snorkelers from around the globe. Palau also has a number of traditional industries, such as weaving and boatbuilding.

Culture

Palauan culture is a blend of Micronesian, Asian, and Western influences. The Palauan people are known for their hospitality, and they welcome visitors to their country with open arms. Palau has a rich oral tradition, and many stories and legends are passed down from generation to generation.

Tourism

Palau is a popular tourist destination, and it receives approximately 100,000 visitors each year. The islands offer a variety of activities for tourists, including diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing. Palau is also home to a number of historical sites, such as the Rock Islands, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to Get to Palau

The best way to get to Palau is by plane. Koror Airport is the only international airport in Palau, and it is served by several airlines, including United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. There are no direct flights from the United States to Palau, so you will need to connect in another country, such as Japan or the Philippines.

Where to Stay in Palau

There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in Palau, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Some of the most popular places to stay include the Palau Pacific Resort, the Palau Royal Resort, and the West Plaza Hotel.

What to Eat in Palau

Palauan cuisine is influenced by a variety of cultures, including Micronesian, Asian, and Western cuisines. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Cherael (fish soup)
• Kaesokes (steamed chicken with coconut milk)
• Pan kesai (Palauan bread)
• Coconut pie

Things to Do in Palau

There are a number of things to do in Palau, including:

• Diving and snorkeling
• Kayaking and fishing
• Hiking and biking
• Visiting historical sites
• Shopping for souvenirs

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when visiting Palau:

• Not respecting the local culture
• Littering or polluting the environment
• Damaging the coral reefs
• Overstaying your visa

Conclusion

Palau is a beautiful and unique country with a rich culture and history. It is a great place to visit for anyone who loves diving, snorkeling, or nature.

Tables

| Table 1: Palau at a Glance |
|---|---|
| Population | 18,000 |
| Area | 18 square miles |
| Capital | Koror |
| Official languages | Palauan and English |
| Currency | US dollar |

| Table 2: Palau's Economy |
|---|---|
| GDP | $250 million |
| Main industries | Tourism, fishing, agriculture |
| Unemployment rate | 5% |
| Inflation rate | 2% |

| Table 3: Top Tourist Destinations in Palau |
|---|---|
| Rock Islands | World Heritage Site |
| Jellyfish Lake | Home to millions of jellyfish |
| Ngardmau Falls | Palau's highest waterfall |

Stories and What We Learn

Story 1:

A group of tourists were diving in Palau when they came across a pod of dolphins. The dolphins were friendly and playful, and they swam alongside the tourists for hours. The tourists were amazed by the beauty and intelligence of the dolphins, and they learned about the importance of respecting the environment.

What We Learn:

• Dolphins are amazing creatures that are full of personality.
• It is important to respect the marine environment and all of its inhabitants.
• Palau is a great place to see dolphins in their natural habitat.

Story 2:

A family was hiking in Palau when they came across a group of children playing in the forest. The children were friendly and welcoming, and they showed the family around their village. The family was impressed by the children's knowledge of the environment and their traditional customs.

What We Learn:

• Palauan children are proud of their culture and heritage.
• It is important to teach children about the environment and the importance of conservation.
• Palau is a great place to learn about Micronesian culture.

Story 3:

A group of scientists were studying the coral reefs in Palau when they discovered a new species of fish. The fish was small and brightly colored, and it had never been seen before. The scientists were excited by their discovery, and they named the fish after Palau.

What We Learn:

• Palau is home to a diverse range of marine life.
• Scientists are constantly making new discoveries about the natural world.
• Palau is a great place to conduct scientific research.

Step-by-Step Approach to Planning a Trip to Palau

1. Decide when you want to go. The best time to visit Palau is during the dry season, which runs from November to April.
2. Book your flights. There are no direct flights from the United States to Palau, so you will need to connect in another country, such as Japan or the Philippines.
3. Book your accommodation. There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in Palau, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
4. Plan your activities. There are a number of things to do in Palau, including diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing.
5. Get a visa. If you are a citizen of the United States, you will need to obtain a visa to enter Palau. You can apply for a visa online or at your nearest US embassy or consulate.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Palau

Pros:

• Palau is a beautiful and unique country with a rich culture and history.
• Palau is a great place to go diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.
• Palau is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world.
• Palau is a safe and welcoming country.

Cons:

• Palau is a relatively expensive country to visit.
• There are no direct flights from the United States to Palau.
• Palau is a small country with a limited number of activities.

Conclusion

Palau is a beautiful and unique country that is well worth visiting. It is a great place to go diving, snorkeling, and kayaking, and it is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. Palau is also a safe and welcoming country with a rich culture and history.