Imagine a group of
islands that look like they have been untouched by the hand of man, and yet has
resorts and services that are top notch. Palau, in the western Pacific Ocean
and part of Micronesia, only has a population of 20,000 but offers wonderful
adventures.
1.
Early history: The Belau
National Museum, the oldest museum in the Micronesian region, is the perfect
place to learn about Palau from the authentic full-sized men's meeting hall
(bai) to displays connecting the culture of Palau to other Pacific Island
nations.
2.
Mysterious past:
At
the northern end of the island of Babeldaob are ancient monoliths left by the
early Palauans. The locals believe the monoliths may have supported a huge bai.
Besides the 37 stone monoliths Palau is home to other mysterious stonework.
3.
The war: It is hard to
imagine the horror that took place on the serene islands of Palau during World
War II. The Peleliu WWII Memorial Museum recalls the Battle of Peleliu, called
“The Bloodiest Battle of the Pacific.” Peleliu is a memorial site for both
American and Japanese troops. Many of the military installations, such as the
airstrip, are still intact.
4.
Riverboating: A short and informative jungle trail lined
with fern trees, wild orchids, gorilla arm trees, and canon ball trees leads to
Ngerdorch River and the riverboat. On
the walk learn about the Noni Tree, which can “cure anything.” On the river
cruise through a mangrove forest catch site of a Palau Fruit Dove, Bush
Warbler, Rusty Capped Kingfisher, and even a crocodile.
5.
The reefs: Learn about the
reefs and its denizens at the Palau International Coral Reef Center. Their
aquarium features a series of both outdoor pools and marine tanks, which showcase
the variety of habitats and marine life found in Palau. It gives an intimate
firsthand look into the diverse world of the coral reef.
6.
Jellyfish ballet: Join one of
Sam’s Tours to Jellyfish Lake, one of the Underwater Wonders of the World. In a
landlocked saltwater lake, snorkel with thousands of delicate pink stingless
jellyfish that seem to be performing an underwater ballet. Getting to Jellyfish
Lake requires a short but steep hike up then down a rocky path, but it is worth
it.
7.
Dive in: Palau is all
about diving. The Rock Islands, a collection of beautiful foliage-covered isles
are surrounded with waters that are home to a diverse Technicolor paradise of
fabulous drop-offs, blue holes, breathtaking reefs, and an amazing variety of
fish. Few places in the world can compare to the variety and density of
underwater life found in the waters around Palau.
8.
Go fish: Fish ‘n Fins
offers fishing trips daily with local fishermen who know the right time and
place for fishing. Trolling, casting, bone fishing, bottom fishing and spear
fishing trips are available. Catch the great prizes of the ocean such as Blue
Marlin, Yellow Fin Tuna, sailfish, barracuda, and wahoo.
9.
Sense of Wonder:
The
eco tour starts with sipping an energizing tea that prevents heat stroke then
slathering the soft white part of a sprouted coconut on exposed body parts as
sun and bug protection. Kayak through the amazing mangrove stopping at a
mystifying site created by the Taro Goddess. End with a lunch of locally
inspired specialties.
10.
Giant money: Carp Island
Resort is a sanctuary to frigate birds, white egrets and a variety of
additional birds, After kayaking, hike a jungle trail to see Yap stone money,
the world largest money.
