Palau is an island country located in the western Pacific Ocean. The country contains approximately 340 islands, forming the western chain of the Caroline Islands in Micronesia, and has an area of 466 square kilometers (180 sq mi).
For such a tiny area of land, it packs a big punch. It's hard not to be overwhelmed by its extraordinary array of natural wonders: this is an archipelago of about 200 largely pristine limestone and volcanic islands, blanketed in emerald forest, surrounded by a shimmering turquoise lagoon. Unsurprisingly, diving is the number-one activity here, with truly world-class dive sites.
When the underwater wonders have finished working their magic on you, there are other adventure options. Kayaking, snorkelling and off-road driving are fabulous, with the added appeal of fantastic settings. And for history buffs there are plenty of WWII relics scattered in the jungle, as well as a handful of well-organised museums in Koror, Palau's largest town.
When you travel to Palau, it is a must to sample their food and drink so you can get a glimpse into their culture. The cuisine of Palau, also known as Palauan cuisine, takes influences from the United States, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, and other neighboring islands in the Pacific. This variety is showcased by the rich amount of options available in one of its many restaurants. But still, fresh local seafood seems to be the highlight of any food experience in Palau. You can find them used in many exotic local dishes served in Palau.
Root vegetables are also a staple of the cuisine on the island. There are different types of root vegetables that are used in nearly every dish like yam, taro, pumpkin, and pandan. Taro, in particular, is popular with the locals since they are exclusively harvested on the island. You can also find a wide array of exotic, tropical fruits to enjoy like passion fruit, mango, breadfruit, and dragon fruit. These fruits can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into delicious desserts.