Capital: Melekeok

Population (Estimated July 2012): 21,032

Area: 488km² or 188mi²

Currency: U.S. dollar (U.S.$)

Official Language: Palauan and English

Political Information: Democratic Presidential Republic

Official Religion: No Official Religion
(approximately 41.6% of the population are Roman Catholic, 23.3% are Protestant, 16.4% are unspecified or have no religious beliefs, 8.8% are Modekngei (indigenous belief) and 9.9 have other religious beliefs)

Highest Mountain: Mount Ngerchelchuus at 242m or 794ft

GDP Official Exchange Rate (OER is more precise at gauging a countries economic power)

(Estimated 2008): $164 million (US$) or (GBP)

GDP (OER) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2008): $8,100 (US$) or (GBP) 

GDP Purchasing Power Parity (PPP is good for gauging living conditions and use of resources but not as accurate as OER. This data has been calculated based on the sum value of all goods and services produced in the country valued at prices prevailing in the United States) 

(Estimated 2008): $164 million (US$) or (GBP)

GDP (PPP) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2008): $8,100 (US$) or (GBP)

Time Zone (GMT/UTC): +9:00

Wildlife:

Counties/Provinces/States: 16 states; Aimeliik, Airai, Angaur, Hatohobei, Kayangel, Koror, Melekeok, Ngaraard, Ngarchelong, Ngardmau, Ngatpang, Ngchesar, Ngeremlengui, Ngiwal, Peleliu, Sonsorol

Leaders: President Johnson Toribiong.

Sources: CIA World Fact Book, Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Palau

The Republic of Palau is an island nation situated in the western Pacific Ocean, forming part of the broader Micronesian island group. It lies southeast of the Philippines and comprises over 340 islands, with Koror, Babeldaob, and Peleliu being the most populous and developed. The capital, Ngerulmud, is located on Babeldaob.

Palau boasts a rich and diverse culture, influenced by various Asian and Pacific Islander traditions. The country is renowned for its natural splendour, including unspoilt beaches, verdant jungles, and vibrant coral reefs. Palau is also notable for its unique ancient stone monoliths, known as “bai”, which serve as traditional meeting houses and cultural landmarks.

Palau’s population stands at approximately 21,000, with the majority being of Palauan descent. The official languages are Palauan and English, and the nation operates under a democratic republic system. Palau places significant emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainable development, demonstrating a commitment to preserving its natural resources and traditional way of life.

The country’s economy relies heavily on tourism, fishing, and agriculture, with a growing focus on eco-tourism and marine conservation. Palau is a favoured destination for divers and nature enthusiasts, offering a range of outdoor activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, and hiking. With its distinctive culture, striking landscapes, and dedication to sustainability, Palau presents a truly exceptional destination for travellers seeking an authentic and enriching experience.

Summary

• Palau is a small island nation in the western Pacific Ocean, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich marine life.
• The history and culture of Palau is deeply rooted in traditional practices and beliefs, with a strong emphasis on community and respect for the environment.
• Palau’s geography consists of over 500 islands, with a tropical climate and diverse ecosystems including lush forests, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.
• The wildlife and marine life in Palau are incredibly diverse, with a wide variety of species including sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkelling.
• Tourism is a major industry in Palau, attracting visitors with its crystal-clear waters, World War II relics, and unique cultural experiences, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and infrastructure.

History and Culture of Palau

The history of Palau dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement on the islands as early as 3,000 BThe indigenous people of Palau are believed to have migrated from Southeast Asia and have developed a rich and unique culture over the centuries. The islands were first visited by Europeans in the 18th century, with Spanish explorers making contact with the local population. In the late 19th century, Palau became part of the Spanish East Indies before being sold to Germany in 1899.

Following World War I, Palau was placed under Japanese control as part of the South Pacific Mandate. During World War II, the islands were the site of fierce battles between Japanese and American forces, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life. After the war, Palau became part of the United Nations Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands under the administration of the United States.

In 1994, Palau gained full independence and became a sovereign nation. The country has since developed a strong sense of national identity and pride in its cultural heritage. The traditional Palauan way of life revolves around a close connection to the land and sea, with fishing and agriculture playing a central role in the economy.

The people of Palau have a deep respect for their natural environment and have developed sustainable practices to ensure the preservation of their resources for future generations. Traditional customs and rituals are still an important part of daily life in Palau, with ceremonies such as the “bai” dedication and traditional dances being celebrated throughout the year.

Geography and Climate of Palau

Palau is an archipelago consisting of over 340 islands, located in the western Pacific Ocean. The islands are part of the larger island group of Micronesia and are situated to the southeast of the Philippines. The most populous islands are Koror, Babeldaob, and Peleliu, with the capital city of Ngerulmud located on Babeldaob.

The islands are characterised by their lush tropical landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. The terrain is predominantly mountainous, with dense forests covering much of the land. The islands are surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers.

Palau has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The rainy season typically occurs between July and October, with frequent heavy downpours and thunderstorms. The dry season runs from November to April, with clear skies and warm temperatures.

The islands are also prone to typhoons during the wet season, which can bring strong winds and heavy rainfall. Despite these challenges, the climate in Palau is generally favourable for outdoor activities and beach holidays. The warm waters surrounding the islands make it an ideal destination for water sports such as diving, snorkelling, and kayaking.

With its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, Palau offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience for travellers seeking adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.

Wildlife and Marine Life in Palau

Palau is renowned for its rich biodiversity and vibrant marine life. The waters surrounding the islands are home to over 1,300 species of fish and 700 species of coral, making it one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world. The famous Rock Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a collection of over 200 limestone islands that are surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

These islands are a popular destination for divers and snorkelers, offering an opportunity to explore underwater caves, swim-throughs, and colourful coral gardens. In addition to its marine life, Palau is also home to a variety of terrestrial wildlife, including unique bird species such as the Micronesian kingfisher and the Palau fantail. The islands are also inhabited by fruit bats, coconut crabs, and monitor lizards.

The lush jungles and forests provide a habitat for a diverse range of plant species, including orchids, ferns, and pandanus trees. Palau’s commitment to environmental conservation has led to the establishment of protected areas such as the Ngardmau Waterfall Sanctuary and the Ngerukewid Islands Wildlife Preserve. These areas provide a safe haven for endangered species and contribute to the preservation of Palau’s natural heritage.

Tourism in Palau

Palau is a popular destination for eco-tourism and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in a pristine natural environment. The islands offer a wide range of activities for visitors, including diving, snorkelling, kayaking, hiking, and birdwatching. The Rock Islands are a major attraction for divers, with their unique underwater landscapes and diverse marine life.

Visitors can explore underwater caves, swim-throughs, and coral gardens while encountering colourful fish, sharks, turtles, and manta rays. In addition to its natural beauty, Palau also offers cultural experiences that provide insight into the traditional way of life on the islands. Visitors can attend traditional ceremonies such as the “bai” dedication or witness traditional dances performed by local communities.

The Belau National Museum in Koror provides an opportunity to learn about Palau’s history and cultural heritage through its collection of artefacts and exhibits. Palau’s commitment to environmental conservation is evident in its efforts to promote sustainable tourism practices. The country has established marine protected areas and conservation initiatives to preserve its natural resources for future generations.

Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and participate in eco-friendly activities such as beach clean-ups and wildlife monitoring programmes. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainability, Palau offers a truly unique and enriching experience for travellers seeking an authentic connection to nature and local traditions.

Economy and Infrastructure of Palau

The economy of Palau is largely dependent on tourism, fishing, and agriculture. Tourism is the main driver of economic growth, with visitors drawn to the country’s natural beauty and outdoor activities. The government has made efforts to promote eco-tourism and sustainable development to ensure that tourism benefits local communities while preserving the environment.

Fishing is also an important industry in Palau, providing employment opportunities for local fishermen and contributing to food security. Agriculture plays a significant role in the economy, with taro, cassava, bananas, coconuts, and breadfruit being staple crops grown on the islands. Traditional fishing methods such as net fishing and spearfishing are still practised by local communities as part of their cultural heritage.

Palau has made investments in infrastructure development to support its growing tourism industry. The country has modern facilities such as international airports, hotels, restaurants, and tour operators to cater to visitors from around the world. The government has also prioritised sustainable energy initiatives to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and promote renewable energy sources such as solar power.

Despite its small size and remote location, Palau has made significant progress in developing its economy and infrastructure to support sustainable growth while preserving its natural resources and cultural heritage.

Challenges and Future of Palau

Palau faces several challenges as it seeks to balance economic development with environmental conservation and cultural preservation. Climate change poses a significant threat to the islands, with rising sea levels and extreme weather events impacting coastal communities and natural habitats. The government has implemented measures to mitigate these risks through sustainable land use planning, coastal protection initiatives, and renewable energy projects.

The country also faces challenges related to waste management and pollution caused by increasing tourism activity. Efforts have been made to promote responsible tourism practices such as waste reduction, recycling programmes, and marine conservation initiatives. Despite these challenges, Palau remains committed to preserving its natural environment and cultural heritage for future generations.

The government has implemented policies to promote sustainable development while protecting its unique ecosystems and traditional way of life. The future of Palau lies in its ability to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship while maintaining its cultural identity. By continuing to invest in sustainable tourism practices, renewable energy initiatives, and conservation efforts, Palau can ensure that it remains a pristine paradise for travellers seeking an authentic connection to nature and local traditions.

With its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture, Palau is poised to thrive as a leading destination for eco-conscious travellers seeking an unforgettable experience in a tropical paradise.

FAQs

What is Palau?

Palau is an island country located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is part of the larger island group of Micronesia.

What is the capital of Palau?

The capital of Palau is Ngerulmud, which is located on the island of Babeldaob.

What is the population of Palau?

As of 2021, the population of Palau is estimated to be around 18,000 people.

What is the official language of Palau?

The official languages of Palau are Palauan and English.

What is the currency of Palau?

The currency used in Palau is the United States dollar (USD).

What is the climate like in Palau?

Palau has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. The rainy season typically occurs between July and October.

What are the major attractions in Palau?

Palau is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Popular attractions include the Rock Islands, Jellyfish Lake, and the Palau National Marine Sanctuary.

What is the government system in Palau?

Palau is a presidential republic, with a president as the head of state and government. The country has a multi-party system and a bicameral legislature.