Nestled amidst the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, the Republic of Palau stands as an archipelago of captivating beauty and cultural richness. With pristine atolls, lush forests, and vibrant marine life, Palau beckons travelers to embark on a journey of discovery. To help guide your exploration, we present an informative guide accompanied by a detailed map of this enigmatic nation.
The Republic of Palau comprises more than 340 islands scattered across an area of approximately 1,300 square kilometers. The archipelago lies to the east of the Philippines and north of Indonesia. It is divided into 16 states, each offering unique landscapes and attractions.
The capital and largest city of Palau is Ngerulmud, located on the island of Babeldaob. Other notable cities include:
Palau boasts a diverse range of natural wonders, from pristine beaches to towering waterfalls. Some of its most famous attractions include:
Palau has a rich history spanning thousands of years. It was first settled by Austronesian people around 2000 BC. The archipelago came under Spanish and Japanese rule before gaining independence in 1994.
Palau's culture is a blend of Micronesian and Western influences. The traditional lifestyle, known as "oltorra", emphasizes community, respect for elders, and environmental stewardship.
Tourism is a vital industry for Palau, accounting for a significant portion of the country's GDP. The archipelago offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including:
Palau's economy is primarily based on tourism, fishing, and agriculture. The country also receives significant foreign aid from the United States.
Palau is connected to the rest of the world by Palau International Airport (ROR), located on the island of Babeldaob. The airport has direct flights to major cities in Japan, Taiwan, and the United States.
Table 1: Population and Land Area by State
State | Population (2022) | Land Area (km²) |
---|---|---|
Airai | 3,056 | 44 |
Aimeliik | 342 | 52 |
Airai | 3,056 | 44 |
Angaur | 122 | 8 |
Hatohobei | 33 | 3 |
Kayangel | 188 | 3 |
Koror | 10,889 | 65 |
Melekeok | 391 | 28 |
Ngaraard | 661 | 36 |
Ngarchelong | 488 | 91 |
Ngardmau | 195 | 73 |
Ngaremlengui | 573 | 100 |
Ngatpang | 464 | 47 |
Ngchesar | 291 | 41 |
Ngiwal | 254 | 26 |
Peleliu | 783 | 13 |
Table 2: Key Economic Indicators
Indicator | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 |
---|---|---|---|
GDP (millions of $) | 313 | 244 | 287 |
GDP per capita ($) | 16,660 | 12,914 | 15,352 |
Inflation (%) | 0.7 | -1.3 | 2.5 |
Unemployment (%) | 3.4 | 4.5 | 3.2 |
Table 3: Top Tourist Attractions
Attraction | Description |
---|---|
Jellyfish Lake | Millions of stingless jellyfish dance in crystal-clear water |
Rock Islands | UNESCO World Heritage Site with hundreds of limestone karsts |
Ngardmau Waterfall | Cascad |
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