Alii and welcome to Palau, or Belau as it is known by its inhabitants. There are few places on earth more beautiful, pristine or relaxed than Palau. The Republic of Palau is a 325 mile long archipelago of high forested islands, sparking coral atolls and stunning rock islands surrounded by a fringing coral reef in westernmost Micronesia. Once a well kept secret by adventurous travelers, Palau is now established as one of the most alluring and unique travel destinations in the Pacific. We hope that your stay in Palau will be one of the most fascinating and memorable travel adventures you will ever experience.  Welcome to the Rainbow's End: Palau.

For additional information on visiting Palau, please visit the Palau Visitors Authority.

GETTING THERE

Most visitors to Palau arrive on Continental Micronesia by way of Guam, the international air service hub for the Micronesia region. Two weekly flights from Manila and charter flights also currently connect Palau with other metropolitan Asian cities.

CUSTOMS, IMMIGRATION & HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

Proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate) by US citizens is required. Visas are not required. NonU.S. citizens must have a valid passport and return travel arrangements.  Cholera and yellow fever immunizations are required for those arriving from infected areas. Importation of controlled substances and weapons is strictly prohibited.

FLYING TIMES AND DISTANCES

TIME DIFFERENCES

When it's noon Monday in Palau, it is:

STATISTICS

CLIMATE

Palau enjoys a pleasantly warm climate all year round with an annual mean temperature of 82 degrees F. (27 C.) Rainfall can occur throughout the year and the annual average is 150 inches. The average relative humidity is 82% and although rain falls more frequently between July and October, there is still much sunshine. Typhoons are rare as Palau is located outside the typhoon zone.

WHAT TO WEAR

Island style prevails. Cool, loose fitting clothing is acceptable in most places. Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are highly recommended. Visitors are strongly advised to respect local customs by not wearing swimsuits, shorts or other inappropriate clothing in town, villages or public buildings.

MEDICAL SERVICES

Palau has three private medical clinics and a public hospital. A modern recompression chamber is available and staffed by certified operators. The hospital emergency number is 488-2558 and the ambulance number is 488-1411. Police emergency number is 911.

WATER

Palau's water is generally safe to drink, and bottled water is available in most markets.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Worldwide telephone, facsimile,  International Direct Dialing,  Internet services, and operator assisted dialing services are available. Phone cards are available at PNCC Offices and calls can be made from most hotels in Koror.

ALCOHOL

Beer, wine and spirits are readily available and sold to anyone over 21 years of age.

CREDIT CARDS

Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted at major visitor facilities.

TIPPING

Tipping is optional, but appreciated.