Palau - Useful information for your trip
Discover the fascinating Palau Islands with Vivitravels. This paradisiac insular world is lapped by Pacific Ocean and is rich in natural jewels.
Palau is an island country located in the Pacific Ocean. The name can have different origins, according to the legend it is connected with a mythological history of cheating; according to other studies, the name comes from a local word, “aibebelau” which means “village”. It should not be confused with Pulau, which in Indonesian language means “island”.
Anyway, the first islands’ inhabitants were Indonesian and created their settlements around 1.000 BC. Only around 1500 did Europe discover Palau thanks to the explorer Ruy López de Villalobos, but only during the 18th century Spain colonized the islands, later to sell them to Germany in 1899. Afterwards, Palau Islands were occupied by Japan during World War I, passing to the United States at the end of World War II. In 1994 Palau obtained the independence from the United States. This is why it is one of the youngest and less populated countries in the entire world.
Palau is an unmissable and enchanting destination. The northernmost islands have volcanic origins and are covered by lush and verdant vegetation, a real jungle. On the contrary, the southern ones are characterized by a poorer and less evocative flora, but a richer and more heterogeneous fauna, especially regarding the undersea world. In order to safeguard local flora and fauna, often threatened by illegal fishing and solid waste in the water, Palau’s government has established some protected and controlled areas. Nowadays, 2,4% of the entire territory is protected.
Palau boasts an equatorial climate; the whole year is characterized by warmth, humidity and rain. The best period to visit the island goes from February to April, being the less rainy and the sunnier.
National economy is based on tourism, agriculture and fishing. The soil is also rich in mineral resources, among them, gold is the most important.
Finally, Palau Islands will also satisfy your thirst for knowledge, thanks to its beautiful archaeological sites, ancient village ruins and cave art. Do not miss the visit to Rock Islands, listed among the Unesco natural world heritage sites.
