Palau

Overview

Palau entered a Compact of Free Association in 1994 with the United States. Although there are certain moves into modern times there is still a great deal of traditional life to experience. Whether this is the passing on of stories by word of mouth rather than the written form or the many crafts that are still practised such as basket weaving, canoe building or the skill of chanting.

Around the archipelago there are various cultural sites that will undoubtedly be of interest. These take shape in the terraces and stone faces of Babeldaob, the Chades er a Mechorei causeway in Airai, Ngarachamayong Cultural Center, Medalaii, Ngirngemalas Square in Koror and World War II artefacts on Peleliu and Angaur. However the Belau National Museum, the non-stinging jellyfish lake, the Rock Islands and wildlife viewing should not be overlooked. This is particularly the case in and on the water where diving and kayaking really help explore the natural world.

History

After three decades as part of the UN Trust Territory of the Pacific under US administration, this westernmost cluster of the Caroline Islands opted for independence in 1978 rather than join the Federated States of Micronesia. A Compact of Free Association with the US was approved in 1986, but not ratified until 1993. It entered into force the following year, when the islands gained independence.