Looking for a tropical paradise with friendly locals, World War II drama, and other-worldly beauty? You’re looking for Palau. Never heard of it? That’s about to change. I loved our trip here, and I don’t even scuba! To help you plan your own trip, here are the best tips for your visit to Pristine Palau!
Where is it?
Palau is in the very western Pacific Ocean. It’s across the International Date Line from the United States, and about 2 hours southwest of Guam by plane. Looking at a map, you’ll see it’s due east of the Philippines, due south of Japan, and due north of the island of New Guinea. Basically, it’s smack in the middle of the ocean!
Read on: What to Do with a Baby in Palau
No T-mobile—sorry!
I have been a T-Mobile user now for the better part of a decade, and I have nothing but good things to say about it, especially when it comes to their included international benefits. They have coverage just about anywhere in the world… However, that does not include Palau! But that was okay. The hotel had good wifi, and it was nice to have a bit of a break from my phone while we were out and about!
Also helpful: The Best Apps for Travelers
Most of the things to do are on, or under, the water.
Palau is home to pristine waters with fascinating history. This makes it ideal for divers, fishers, boaters, snorkelers, swimmers, etc. However, I couldn’t do any of that with my baby girl! For the non-water-going visitors, there are some hikes, a few museums, shopping, and scenic flights, all above the water of course. But if you’re not into being in the water for any reason, the primary things Palau is famous for will be lost on you. I’ll be going back when my daughter is older!
But this one’s from the air: Taking a Scenic Flight over Palau
That water is very warm.
Palau is so hot. And humid. Even the water was not refreshing! The only other place I’ve been where the water was similar was the Persian Gulf of Qatar. Nice to look at, but not necessarily a place to cool off! We had fun anyway. My daughter loved it, and I don’t mind warm sea water myself. A hot day at the beach is still better than a regular day without the beach!
Keep reading: What to Pack for an Island Trip
You will likely want a car to explore.
I didn’t want to rent a car, but I sort of regretted that about half way through the trip. Because the boating and land tour companies I talked to were not able to accommodate a baby, we were mostly confined to our (very nice) resort. I wish I’d felt more adventurous and rented a car to go on a couple of hikes and explore the island, but I didn’t. It was my first trip solo with my daughter, just a few months after my husband passed away, so the thought of renting a car was too stressful. I did, however hire a driver for a day so we could visit some museums and do some shopping. I also booked a scenic flight which did let me bring my baby! Next time, though, I’ll be braver and rent a car.
Read next: Your Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car for Travel
Bring sunscreen and a hat!
Please, for your skin’s sake, take your dermatologist’s advice and slather it on–frequently! The sun is strong this close to the equator, and you’ll definitely feel it. It’s important to bring reef safe sunscreen, as anything else is illegal. You can also buy some in Palau, as they make their own on the island. It’s a great way to support the locals, and you can get a solid sunscreen, which is perfect for throwing in your carry-on!
Aside from sunscreen, you will also want a hat. The extra shade for your face is important, but your eyes will also thank you. Want more coverage? Get some UPF clothing as well. It works like sunscreen, but you never need to reapply.
More here: What to Bring Home from Palau
You will have to sign a pledge in your passport.
Yes, it’s true. The Palau Pledge will be stamped into a full page of your passport, and you will have to read and sign it in order to cross through passport control. It says that you’ll preserve and protect the islands, and visit respectfully. It’s the only country in the world to require something like this, but they’ve had good success with it. Their islands are, indeed, pristine, so of course they want to keep them that way. Take a look:
Also helpful: How to Get Your Baby’s First Passport
Want more? Check out my dedicated Palau Page!
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