Palau

Dotting the Pacific Ocean in the Micronesia region, Palau is an archipelago comprised of over 300 islands. This tropical paradise is known for its rich cultural heritage, incredible natural wonders and it's amazing beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy the incredible uncrowded and pristine beaches, explore the surreal Jellyfish Lake and visit the fascinating museums in Koror, Palau’s largest town. Palau is a world-class destination offering the opportunity to discover ancient emerald forests, dive through magical waters to find exceptional dive sites, and soak up the ample unspoilt beauty. Other popular activities include kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, hiking, and fishing.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: United States Dollar (USD) 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: USD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 
Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢ 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: No 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: Palau Pacific Airways 
International Airports: Roman Tmetuchl International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Babeldaob Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: No 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: No 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: No 
Local city bus networks: No 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Limited 

Local cuisine: 

Palauan cuisine reflects its diverse cultural influences, featuring seafood, tropical fruits, and root vegetables. Common dishes include ulkoy (coconut crab), tinola (fish soup), and taro root cooked in coconut milk. Notable local drinks include coconut water and palm wine.

Tipping: 10-15% 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: 3,000 - 4,000 mm 
Average temperature: 27°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 31°C 
Average lows: 24°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 29°C 
Average lows: 23°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Palau is from November to April, during the dry season, when the weather is typically sunny and ideal for outdoor activities. 


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: No 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type A, Type B 
Voltage (V): 120V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


Micronesia

Remote and exquisite, the Federated States of Micronesia consists of over 600 islands in the Caroline Islands archipelago, in the Western Pacific Ocean. The historical highlight of this small nation is the Nan Madol Ceremonial Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that bears the legacy of an advanced civilization. This amazing archaeological complex dates to between 1200 and 1500 AD and features stone palaces, temples and forts built from coral and stone, as well as an extensive network of canals. However, the region’s natural environment is no less impressive - picture rugged mountain peak and deep green valleys, tangled mangrove swamps and turquoise lagoons fringed with sandy palm-lined beaches. When you are not relaxing on a beach towel, incredible snorkeling and scuba diving awaits in Micronesia’s serene waters.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: United States Dollar 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: USD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 
Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, $1 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Limited 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours) 
Foreign exchange services: Limited 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: United Airlines, Pacific Missionary Aviation 
International Airports: Pohnpei International Airport, Chuuk International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Kosrae International Airport, Yap International Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: No 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: No 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Limited 
Local city bus networks: Limited 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Limited 

Local cuisine: 

Micronesian cuisine varies across its many islands but typically includes seafood, taro, breadfruit, and coconut. Traditional dishes often involve grilling or steaming fish and root vegetables. Local drinks may include coconut water, kava, and various fruit juices. 

Tipping: Not customary 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Varies by island 
Average temperature: 27°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 31°C 
Average lows: 25°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 29°C 
Average lows: 23°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Micronesia is during the dry season from December to April when rainfall is lower and the weather is generally more predictable. 


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Not Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: No 

  


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: No 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: No 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Limited 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type A, Type B 
Voltage (V): 120V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


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