Pro
Jellyfish Lake and Mandarin Fish Lake are unique finds.
Con
Tropical rains are unpredictable.
In a nutshell
The perfect place for a WWII history buff and diver/snorkeler.
Koror is a wonderful place to walk and some places you do need a car to get to. If you're in town for a day or two, buses and taxis can get you to where you need to go. Bus times are sporadic and "go slow" motto is adhered to and taxi rates vary. Be sure to get a rate quote before you get into the taxis. If you stay longer or would like to visit the other end of the island to see waterfalls or the "mini White House", by all means rent a car. Luckily, my co-worker had the use of his mother's car and we were able to fit 6 of us in a small type SUV. Gas prices are like the states, expensive. People are courteous drivers and no one is in a hurry to go anywhere. Speed limit is anywhere from 15 mph in the city to 50 mph outside of Koror. Be wary of wild pigs, or other animals zipping out from the brush to cross the highway. Construction on the local roads in certain parts of the island will slow you down.
Written Oct 23, 2007
During the time that I travelled to Koror, I did not come upon any type of activity that would put me in danger nor did I sense any type of danger. Of course, I was travelling with a Palaun native whom everyone knows everyone. Practically all of the people we met, my friend was related to in some way. Amazing!
Written Oct 23, 2007
Luggage and bags: Rolling back packs, duffel bags or roller bags
Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: T-shirt, tank tops, shorts, a waterproof windbreaker, water shoes, slippers or TEVA's.
Undergarments, only what you really need.
Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Medications a must. Sunscreen and sunglasses. First aid kit (travel size), finger/toenail clippers, tweezers (you'd be amazed at how your nails and chin hair grow in tropical climates)
contact wearers, extra solution - they may not carry your particular brand,
Photo Equipment: Digital and underwater cameras, chargers, extra batteries, 2-4G Memory Cards, ziploc freezer bags 1-quart to 1 gallon size to store your gadgets and protect them from the elements,
Miscellaneous: mosquito repellent,
Written Oct 23, 2007
This place is a little hard to find even for a Palaun. After driving and then backtracking we happened up this primitive looking bit of jungle interior where the falls is located. Good hiking or water shoes are recommended along with mosquito repellent. A light backpack for water and small snacks should suffice along with your camera. The hike is a about 20 minutes to the bottom on a good day when the trail isn't wet from the rains and could be slippery at times. There is a trail marker at the top depicting the history of the falls. This is one of three waterfalls in this region with the shortest hike. There are no rail guards on this trail and what looks like stairs could be giant roots belonging to massive trees towering above you. Take your time while descending the trail and plan your time accordingly for the hike back up. Once on the bottom of the trail, you will need to maneuver around the slippery rock outcrops and make your way to the falls. Once there, it is a refreshing cool shower under the falls after a long hike. The power of the water falling upon your shoulders is a welcome respite and offers massaging ecstasy to weary bones. Should you end up on the other side of the falls, you can still get back topside from that area. Follow the trail up and across the knee deep watering hole to get you back on track. You don't want to get caught here when the sun goes down.
Updated Oct 23, 2007
Favorite thing: US citizens do not need a Visa for stays up to one year.
Canadian, Australia, UK and EU citizens can pay entry fee of $50 on arrival for a stay up to 30 days.
Maximum two extensions are available for 30 days each at a cost of $100.
Other nationals should confirm with the nearest embassy (Guam, Japan, Netherlands, Saipan, Taiwan, USA, Philippines).
http://www.visit-palau.com/aboutpalau/embassies.cfm
Written May 3, 2009
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