Palauan Cuisine & Must-Try Dishes
Palauan Hospitality
Palauans are known for their warm, community-oriented nature, where sharing fresh seafood or tropical fruits is a social ritual that can last an hour, fostering connections in beachside gatherings and making travelers feel instantly welcomed.
Essential Palauan Foods
Kelaguen (Marinated Fish)
Savor raw reef fish marinated in lemon juice and coconut milk, a staple in Koror eateries for $10-15, paired with taro.
Must-try during fresh catches, offering a taste of Palau's marine heritage.
Taro Leaves in Coconut Milk
Enjoy steamed taro wrapped in banana leaves with creamy coconut, available at local markets in Babeldaob for $5-8.
Best fresh from village feasts for the ultimate earthy, indulgent experience.
Grilled Reef Fish
Sample whole grilled fish seasoned with local herbs, found at beach barbecues for $12-18.
Each island has unique preparations, perfect for seafood enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors.
Coconut Crab
Indulge in tender coconut crab meat from sustainable catches in Peleliu, with portions starting at $20.
Traditional preparations highlight Palau's unique island delicacies.
Cassava Poi
Try fermented cassava paste, a side dish in traditional meals for $6, hearty and perfect for communal eating.
Traditionally served with proteins for a complete, comforting meal.
Tropical Fruit Platter
Experience fresh papaya, mango, and bananas at roadside stands for $4-7.
Perfect for picnics on beaches or pairing with coconut water at resorts.
Vegetarian & Special Diets
- Vegetarian Options: Try taro-based dishes or fruit salads with coconut in Koror's eco-cafes for under $10, reflecting Palau's growing sustainable food scene.
- Vegan Choices: Major areas offer plant-based meals and fruit-heavy versions of local staples.
- Gluten-Free: Many traditional foods like poi and fruits are naturally gluten-free across Palau.
- Halal/Kosher: Limited but available in Koror with fresh seafood and veggie options in multicultural spots.
Cultural Etiquette & Customs
Greetings & Introductions
Offer a gentle handshake or nod when meeting. In villages, a smile and "Alii" (hello) builds rapport.
Use respectful titles like "Sensei" for elders, first names only after invitation.
Dress Codes
Casual tropical attire acceptable, but modest clothing for villages and ceremonies.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting bai (meeting houses) or churches.
Language Considerations
Palauan and English are official. English widely spoken in tourist areas.
Learn basics like "Melekoi" (thank you) to show respect in rural spots.
Dining Etiquette
Wait to be invited to eat in communal settings, share dishes family-style.
No tipping expected, but offering to help clean up shows gratitude.
Religious Respect
Palau is predominantly Christian with Modekngei traditions. Be respectful during church services and ceremonies.
Photography often allowed but ask permission, silence devices in sacred spaces.
Punctuality
Palauans embrace "island time" for social events, but be prompt for tours and dives.
Arrive on time for bookings, boat schedules are weather-dependent but reliable.
Safety & Health Guidelines
Safety Overview
Palau is a safe country with efficient services, low crime in tourist areas, and strong marine conservation, making it ideal for all travelers, though ocean hazards require awareness.
Essential Safety Tips
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for immediate help, with English support available 24/7.
Local police in Koror provide assistance, response times quick in populated areas.
Common Scams
Watch for overpriced tours in remote spots; stick to licensed operators.
Verify dive gear or use reputable shops to avoid equipment issues.
Healthcare
No vaccinations required beyond standard. Travel insurance essential for evacuations.
Clinics in Koror, tap water safe in towns, hospitals offer basic care.
Night Safety
Most areas safe at night, but stick to resort paths after dark.
Use guided night dives or taxis for late adventures.
Outdoor Safety
For snorkeling in Rock Islands, check currents and wear reef-safe sunscreen.
Inform guides of plans, marine life can surprise in lagoons.
Personal Security
Use resort safes for valuables, keep copies of passports separate.
Be vigilant on boats and in markets during peak tourist times.
Insider Travel Tips
Strategic Timing
Book dry season dives (December-April) months in advance for best visibility.
Visit in shoulder months for fewer crowds, rainy season ideal for waterfalls.
Budget Optimization
Use local ferries for inter-island travel, eat at food stalls for cheap meals.
Free cultural tours available in villages, many conservation sites donation-based.
Digital Essentials
Download offline maps and dive apps before arrival.
WiFi spotty outside Koror, mobile coverage good in main areas.
Photography Tips
Capture golden hour at Rock Islands for vibrant blues and soft lighting.
Use underwater housings for marine shots, always ask permission in villages.
Cultural Connection
Learn basic Palauan phrases to connect with locals authentically.
Participate in community feasts for genuine interactions and immersion.
Local Secrets
Seek out hidden lagoons in Babeldaob or secret dive sites off Peleliu.
Ask at homestays for undiscovered spots locals love but tourists miss.
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path
- Ngardmau Waterfall: Towering cascade in Babeldaob with jungle trails, riverside pools, and birdwatching, perfect for a peaceful hike.
- Milky Way Lagoon: Unique jellyfish-free lake with mineral mud baths away from crowds, set in serene Rock Islands.
- Peleliu WWII Bunkers: Lesser-known battle sites with guided tours and coral-encrusted relics, ideal for history exploration.
- Kayangel Atoll Trails: Remote northern atoll paths for quiet snorkeling and traditional fishing in untouched reefs.
- Babeldaob Interior Villages: Authentic communities with ancient stone monoliths and storytelling sessions.
- Sonsorol Island: Tiny outer island with pristine beaches, cultural dances, and star-filled night skies for seclusion.
- Melekeok Lake: Hidden freshwater spot near the capitol for birdwatching and calm paddling adventures.
- Ngermea Island: Quiet mangrove kayaking routes with firefly views and eco-trails off the main paths.
Seasonal Events & Festivals
- Independence Day (July 9, Koror): Patriotic celebrations with parades, traditional dances, and fireworks honoring Palau's freedom.
- Belau Cultural Festival (October, Various Islands): Vibrant showcase of chants, crafts, and storytelling attracting locals and visitors.
- Hesei (First Fruits Festival, December, Villages): Harvest rituals with feasting and ceremonies thanking for bountiful yields.
- Palau Dragon Boat Festival (June, Koror): Energetic races on calm waters with drumming and community picnics.
- Christmas Celebrations (December): Island-wide lights, caroling, and markets with local foods and gifts.
- Obek Youth Festival (April, Schools/Communities): Traditional games, songs, and sports promoting Palauan heritage among youth.
- Shark Sanctuary Awareness Day (March, Koror): Educational events with dives and talks on marine protection.
- New Year's Eve Beach Parties (December 31): Informal gatherings with fire dancing and resolutions under the stars.
Shopping & Souvenirs
- Storyboards: Buy carved wooden tales from artisans in Koror, authentic pieces start at $50-100 for quality narratives.
- Shell Jewelry: Handcrafted necklaces and earrings from local beaches, available at markets for $10-30.
- Batik Fabrics: Traditional printed cloths from village weavers, perfect for scarves or wraps starting at $20.
- Carved Tiki Figures: Small wooden idols representing Palauan myths, find at craft shops throughout Babeldaob.
- Pearls & Black Lip Shells: Ethical jewelry from sustainable farms in Koror, research for certified pieces.
- Markets: Visit Koror weekend markets for fresh produce, woven baskets, and local spices at reasonable prices.
- Coconut Crafts: Bowls, utensils, and art from coconut shells, handmade and eco-friendly from island vendors.
Sustainable & Responsible Travel
Eco-Friendly Transport
Use kayaks or electric boats for Rock Islands to minimize carbon footprint.
Shared ferries available for inter-island hops in sustainable fleets.
Local & Organic
Support village farms and organic seafood spots, especially in Babeldaob's sustainable scene.
Choose seasonal tropical fruits over imports at markets and eateries.
Reduce Waste
Bring reusable water bottle, Palau's rainwater is excellent and safe to drink.
Use cloth bags at markets, recycling limited so minimize plastics.
Support Local
Stay in family-run guesthouses rather than large resorts when possible.
Eat at community kitchens and buy from artisan stalls to support locals.
Respect Nature
Stay on marked reefs when snorkeling, take all trash with you from beaches.
Avoid touching marine life and follow no-anchor zones in lagoons.
Cultural Respect
Learn about taboos like not stepping on sacred sites before visiting.
Respect village protocols and contribute to conservation efforts.
Useful Phrases
Palauan
Hello: Alii
Thank you: Melekoi
Please: A meruul
Excuse me: Se er a beluu
Do you speak English?: A ulelong English?
English (Official)
Hello: Hello
Thank you: Thank you
Please: Please
Excuse me: Excuse me
Do you speak English?: Do you speak English?