These past three weeks have been an engaging experience for me, not only because I have met the leader of the Republic of Palau, President Tommy Remengesau, but also because I get to see the country in all its beauty and charm.

Many have said that water sceneries are dull and uninteresting; however I beg to disagree as the blue water of the ocean can bring out the most adventurous side in everyone. It presents a challenge to discover a world different from that of the lands we walk on.

Situated along the western Pacific Ocean, Republic of Palau is literally an island country consisting of over 250 islets. According to research, the country’s first inhabitants were known to have migrated from the Philippines 3,000 years ago. Sustained by the Negrito or Pygmy People, the islands of Palau were only truly discovered in 1697 when a group of Palauans accidentally landed on the Samar Island in the Philippines. Palau’s capital city is Ngerulmud located in Babeldaob Island.

Choose from among the endless list of resorts in Palau and enjoy their accommodations fit for a perfect vacation getaway. Three of the most popular destinations are the Rose Garden Resort, The Carolines Resort and the Carp Island Resort and Palau Diving Center. Go try new things by snorkeling in the Jellyfish Lake located in the Eil Malk Island.

As the country is surrounded by clear waters, scuba diving is among the many recreational activities every travellers must do. Five of the best diving sites are the Helmet Wreck where a shipwreck from World War II is found, the Chandelier Cave where divers can enter underwater caverns and tunnels, the Turtle Wall where first-time divers can enjoy looking at the turtles in their natural habitat along with other sea creatures, the Siaes Tunnel famous for the more experienced divers as they can swim underwater at 60 meters deep and lastly, the Blue Corner where a variety of sea animals can be seen.

If you’re not a fan of underwater adventures, Palau also offers variety of cruises that bring every traveller to the different islands. One of the popular tourist destinations is the Rock Islands located between the Isle of Koror and Peleliu. Comprised of approximately 300 islands, the area’s notable islets are the Ngeruktabel, Ulong, Tlutkaraguis, Ngerukeuid, Bukrrairong and Ongael. Also, never miss the chance to go through The Arch, part of the Rock Islands known for its 50-feet wide arch made up of limestone.

A trip to Palau is not only limited to the palm trees and white sand of the many resorts surrounding the country as there are a lot of recreational activities to do. Bring out the adventurous side in you and explore the wonders of Palau.