How To Spend 5 Days In Palau

Scuba divers have long prized Palau for its stunning underwater beauty — but it’s not just divers that will be wowed by the natural wonder of this island nation.

Scuba divers have long prized Palau for its stunning underwater beauty — but it's not just divers that will be wowed by the natural wonder of this island nation. Kayakers, snorkelers, boaters and sun worshippers can appreciate the clear waters, white-sand beaches and shallow coral reefs of this Micronesian destination. To reach Palau, bear in mind that there are no direct flights from the United States — most flights typically route through Seoul, Taipei, Honolulu or Guam. Once you've arrived, here's how to spend your five-day stay.

DAY 1

DAY 2

Palau Travel Itinerary: Fish dinner at Kramers Cafe
You know it's a good seafood joint when it's packed with locals—which Kramer's Café usually is. The second-story balcony overlooking the Neco Marine Harbor packs plenty of romantic ambiance. Go for the Hawaiian-style poke, stay to relax to the chill beats of ambient house music while sipping cocktails with expats who staff the island's dive shops and bars. | Courtesy Kramer's Café

DAY 3

Palau Travel Itinerary: trying fruit bat soup
Palauan food can be hard to define, as the tiny nation is heavily influenced by many of its island neighbors in the South Pacific. Still, if you're curious what Palauans dish up at home, sit down to a meal at the Penthouse Hotel Restaurant. The cement outside doesn't scream island escape, but the smells inside do. Opt for the coconut and taro root soup, crabs or the catch of the day. To satisfy an adventurous palate, try the fruit bat soup — a dish Palau is known for (shown above). Save room for a starchy taro-based dessert or a cheesecake bread bun. | Jon Whittle

DAY 4

Palau Travel Itinerary: The Taj
Sure, Indian food might not be an obvious choice when in Palau, but it's one of the best picks in Koror. The Taj in downtown Koror dishes up butter chicken, lamb vindaloo and a wealth of other options. If you have the time, plan on lingering. Their Wi-Fi is some of the best on island so you can catch up on posting your vacation pics before heading home. Plus, hookahs, aka water pipes, are offered after dinner to loungers who want to smoke mild tobacco in flavors including apple, banana and strawberry. Call ahead to skip taxi fare: They will pick you and your party up for dinner and bring you back to your hotel. | Courtesy The Taj

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