Palau
Palau is one of the most extraordinary diving spots on the planet. Far to the southwest of Micronesia, the Republic of Belau (the traditional name), consists of an archipelago of 343 islands, spread north to south over 100 miles from the atoll of Kayangel to the island of Angaur plus five tiny islands, known as the southwest islands.

Palau's profuse, unspoiled reefs offer a wealth of marine life, coral formations and wrecks. Dives begin in knee-deep water and plunge straight down to depths of 1,000 feet and more. Blue holes, huge caverns and an immense variety of rare and exotic marine species are easily accessible in clear water with visibility exceeding 200 feet. Vast numbers of large pelagic predators, sharks, turtles, dolphins and many species of migratory fish, not found anywhere else in the world, gather here at a unique crossroads of three of the world's major ocean currents. Land-locked marine lakes, accessible from the sea through tunnels beneath the island's steep shorelines, are home to rare jelly fish, anemones and soft corals.

Palau's famed "Rock Islands" are a collection of rounded, foliage-covered isles which seem to float above the surface of the water. A boat trip through them will reveal a number of magnificent white sand beach hideaways perfect for a secluded picnic or adventurous overnight stay. Below the water's surface, divers and snorkelers are treated to a diverse technicolor paradise of fabulous drop-offs, blue holes , breathtaking reefs, crystal caves and World War II wrecks.

Diving & Snorkeling

Palau was named the Number One Underwater Wonder of the World by CEDAM - a group of marine scientists and conservationists.

More than 1,300 types of fish inhabit the region, including manta rays, barracuda, sharks and giant clams.

The world famous Rock Islands are a divers "must" with magnificent wall diving at such legendary sites as Blue Corner, Ngmelis Drop-off, Blue Hole and Peleliu Corner.

Because of the clarity of the waters, snorkeling is excellent in or near almost all of the famous dive sites of Palau.

Other Activities

• Rock Island Tour - boat ride around Palau's famous Rock Islands with picnicking
• Stone Faces and Monoliths of Ngarchelong - hike through traditional villages and lovely jungle scenery to mysterious and ancient stone monoliths left by the early Palauans
• Belau National Museum - the oldest in Micronesia, offering a history of Palau through its handicrafts and artifacts. A fine example of a traditional bai (men's house) sits on the property.
• Helicopter tours
• Air tours
• Adventure Kayaking
• Scuba Diving

For more information, contact your nearest office of Continental Airlines, Continental Micronesia or your local travel agent.