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Finding the Rainbow's End in Palau
By Rita Cook
Sure, divers have known about it for years, but visitors looking for a unique destination that also offers nature, culture and a bevy of additional activities will definitely enjoy the Micronesian Republic of Palau. Located just seven-degrees north of the Equator in the western Pacific Ocean, tropical weather is the norm as well as moderate temperatures and soft ocean breezes.
"Although we are a young nation, 12 years as an independent sovereign, we are an old culture, proudly retaining our traditions while continuing to grow as a modern democracy with a sustainable future," notes Republic of Palau President Tommy E. Remengesau, Jr.
Indeed, rich in history, even today the traditions are alive and well and the basis which the locals build on balances an ancient lifestyle integrated with the modern world.
For diving, there are more than 1400 species of fish to see, 500 species of corals and seven species of giant clams. Certified divers can dive with Manta rays, Hawks-bill turtles or discover the Chambered Nautilus, only found in the waters near Palau. Of course you might also come into contact with whales, sharks and marlins. More than one person has noted that "Palau is one of the seventh underwater wonders of the world."
For those who love the outdoors, but aren't big on diving, nature abounds in Palau. About 75% of the Republic of Palau is forest and mangroves. As many as 100 birds and plants found here are solely endemic to the island. Waterfalls are stunning and like none you will have seen before. The largest on the island is called Ngardmau and is majestic in its splendor. Rare orchids also grow here and the jungle interior will leave you as close to nature as you can get. Near the water, but for non-divers the coral reefs teem with sea life and indeed create a magic you can explore while snorkeling or just getting your feet wet.
Another nature must is the Rock Islands. Uninhabited, the islands are located in a lagoon and protected from the sea by reefs. You will see an assortment of schools of fish, and birds. Nature always seems to be smiling. Additionally, there is Jellyfish Lake, Ngermeskang River and Lake Ngerdok, the largest lake in Micronesia that boasts freshwater.
Activities in Palau center mostly around fishing - from trolling for game fish like the marlin, sailfish or wahoo - to spear fishing on a bamboo raft. There is snorkeling the reefs, kayaking, hiking or mountain biking. With 27 miles in length and 15 miles across at its largest, there is much to explore in way of natural beauty. For sightseeing the limestone cliffs give way to secrets from long ago inside caves and, more recent history from World War II. Discover for yourself the planes and war gear that was left behind from the 1940s.
Culturally, Palau is teeming with history. Known as Belau by the locals, the islands were officially "discovered" in 1783 by a British Captain, but life had been going on there for centuries before, in fact dating as far back as 1,000 BC. You will want to explore the ancient ruins of lmeungs in an area called Babeldoab and note that the detailed stone pathways and what is considered a natural amphitheater that will offer more questions than answers as you wander around the area.
The museum, Koror House has strong history and cultural findings and there are over 1000 objects located here. Ask a native about the sunken village of Ngiwal and definitely find the time to enjoy a ceremony of chants or dancing before your trip is complete.
With a population of about 19,0000 and over 300 islands making up the Republic of Palau, not many of the islands are inhabited, but all have a unique history and pull. No matter where you end up on the islands, mingling with the natives and making your own discoveries, you might indeed decide what many natives already know, that this is definitely the Rainbow's End.
www.visit-Palau.com
Caribbean Time Again
By Rita Cook
Any day is a good day to figure out a reason to head down to the Caribbean. With a little chill in the air why not find a flight down to one of these muy caliente destinations right now!
Barbados
It's hard to even know where to begin your adventure when visiting Barbados, a very well developed island only 21 miles long and 14 miles wide. One way to get a good idea of the island overall is to hop on an Island Safari Tour, which will take you just about everywhere from the highest cliff to the forest and remote bays and all in a 4 X 4 Land Rover.
If you get tired of spending time in the sun there are quite a few lovely great houses to visit with amazing history dating back hundreds of years. Start at St. Nicholas Abbey where you can do a self-guided tour, the plantation was built in 1650, but the exact date of the architecture is not known. Before leaving, duck into the rum shop for a bit of Barbadian rum - just make sure someone else is driving.
Lancaster Great House is another good stop with an art gallery that features local and visiting artists. At Fisherpond Great House the owner is the kind of person you want to sit and talk to all day. Ask him about his stories regarding the royals - he's a good storyteller. Set in the lush valley of Sweet Bottom amid sugar cane fields the house is 350 years old (and there is a resident ghost). The thing that will strike you the most about Barbados however, is the dichotomy of it all. The classic chandeliers coupled with open doors and breezeways as you enjoy your seven course lunch on pure bone china with the ocean stirring in the distant and the chandeliers tinkling in the wind.
If you still have some adrenaline to unleash after a meal and tour take a surf lesson at Must Stay: Treasure Beach
www.treasurebeachhotel.com
Dominican Republic
For those interested in an all-inclusive vacation then hop on the next flight down to Club Med in the Dominican Republic. With a $34 million renovation on their Punta Cana property the new "Club Med" (forget anything you ever thought about them in the past) is more than enough for couples or families with children. So indeed it does mean you can take little Jr. with you if you must for a weekend jaunt. A full spa offers some amazing treatments and family suites with private pools are also top of the line. Located on the eastern tip of Dominican Republic, Punta Cana Club Med offers 75 acres of beachfront property and a new concept called Tiara for those who want an ultra-exclusive experience. Tiara offers guests oceanfront suites, a concierge, turndown service, private pick-up from the airport - it's a boutique resort within a resort. You don't even need to leave the property to have a good time.
For a day of fun, the resort offers an ocean excursion on the "lobster boat" with snorkeling, drinks and lunch served right on deck. Once back at the resort, try the restaurant options Hispanola and La Samana. And before you leave make sure you experience a couples flying trapeze lesson.
Club Med Punta Cana
www.clubmed.us
1-800-ClubMed
Cabo San Lucas
I know, though not officially in the Caribbean I would still be wrong not to mention Cabo San Lucas. After all, it is where all of Hollywood's beautiful people travel when they don't have time to get down to the Caribbean. For a weekend romance experience there is much to see and do in Los Cabos and San Jose del Cabo. In San Jose Del Cabo you can enjoy a wonderful art walk and dinner at Casa Natalia where an intimate Euro-Mexican cuisine is served amid the four elements of fire, water, air and earth.
A stay at the Marquis Los Cabos will be like a gift from heaven for the two of you - ask for a villa with a private pool on the roof. Room service is also efficient, but do take some time to get out and enjoy the ocean. The Marquis has a private yacht you can reserve for snorkeling while also visiting the famous arch of Los Cabos. A chance to spend some time in the resort's spa is also worth it just take your pick of massage, facial, reflexology, whatever your needs the Marquis makes sure you are happy.
To the backdrop of a crystal blue ocean, the Marquis' façade as you enter immediately takes you into the heart of peace and tranquility; everything is open and by the time you leave you'll love one another even more.
Must Stay:
Marquis Los Cabos - A member of The Leading Hotels of the World
www.marquisloscabos.com