The tiny paradise island seeking a different type of tourist

While researching a trip to Palau, a tiny island nation dotting Micronesia’s western edge, I found endless information about its famed mushroom-shaped Rock Islands and spectacular diving sites, including over 50 World War II wrecks.

But what I discovered upon arrival was a destination eager to highlight something else: its rich culture on solid land.

The remote archipelago’s efforts to encourage activities like village tours and traditional handicraft workshops appear to be helping tourism rebound from pandemic-era lows. Visitor numbers have surged from about 5,000 in 2021 to more than 50,000 in 2024, according to the country’s visitors authority. Chinese travellers lead the recovery despite recent diplomatic tensions.

“We’ve been known for our crystal clear water, but ...
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