Palau

Full of spectacular natural beauty, it’s impossible not to be enchanted with this gorgeous archipelago, which comprises over 500 islands scattered through the Pacific Ocean. Palau is one of the most beautiful diving destinations in the world, with rich underwater life, diverse marine animals, sunken shipwrecks, and rugged seascapes. Above the water, it’s home to lush, verdant islands and volcanic rock formations, lapped by crystal-clear, azure waves.

Head to Koror Island for the country’s largest city and commercial centre, Koror town. Whilst island-hopping around the region is a major draw to Koror, there’s also plenty to do in the city, such as exploring traditional architecture at the brightly-painted Palau Community College Bai, discovering the country’s history at Belau National Museum & Bai, and learning about coral reef ecosystems at Palau Aquarium.

Just outside Koror, you’ll find the Mother & Child Monolith, an ancient monument said to be the remains of a mother and child who were turned to stone when the mother sneaked a look inside their village men’s house. World-class diving is to be had at Blue Corner, home to diverse marine life including barracudas, Napoleon wrasses, and grey reef sharks, and a surreal snorkelling experience awaits at Jellyfish Lake.