Introducing Palau: An island destination to rival Bali and Fiji
Only six hours north-west of Brisbane, sun-seekers will find the Pacific Island nation of Palau.
Nestled in the Western Pacific Ocean, the archipelago made up of more than 500 islands, boasts some of the world's best scuba-diving and snorkelling.
The best part is, it's easier to travel there than ever before. Qantas recently announcing a direct flight from Brisbane to Koror.
READ MORE: 'Fifty eight dollars': How to spot minibar detail that could cost you
Taking a dip at Palau's famous 'Milky Way', a future holiday hotspot. Supplied/Nine
The Flying Kangaroo acquiring the service, known as the 'Palau Paradise Express', in hopes of satisfying tourists in search of a unique and untouched holiday destination.
That in itself was enough to get me on the ground, and once I was there it didn't disappoint.
READ MORE: All the private islands, resorts, and exclusive destinations you can visit on cruises
An underwater oasis
Although relatively unknown to the average Aussie, Palau is internationally renowned among divers. Like the Great Barrier Reef and Galapagos Islands, Palau is one of the seven underwater wonders of the world.
The tropical haven is home to around 1,500 species of fish and at least 700 different kinds of coral.
Swim with harmless reef sharks. Paddling Palau
After only two days of island hopping with Neco Marine, I'd spotted multiple hawksbill sea turtles, swam alongside Black Tip Reef Sharks, and survived an encounter with a venomous banded sea krait.
Having previously visited locations like the Phi Phi Islands and Nusa Lembongan, I was confident I'd experienced some of the best snorkelling the southern hemisphere had to offer… My trip to Palau proved me wrong.
Picturesque views
The Rock Islands are just as beautiful from above. The UNESCO World Heritage site comprises hundreds of limestone islands, each boasting white beaches and bright green palms.
The stunning Pacific Island Nation of Palau is just six hours from Australia. Nine/Supplied
An aerial tour with Smile Air is the easiest way to see them all. Offering a bird's-eye view of world-famous dive sites Blue Corner and The German Channel.
You can also weave your way through the Rock Islands on a kayak with Paddling Palau. Ideal for exploring Nikko Bay's mangroves, marine caves, and limestone archways.
If you're lucky you'll even see baby reef sharks feeding in the shallow waters. Plus, the protected bay ensures paddlers won't have a hard time with currents.
Kayaking through Nikko Bay. Nine/Supplied
A slice of village life
Beyond the breathtaking views, Palau is rich in culture. But their traditions are passed down verbally, so the best way to learn is to listen.
Airai Tours gives tourists a glimpse into village life, showcasing landmarks like the 'The Palauan Bai' (or Men's House), a gathering place for governing elders.
Airai Tours gives tourists a glimpse into village life. Here is a traditional Palauan Bai. Nine/Supplied
Don't let the term 'Men's House' fool you though. Palau is actually known for its matriarchal society - one of very few left in the world.
Palauan women anoint village leaders, oversee finances, and preside over land… explains why it's so peaceful.
You'll also get a taste for Palauan food. Fish, crab, taro and tapioca are all staples, and further proof of the locals' deep connection to their environment.
Palauans live by a simple proverb; "the land is our mother, the ocean is our father".
Palauans live by a simple proverb; "the land is our mother, the ocean is our father". Nine/Supplied
World's most well-preserved battlefield
If the natural beauty and unique culture hasn't already sold you on Palau, perhaps its wartime history will. During World War II, Palau served as a battleground for the US and Japan. Unlike most combat zones though, the remnants of war remain untouched.
An hour's boat ride with Sam's Tours, will take you to Peleliu. The island, much like the rest of Palau, is beautiful, but it has a dark past.
In 1944, Peleliu saw 72 days of hard fighting. Left behind are tanks, planes, even Japanese beer bottles.
Almost frozen in time, it's widely recognised as the most well-preserved battlefield in the world.
The island of Peleliu saw 72 days of hard fighting during World War II. Nine/Supplied
Future holiday hotspot
Being so close to Australia, Palau certainly has the potential to rival go-to getaway destinations, Bali and Fiji.
Between the beaches, the history, and the hospitality, all the hallmarks of a holiday hotspot are there.
So my advice would be to book your trip to Palau, before it becomes mainstream.
The writer travelled as a guest of Qantas and Palau Visitors Authority.
