Would you visit this stunning country? (stock image) (Image: Getty)
A travel expert has given holidaymakers a glimpse of an idyllic island nation so beautiful you have to sign a pledge to get in.
While many of us may think of the or the when we’re after a break, enthusiast Chloé Jade Meltzer believes another archipelago might be a better bet for your next long-distance getaway. Boasting “extremely lush, green land, absolutely incredible diving, and really great food,” Chloé says Palau – made up of more than 500 islands in the Pacific Ocean – is the perfect spot for a truly relaxing .
“I just landed in a country so beautiful, they make you sign a pledge when you arrive. A pledge to respect the land,” she said.
“This is a country that loves its oceans so much that they banned most sunscreens. And [it has] an extremely low crime rate.
“I am so excited to share this beautiful country because although I’ve only been here a very short while, it’s already become one of my favourite places in the entire world. This is such a special place and I feel so lucky to be here.”
:
Chloé lauded Palau’s “beautiful waterfalls” and said it was one of the best spots for diving in the world, as those brave enough to snorkel in the turquoise waters are “guaranteed” to see manta rays.
“It is the westernmost country in all of Micronesia, and still it sometimes feels like it’s so far from anywhere else in the world,” she said.
But what about the pledge? The Palau Pledge is addressed to the children of Palau and sees visitors vow to “preserve and protect your beautiful and unique island home.”
The pledge continues: “I vow to tread lightly, act kindly and explore mindfully. I shall not take what is not given. I shall not harm what does not harm me. The only footprints I shall leave are those that will wash away.”
Don’t miss…
The pledge is stamped in your passport on arrival and signed. Visitors to Palau must also complete the Palau entry form within 72 hours of arrival. Once filled in, the form generates a QR code which must be presented during check-in and on arrival to Palau.
Brits can visit Palau for up to 30 days without a pre-arranged visa. Visitors staying for up to 30 days will be issued a tourist visa on arrival but may need to show proof of return or onward travel, according to the FCDO.
If you’re looking to travel to Palau, you can fly with one of three airlines from the UK. The most popular route goes from to Palau International Airport in Koror. The journey takes an average of 27 hours 42 minutes one-way and a return journey will generally cost upwards of £1,300.