Aimeliik: The Tranquil Heart of Palau

• HelloAlii
  [ah-LEE]
• GoodbyeKedou
  [keh-DOH]
• YesOngalek
  [ohn-gah-lek]
• NoAteklek
  [ah-teh-klek]
• Please/You're welcomeChad ra beluu
  [chahd rah bel-OO]
• Thank youUngil tutau
  [OONG-eel TOO-tow]
• Excuse me/SorryKmal mesulang
  [kem-MAHL meh-SOO-lahng]
• How are you?Kmal mesulang
  [kem-MAHL meh-SOO-lahng]
• Fine. And you?Ng diak el kmo a rengalek
  [ng dee-ahk el kmo a rehn-gah-lek]
• Do you speak English?Mlechell ra beluu
  [meh-LEH-chell rah bel-OO]
• I don't understandDiak lechad
  [dee-ahk leh-chahd]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMlechell a rechad er a menu
  [meh-LEH-chell ah reh-chahd er ah meh-NOO]
• I don't eat meatDiak mlekebliich a ungil
  [dee-ahk mleh-keh-BLEECH ah OONG-eel]
• Cheers!Ungil tutau
  [OONG-eel TOO-tow]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMlechell a rechad er a bils
  [meh-LEH-chell ah reh-chahd er ah beelz]

• Help!Ng diak
  [ng dee-ahk]
• Go away!Mla mo chad
  [mah mo chahd]
• Call the Police!Mlechell a rechad er a kall
  [meh-LEH-chell ah reh-chahd er ah kahl]
• Call a doctor!Mlechell a rechad er a daktor
  [meh-LEH-chell ah reh-chahd er ah dahk-tohr]
• I'm lostDiak lucheb
  [dee-ahk loo-chehb]
• I'm illDiak beches
  [dee-ahk beh-chehs]

• I'd like to buy...Mlechell a rechad er a...
  [meh-LEH-chell ah reh-chahd er ah...]
• I'm just lookingA sebechel a mlechell
  [ah se-beh-chell ah meh-LEH-chell]
• How much is it?Ke kau a rurt er?
  [keh kow ah roo-rt er]
• That's too expensiveA rengalek a kekerei
  [ah rehn-gah-lek ah keh-keh-ray]
• Can you lower the price?Mlechell a rechad er a turk er a beluu?
  [meh-LEH-chell ah reh-chahd er ah toork er ah bel-OO]

• What time is it?Ke kau a kmal meral diak?
  [keh kow ah kmaahl MEH-rahl dee-ahk]
• It's one o'clockA omech er a klukuk
  [ah oh-mehch er ah kloo-kook]
• Half past (10)A kmal meral a tekoi
  [ah kmaahl MEH-rahl ah teh-KOY]
• MorningA dengua
  [ah dehn-gwah]
• AfternoonA remuul
  [ah reh-mool]
• EveningA dengua
  [ah dehn-gwah]
• YesterdayA dengua el kmo
  [ah dehn-gwah el kmo]
• TodayA diak el kmo
  [ah dee-ahk el kmo]
• TomorrowA beches el kmo
  [ah beh-chehs el kmo]
• 1Omechel a mlai
  [oh-MEH-chell ah MEH-lai]
• 2Omechel a dil
  [oh-MEH-chell ah deel]
• 3Omechel a telu
  [oh-MEH-chell ah TEH-loo]
• 4Omechel a lel
  [oh-MEH-chell ah lehl]
• 5Omechel a lima
  [oh-MEH-chell ah LEE-mah]
• 6Omechel a ono
  [oh-MEH-chell ah OH-noh]
• 7Omechel a fitu
  [oh-MEH-chell ah FEE-too]
• 8Omechel a valu
  [oh-MEH-chell ah VAH-loo]
• 9Omechel a sia
  [oh-MEH-chell ah SEE-ah]
• 10Omechel a sils
  [oh-MEH-chell ah seels]

• Where's a/the...?Ke kau a...
  [keh kow ah...]
• What's the address?Ke kau a kmal meral el chad er a...
  [keh kow ah kmaahl MEH-rahl el chahd er ah...]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mlechell a rechad er a kmal meral el chad er a...
  [meh-LEH-chell ah reh-chahd er ah kmaahl MEH-rahl el chahd er ah...]
• When's the next (bus)?Ke kau a kmal meral el...
  [keh kow ah kmaahl MEH-rahl el...]
• A ticket (to ....)A bils er a...
  [ah beelz er ah...]

Aimeliik, situated on the western coast of Babeldaob Island, is known for its ancient settlements that date back to around 1000 AD. The area was a pivotal location for early Palauan societies due to its fertile lands and strategic coastal position. Archaeological findings, including pottery shards and ancient tools, provide insight into the daily lives and advanced skills of these early inhabitants.

Aimeliik is home to some of the most well-preserved 'Bai'—traditional Palauan meeting houses. These structures, often elaborately decorated with intricate carvings and paintings, were central to the social and political life of the community. The Bai served as the meeting place for the village chiefs and elders to discuss important matters and make decisions that affected the entire community.

During World War II, Palau, including Aimeliik, was occupied by Japanese forces. The remnants of this era are visible in various parts of Aimeliik, including old military bunkers and airstrips. This period significantly impacted the local culture and economy, and the legacy of this occupation is still a topic of study and remembrance in Aimeliik today.

The residents of Aimeliik have a rich tradition of agriculture, particularly in taro cultivation. The terraced taro fields, which are meticulously maintained, are a testament to the ingenuity and sustainability of traditional Palauan farming practices. These fields not only provide a staple food source but also play a crucial role in the cultural heritage of Aimeliik.

Aimeliik is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, which celebrate Palauan traditions, dance, music, and food. These events are often held in conjunction with national holidays and are a vital part of preserving and promoting the cultural identity of the community. Visitors to Aimeliik can experience firsthand the rich tapestry of Palauan cultural expressions during these lively festivals.

In recent years, Aimeliik has seen significant developments in infrastructure and tourism. The construction of better roads, improved public facilities, and eco-friendly tourism initiatives are aimed at making Aimeliik more accessible while preserving its natural and cultural heritage. These developments are part of a broader effort to balance modernization with the conservation of Aimeliik's unique historical legacy.

Aimeliik is located on the western side of Babeldaob Island in Palau. The main gateway to Palau is Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) in Airai, about 25 kilometers from Aimeliik. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Aimeliik. There are no direct public transportation options from the airport to Aimeliik, so pre-arranging your transportation is advisable.

The best way to get around Aimeliik is by renting a car, as public transportation options are limited. Taxis are available but can be pricey due to the limited number of operators. Renting a bicycle is also an option for short trips or for exploring the local area. If you're staying at a resort, check whether they offer shuttle services to nearby attractions.

The official currency of Palau is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available, but it's recommended to withdraw sufficient cash in Koror before traveling to Aimeliik.

Aimeliik is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Aimeliik has local police and medical facilities, but for more serious medical issues, you may need to travel to Koror. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health needs.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting cultural sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient; public transport is limited, so plan accordingly. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly hello. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be open to new culinary experiences. Don’t waste food as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Aimeliik like a local, visit the traditional bai (meeting houses) to learn about Palauan culture. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share their knowledge about the area. Don't miss exploring the ancient stone monoliths and terraces, which are significant archaeological sites. For a unique experience, join a local fishing or farming activity to get a taste of daily life in Aimeliik.