Airai: The Heartbeat of Palau

• HelloAlii
  [ah-lee]
• GoodbyeKmal mesulang
  [kum-mal meh-soo-lang]
• YesObech
  [oh-betch]
• NoChad
  [chad]
• Please/You're welcomeChedam/Ke kmal mesulang
  [cheh-dam/keh kum-mal meh-soo-lang]
• Thank youSulang
  [soo-lang]
• Excuse me/SorryChelechang/Ke kmal meral diak
  [cheh-leh-chang/keh kum-mal meh-rahl dee-ahk]
• How are you?Kmal mekebud
  [kum-mal meh-keh-boo-d]
• Fine. And you?Meral diak. A rengalek?
  [meh-rahl dee-ahk. ah rehng-ah-lek]
• Do you speak English?Ng diak el taem a klukuk?
  [ng dee-ahk ehl tah-em ah kloo-kook]
• I don't understandDiak el kmo ngak
  [dee-ahk ehl kmo ngahk]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNg di mengerar a menu, ng diak el chad
  [ng dee mehng-eh-rahr ah meh-noo, ng dee-ahk ehl chad]
• I don't eat meatDiak el chad a oureor
  [dee-ahk ehl chad ah oh-reh-ohr]
• Cheers!Kmal mesulang!
  [kum-mal meh-soo-lang]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNg di mengerar a rael a dengerenger, ng diak el chad
  [ng dee mehng-eh-rahr ah rah-ehl ah dehng-ehng-ehr, ng dee-ahk ehl chad]

• Help!Chais!
  [chah-eese]
• Go away!Mla mo diak
  [mah moh dee-ahk]
• Call the Police!Klukuk a rutak
  [kloo-kook ah roo-tahk]
• Call a doctor!Klukuk a tekingel
  [kloo-kook ah teh-king-ehl]
• I'm lostDiak el kmo ngak
  [dee-ahk ehl kmo ngahk]
• I'm illDiak el tekoi
  [dee-ahk ehl teh-koy]

• I'd like to buy...Ng di mengerar a...
  [ng dee mehng-eh-rahr ah]
• I'm just lookingNg di merolung
  [ng dee meh-roh-loong]
• How much is it?Kmal melechub a ungil?
  [kum-mal meh-leh-choob ah oong-eel]
• That's too expensiveA ungil a di chelit
  [ah oong-eel ah dee cheh-leet]
• Can you lower the price?Ng kmal melechub a ungil?
  [ng kum-mal meh-leh-choob ah oong-eel]

• What time is it?Kmal mo diak a rengalek?
  [kum-mal moh dee-ahk ah rehng-ah-lek]
• It's one o'clockA rengalek a tebelung
  [ah rehng-ah-lek ah teh-beh-loong]
• Half past (10)A rengalek a tekoi a uldemechakl
  [ah rehng-ah-lek ah teh-koy ah ool-deh-meh-chah-kel]
• MorningNgalek
  [ngah-lek]
• AfternoonNgerauch
  [ngeh-raowch]
• EveningNgerdiak
  [ngehr-dee-ahk]
• YesterdayMelekoi
  [meh-leh-koy]
• TodayNgalek
  [ngah-lek]
• TomorrowNgara
  [ngah-rah]
• 1Tebelung
  [teh-beh-loong]
• 2Uldemechakl
  [ool-deh-meh-chah-kel]
• 3Uldemechekngit
  [ool-deh-meh-cheh-kngit]
• 4Uldemechidub
  [ool-deh-meh-chee-doob]
• 5Uldemechel
  [ool-deh-meh-chel]
• 6Uldemecheldecheduch
  [ool-deh-meh-chel-deh-cheh-doohch]
• 7Uldemecheldecheduchidid
  [ool-deh-meh-chel-deh-cheh-dooh-chee-deed]
• 8Uldemecheldecheduchidilu
  [ool-deh-meh-chel-deh-chee-dooh-chee-loo]
• 9Uldemecheldecheduchidilukidid
  [ool-deh-meh-chel-deh-chee-dooh-chee-loo-chee-deed]
• 10Uldemecheldecheduchidilukidilu
  [ool-deh-meh-chel-deh-chee-dooh-chee-loo-chee-loo]

• Where's a/the...?Ulang a/the...?
  [oo-lahng ah/the]
• What's the address?Ulang a ngaraud?
  [oo-lahng ah ngah-rowd]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ng kmal melechub a ikemokel?
  [ng kum-mal meh-leh-choob ah ee-keh-moh-kel]
• When's the next (bus)?Ulang a chesuubel?
  [oo-lahng ah cheh-soo-behl]
• A ticket (to ....)A tebelung (a ....)
  [ah teh-beh-loong ah]

Airai, one of the oldest states in Palau, boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times. The area is known for its traditional Bai structures, which served as meeting houses for village elders. These intricately designed buildings are a testament to the advanced craftsmanship and social organization of Palau's early inhabitants.

In the late 19th century, Palau, including Airai, came under Spanish control. This period saw the introduction of Christianity and the Spanish language, significantly impacting local culture and traditions. Despite the colonial presence, Airai managed to preserve much of its indigenous heritage.

Following the Spanish-American War, Palau was sold to Germany in 1899. The Germans focused on economic development, particularly in mining and agriculture. During World War I, Japan took control of Palau, including Airai. The Japanese era brought about significant infrastructure development, including roads and schools, reshaping the landscape and daily life of Airai's residents.

Airai, like the rest of Palau, was heavily affected by World War II. The island was a strategic military location, leading to significant battles between Japanese and Allied forces. The war left a lasting impact on the region, with remnants of military installations and aircraft still visible today. Post-war, Palau came under American administration as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.

In 1994, Palau gained full sovereignty, becoming one of the world's youngest nations. Airai played a crucial role in this journey, with its leaders actively participating in the drafting of the Palauan constitution. Today, Airai continues to celebrate its cultural heritage while embracing the opportunities of an independent nation.

In recent years, there has been a significant resurgence in traditional practices and cultural pride in Airai. Efforts to restore historical sites, promote traditional crafts, and celebrate local festivals have strengthened community bonds and attracted visitors eager to experience Palauan culture. Airai stands as a vibrant testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of its people.

Airai is located on Babeldaob Island in Palau. The main entry point to Palau is Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), which is conveniently located in Airai itself. Direct flights are available from major hubs such as Guam, Manila, Taipei, and Seoul. From the airport, you can easily get to your accommodation via taxi or hotel shuttle services.

Airai is relatively small, so many attractions are accessible by foot. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and reasonably priced. Car rentals are also an option for those looking to explore Babeldaob Island at their own pace. Public buses operate between Koror and other parts of the island, including Airai, but services can be infrequent.

The official currency of Palau is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available but can sometimes be limited, so plan accordingly.

Airai is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Airai, but it is always best to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Roman Tmetuchl International Airport has basic medical facilities, and more comprehensive healthcare services are available in nearby Koror. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Remove your shoes before entering homes and religious structures. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people warmly; a handshake is commonly used. A slight bow or nod is a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Airai like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Palauan crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss the Airai Bai, one of the oldest and most important traditional meeting houses in Palau. For a unique experience, explore the natural beauty of the Ngardmau Waterfall or take a kayak tour through the Rock Islands.