Airai: The Heartbeat of Palau

Discover Airai: Palau’s Cultural Heartland, Rich in Natural Wonders and Traditional Heritage.

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Nestled in the lush landscapes of Palau, Airai is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. As the second most populous state in the country, Airai is best known for its traditional Bai, or men's meeting house, which stands as a symbol of Palauan culture and craftsmanship. This ancient structure, adorned with intricate carvings and paintings, provides a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the local people. The natural environment in Airai is equally captivating. The state is home to some of Palau's most stunning waterfalls, dense forests, and serene beaches. Visitors can explore the Ngardmau Waterfall, the tallest waterfall in Palau, or take a leisurely walk through the lush tropical forests that are teeming with wildlife. For those interested in marine life, Airai's proximity to the Rock Islands and Jellyfish Lake makes it an ideal base for snorkeling and diving excursions. Airai is also conveniently located near Palau's international airport, making it a perfect starting point for your Palauan adventure. Despite its modern amenities, the state has managed to preserve its traditional way of life, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience the authentic Palauan culture. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply looking to relax in a beautiful setting, Airai has something to offer everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Airai.

Visit the traditional Bai to learn about Palauan culture and history.
Explore the Ngardmau Waterfall, the tallest in Palau, for a refreshing experience.
Take advantage of Airai’s proximity to the Rock Islands for snorkeling and diving.
Plan your visit around local festivals to experience traditional Palauan celebrations.
Check the weather before planning outdoor activities, as Palau can experience heavy rainfall.

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Explore the best of what Airai has to offer

When is the best time to go to Airai?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge

Discover the breathtaking Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge, an iconic landmark uniting cultures with stunning views and rich history in beautiful Palau.

World War II Japanese Communications Center

Discover the World War II Japanese Communications Center, a historical landmark in Airai, Palau, revealing the island's military past and cultural heritage.

Airai Bai

Explore Airai Bai, a stunning tourist attraction in Palau, where natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and serene landscapes await you.

Ngelil Nature Island Reort

Discover the serene beauty of Ngelil Nature Island Resort in Palau, where luxury meets nature for the perfect getaway.

Koror lighthouse

Discover the charm of Koror Lighthouse in Airai, Palau, where stunning views and natural beauty converge for an unforgettable experience.

Airai State Government

Explore the Airai State Government office, where culture meets governance in the heart of Palau's natural beauty.

Airai Cave

Explore the Airai Cave, a captivating historical landmark in Palau, rich in cultural significance and stunning natural beauty.

Yelch Baseball Field

Discover the charm of Yelch Baseball Field in Airai, Palau, a beloved spot for sports lovers and families seeking outdoor fun.

Unmissable attractions to see

JP Bridge Airai Side

Explore the serene beauty of JP Bridge Airai Side, where lush landscapes and tranquil paths invite you to unwind in the heart of Palau's natural paradise.

JP Bridge Koror Side

Experience the tranquility and natural beauty at JP Bridge Koror Side, a serene park in Babeldaob, Palau, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Ngcheleab

Discover the tranquil beauty of Ngcheleab, a lush garden in Airai, Palau, perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.

Ngesaol plaza

Experience the peaceful beauty of Ngesaol Plaza, a charming park in Koror, Palau, perfect for relaxation and family outings amidst nature.

Essential places to dine

Bem Ermii Burger & Fries

Discover the ultimate fast food experience at Bem Ermii Burger & Fries in Airai, Palau – where delicious burgers meet warm hospitality.

Shawarma Corner

Discover authentic Middle Eastern flavors at Shawarma Corner in Airai—where every bite takes you on a delicious journey.

Katey's Healing Garden

Experience tranquility at Katey's Healing Garden - where delicious food meets serene ambiance in the heart of Koror.

Jinrui Mina Menrui Ramen Shop Palau 人類みな麺類

Savor authentic Japanese ramen in Palau at Jinrui Mina Menrui Ramen Shop - where every bowl tells a story.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

L'Amarena Gelato Shop (Gelateria Italiana)

Experience authentic Italian gelato and delightful desserts at L'Amarena Gelato Shop in Airai, Palau, where every scoop is a taste of paradise.

Surangel's Surpercenter Airai

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Surangel's Supercenter in Airai, Palau, offering local crafts, groceries, and more.

EXILE

Discover the essence of Palauan culture through fashion at EXILE, a unique clothing store in Koror, where style meets tradition.

Wilson's Store

Discover the local flavors and essentials at Wilson's Store, a grocery gem in Ngermid, Koror, Palau, perfect for tourists and locals alike.

Kwik Mart

Discover local flavors and convenience at Kwik Mart in Koror, Palau's go-to grocery store for tourists and residents alike.

Community Store-2(CS-2)

Explore the vibrant flavors and local culture at Community Store-2 (CS-2) in Airai, Palau, your go-to destination for groceries and local treats.

Jello's Fashion II

Explore the vibrant Jello's Fashion II in Koror, your go-to convenience store for food, drinks, and clothing at great prices.

JMC One Stop Shop

Explore unique clothing and accessories that embody the spirit of Palau at JMC One Stop Shop in Koror.

Yelch mart store

Discover local treasures and everyday essentials at Yelch Mart Store in Airai, Palau—your go-to destination for unique shopping experiences.

Airport Mart

Discover unique local crafts and souvenirs at Airport Mart, your gateway to Palau's vibrant culture and heritage.

JM Mini Mart

Experience local hospitality and find unique Palauan products at JM Mini Mart in Koror, your go-to grocery store for all essentials.

Malakal

Explore the unique clothing styles of Malakal, where traditional meets contemporary in a vibrant island shopping experience.

Save more store

Experience local culture and convenience at Save More Store in Palau, your go-to destination for essentials and local flavors.

True Value Hardware Store /Master Electronics

Discover unique electronics and instruments at True Value Hardware Store in Airai, Palau, where local culture meets modern convenience.

Airai Retail

Discover unique local crafts and essentials at Airai Retail, a vibrant shopping destination in the heart of Palau's Airai region.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

L'Amarena Gelato Shop (Gelateria Italiana)

Discover the enchanting flavors of Italy at L'Amarena Gelato Shop in Palau, where every scoop is a taste of paradise.

Ocean View Lounge

Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and breathtaking ocean views at Ocean View Lounge in Airai, Palau.

With Eve

Local Phrases

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Airai. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- 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]

History of Airai

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 Essentials

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.

Airai: The Heartbeat of Palau

Know before you go