Melekeok: The Heart of Palau's Tranquil Charm

• HelloAlii
  [ah-lee]
• GoodbyeKla mesulang
  [kla me-soo-lang]
• YesOngalek
  [on-gah-lek]
• NoCherrungel
  [cher-run-gel]
• Please/You're welcomeKmal mesulang
  [kmal me-soo-lang]
• Thank youKom kmal mesulang
  [kom kmal me-soo-lang]
• Excuse me/SorryChedecheklaklel
  [cheh-deh-cheh-klah-klehl]
• How are you?Kedie el mocha me ng diak?
  [keh-dee-ehl moh-chah meh ng dee-ahk]
• Fine. And you?Ngak a rengum?
  [ngahk ah rehng-um]
• Do you speak English?Ongalek a kaisengei?
  [on-gah-lek ah kai-seng-ay]
• I don't understandAk mocha ng diak
  [ahk moh-chah ng dee-ahk]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAk kchad el mellomes a rengul, te mad
  [ahk kchahd ehl mehl-loh-mes ah rehng-ool, teh mahd]
• I don't eat meatAk mla meringelii a ralm
  [ahk mah la meh-ring-eh-lee ah rahlm]
• Cheers!Ungil tutau
  [oong-eel too-tow]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAk klolechakl a rengul, te mad
  [ahk kloh-leh-chah-klehl ah rehng-ool, teh mahd]

• Help!Kede
  [keh-deh]
• Go away!Keruul
  [keh-rool]
• Call the Police!Klukuk el kall
  [kloo-kook ehl kahl]
• Call a doctor!Klukuk el meduch
  [kloo-kook ehl meh-dook]
• I'm lostAk milenguiu
  [ahk mee-leng-wee-oo]
• I'm illAk mla mocha
  [ahk mah la moh-chah]

• I'd like to buy...Ak kchad e meruul
  [ahk kchahd eh meh-rool]
• I'm just lookingAk mla medengei
  [ahk mah la meh-den-gay]
• How much is it?Kede mo melai?
  [keh-deh moh meh-lai]
• That's too expensiveKede kaiuei a ralm?
  [keh-deh kai-way ah rahlm]
• Can you lower the price?Mla mekngit a ralm?
  [mah la meh-kngit ah rahlm]

• What time is it?Kede ko er ngii?
  [keh-deh koh ehr nghee]
• It's one o'clockOmecha daidai
  [oh-meh-chah day-day]
• Half past (10)Ngak a rechad
  [ngahk ah reh-chahd]
• MorningKede ngalek
  [keh-deh ngah-lek]
• AfternoonKede klou
  [keh-deh kloh-oo]
• EveningKede kora
  [keh-deh koh-rah]
• YesterdayKede mekelekolt
  [keh-deh meh-keh-leh-kohlt]
• TodayKede mocha
  [keh-deh moh-chah]
• TomorrowKede mocha
  [keh-deh moh-chah]
• 1Rongalek
  [rohn-gah-lek]
• 2Rouarour
  [roo-ah-roor]
• 3Roua
  [roo-ah]
• 4Roua chais
  [roo-ah chai-ees]
• 5Roua klou
  [roo-ah kloh-oo]
• 6Roua kora
  [roo-ah koh-rah]
• 7Roua mocha
  [roo-ah moh-chah]
• 8Roua ochuad
  [roo-ah oh-chwahd]
• 9Roua ousbech
  [roo-ah ows-bech]
• 10Roua uchul
  [roo-ah oo-chool]

• Where's a/the...?Ke kau el...
  [keh kow ehl]
• What's the address?Kede ko el chad er a rechad?
  [keh-deh koh ehl chahd ehr ah reh-chahd]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mla mekngit a rengelakl?
  [mah la meh-kngit ah rehng-eh-lah-klehl]
• When's the next (bus)?Ke kau el chad el kmo ng te mla ruchad?
  [keh kow ehl chahd ehl koh ng teh mah la roo-chahd]
• A ticket (to ....)Kede rul a rechad?
  [keh-deh rool ah reh-chahd]

Melekeok, located on the eastern coast of Babeldaob Island, is one of the oldest inhabited areas in Palau. Archaeological evidence suggests that the first settlers arrived over 3,000 years ago. These early inhabitants were part of the Austronesian migration, bringing with them advanced knowledge of navigation, agriculture, and social organization. The ancient village of Melekeok played a crucial role in the development of Palauan culture, serving as a center for trade and social gatherings.

Melekeok has long been significant in the traditional political structure of Palau. It is home to the Bai ra Melekeong, a traditional meeting house that holds great cultural and historical importance. The Bai is an architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate carvings and symbolic art, reflecting the rich heritage of the region. Historically, Melekeok was a seat of power, where chiefs and leaders convened to make decisions that affected the entire island group.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Palau came under the control of several colonial powers, including Spain, Germany, and Japan. Each of these periods left a mark on Melekeok. Under German administration, there was a focus on economic development, which saw the introduction of new agricultural practices. The Japanese era brought further changes, including infrastructure development and more intensive resource exploitation. These colonial influences have blended with traditional Palauan customs to shape the modern identity of Melekeok.

World War II had a profound impact on Palau, including Melekeok. The islands were the site of significant military activity due to their strategic location in the Pacific Theater. Although Melekeok itself was not the scene of major battles like Peleliu, the war brought considerable disruption to daily life. The local population endured hardships, and the landscape bore scars from the conflict. The legacy of the war is still evident today in the form of relics and historical sites that attract historians and tourists alike.

In recent years, Melekeok has undergone significant development, most notably becoming the capital of Palau in 2006. The construction of the Capitol Complex, known as Ngerulmud, marked a new chapter in the history of Melekeok. This modern complex houses the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the Palauan government. The decision to move the capital from Koror to Melekeok was driven by a desire to promote balanced development across the islands and to honor the historical significance of the area.

Efforts to preserve and revitalize Palauan culture have been particularly strong in Melekeok. The community actively participates in traditional ceremonies, dances, and crafts that celebrate their heritage. The Palauan language is also promoted through educational programs and cultural events. The Bai ra Melekeong continues to be a focal point for these activities, serving as a living museum and cultural center where residents and visitors can learn about the rich traditions of this historic village.

Melekeok is located on Babeldaob Island, the largest island in Palau. The nearest international airport is Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) in Airai, around 25 kilometers from Melekeok. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a rental car. Another option is to use a pre-arranged shuttle service from your accommodation.

Transportation options in Melekeok are limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area and the rest of Babeldaob Island. Taxis are available but may be scarce, so it's advisable to arrange them in advance. Public transportation is minimal, but some local buses and vans operate between major villages. Bicycling is also a viable option for short distances.

The official currency in Palau is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's wise to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. There are a few ATMs available in Koror, but it's recommended to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to Melekeok.

Melekeok is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in public places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant.

In case of an emergency, dial 911. The nearest medical facilities are in Koror, about a 40-minute drive from Melekeok. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Koror where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting cultural or religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting a place of worship, dress appropriately and remove your shoes if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to other passengers. Offer your seat to elderly locals. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Alii' (hello). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Melekeok like a local, visit the local markets to buy fresh produce and traditional Palauan crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Ngerulmud Capitol Complex, the seat of Palau's government, and the nearby Lake Ngardok Nature Reserve, the largest freshwater lake in Micronesia.