Ngardmau: The Hidden Gem of Palau

• HelloAlii
  [ah-lee]
• GoodbyeNgelekel a diak
  [ngel-ekel ah dee-ak]
• YesOmesongel
  [oh-meh-song-el]
• NoDiak
  [dee-ak]
• Please/You're welcomeKmal mesaul
  [kem-mal meh-sow-ool]
• Thank youSulang
  [soo-lang]
• Excuse me/SorryChedeng a rengul
  [che-deng ah reng-ool]
• How are you?Kau mekeald
  [kow meh-kel-d]
• Fine. And you?Mengur
  [meng-ur]
• Do you speak English?Ungil a dengchokl
  [ung-gil ah deng-cho-kul]
• I don't understandA kmo ngak melim
  [ah kmo ngak meh-leem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseA kmo ngak a dui el melim
  [ah kmo ngak ah doo-ee el meh-leem]
• I don't eat meatA diak el sebechel
  [ah dee-ak el seb-ech-el]
• Cheers!Kolii
  [koh-lee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseA kmo ngak a delengchokl
  [ah kmo ngak ah del-eng-cho-kul]

• Help!Kmal meral
  [kem-mal mer-al]
• Go away!Kmal mesuub
  [kem-mal meh-soob]
• Call the Police!Ungil a ngalek a bulis
  [ung-gil ah ngal-ek ah boo-lis]
• Call a doctor!Ungil a ngalek a meduch
  [ung-gil ah ngal-ek ah meh-doosh]
• I'm lostA klungoi
  [ah kloong-oy]
• I'm illA rengal
  [ah reng-al]

• I'd like to buy...A kmo ngak a chad
  [ah kmo ngak ah chad]
• I'm just lookingA kired el kmo ngak
  [ah kee-red el kmo ngak]
• How much is it?Kmal meral di chis
  [kem-mal mer-al dee chis]
• That's too expensiveNg diak a chis
  [ng dee-ak ah chis]
• Can you lower the price?Ungil a cheral a chis
  [ung-gil ah cher-al ah chis]

• What time is it?Kmengilt a renguk
  [kmen-gil-t ah reng-ook]
• It's one o'clockA renguk el kmo ngal mekas
  [ah reng-ook el kmo ngal me-kas]
• Half past (10)A renguk el kmo ngal mechas
  [ah reng-ook el kmo ngal me-chas]
• MorningA rur
  [ah roor]
• AfternoonA ngalek a taut
  [ah ngal-ek ah tout]
• EveningA ngalek a chad
  [ah ngal-ek ah chad]
• YesterdayA ngalek a chad
  [ah ngal-ek ah chad]
• TodayA ngalek a taut
  [ah ngal-ek ah tout]
• TomorrowA ngalek a renguk
  [ah ngal-ek ah reng-ook]
• 1Melekoi
  [meh-lee-koy]
• 2Dua
  [doo-ah]
• 3Telu
  [teh-loo]
• 4Epat
  [eh-pat]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Onom
  [oh-nom]
• 7Hitu
  [hee-too]
• 8Valu
  [vah-loo]
• 9Siva
  [see-vah]
• 10Sapul
  [sah-pool]

• Where's a/the...?Amot a...
  [ah-mot ah]
• What's the address?Amot a rael
  [ah-mot ah rah-el]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ungil a chisoii a el di map
  [ung-gil ah chee-soy ah el dee map]
• When's the next (bus)?Amot a renguk a bedengedei
  [ah-mot ah reng-ook ah be-deng-ed-ay]
• A ticket (to ....)A bedengedei a...
  [ah be-deng-ed-ay ah]

Ngardmau, located on the island of Babeldaob in Palau, possesses a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was first settled by Austronesian-speaking people who migrated from Southeast Asia around 3,000 years ago. These early settlers established villages and developed sophisticated systems of agriculture and fishing, which laid the foundation for the growth of Ngardmau's communities.

In the centuries that followed, Ngardmau became an important center of political and social organization in Palau. The region was governed by traditional chiefs, known as 'Rubak,' who wielded significant influence and authority over their respective clans. These chiefs played a pivotal role in maintaining order, administering justice, and overseeing communal activities such as fishing, farming, and ceremonial events.

Ngardmau, like the rest of Palau, experienced various colonial encounters that shaped its history. The Spanish were the first Europeans to arrive in the 16th century, followed by the Germans in the late 19th century. German colonial rule brought about significant changes, including the introduction of new agricultural practices and infrastructure projects. In the early 20th century, Japan took control of Palau, and Ngardmau became part of the Japanese-administered South Seas Mandate, leading to further economic and cultural transformations.

The impact of World War II on Ngardmau was profound, as the island of Babeldaob became a strategic location for both Japanese and Allied forces. The war brought destruction and displacement to the local population. After the war, Palau came under the administration of the United States as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. This period saw efforts to rebuild and modernize Ngardmau, with investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Ngardmau, along with the rest of Palau, achieved independence on October 1, 1994. As part of the newly sovereign Republic of Palau, Ngardmau has focused on preserving its cultural heritage while embracing sustainable development. The region is known for its natural beauty, including the Ngardmau Waterfall and lush rainforests, which attract tourists from around the world. Efforts to protect traditional practices, such as storytelling, dance, and local crafts, are also central to Ngardmau's cultural identity in the modern era.

Ngardmau is located on the island of Babeldaob in Palau. The nearest international airport is Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) in Airai, approximately 30 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Ngardmau. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes by road. Some hotels and resorts offer shuttle services, so it is advisable to check with your accommodation in advance.

Ngardmau is a relatively small area, and many of its attractions are accessible on foot or by bicycle. For longer distances, taxis are available and can be arranged through your hotel or a local service. Car rentals are also an option for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. There is no public bus service in Ngardmau, so private transportation is the most convenient way to get around.

The official currency in Palau is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Koror, but may be limited in Ngardmau, so ensure you have enough cash before heading to more remote areas.

Ngardmau is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While crime rates are low, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Ngardmau has local medical facilities, but for more serious medical issues, you may need to visit the hospital in Koror. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages or cultural sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious ceremonies. Public Transport: There is no public transport in Ngardmau, so private taxis or car rentals are your best option. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a handshake. A polite nod is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Ngardmau like a local, visit the traditional bai (men's meeting house) and learn about Palauan culture and history. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their heritage. Don't miss the Ngardmau Waterfall, one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Palau. For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the old Japanese railway, which offers a glimpse into the island's history during World War II.