Ngatpang: Palau's Hidden Gem

• HelloAlii
  [ah-lee]
• GoodbyeKmal mesaul
  [k-mal me-sow]
• YesOu
  [oh]
• NoDiak
  [dee-ahk]
• Please/You're welcomeKemiu
  [ke-mee-oo]
• Thank youSulang
  [soo-lang]
• Excuse me/SorryKemiu
  [ke-mee-oo]
• How are you?Kemiu a ulterek?
  [ke-mee-oo ah ool-teh-rek]
• Fine. And you?Ungil. A ulterek?
  [oong-geel ah ool-teh-rek]
• Do you speak English?Ua rengalek a ngelabesul a beluu?
  [oo-ah reng-ah-lek ah ngel-ah-beh-sool ah beh-loo]
• I don't understandA diak el telemall
  [ah dee-ahk el teh-leh-mal]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAk mo meringel el menu a klalo
  [ahk moh mer-in-gel el men-oo ah klah-loh]
• I don't eat meatA diak el mo ungil
  [ah dee-ahk el moh oong-geel]
• Cheers!Omedelbekl
  [oh-meh-del-beh-kl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAk mo meruul a bokel, klalo
  [ahk moh meh-rool ah boh-kel, klah-loh]

• Help!Kau
  [kow]
• Go away!Kau mekerang
  [kow meh-keh-rang]
• Call the Police!Ua kau a tekingel
  [oo-ah kow ah teh-king-el]
• Call a doctor!Ua kau a medengel
  [oo-ah kow ah meh-deng-el]
• I'm lostA di meral diak
  [ah dee meh-ral dee-ahk]
• I'm illA di meral ilsek
  [ah dee meh-ral eel-sek]

• I'd like to buy...Ak mo omes a...
  [ahk moh oh-mes ah]
• I'm just lookingA diak el mo uldoud
  [ah dee-ahk el moh ool-dowd]
• How much is it?Ke di mochu?
  [keh dee moh-chu]
• That's too expensiveA di meral melekoi
  [ah dee meh-ral mel-eh-koy]
• Can you lower the price?Ua kmeed a mochu?
  [oo-ah k-meed ah moh-chu]

• What time is it?Ke di mo meruul?
  [keh dee moh meh-rool]
• It's one o'clockA bilek a mengaol
  [ah bee-lek ah men-gow-ol]
• Half past (10)Ngalek a ngalekak
  [ngah-lek ah ngah-leh-kak]
• MorningBedeu
  [beh-dew]
• AfternoonRengalek
  [reng-ah-lek]
• EveningAolek
  [ah-oh-lek]
• YesterdayNgalek a nngelekel
  [ngah-lek ah ngel-eh-kel]
• TodayNgalek a mocha
  [ngah-lek ah moh-chah]
• TomorrowNgalek a molekoi
  [ngah-lek ah mol-eh-koy]
• 1A buil
  [ah bool]
• 2A ngalekak
  [ah ngah-leh-kak]
• 3A telkool
  [ah tel-kool]
• 4A ngerang
  [ah ngeh-rang]
• 5A kmal
  [ah k-mal]
• 6A kmo ngalekak
  [ah k-moh ngah-leh-kak]
• 7A kmo telkool
  [ah k-moh tel-kool]
• 8A kmo ngerang
  [ah k-moh ngeh-rang]
• 9A kmo kmal
  [ah k-moh k-mal]
• 10A kmo ngalek
  [ah k-moh ngah-lek]

• Where's a/the...?Ke diak el kmo...
  [keh dee-ahk el k-moh]
• What's the address?Ke diak el chad er a tekoi?
  [keh dee-ahk el chad er ah teh-koy]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ua kmeed a meral ngii?
  [oo-ah k-meed ah meh-ral ng-ee]
• When's the next (bus)?Ke di milil ngalek?
  [keh dee mee-leel ngah-lek]
• A ticket (to ....)Ngalek a bilek el mocha...
  [ngah-lek ah bee-lek el moh-chah]

Ngatpang, one of the sixteen states of Palau, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was originally settled by the early Austronesian people over 3,000 years ago. These settlers established complex societies with sophisticated agricultural practices, including taro cultivation in the fertile valleys of Ngatpang.

Ngatpang, like other regions in Palau, has a traditional clan system that has played an essential role in its social and political organization. The clans are matrilineal, meaning lineage is traced through the mother's line. This system has influenced land ownership, inheritance, and leadership roles within the community.

In the 16th century, Palau, including Ngatpang, came under the influence of the Spanish Empire. The Spanish explorers and missionaries introduced Christianity and new agricultural products. Although Spanish presence was limited, their influence marked the beginning of significant cultural and economic changes in the region.

Ngatpang came under German control in 1899 after Spain sold Palau to Germany following the Spanish-American War. The Germans focused on developing infrastructure and introduced modern education systems. They also encouraged the production of cash crops such as copra, which became an essential part of Ngatpang's economy.

During World War I, Palau was seized by Japan, and Ngatpang was no exception. The Japanese occupation brought about significant changes as they developed the island's infrastructure further and expanded agricultural production. They also established military installations in Ngatpang, which played a role during World War II.

Ngatpang, along with the rest of Palau, saw considerable military activity during World War II. The area was strategically important, and remnants of this period, including bunkers and military artifacts, can still be found today. The war left a lasting impact on the local population and landscape.

After World War II, Palau became a United Nations Trust Territory under American administration. This period saw further development in health, education, and infrastructure. Ngatpang benefited from these advancements, which helped modernize the state and improve the quality of life for its residents.

Ngatpang became part of the independent Republic of Palau in 1994. Since independence, the state has focused on preserving its cultural heritage while embracing modernity. Efforts have been made to promote sustainable tourism, protect natural resources, and maintain traditional practices, making Ngatpang a unique blend of past and present.

Ngatpang is located on the western side of Babeldaob, the largest island in Palau. The nearest international gateway is Roman Tmetuchl International Airport in Airai, approximately 30 kilometers from Ngatpang. From the airport, you can rent a car, hire a taxi, or use a pre-arranged shuttle service to get to Ngatpang. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes, offering scenic views of the island.

Ngatpang is relatively rural, so renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area. Taxis are available but can be expensive for long distances. Public transportation is limited, with infrequent bus services connecting Ngatpang to other parts of Babeldaob and Koror. For a more immersive experience, consider renting a bicycle or scooter to navigate the local roads and trails.

The official currency in Palau is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas like Ngatpang. ATMs are available in Koror, and it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to Ngatpang. Travelers' checks are not widely accepted.

Ngatpang is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep your belongings secure. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Ngatpang, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Ngatpang has local police services and medical facilities, but for more serious health issues, you may need to travel to Koror. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Koror, so stock up on necessary medications before heading to Ngatpang.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages and cultural sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering any local homes or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to drivers and other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Alii' (hello). A handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Ngatpang like a local, consider participating in traditional activities such as fishing or taro farming. Engage with the local community, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Visit local markets to buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Ngatpang, including its lush forests and pristine rivers.