Ngchesar: Palau's Hidden Gem of Tranquility

• HelloAlii
  [ah-lee]
• GoodbyeKopikop
  [ko-pee-koap]
• YesOngal
  [ong-gal]
• NoMelekoi
  [me-leh-koy]
• Please/You're welcomeCheldecheduch
  [chel-deh-ched-ooch]
• Thank youSulang
  [soo-lang]
• Excuse me/SorryChedam
  [cheh-dam]
• How are you?Kmal meral di song
  [kmal meral dee song]
• Fine. And you?Meral. A rengalech?
  [meral. ah reng-ah-lech]
• Do you speak English?Meral di oumesingd el chad?
  [meral dee oh-meh-sing-d el chad]
• I don't understandNg diak el kmo a rengalek
  [ng dee-ak el kmo a reng-ah-lek]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseUngil el menu er ngak, meral di cheldecheduch
  [ung-gil el men-oo er ngak, meral dee chel-deh-ched-ooch]
• I don't eat meatNg diak meral mlechell
  [ng dee-ak meral mleh-chell]
• Cheers!Ungil tutau
  [ung-gil too-tow]
• I would like to pay, pleaseUngil el kirel a bisech er a cheldecheduch
  [ung-gil el kee-rel a bee-sech er a chel-deh-ched-ooch]

• Help!Kmal meral di cheldecheduch!
  [kmal meral dee chel-deh-ched-ooch!]
• Go away!Kemiu di cheldecheduch!
  [kem-ee-oo dee chel-deh-ched-ooch!]
• Call the Police!Kemiu di cheldecheduch er a kesolei
  [kem-ee-oo dee chel-deh-ched-ooch er a ke-so-lay]
• Call a doctor!Kemiu di cheldecheduch er a kerrai
  [kem-ee-oo dee chel-deh-ched-ooch er a ker-rai]
• I'm lostNg meral mla mo chad er a beluu
  [ng meral mla mo chad er a bel-oo]
• I'm illNg meral mla mo techelid
  [ng meral mla mo tech-eh-leed]

• I'd like to buy...Ungil el kirel a beluu er ngak
  [ung-gil el kee-rel a bel-oo er ngak]
• I'm just lookingNg meral mla mo cheroid
  [ng meral mla mo che-roid]
• How much is it?Ng diak el kmo er a blil a ...?
  [ng dee-ak el kmo er a bleel a ...?]
• That's too expensiveA blil a ... a ngarngii
  [a bleel a ... a ngarngii]
• Can you lower the price?Ng diak el kmo ngarngii
  [ng dee-ak el kmo ngarngii]

• What time is it?Kmal meral di beab el timek?
  [kmal meral dee be-ab el tim-ek]
• It's one o'clockA rengalek el ousbech er kid
  [ah reng-ah-lek el ows-bech er kid]
• Half past (10)Olsbek a tekoi
  [ols-bek a teh-koy]
• MorningEngakl
  [eng-akl]
• AfternoonEngaol
  [eng-ow-l]
• EveningEnga
  [eng-gah]
• YesterdayA ngalek el kmo er a uchei
  [a ngah-lek el kmo er a oo-chay]
• TodayA rengalek el kmo er a uchei
  [ah reng-ah-lek el kmo er a oo-chay]
• TomorrowA rengalek el kmo er a uchei
  [ah reng-ah-lek el kmo er a oo-chay]
• 1Ousbech
  [ows-bech]
• 2Ongil
  [ong-gil]
• 3Ongit
  [ong-git]
• 4Ongiit
  [ong-giit]
• 5Ongiis
  [ong-giis]
• 6Ongiuk
  [ong-giuk]
• 7Ongirdech
  [ong-gi-rdech]
• 8Ongirbeluu
  [ong-gi-bel-oo]
• 9Ongirdechel
  [ong-gi-rde-chel]
• 10Ongirtekoi
  [ong-gi-teh-koy]

• Where's a/the...?Kmal meral di cheldecheduch er a ...?
  [kmal meral dee chel-deh-ched-ooch er a ...?]
• What's the address?Beab el chad er a cheldecheduch?
  [be-ab el chad er a chel-deh-ched-ooch?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ng diak el kmo er a cheldecheduch er a delongel
  [ng dee-ak el kmo er a chel-deh-ched-ooch er a del-ong-el]
• When's the next (bus)?Kmal meral di beab el timek er a beluu?
  [kmal meral dee be-ab el tim-ek er a bel-oo?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ungil el kirel a bilis er a ...
  [ung-gil el kee-rel a bee-lees er a ...]

Ngchesar is known for its ancient stone paths, which are remnants of early Palauan society. These paths, known as 'bai er a beluu,' were once vital trade and communication routes that connected different villages. The stone paths showcase the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the early inhabitants and serve as a testament to the advanced social organization of ancient Palauan culture.

Ngchesar is home to traditional 'bai' houses, which are intricately decorated meeting houses that play a central role in Palauan culture. These structures are adorned with symbolic carvings and paintings that depict Palauan mythology, history, and values. The bai houses serve as communal gathering spots where elders discuss village affairs, make decisions, and preserve the oral traditions of the community.

Historically, Ngchesar was an influential village within the Palauan confederation known as 'Belau.' The village was part of a complex socio-political network that included alliances, rivalries, and trade relationships with other villages. Ngchesar's strategic location and its access to fertile lands and resources made it a significant player in regional politics and economics.

During the Japanese occupation of Palau (1914-1945), Ngchesar, like other parts of Palau, was affected by the military presence and infrastructure development initiated by the Japanese. The village witnessed the construction of roads, airstrips, and military installations. The impact of World War II left lasting scars on the landscape and the community, with remnants of war relics still visible today.

After World War II, Ngchesar, along with the rest of Palau, underwent significant changes under the administration of the United States. The village saw improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Modernization efforts also led to the blending of traditional practices with contemporary lifestyles. Despite these changes, Ngchesar has managed to retain its cultural heritage and continues to celebrate traditional festivals and customs.

In recent years, Ngchesar has become a focal point for conservation and eco-tourism initiatives. The village is involved in various projects aimed at preserving its natural environment, including mangrove forests and marine ecosystems. These efforts are supported by both local and international organizations, and they highlight Ngchesar's commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Ngchesar is located on Babeldaob Island in Palau. The main point of entry is the Roman Tmetuchl International Airport in Airai, which is about a 30-minute drive from Ngchesar. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach Ngchesar. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is often the most convenient way to explore the area.

Ngchesar is a rural area with limited public transportation options. Renting a car is highly recommended for getting around. Taxis are available but can be expensive for long distances. Bicycles can also be rented for short trips and are a good way to explore the scenic routes. Walking is an option for exploring local attractions, but be prepared for uneven terrain.

The official currency of Palau is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller shops and local eateries. ATMs are available in Koror, but not as common in Ngchesar, so it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to Ngchesar.

Ngchesar is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There are medical facilities and a police station available in nearby Koror. It is recommended to 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 traditional sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering homes and some cultural sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a simple 'hello' or 'alii' in Palauan. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Ngchesar like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh seafood and traditional Palauan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss the traditional bai (meeting house) and the ancient stone paths, which offer a glimpse into Palau's rich heritage.