Palau is characterised by densely forested islands and calm waters (Image credit: Holden Frith / Future)Palau consists of more than 300 islands, most of them uninhabited and many in the form of spectacular mushroom-topped domes. Diving and snorkelling sites here include a diverse range of reefs, shipwrecks and even a downed Second World War fighter plane. Sign upWhere to stayOne of 10 staterooms on the Explorer, all with dramatic views as standard (Image credit: Holden Frith / Future)For now, Palau is light on tourist infrastructure. What to doOne of the dive sites that can be accessed directly from a beach (Image credit: Holden Frith / Future)If it happens on, under or in the water, you can do it in Palau. Swimming with golden jellyfish on the island of Mecherchar (Image credit: Reinhard Dirscherl / Ullstein Bild / Getty Images)Eating and drinkingThe food is consistently excellent, and surprisingly varied given the logistics involved.

Source: The Times September 30, 2025 11:17 UTC