Diving is an activity which completely absorbs many adventurers from the first second they try it. It is almost addictive. Divers are willing to spend ridiculously large amounts of money only to explore another site. The competition is fierce, though there is one spot which – according to majority – is on the top of the list. Approximately a 1000 km east of the Philippines lies Palau, an archipelago of 200 islands which is considered a marine paradise.
The diversity and abundance of local marine life is simply outstanding. When compared to the Philippines or Papua New Guinea, the variety of fishes is slightly limited (3,000 versus 1,500 in Palau), yet on the other hand, Palau has a very strict protection policy. Any commercial fisherman, who would try to fish in the area of the Rock Islands, would be sent to jail. As this has happened many times in the past, the area is now completely clear.
The most amazing site praised by diving enthusiasts is called Blue Corner. A one-hour boat ride away from most resorts never fails to take one’s breath away. As the current is strong here, divers are attached to a line and hook. Immediately after entering this marine heaven, the divers are surrounded by thousands of triggerfish, white-tip and gray reef sharks, or even hoards of barracudas.
A very welcome ‘sightseeing’ bonus in the depths of the ocean are some 20 popular dive wrecks, mostly Japanese cargo ships sunk during WWII. All the diving operators located in this area offer to take their clients down to explore the wrecks. Those who can’t get enough of the crystal clear waters may enjoy other activities as well; snorkeling, kayaking and even fishing are usually the most appealing free time activities luring the tourists.