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advisory role in the control of land, money and the selection
of chiefs. Women also cared for and educated their homes
and cultivated taro fields while harvesting shellfish from the
shallow reefs.
The sea was the domain of men, who spent time in the
men's meeting house, or Bai, mastering techniques of canoe-
building and refining their weaponry skills for inter-village
warfare. In today's Palau, the lifestyle is modernised and
warfare is a distant memory, but the men and women still
value their roles.
Palau's unique culture can be expressed through dance,
song, art, crafts and cuisine. The Palauans are proud of their
heritage and are generous and hospitable to visitors. Cultural
activities are held regularly, such as the annual Olechotel
Belau Fair and monthly Palauan Night Markets. Found
nowhere else in the world, the First Childbirth Ceremony
is an event for the fortunate observer. Following the birth
of her child, a young mother is given a hot medicinal bath
and adorned in fragrant turmeric coconut oil, f lowers and
traditional wear, in order to present the baby to family
and friends.
Modern Palauans also reinforce ancient practices born of
observation of nature to hand down their knowledge and
bounties to future generations. Even today, many sites of
cultural or historic importance remain intact, ready for
their stories to be revealed. Conservation is Palau's culture,
heritage and future. Therefore, Palau's leadership has banned
industrial fishing to ensure that the marine life will continue
