Palau

Blue Corner, one of Palau's most magical dives, is known for its sheer abundance of underwater life and reef configuration – the point juts into the open ocean and then drops to the depths. Divers are dazzled by the incredible variety of fish, including barracudas, jacks, Napoleon wrasses and schooling grey reef sharks. Strong tidal currents render it a dive for the more experienced – a reef hook is a must to remain stationary in the current.

If you want to see the 'Easter Island of Micronesia', bookmark this archaeological site located at Babeldaob's northernmost point, where you'll find large basalt monoliths studded on a hillside. Their origin and purpose is unknown, but according to one legend the gods put them there to support a bai (men's meeting house) that held thousands of people. Some stones weigh up to five tonnes. Badrulchau is also a wonderful picnic spot, with splendid sea views.

Snorkelling in Jellyfish Lake is one of Palau's many highlights. This land-locked marine lake, in the south of the archipelago, is filled with millions of harmless transparent jellyfish that swim en masse to follow the path of the sun. Floating among these pulsating creatures – which expand and contract hypnotically – is like exploring the atmosphere of an alien world.

One of Babeldaob's premier attractions, Ngardmau Waterfall flows from Palau's tallest peak, 217m-high Mt Ngerchelchuus. It's the tallest waterfall in Micronesia. It can be accessed on foot – a tough but rewarding 20- to 30-minute hike along a jungle path – or, for the less energetic, by a clunky monorail. A dip in the cool pools at the base of the falls is not to be missed.

Koror's great spread of restaurants and cafes are mostly stretched along or near the main drag. Several supermarkets stock a wide range of food for self-caterers. Many hotels and resorts have in-house restaurants also open to nonguests. The night market, on every second Friday, is also good for food-stall eats.