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Micronesia

Tourist scams in Palau

Palau is generally a safe place to visit, including downtown Koror at night. No specific tourist scams or theft methods are documented here, so there is no reliable basis to say how common they are.

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    Habits that keep you safe

    Taxis

    • Arrange your airport transfer with your hotel before you arrive. As of 2023, taxis were not waiting for incoming passengers.
    • The airport transfer estimate given is about US$30. Confirm the current total before booking.
    • For other taxi trips, agree on the fare before setting off.

    Money

    • Palau uses U.S. dollars. Check that quoted prices and your change are in the expected currency.
    • Count your change before leaving.
    • Keep some cash separate from your main wallet.

    Cards and ATMs

    • Check the amount on the payment screen before approving a card payment.
    • Cover your PIN and decline help from strangers at an ATM.
    • Turn on transaction alerts if your bank offers them.

    Your belongings

    • Keep your phone and wallet secure and your bag closed.
    • Keep bags within sight when sitting down or waiting for transport.
    • Store a secure copy of your passport separately from the original.

    Nights out

    • Do not drink alcohol in public. Public drinking is not allowed.
    • Check drink prices before ordering and review your bill before paying.
    • Keep your drink with you and plan your journey back before drinking.

    Questions

    Are tourist scams common in Palau?

    Palau is described as generally safe. No specific tourist scams are documented here, and their frequency is unknown. This does not mean scams cannot happen.

    Are there known scam hotspots in Koror?

    No specific scam hotspots are identified. Downtown Koror is described as quite safe to walk around at night, even after midnight. Keep normal care of your belongings.

    Can I expect a taxi at the airport?

    As of 2023, taxis were not waiting for incoming passengers. Arrange a transfer with your hotel before arrival and confirm the pickup details.

    How much should an airport transfer cost?

    The estimate given is about US$30. Treat that as a guide and confirm the current total with your hotel before booking.

    How can I avoid a taxi fare dispute?

    Agree on the total fare before the trip starts. No specific taxi overcharging trick is documented here.

    What currency will I need?

    Palau uses U.S. dollars. Check prices, count your change and keep some cash separate from your main wallet.

    Is card skimming a known problem?

    No card-skimming method or location is documented here. As a general precaution, cover your PIN, check payment amounts and monitor transaction alerts.

    What should I watch for when going out for drinks?

    Public drinking is not allowed. Check prices before ordering, review your bill and keep your drink with you. No specific bar scam is documented here.

    What should I do if my wallet or passport is stolen?

    Get somewhere safe, freeze missing cards and report the theft to local police. Keep the report details for insurance. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing.

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