Taiwan Youth Ambassadors Discover Palau’s Culture, People and Natural Beauty During Two-Week Visit

By: Laurel Marewibuel KOROR, Palau — “I got to meet with some elderly at the old age center and got to spend some time with them. Hearing their stories was so inspiring. ” For Taiwanese youth ambassador Corayne, those conversations with Palau’s elders were among the experiences that made a two-week cultural exchange in Palau memorable. “I love it so much in Palau, such a beautiful place, and I got to experience a lot staying here for our two-week visit,” Corayne said. The Taiwan Youth Ambassadors delegation concluded its two-week visit to Palau this week after meeting government officials, students, educators, community leaders and elders and taking part in cultural and community activities designed to strengthen people-to-people ties between Taiwan and Palau.

The program brings young Taiwanese overseas to share their culture and perspectives while learning firsthand about the people, environment, traditions and way of life of their host communities. For the ambassadors, the visit provided a chance to experience Palau beyond formal meetings. Their itinerary included a visit to the Rock Islands, hikes along Koror State and Airai State trails, a visit to the Taiwan Technical Mission’s farm and time aboard the Aligano Maisu. The Rock Islands were a particular highlight for Corayne. “Going to the Rock Islands was so much fun,” she said, adding that she was impressed by the hospitality of Palauans. “People are so hospitable, people are very nice,” Corayne said. Alma, another ambassador, said she was surprised by how quickly the two-week visit passed. “Palau is so beautiful. I had so much fun being here, and I can’t believe two weeks flew by so fast,” Alma said. She said the experience made her want to return. “I definitely want to come back to Palau and visit,” Alma said.…