It’s spring 2010. Expo Shanghai is crowded and hot. Kirsten and I venture into the South Pacific pavilion to escape the crowds and get a taste of island life. Numerous little grass huts are scattered in an air conditioned arena. Tahiti, Fiji, Vanuatu, Guam,....and Palau?? Hmmm, what is this place, Palau? Pictures of swimming with jellyfish and beautiful azure waters tweak my curiosity. Flash forward to fall, 2011. Matt and I are seeking a warm February getaway. That jellyfish picture calls out from my memory. And now the discovery begins! Every twist and turn throughout our journey reveals to us a place of surprising ease of travel, familiarity, and yet exotic pleasures. First it’s location: a mere 5 hour direct flight SE of Seoul AND using frequent flier miles, free for Matt! Widespread use of English
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