TrustMeImInternet

Thank you for your service. Why did you join? What did you end up doing after the military? Do you remember any raunchy running/marching cadences? How about some jokes?

How do you perceive our government is trending in terms of corruption? Do you have any thoughts on the modern day "movements" we've had like Occupy and the Tea Party?

Hi Palalalison, I'm a Palauan currently living abroad. Im seriously asking here, how do you like it so far? Any good or bad stories to share? I've been reading through here and you seem to be in a good frame of mind and are enjoying yourself and I'm glad. You see, I've noticed with many foreigners who come that they can tend to become very cynical after living in Palau for awhile and as a native I'm compelled to try and give you some insight to ensure this doesn't happen to you. You're not in paradise. Palau is a society of good and bad like any other, best accept that now so as not to have any ideals you have crushed later. You were right about the lackadaisical attitude and while it may seem quaint at first you may start to find it frustrating, especially if it starts to effect your work which is a very real possibility. I can only advise you to be aware of this so it's not a surprise when it happens. In Palau bluntness is often interpreted as rudeness, be direct but temper your words with a bit of humility. Im sure this seems antithetical to the ways things are handled in Texas but this is the best way to get what you want. Additionally, if you happen to be a woman, be prepared to get some whistles and innuendo. You are an exotic item now and Palauan men tend to be more aggressive than average. Still, Palauan society of old was very matriarchal and still is, if you assert yourself and let it be known your not one to be messed with you'll be ok. As a start, avoid the local bars (where primarily local people go to dance and drink), things tend to get very rowdy and you can put yourself in danger there. SLC is an example of this, if you ever drive by there before closing time you'll notice the police already parked there waiting for the fights to break out. Only go if you have some local friends with you, in which case theres always live music and they are spectacular. Speaking of which, be sure to socialize with the locals. A big problem with foreigners is they can't break the cultural barriers and end up banding together. This is really just a form of isolation, you already have an ocean between you and your own home, no need to isolate yourself further. You'll get invited to lots of family gatherings which tend to be massive parties with hundreds of people, accept these invitations whenever you can. Make sure to eat something when your there and bid farewell to the hosts before you leave. Extra points if you bring something, a small dessert or a case of soda will do. Also be prepared to dance, you dont have too but youll look like a sourpuss if you dont. It's a good way to build relationships. The quickest way to earn their respect is to get your hands dirty. Meaning to get on the dance floor and let loose, or try that disgusting looking thing they offered you. This will seperate you from being a visitor in a bubble to being one of them. Attending a party is considered a gesture of respect and you will be payed back kindly. You may be offered something of value thats seems like an unreasonable thing to give away. If they insist, just take it. You're actually doing them a favor. Be especially respectful to elders, this is a major social rule there. Take food and drink if you are offered (within reason), and offer what you have to others. Also, as you've already noticed there's a big population of migrant workers, socialize with them too. Filipinos and Bangladeshis in particular tend to be familiar with big city life and you may find them more relateable. Also there's a lot of racism. The locals tend to see Filipinos and the like as beneath them so you may be shocked by some random comment. Just know that it all comes from a deficit of perspective. It's worth understanding that just a hundred years ago Palauans were living in huts and living off the land and ocean. We were thrust into the modern world a thousand years too late and forcibly assimilated into several vastly different cultures over the last century. Palauans suffer from major culture shock in addition to generations of uneducation and we're still playing catch up. We are good loving people just like anyone else once you get passed this. You'll meet women who can recite their entire family tree going back a hundred years and men who can tell you what fish you'll catch in a specific part of the ocean just by looking at the moon. There is much beauty and wonder to be seen but make no mistake, you'll encounter some ugliness too. Best to rid yourself of any ideas of paradise now. I mention it again because this is probably the biggest mistake visitors make. They show up thinking it's gonna be all beautiful beaches and friendly natives and when the reality hits they spiral into depression. In short, make an effort to immerse yourself into society and be realistic in your expectations. You have to teach yourself to like it, it won't happen by itself. I wish you all the happiness you're sure to find there if you keep an open heart. Good luck! Edit: And please share any cool experiences!