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General Information Area: 508 sq km (196 sq miles), including Babeldaob Island, whose area is 409 sq km (158 sq miles). Population: 19,129 (2000). Population Density: 37.7 per sq km. Capital: Koror. Population: 11,560 (1995). GEOGRAPHY: Palau, the westernmost cluster of the six major island groups that make up the Caroline Islands, lies 1000km (600 miles) east of the Philippines. The archipelago stretches over 650km (400 miles) from the atoll of Kayangel to the islet of Tobi. The Palau islands include more than 200 islands, of which only eight are inhabited. With three exceptions, all of the islands are located within a single barrier reef and represent two geological formations. The largest are volcanic and rugged with interior jungle and large areas of grassed terraces. The Rock Islands, now known as the Floating Garden Islands, are of limestone formation, while Kayangel, at the northernmost tip, is a classic coral atoll. Government: Republic since 1947. Gained self-governing status (in free association with the USA) in 1994. Head of State and Government: President Tommy Remengesau since 2000. Language: English and Palauan. Religion: Roman Catholic majority. Time: GMT + 9. Electricity: 115/230 volts AC, 60 Hz. Communications:   Telephone Country code: 680. Outgoing international code: 011. Phonecards are available and calls can be made from most hotels in Koror. Fax Some hotels have facilities. Internet Main ISP is Paulau Net (website: www.palaunet.com). Access and reliability is limited. Telegram Services are available in Koror. Post Post office located in Koror. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1600, Sat 0900 to 1000. Press The main newspaper is Pacific Daily News (Guam). The local newspaper, which appears fortnightly, is Tia Belau; Palau Horizon appears weekly. From www.columbusguides.com, Copyright © 2004 Highbury Columbus Travel Publishing Terms and Conditions apply.