The results of this annual report, which are based on a response of more than than 4,500 surveys by Scuba Diving subscribers and web users, appear in the February 2006 issue.

"Judging by its perfect overall score, nobody but nobody comes home from diving in Palau unsatisfied," according to Scuba Diving Editors.

"We are pleased that Palau continues to be recognized by the leading dive magazines in the U.S. as the world's foremost diving destination," said Darin De Leon, Managing Director of the Palau Visitors Authority. "We are committed to promoting our heritage and the unique attractions of Palau through sustainable tourism development and the encouragement of responsible practices to preserve our diverse marine life and fragile ecosystem."

Located in the westernmost corner of Micronesia, Palau is an archipelago of more than 400 islands with less than 20,000 inhabitants. Consistently ranked as one of the world's best dive destinations, Palau is the ultimate paradise for the adventurous traveler, boasting some of the most spectacular water and beaches and world famous for its rock islands and Jellyfish Lake. With more than 1,400 species of fish and 500 species of coral, some have called Palau the "8th Natural Wonder of the World", while others have identified Palau as "One of the Seven Underwater Wonders of the World." For more information about Palau, please visit wwww.visit-palau.com or contact Palau Visitors Authority by email at pva@visit-palau.com