Travel in county Rock Island

After snorkeling with the dazzling fish of Palau’s crystalline waters, I returned to my hotel and gratefully accepted a hibiscus lemonade and a cold lemongrass towel—a needed balm after baking in the equatorial sun. At the spa, the therapist treated my burns with a bespoke massage fusing Palauan remedies with common-sense aloe. I woke to a vermilion sunset after being lulled to sleep by the gentle rocking of the waves.

Onboard Obsession is a new series that explores the can't-miss highlights of the best-loved cruises—from the shore excursions to book to the spa treatments too relaxing to pass up.

As we paddled along the edge of the hilly limestone islands blanketed with green foliage and occasional Rock Island white lilies, our small group of kayakers didn’t encounter another boat or person in the crystal-clear waters. It was so quiet you could hear the reef crabs tottering on the outcrops and the calls of birds swooping above.

Illinois is brimming with festive activities and unique experiences, promising to be the go-to destination for an unforgettable winter experience. Lean into the holiday season in December, partake in outdoor winter activities and meet the Bald Eagles of Illinois in January, and indulge in Chicago’s theatre scene and automotive heritage in February.

A string of 340 coral and volcanic islands spread against the deep blue waters of the western Pacific, Palau is a picture postcard of paradise.