Archive for the ‘Papua New Guinea’ Category

Madang

Saturday, January 30th, 2010

Friedrich-Wilhelmshafen or simply Madang as it’s called nowadays is the capital of the Madang Province on the north coast of Papua New Guinea. As it’s previous name revealed the town was first settled by Germans in the 19th century. As of latest measurement the town of Madang has a population of 28 thousand people.

The city of Madang and it’s surrounding area is filled with lagoons, tiny islands and endless coconut plantations which make it a perfect example of an Pacific outlook. The town is described by locals as well tourists as one of the nicest places to be in the Pacific. Of course, these statements can be found while wondering around in the beautiful waterways, parks, ponds or while snorkeling / scuba diving in the ocean. The nearby (active) volcanic islands are a popular sightseeing as well. Besides the fact that Madang is famous for its accommodation facilities in Papua New Guinea.

Madang is popular for it’s sightseeing around the islands, scuba diving and snorkeling but also in and around town there’s much to see. Some travelers enjoy heading to the beach and take a long walk on the shores of Madag while some prefer shopping at the busy local market. Wondering around the city can be considered sightseeing itself. There’s no landmarks or “tourist highlights” which make this town so unique, it’s a simple, laid-back and tropical town where you can enjoy the tropical heat while on the beach, in town or on water.

When visiting Papua New Guinea, you need a passport valid for at least six months, a return ticket and a visa. If you are a tourist, you can get a visa that will allow you to stay for 60 days. If you are there for business, you will be given 12 months. Still, you will have 60 days maximum per stay.

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Port Moresby

Monday, March 9th, 2009

Port Moresby is the largest city in the South Pacific not to mention the capital of Papua New Guinea. Also called Pot Mosbi, the city is located on the Gulf of Papua. It is dubbed as the least livable city in the world. It was named in honor of the father of Captain John Moresby, the first European to have discovered the city. Though just discovered by Europeans in 1873, Motu-Koitabu had been living in the area for centuries. As of latest count, the city’s population is estimated at 260 thousand people.

Dangerous and in-your-face, Port Moresby can be a frightening city to visit. With its high levels of crime, you cannot help but wonder why you have decided to embark on such an adventure. The smoky haze coming from small lit fires can give the city an apocalyptic look. Remember that this is the city that has been dubbed the worst and the least livable. The crime may be due to the 60 to 90 percent unemployment rate it is suffering from. Yet a visit to the place can be surprising because of the people’s gentle manners. Just do not show off expensive stuff in the city and try to have a calm demeanor. You may enjoy taking pictures of orchids in bloom at the National Botanical Garden or bird-watching at the Varirata National Park.

If you are planning to visit other spots in Papua New Guinea, you will still end up in Port Moresby. It is the main point of entry and flights from there to other areas are scheduled far apart. You can get around the city by taxi. You can also rent a four-wheel drive or a car. Note that you cannot just walk the streets at night because it can be dangerous. In Port Moresby, temperature highs range from 82 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit while temperature lows range from 73 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

When visiting Papua New Guinea, you need a passport valid for at least six months, a return ticket and a visa. If you are a tourist, you can get a visa that will allow you to stay for 60 days. If you are there for business, you will be given 12 months. Still, you will have 60 days maximum per stay.

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