GENERAL INFORMATION
Papua
New Guinea lies entirely within the southern tropic and just
north of Australia. The majority of the five million people
are subsistence farmers living in the rural areas despite
increasing urban migration to cities and major centres. A
former Australian Colony, PNG gained independence in 1975.
It is a member of the United Nations and has a Westminster
system of Government. The land mass is made up of 600 islands
supporting beautiful coral reefs and marine eco-system. The
rugged mountains, valleys, fast flowing rivers and dense tropical
rainforests are home to over 700 ethnic language groups and
the most unique cultural system on earth. Away from the busy
main centre are exotic and challenging destinations for the
adventure. Trekking the highlands, Mt. Wilhelm or canoeing
the mysterious Sepik River are just some attractions.
Travellers
Guide
Following are helpful guidelines to make your stay better
and enjoyable. When in doubt consult your guide or hotel receptionist.
Climate
PNG Climate is tropical and whilst it can be hot and humid
in tropical coastal areas, it is delightfully cool in the
highlands. The wet seasons are more distinct on the coast
but in the highlands it is less pronounced and cannot be predicted.
Usually the dry season comes between May and October. It can
still rain for consecutive days in this time frame and likewise
lengthy dry spells during the November to April wet season.
It wise to take necessary precautions always.
Language
The
country has more than one third of the world's spoken languages,
more than 800 known and identified languages. Language difference
also means cultural difference. English is taught in schools
and has since become the national language. Melanesian Tok
Pisin is spoken throughout the country and quite easy for
visitors to learn as it is so closely related to English.
Motu is spoken on the Papuan side of the country (formerly
Territory of Papua & New Guinea).
Currency
The money unit is Kina ('Kee-nah') and sub units of 100 are
called Toea ('toy-ya'). Legal Tender Note denominations are
in K2, K5, K10, and K50. Present exchange rates are approx.
US$1 = K0.27. Check with commercial banks for latest exchange
rates. It is wise to carry small denominations for art and
souvenir purchases.
Time,
Electricity and Water
PNG is ten hours ahead of Greenwich Meantime (GMT). The power
supply is 220-240V (50 cycles) and is accessed through three-pin
plug, the top two pins slanting. World Health Organization
(WHO) standard drinking water is available in all major towns
and cities. However, boiling water is advised in village.
Boiled water is now available in most supermarkets and main
stores
Safety
& Security
All countries have their rogues and crime elements. Think
safety, do not carry valuables, passports, airline tickets,
large sums of money, credit cards or jewelry while walking
around or sightseeing. Leave them at your hotel for safe keeping.
All expensive video and camera equipment suit be adequately
insured. Never leave items of value in your room or coach
unattended. Crime is a factor we have to live with so take
all possible precautions and avoid unnecessary attention and
beware at all times.
Photography
Papua New Guineans resent intrusion to privacy. Accept in
the case of planned performances such at the Mt. Hagen Cultural
Show, always remember to ask before taking a photograph of
a particular individual. Sometimes the person may agree to
the photo but at a price. In this case it is recommended you
do not pay nor take the photo. Ample photography opportunities
will come up at no cost. The paying for photos encourages
commercialization and inhibits spontaneity and hospitality.
The local community is assisted by the payment of a general
fee - this way the whole village benefits.
Baggage
Air Niugini domestic flight baggage allowance is 16kgs. Third
level regional airlines and charter flights have a strict
10ks baggage allowance. In this case you are required to repack
into overnight bags, leaving main luggage for your return
or forwarding to next destination.
Banking
& Postal Services
Commercial
Banking services are available in all major urban centres,
providing services including electronic banking. Trading hours
are from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm daily Monday to Friday. Automatic
Teller Machines are available 7 days a week for varied hours
depending on location. Postal services are also available
in main centres from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday to Friday.
These services are not available whilst in the more remote
areas on your itinerary. Ensure you take adequate cash in
small denominations for art & craft purchases. Be sure
to ask if not certain.
Communications
systems
Most mediums for modern high technology communications facilities
are available in main centres, including ISD and STD telephone,
facsimiles and e-mail. In the outstations it comes down to
battery operated two way and VHF radios. These are totally
absent on treks and canoeing trips giving you a complete new
world to experience.
Bargaining
When
negotiating to purchase art and craft remember always to bargain
as there is always a second and third price.
Food
for Thought
In this - 'land of the unexpected and 'adventure' it is essential
to quickly familiarize yourself if you hope to do justice
to your stay with us. Stop expecting! It is better that way
- it helps to minimize the rate of disappointment. You are
well and truly in the 'land of the unexpected'
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