Papua New Guinea (PNG) occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and the offshore islands. It gained its sovereignty from Australia in 1975 and is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. Possibly because of the dense, mountainous jungle interior, PNG is one of the least urbanized and least explored countries in the world. It is believed that there are communities that have not made contact with other humans and undiscovered plant and animal species. The islands are surrounded by coral reefs and there is often snowfall on the high ground. The country is on the Pacific Ring of Fire and is subject to earthquakes and tsunamis.
The Kokoda Trail
The Kokoda Trail is a grueling 96 km trek through the rain forest, across rugged mountainous terrain. It follows the route taken by the allied soldiers that fought the Japanese in World War 2. Preparation and training are essential for the undertaking. It is necessary to purchase a permit and to employ an accredited guide. The highest point is 2190 m and the path crosses rivers, streams and rock pools. Along the way there are grave sites and memorials to the soldiers and the locals who supported them by carrying supplies and the wounded.
Level 2, Brian Bell Plaza, Boroko, Phone: +675-3-23-61-65
Alotau Port
Alotau Port is the capital of Milne Bay Province and is located in a bay on the eastern coast of the mainland. It is the gateway to 160 remote island communities and a working harbor with hundreds of small ships, boats and canoes, coming and going. Several cruise liners stop in at the port.
Locals greet them on arrival and departure with cultural dances. Alotau is the site of World War I activity but most of the relics have been overgrown. The market is a 20 minute walk from the ship. The climate is equatorial so any exertion will be exhausting. Cold water to drink, sunscreen and mosquito repellent are essential. Alotau Port Map
Mount Wilhelm
Mount Wilhelm is in the northern portion of the country which was once German territory. Unofficially, it is one of the seven highest peaks on the continents of the world, being the highest summit in Oceania.
There are several ways to access the area and there is more than one base camp. It is advised to work through a local lodge or tour operator. The climb to the summit starts around midnight as it can take up to eight hours. The trail leads through diverse terrain, including rain forest, grassland, glacial rock and granite. The best time of year to attempt the climb is between May and November. Mount Wilhelm Map
Vision City Mega Mall
The Vision City Mega Mall is a one stop shop for fashion, food, beverages and entertainment. The fashion zone showcases local PNG design, and haute couture and international luxury brands in both clothing and jewelry. There are 15 eating establishments in the food court, ranging from Asian to Continental cuisine. Diners can choose to sit indoors, to dine al fresco or to order take-outs.
Department stores and supermarket chains sell a range of household goods and groceries. For entertainment, visitors can visit the cinema or test their skills in the game zone. There are regular activities in the Atrium Event Center, such as Fashion Week and the Little Miss PNG pageant.
Vision City Mega Mall, Waigani Drive, 131 NCD. Papua New Guinea
