Page 133 - Pacific Paradises 2019

— Papua New Guinea —

New Guinea is by air. There is a good artisans according to their individual shell, orchid stems, dogs teeth, seed,
network of roads connecting the skills and unique talents. snake spine, and pigs tusks.
northern zone and the highlands region. Pottery, weapons, carvings, musical The village of Aibom, near the Chambri
However, there is no road link between instruments and basketwork are just a Lakes, specialises in a unique form of
the northern zone and the capital, Port few of the handicrafts sold throughout pottery. The two greatest regions for
Moresby. Hire cars are usually available PNG, the world’s largest producer of art are the Sepik River Basin and the
and local boats, ferries, buses and taxis tribal arts and crafts. Papuan Gulf while the two major craft
can be found in the larger towns.
There is a fascinating selection of masks, producing areas are the Huon Peninsula
Food and entertainment including ancestral and spirit masks. and Milne Bay.
Western cuisine is available in hotels, Decorated boards and boat prows are Climate
restaurants, guesthouses, lodges popular objects in Papuan Gulf culture 23 C–32 C in coastal areas and
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and resorts. Port Moresby has many and are thought to be protective spirits to 14 C–28 C in the highlands.
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Asian and European restaurants. For ward off sickness and evil. Shields come
something different try a traditional in all shapes and sizes and are made of Clothing
‘mumu’ of pork, sweet potatoes, rice hide stretched over a framework. Casual, but more formal than other
and greens. Major hotels usually provide Pacific countries. Females should
their own entertainment. Stools, tables and headrests are ornate dress modestly. A sweater or jacket is
and carry intricate carvings, while necessary in the highlands.
Shopping guide
Modern department complexes rub fishing hooks were suspended in the Currency
men’s house and represented spirits
shoulders with quaint little stores which helped in fighting, hunting and The kina is divided into 100 toea.
and artefact shops where you may warding off disease. Credit cards are accepted at major
try your hand at gentle bargaining. hotels. Tips are generally not expected,
Arts and crafts are as diverse as they Jewellery, body ornaments and but encouraged if you are happy with
are distinctive, produced by different accessories are made from pigs teeth, the service provided.

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