Page 136 - Pacifia Paradises - 2020
P. 136
— Papua New Guinea —
NUSA ISLAND RETREAT
THE ISLANDS
The Islands of Papua New Guinea are divided into four fertile volcanic soil in this region is suitable for growing just about
groups. East and West New Britain, the largest of PNG’s anything and lush plantations stretch from the mountains to the sea.
outer islands, has two main centres: Rabaul in the east The major attraction here is the diving in Kimbe Bay, accessible from
and Kimbe in the west. land or via live-aboards. A chain of dormant volcanoes shields the bay
from open ocean conditions, creating a pocket of calm on the north
Rabaul is the site of some of PNG’s most active volcanoes,
Tavurvur and Vulcan. The last big eruption in 1994 completely coast of the island. The landscape of extinct volcanoes creates a Nusa Island Retreat offers a style and charm that is a The spacious restaurant and fully licensed bar offers creative and
covered the peaceful town and harbour in ash and forced the dramatic backdrop and steaming thermal springs, waterfalls, boiling fresh and a welcome change from your conventional delicious meal options, specialising in fresh seafood and other local
residents who remained to move the town to nearby Kokopo. The volcanic pools and mud holes can be found within. holiday destination. produce.
town has recovered and visitors are assured of a range of quality New Ireland is an island paradise of sandy white beaches, towering
accommodations and services. mountains and clear springs and rivers that run the entire length of This low impact and eco-sensitive island retreat is located just off the The Retreat is the perfect location from which to take advantage of
the island. A road made from crushed coral links north to south, but the numerous activities on offer. Snorkel the colourful reefs or dive
Diving is still a big attraction here, even though the eruption hit many northern tip of New Ireland on a small island with a sheltered white with big pelagics, drift along coral walls, explore WWII wrecks or dive
dive sites in the harbour quite hard. Ironically, the source of the travel is easier by sea. sandy point. The provincial capital Kavieng is only a few minutes freshwater caves. Fishing enthusiasts can go trolling for pelagics or
town’s demise has now become one of its biggest attractions. Trips to The Malangan culture in the northern and central part of the island away by boat, making it perfectly positioned to the conveniences of casting/jigging for sports fish. Surfing is seasonal and the waves are
the volcanic observatory and helicopter tours of the crater are not to is unique within the Pacific and its people are particularly well known town, yet far enough to be a world away. typically two to four feet over reef with varying levels of difficulty.
be missed. for their sorcery and shark calling. Diving in this region is fantastic
and there are several resorts offering accommodation and diving The Retreat exudes a relaxed easy going feel from the moment you Other activities include exploring the surrounding islands by boat,
There are a number of hotels operational in Rabaul Township and at set foot on the beach and bury your toes in the sand.
Kokopo, a number of lodges, guesthouses and hotels are now open services. kayak or paddleboard, traditional canoeing, nature walks, mainland
and provide excellent accommodation. A highlight of a visit to Rabaul The abundance of local seafood translates into gourmet feasts for The traditionally styled bungalows are set both over and on the or island tours, bike riding, bird watching, cultural events, visiting
is a visit to Palmalmal in the Pomio District, the Duke of York Islands visitors featuring coconut crabs, crayfish and a variety of reef fish. water’s edge, the outlook is simply magic. local markets, interacting with the local villagers and learning about
and the Bainings. There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in Kavieng and small the local culture.
Like its neighbour in the east, West New Britain is surrounded by guest lodges are located on the islands in the harbour.
a turquoise sea, dotted with reef-fringed atolls and adorned with Manus Island is a distant island group to the northwest of the PO Box 305, Kavieng, New Ireland Province, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
magnificent rainforests, which plunge into white sandy beaches. The mainland which can be reached by air or by coastal cargo ship and Tel: +675 723 18302 or +675 723 18300 Email: [email protected] www.nusaislandretreat.com
134 Papua New Guinea www.paradises.com