Resources & References: New Britain

Online Tools for Planning

Essential Travel Applications

Maps.me / Google Maps
Offline navigation. Download Papua New Guinea maps before your trip for access without an internet connection.
Google Translate
Basic Tok Pisin phrases. Download the Tok Pisin language pack for offline use.
WhatsApp
Widely used for local communication. It is a way to contact tour operators or accommodation staff.
PNG Tourism Authority
The official website (Papuanewguinea.travel) for general PNG travel information.
PNG Immigration
The site (Ica.gov.pg) for current visa information and e-Visa applications.

Dive & Travel Websites

Walindi Plantation Resort
Visit (Walindi.com) for Kimbe Bay diving and accommodation options.
Social Media Searches
Search "PNG Tourism," "Kimbe Bay Diving," or "Rabaul Tourism" on Instagram/Facebook for visual inspiration.
Podcasts & Digital Content
Podcasts focusing on Papua New Guinea's history, culture, or diving offer insights.
Online Communities
Facebook groups like "Papua New Guinea Travel" or "Diving PNG" for current advice.
Language Learning
Basic Tok Pisin phrases are online or in guidebooks. Practice these phrases for interactions.

Print Resources for Richer Context

Guidebooks & Maps

A comprehensive guidebook on Papua New Guinea covers New Britain. Maps of Rabaul and Kimbe might be available locally or in larger guidebooks.

Find PNG Guidebooks

History & Culture Books

For WWII history, seek out "Ghost of Rabaul" or other books on the Pacific War. Academic texts or travelogues on Papua New Guinea are also options.

Local Publications

Local newspapers like the "Post-Courier" or "The National" cover current events and local news.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

Police: 112
Ambulance/Medical: 112 (service limitations outside major towns).
Keep your accommodation or resort's emergency contact number readily available.
Hospitals are in Kokopo and Kimbe; facilities are basic. Private clinics are few.

Safety Protocols

Locate your country's embassy or consulate in Port Moresby.
Register your travel with your embassy before departure.
Contact your embassy immediately if your passport is lost. Report lost items to local police.
Follow instructions from local authorities for natural disasters (volcanic activity, earthquakes, tsunami warnings).

Cultural Enrichment & Preparations

Pre-Trip Visuals

Search for documentaries on WWII in the Pacific, notably those focusing on Rabaul.
Films about diving in Papua New Guinea also provide insights.
Visuals contribute to an informed arrival.
Preparation for the environment is useful.

Music & Art Appreciation

Listen to traditional Papua New Guinean music.
Contemporary local artists offer a different perspective.
Research traditional mask art, like that seen in the Baining Firedance.
Cultural context comes from these experiences.

Language & Community

Basic Tok Pisin phrases are online or in guidebooks.
Practice these phrases for interactions with locals.
Facebook groups dedicated to "Papua New Guinea Travel" are active.
Fellow travelers share current advice and local insights.

Critical Safety & Health Notices

Important Reminders for Your Well-being

Health & Safety Vigilance

Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, wear protective clothing.
Prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Remain aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.
Listen to local advice regarding safe areas.

Financial Preparedness

ATMs can be unreliable.
Carry sufficient Kina, especially smaller denominations.
Many places operate on a cash-only basis.
Verify payment methods in advance.

Cultural Sensibility

Dress modestly.
Always ask for photo permission.
Patience in interactions with locals is appreciated.
Community ties remain strong.

Traveler-Specific Recommendations

Solo Journey Insights

Solo female travelers exercise extra caution regarding personal safety.
Dive resorts offer a good social environment for solo travelers.
Consider joining organized tours for added safety and social interaction.

Family-Friendly Approaches

Resorts often feature facilities suitable for families, including pools.
Ensure children are protected from the sun and mosquitoes.
Some tours, like long WWII site explorations, may not suit younger children.

Group & Accessibility Notices

Group Travel Coordination

For groups, pre-booking accommodation and transfers is helpful.
Consider hiring a dedicated local tour operator for seamless logistics.
Customized itineraries are possible with local operators.

Accessibility Challenges

New Britain presents challenges for travelers with mobility issues.
Limited infrastructure throughout the region.
Research specific accommodations and attractions thoroughly.

Cultural Behaviors

Dress & Affection

Dress modestly.
Public displays of affection are generally not common.
Respect for local norms fosters positive interactions.
Community standards guide social behavior.

Photography & Interaction

Always ask for photo permission.
Patience in interactions is highly appreciated.
Genuine curiosity during conversations is welcome.
Avoid giving money to begging children; this can foster dependency.
Direct support for local economies comes through hiring guides or purchasing goods.

Valuable Insights from Locals

Weather Adaptation

Humidity and sun are significant. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.

Cash Readiness

ATMs can be unreliable. Carry sufficient Kina, especially smaller denominations.

Safety Awareness

Remain aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. Listen to local advice on safe areas.

Important Safety Tip

Always remain aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. Listen to local advice regarding safe areas.

Planning Your New Britain Adventure

Chronological Pre-Trip Planning

-6 Months Before

Visa Application
Apply for your visa if not eligible for e-Visa or Visa on Arrival. Check the PNG Immigration website.
International Flights
Book international flights to Port Moresby.
Resorts & Dive Packages
Research and book major resorts or dive packages, especially for Kimbe Bay.

-2 Months Before

Domestic Flights
Book domestic flights to Tokua (RAB) or Kimbe (HKN).
Airport Transfers
Arrange airport transfers with your accommodation or tour operator.
Health & Insurance
Consult a travel health clinic for vaccinations. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads) for medical evacuation and activities.

Final Preparations & Arrival

-2 Weeks Before

Reconfirm all bookings. Print copies of essential documents. Inform your bank of travel plans. Start packing.

Few Days Before

Exchange local currency (PGK) if possible. Charge all electronics.

Arrival in Port Moresby

Clear immigration and customs at Jacksons International Airport (POM). Proceed to the domestic terminal for your onward flight to New Britain.

Orientation & Departure

Arrival in New Britain

Meet your pre-arranged transfer at Tokua or Kimbe airport.
At your accommodation, ask staff for local advice, maps, and safety tips.
Exchange currency at Port Moresby airport or a bank in Kokopo/Kimbe if ATMs are unavailable.
Purchase a local SIM card if not done at Port Moresby airport.

Departing New Britain

Purchase souvenirs from local markets or reputable shops.
Be aware of luggage limits for your flights. Shipping items internationally can be expensive.
Papua New Guinea does not have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme.
Reconfirm your return flights. All travel documents for your onward journey are important.

Travel Timelines & Essential Details

Timeline Snapshot

3-6 months prior: Visa, international flights, major resorts, health clinic.
1-2 months prior: Domestic flights, transfers, tours, travel insurance, International Driving Permit (if needed).
1-2 weeks prior: Reconfirm bookings, print documents, inform bank, pack.
Few days prior: Exchange currency, charge electronics.

Departure Timing

Domestic flights (Tokua/Kimbe): Arrive 1 to 1.5 hours prior to departure.
International flights (Port Moresby): Arrive 2.5 to 3 hours prior for check-in and security.
Secure your home before departure.
Inform family or friends of your itinerary.

Pre-Bookings

All flights (international and domestic), major resorts (specifically dive resorts), private transfers, and any specific cultural performances (e.g., Baining Firedance) require booking well in advance.

Resources & References