A heady mixture of colonial European-influences, indigenous Polynesian customs and the spoils of contemporary affluence, Port Moresby, the capital of Papa New Guinea, is a melting pot of cultures.
The original inhabitants of this region were the Motu Koitabu people, who around 200 years ago settled in stilt houses on the edge of the harbour. The largest stilt village of Hanuabada can be visited, but only with a Port Moresby tourist guide. The influence of handcrafts prevails in Port Moresby, and the best shopping experiences can be had at the Ela Beach Craft Market, selling beautiful examples of traditional arts and crafts on the last Saturday of every month. Gordon’s nearby is the largest market of the country, open for business daily, selling everything from fresh produce to museum-worthy artefacts from this part of the world. The National Museum and Art Gallery is a comprehensive tour guide into Papua Ne Guinea’s history and culture; for a practical experience, time your visit with the Hiri Moale festival held every September, resplendent with traditional dance and lakatois (giant canoes) races.
Other must-sees during your stay include the Port Moresby Nature Park, home to exotic birds and of course kangaroos, as well as a trip to the Port Moresby Golf Club and Yacht Club, even if it’s just for a cocktail.