Tourism

Setting foot early in the morning, these eager adventurers embarked on a half-day tour, immersing themselves in the diverse tapestry of Port Moresby's attractions.

From the verdant splendour of Port Moresby Nature Park to the solemn grounds of the World War 2 memorial, the itinerary curated a mosaic of experiences, encompassing visits to iconic landmarks such as the House of Parliament, the National Museum, and the culturally rich Tubusereia Village. 

According to ministers gathered to promote tourism and cooperation in the region, after a week of discussions among Tourism Ministers from 21 Pacific Island countries that ended last Friday 20^th October.

The CEO of SPTO, Christopher Coker, expressed satisfaction with the participants, who actively engaged in the talks throughout the week.

The people from Enga Province will celebrate their unique cultures, exhibit tourism products and services to both domestic and international tourists.  

The cultural festival will coincide with the official opening of Haus Man (Traditional Engan man’s house) and Cultural Research Centre for displaying of cultural objects/artifacts, tourism products.

The event, which falls on September 27th every year, aims to highlight the need for more investments for the sustainable development goals this year.

In his message, PNG Tourism Promotion Authority Chief Executive Officer, Eric Mossman Uvovo, said PNGTPA is staying true to the theme "tourism and green investment - investing in people, planet and prosperity".

The bureau’s executive officer, Maine Winny, said they are working in partnership with the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority “to make Lae a cruise ship hub”.

“They are very supportive of what we are doing here,” said Winny. “And of course, our Lae City Authority and the Morobe Provincial Government are supportive of this initiative.”

With rapid infrastructural development in PNG’s second largest city, including overwhelming support given by the provincial government and LCA to the Royal PNG Constabulary, the bureau is confident in achieving its dream.

This landmark agreement, signed on Friday, marks a pivotal moment in the effort to transform Port Moresby into a world-class tourist destination under the catchy tagline "Million Different Journeys in One Destination."

The MoU lays the groundwork for a collaborative effort between the two organizations to pool resources and actively promote Port Moresby's unique attractions, infrastructure, and signature events, both domestically and on the global stage.

From the 17th to the 25th of July 2023, the vibrant roadshow, showcasing both the prominent and ‘Hidden’ Treasures of the South Pacific, offered attendees unique insights into the South Pacific’s diverse destinations, cultural experiences and natural wonders.

The Remembrance Day 3-Day Trekking holds profound importance as it commemorates the moment when PNG soldiers united as a cohesive force, transcending tribal and clan boundaries for the first time.

The battle of Kokoda symbolized the convergence of two nations - Australia and PNG.

The owner of Karanas Comfort Tours is Alice Alu, who is originally from East New Britain Province but grew up in New Ireland.

As the name suggests, Alu takes care of visitors’ activities, accommodation and meals.

“I started this tour business to promote and market the beauty of the province I grew up and love so much,” said Alu.

“This is a way of giving back to the province since the New Ireland Provincial Government subsidised my education from primary school to the University of Technology.

Local business owners are tapping into the natural beauty of the maritime province, enticing local and international tourists to create unforgettable memories there.

Owner of the Venbert Cottage in Kavieng Town and the Putput Treehouse Resort, Steven Lavarabin, outlined that business has picked up after the COVID-19 shutdown in 2020.

Local businesses, especially in the tourism and hospitality industry, have formed networks to help each other out. However, the environment would be conducive if their Members of Parliament can support the industry as well.