Papua New Guinea

From Cairns we headed north along the Australian coast, before turning north-east across the Coral Sea to Alotau, situated on Milne Bay in Papua New Guinea.  

Six hundred islands make up Papua New Guinea – More than eight hundred different tribes, all of whom speak their own language, are spread over this large underdeveloped country. Most live in geographic isolation as the area is very mountainous and, in some places, impossible to travel between areas or islands.    These people survive by subsistence farming.  The vast majority of the population live below the poverty line.  Sadly, this was very evident during our short journey from the ship to the Festival site – see below.  Five hundred of us (my cruising nightmare!) were transported in very old minibuses which ran a shuttle service from the ship.  Very basic plastic covered seats and no air conditioning – it was 32C and very humid!  Poorly built roads, run-down shacks and uninviting shops.  A few passengers who braved the heat, reported young men selling  SINGLE cigarettes for $1 just to be able to make ends meet. 

Alotau took full advantage of a cruise ship visit – especially from UK, as PNG is a Commonwealth Country.  The Lik Lik Festival was laid on especially for us.  A vibrant and colourful extravaganza demonstrating their culture and heritage.    

Spectacularly painted bodies  – charcoal used over their skin, water colour paint for the decoration.  All manner of plants and feathers used in headdresses and skirts.  Each tribe has its own costumes and customs.  Several tribal dances were performed for us  – also a young mother, with the most beautiful voice, sang both a lullaby that she sings to her babies, and then wowed us with a rendition of Halleluiah!

War canoes full of chanting warriors raced about the bay in front of us  (and gave a few passengers a go in the canoes!)

Needless to say, there was a great array of market stalls selling hand made wooden carvings and jewellery.  All the stall holders spoke English – it is taught at school  (for those who GO to school).  Everyone was very friendly and full of smiles.  However the big grins took some getting used to – they all chew Betel Nut which is a stimulant and colours their teeth and tongues bright red!  As you can imagine, it shows up well against their very black skin colour! 

The festival went on for the whole morning, whilst groups of passengers were shuttled to and from the ship.  Two hours was enough for most of us  – the heat and humidity were fierce  – as were the warriors! 

In summary, we were given an insight into their culture and heritage, and no doubt increased the pennies in their pockets for a day or two.  Apparently, the ship was giving food parcels out as well.  We all have SO MUCH to be thankful for  – it made us feel very humble