Papua New Guinea’s green commitment

Papua New Guinea has signed agreements with the European Union on forest, climate change and biodiversity. During his State Visit to Papua New Guinea, President of France H.E. Emmanuel Macron and H.E. James Marape, Prime Minister of PNG, signed two agreements between the European Union, the European Investment Bank and other partners. 

These will provide support to PNG for the implementation of a Forest, Climate Change and Biodiversity Programme and Green Investments under the Global Gateway Strategy. www.internationalpartnerships.ec.europa.eu/policies/globalgateway_en 

Papua New Guinea, in the southwestern Pacific, is the world's thirdlargest island country, taking in the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and its offshore islands in Melanesia. 

Its capital is Port Moresby. Papua New Guinea, known for its cultural diversity, with more than 800 languages and great natural beauty, which is the focus of its growing tourism industry. 

Trans Niugini Tours Trans Niugini Tours, which offers wilderness lodges, makes a real difference to local economies being staffed from the areas in which they operate and with food for the lodges sourced locally. www.pngtours.com and www.reefandrainforest.com

 Lissenung Island Resort Angle and Dietmar Amon, of the Lissenung Island Resort, with local communities founded Lissenung Island Turtle Conservation. 

It helps to preserve the critically endangered Hawsbill Sea Turtles and the endangered Green Sea Turtles and to educate both visitors and the local population regarding the dangers of oceanic pollution. www.lissenung.com/turtles, www.diveworldwide.com and www.Lissenung.com 

TUFI Boutique Resort TUFI Boutique Resort offers views over the sea, fjords and rainforest covered mountains and, for those seeking total immersion with nature it is just a short boat ride away to an island guest house.

 

Here the adventurous tourist is offered basic accommodation and the chance to explore with local fisherman and observe and take part in a ‘more traditional’ way of life in Papua New Guinea. www.Tufiresort.com and www.steppestravel.com 

 www.papuanewguinea.travel 

 Judy Feller at judy@pngtourism.org.uk

Birdwatching in Papua New Guinea

Birdwatching in Papua New Guinea The avifauna of PNG includes 897 species of which 103 are endemic. 

Papua New Guinea, in the southwestern Pacific, takes in half of New Guinea and its offshore islands. 

It is a country of great cultural and biological diversity, known for its beaches and coral reefs. Inland there are active volcanoes, granite Mt. Wilhelm, dense rainforest and hiking routes like the Kokoda Trail. 

Papua New Guinea has a number of traditional tribal villages, many with their own languages. 

A highlight for ornithologists visiting Papua New Guinea are its Birds of Paradise, widely regarded as the world’s most beautiful birds. 

Papua New Guinea’s birdlife also includes the Hooded Pitohui, the world’s only poisonous bird, and the Cassowary that stands 6ft tall. 

Dedicated ornithologist’s will also look for other rare breeds such as the Fire-Maned Bowerbird and the Crested Berrypecker along with owlet-nightjars and the black-naped pheasant-pigeon. 

There is no set season for birdwatching in Papua New Guinea, although the dry season from June to October is recommended to achieve the optimum experiences. 

Wildlife Resorts throughout the country provide a base, with accommodation, good food and local guides. 

 www.papuanewguinea.travel 

 Judy at Judy@pngtourism.org.uk

Papua New Guinea Festivals

Papua New Guinea, in the southwestern Pacific, encompasses the eastern half of New Guinea and its offshore islands.

A country of cultural and biological diversity, it is known for its beaches and coral reefs and, inland, active volcanoes, Mt. Wilhelm and dense rainforest.

There are also traditional tribal villages, many with their own languages. Papua New Guinea also stages annual festivals throughout the country from July to November.

These include :

• Tumbuna Festival 11 to 21 May 2023 Tumbuna, which in Tok Pisin means ancestors, is a celebration of the local traditions with traditional dress, dancing and singing by local tribes.
• Melba Festival 13 to 23 July 2023 The Melba people enjoy a colourful ‘sing sing’ with their own celebration of life. 
• Mount Hagen Festival 10 to 22 August 2023 A festival with traditional dances, ritual performances and feasting was first staged in 1961 to help unify tribes. Today the focus, as with all the festivals is to entertain and educate.
• Goroko Festival 7 to 19 September 2023 Many tribes come to the festival to play their music and dance in colourful displays of tribal rituals.
• Kalam Festival – Simbai 18 to 21 September 2023 Kalam Festival - Simbai showcases the culture of the Simbai people of Madang Province, one of Papua New Guinea's ethnic groups.
• Kum Festival 18 to 28 October 2023 Kum Festival on Kum Mountain in Mount Hagen is dedicated to pasin bilong tumbuna, meaning the way of the ancestors before colonization.

www.papuanewguinea.travel and www.pngtours.com

Judy Feller at judy@pngtourism.org.uk

P&O Cruises Australia Releases Five of the Hottest Destinations to Explore this Summer

Vanuatu

Summer cruising has returned! Australia’s homegrown cruise line - P&O Cruises Australia is excited to be back sailing its three stunningly refurbished ships to incredible destinations in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

Departing Sydney and Brisbane, and Melbourne this summer, P&O’s itineraries provide guests with arguably the most convenient and affordable holiday option for exploring some incredible destinations, locally and abroad.

 

So, if you’re craving a last-minute short break getaway or seeking a longer break to truly relax, explore and soak in the summer sun, here are P&O’s five top picks. 

 

1. Indonesia: A unique opportunity to join P&O on a one-way journey of discovery as Pacific Encounter sets sail Singapore-bound on the Indonesian Explorer itinerary.

 

Departing Brisbane, guests will explore five breathtaking locations over 14-nights with port calls including Airlie Beach, Darwin, Benoa Bali, Lombok, and final disembarkation in Singapore. This is the perfect itinerary to discover multiple destinations, jam packed with cultural activities and summer fun!

 

It’s also possible to also catch the return trip from Singapore to Brisbane, with an extra stop in Cairns, or pencil in a trip onboard Pacific Adventure from Sydney when she recreates this exciting voyage in 2024. Prices from $1354pp twin share.

 

2. Pacific Islands:  Topping the list for the most popular destination booked by P&O guests in 2023 is the Pacific Islands, and it’s not hard to see why! Delivering on tropical weather, idyllic beaches and adventurous shore tours, The Island Hopper itinerary takes in New Caledonia and Vanuatu, embracing the Frenchy-chic vibe in Noumea, the ancient culture of Lifou and the Caribbean atmosphere in Port Vila.

 

Affording guests the opportunity to experience limitless natural wonders, snorkeling, segway and quad bike safaris, as well as glimpses into local ‘island life’, this is the ultimate itinerary for relaxation that’s sprinkled with plenty of culture and adventure. 7 to 9-night itineraries depart from Brisbane and Sydney. Prices from $749pp twin share.

 

3. New Zealand: Thanks to growing interest in the region, you can now cruise across the ditch for the action packed 13-night return adventure first time with P&O, taking in seven spectacular destinations including Fiordland National Park, Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Napier, Auckland and either Tauranga or the Bay Of Islands (pending port of departure).

 

From sweeping glaciers to long sandy beaches, Māori legends to wine-tasting, there’s a  dizzying list of sights and experiences to offer. You’ll simply marvel at New Zealand’s untouched beauty and fall in love with its World Heritage-listed wonders. Prices from $1399pp twin share.

 

And hint hint, if you haven’t yet got New Year’s plans sorted, ring in 2023 in style during a 12-night trip from Melbourne, departing 30 December!

 

4. South Australia: Head south and experience some of Australia's best kept secrets! Over six nights departing Melbourne, Pacific Explorer takes in Adelaide, the city of churches as well as Australia's third largest island, Kangaroo Island - home to thriving wildlife and a community that prides itself on producing gourmet food. 

Rounding out the three-stop voyage is Port Lincoln at the southern tip of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula - is a must-visit town for seafood lovers that is steeped in a rich fishing culture. Prices from $1324pp twin share.

5. Papua New Guinea: So this one technically misses being a ‘summer’ cruise in 2023 with itineraries starting from April, but it is so incredible, it deserves mention (or simply add to the 2024 summer bucket list!). Papua New Guinea, or PNG, is somewhat of a mystery; it’s remote and rugged, with little contact with the rest of the world – and that’s where its beauty lies.

 

Taking in Alotau, Kiriwina Island, Rabaul and Conflict Islands, you’ll experience ancient cultural heritage and rituals, traditional Melanesian culture, foods and crafts, along with unspoilt, pristine beaches and discover some of the most stunning coral and marine life from onboard a charter boat or pop on the flippers and googles for an underwater snorkeling adventure.

 

Enjoy a peek into the melting pot of PNG culture which is home to hundreds of tribal groups that speak over 800 languages. Prices from $1149pp twin share.

 

The P&O Cruises three-ship fleet departs Sydney (Pacific Adventure), Brisbane (Pacific Encounter) and for a limited time, Melbourne (Pacific Explorer). Each of P&O’s ships have been recently refurbished in P&O’s contemporary style, offering a multitude of bars and dining venues, pools, kids clubs, onboard entertainment and activities. Currently Pacific Adventure and Explorer offer waterslides and the Edge Adventure Park, with Pacific Encounter bringing these to guests from March 2023.

 

For more information, visit www.pocruises.com.au

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL SIGNS AGREEMENT FOR INAUGURAL HOTEL IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby

Marriott International, Inc. today announced it has signed an agreement with Steamships Trading Company Ltd. to debut its first hotel in Papua New Guinea, the Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby. Slated to open in mid-2023, the hotel is set to be located in the heart of Port Moresby within the mixed-use development of Harbourside South.

Mr. Geoff Cundle, Chairman of Steamships, said “I’m delighted that Steamships will work with Marriott International at Harbourside South. Located in the CBD district of downtown Port Moresby and overlooking the Coral Sea and Fairfax Harbour, this is set to be a flagship development for Steamships, and the Marriott Executive Apartments is an excellent fit within the overall Harbourside precinct. The Harbourside precinct connects Harbourside South’s retail, commercial, leisure and residential facilities with the existing commercial floors and F&B outlets of Harbourside East and West. Residents and guests of the Marriott Executive Apartments will be able to live, shop, relax, work, and dine within the luxury and safety of the precinct – the first of its kind in Papua New Guinea. We’re looking forward to welcoming travelers to Papua New Guinea and rewarding their loyalty through Marriott Bonvoy.”

Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby is anticipated to feature 88 modern residential apartments – offering space, ambiance, and the privacy of residential living, enabling a comfortable stay away from home. The new property is slated to feature spacious one and two-bedroom apartments with separate living, sleeping, and working areas. Guests will also be able to enjoy additional amenities, including laundry services, kitchens equipped with a refrigerator, dishwasher, cooktop, microwave and oven, and spacious four to six seat in-room dining areas.

“We are pleased to sign the agreement that expects to debut Marriott International’s first hotel in Papua New Guinea. This is a significant milestone signing and testament to the confidence our owners have in our brands and distribution systems,” highlighted Sean Hunt, Area Vice President, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific for Marriott International. “Following our signing of Marriott Executive Apartments in Melbourne earlier this year, this second signing for the brand is set to strengthen our offering that caters to guests looking to mix business and leisure travel with a ‘home away from home’ feeling for longer stays.”

Once opened, Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby will feature a lounge for residents and guests that offers a relaxed environment for light meals, self-service options and evening cocktails. Additional plans call for a spacious leisure floor which includes a lap pool, leisure pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, three spa treatment rooms, and a recreational zone for children.

Marriott Executive Apartments Port Moresby will be part of the new Harbourside South development which also includes a retail floor and three floors of A-grade commercial space. It will connect to the Harbourside East and West buildings on Port Moresby’s waterfront, which opened in 2015. The development offers quality commercial tenancies, the city’s finest restaurants and bars, a boardwalk, and marina.

Steamships Trading Company Ltd is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and Papua New Guinea’s National Stock Exchange (PNGX) and is part of the wider Swire Group, which includes the Hong Kong listed Swire Pacific Ltd, owners of Swire Hotels, Cathay Pacific Airways and numerous other subsidiaries.

Website: https://marriotthoteldeals.com.au

CRUISING ‘NORMAL’ CONTINUES TO EVOLVE AS PAPUA NEW GUINEA REOPENS TO CRUISE TOURISM

Conflict Islands, Papua New Guinea

Ships from two Carnival Australia brands are set to return to Papua New Guinea as the country’s maritime borders are reopened for ship calls to its idyllic destinations in Milne Bay Province and Conflict Islands. 

As part of her inaugural season down under, Princess Cruises’ Coral Princess will visit the magnificent Conflict Islands making her maiden call on October 4 during a 12-night itinerary from Sydney. It is the first of a number of maiden calls Princess ships will make as part of the fleet’s global restart.

Three days later, P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Encounter will call at Alotau in the beautiful Milne Bay Province during a 10-night cruise from the ship’s Brisbane home port, which also includes calls to Kiriwina Island, Rabaul and Conflict Islands. 

Having pioneered the modern era of dedicated cruise itineraries to Papua New Guinea in 2013, P&O is delighted to be one of the first cruise lines to return after an absence of more than two years. 

Guests sailing on the Pacific Encounter voyage are being advised that their cruise itinerary will now include the highly anticipated return to PNG. 

P&O Cruises sister ship Pacific Explorer has already notched up a number of firsts in reopening cruising to traditional cruise destinations in the Pacific. The P&O flagship was the first cruise ship back to Sydney and Brisbane and the first to cruise to New Zealand and Fiji. And, as recently announced, Pacific Explorer will be the first cruise ship to return to New Caledonia. 

“We are delighted that Papua New Guinea and its idyllic island communities in the Milne Bay Province and New Britain are about to see the benefits of cruise tourism’s resumption,” said Marguerite Fitzgerald, President of Carnival Australia and P&O Cruises Australia. 

“We are seeing ‘normal’ cruise operations steadily evolve putting together the elements and destinations that make Australia and the Pacific such a vibrant region for cruising.

“We also know that our guests and crew can’t wait to reconnect with the people of PNG and other island nations. With PNG coming on board, we can now look forward to Vanuatu becoming the next nation to reopen.

“Once Vanuatu is back online, the full suite of destinations that make cruising in our region so special will be restored.”

The 700 species of birds in Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea, in the southwestern Pacific, takes in the eastern half of New Guinea and its offshore islands. 

It is a country of great cultural and biological diversity, known for its beaches and coral reefs. Inland are active volcanoes, granite Mt. Wilhelm, dense rainforest and hiking routes like the Kokoda Trail. 

It is also a prime birdwatching destination where 38 of the known 39 species of the Bird of Paradise can be spotted. 

With their striking colours and bright plumage, they stand out as some of the world’s most dramatic and attractive birds. 

In total, Papua New Guinea is home to more than 700 different species of birds including the Hooded Pitohui, the only poisonous bird in the world, and the enormous Cassowary that stands nearly six feet tall! 

Birdwatchers can also spot other rare breeds such as the Fire-Maned Bowerbird and the Crested Berrypecker. 

There’s no set season for organising a trip to discover the truly beautiful birdlife waiting in Papua New Guinea, however the dry season from June to October is recommended to achieve the optimum experiences.  

www.papuanewguinea.travel and www.wildlifeworldwide.com 

Judy Feller at judy@pngtourism.org.uk

P&O’s Pacific Partnership Supports PNG’s Conflict Islands’ Turtle Nesting Season with Record Number of Rangers

A record number of community conservation rangers in Papua
 New Guinea are preparing the way for nesting marine turtles.

A record number of community conservation rangers are preparing the way for nesting marine turtles to come ashore in the Conflict Islands, Papua New Guinea, in a program supported by the guest-funded P&O Pacific Partnership.

 
Sixteen rangers – double the number in 2020 - are removing debris and clearing coastal erosion to provide a clear path for the turtles to lay their eggs as part of the work undertaken by the Conflict Islands Conservation Initiative (CICI).

Their work marks the beginning of the annual nesting season which includes tagging and monitoring endangered Green and critically endangered Hawksbill marine turtles and giving turtle hatchlings the best chance of survival.

Recruitment and training of the rangers, who are all from neighbouring PNG islands, is part of the CICI’s partnership with P&O Cruises Pacific Partnership program to monitor marine turtle populations and to develop a long-term tagging and nesting program.

The Conflict Islands Conservation Initiative Project Manager Hayley Versace said the rangers were the “beating heart of the turtle program” and carry out the data collection and monitoring of turtles to ensure the health and protection of the endangered marine species.

“Even during the current pandemic and in times of crisis, it has been important to continue to support the turtles and conservation rangers and continue the fantastic achievements that our charity has been able to deliver since 2016 with the ongoing help of P&O Cruises’ guests,” Ms Versace said.

“This season we’re proud to welcome more rangers to our family, many of whom have previously grown up harvesting these animals.

“By learning more about the critical state of the species and the enormous value that they offer these communities through tourism and ecological biodiversity they have become the custodians of this environment and protectors of this species.

“It is a real story which demonstrates the positive impact that cruise tourism can play in protecting the special places that we visit.”

The Conflict Islands are one of the most remote inhabited archipelagos in the world, and since 2016 P&O has taken guests on memorable holidays to Panasesa Island, one of 21 coral cays in the atoll.

In 2018, valuable guest donations to P&O’s Pacific Partnership helped CICI launch its first Turtle Sanctuary and unique Turtle Interaction Tour which allowed guests to feed baby turtle hatchlings and learn about the important sustainability work happening on the ground in the Conflict Islands.

The CICI team was also able to upgrade its eight 2,500-litre tanks used to house hatchlings prior to their release into the Coral Sea, and install a bronze saltwater pump to improve water flow and the overall health and environment of the nursery facility.

Last year, the CICI also celebrated the record release of 13,672 endangered turtle species as part of the charity’s long-term tagging and nesting program.

P&O Cruises Australia President Sture Myrmell said it was heartwarming to see the P&O Pacific Partnership continuing to give back to the communities and destinations the cruise line normally visits, even while ships have been absent from the region for many months.

“I’m sure that our guests will be wishing the rangers and all those involved with the Conflict Islands Conservation Initiative, a very successful turtle nesting season. Like them, we look forward to seeing such amazing marine life firsthand when we can again cruise to the region,” Mr Myrmell said.

P&O Cruises Australia guests can continue to show their support for the efforts being carried out by the CICI by visiting www.cici.org.au/donate.

The Holiday and Travel Magazine

https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Aurora Expeditions Reveals the Cutting-Edge Design of Its Second Purpose-Built Expedition Ship, the Sylvia Earle

Due for delivery in October 2021, the Sylvia Earle features the cutting-edge Ulstein X-BOW®, a core design element that's essential to the speed, agility and impressive fuel efficiency of the ships in the Aurora Expeditions fleet.

CEO Monique Ponfoort says: “It is really exciting to see a second X-BOW ship coming into market for Aurora Expeditions. Its innovative, eco-sensitive design captures the essence of small-ship expedition travel pioneered by Aurora Expeditions.”

Monique adds: “Our new purpose-built ship honours the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer, Dr. Sylvia Earle, who is actively involved in the development of her namesake, and I look forward to working closely with Dr. Earle in the coming years.”

Global Head of Marketing, Victoria Primrose, notes: “The sleek new design of the Sylvia Earle has been created to reflect the pioneering nature of our ships and the adventurous activities we will undertake with our passionate expeditioners on board.”

“From a brand perspective, the bold design and use of our strong signature teal colour will make the Sylvia Earle instantly recognisable as an Aurora Expeditions ship,” she continues.

“We are thrilled that the build is on time despite the challenges the world has faced in 2020, and we look forward to welcoming our first expeditioners on board the Sylvia Earle as we venture to the world's most remote and fascinating destinations,” Victoria concludes.

The ship will visit many new destinations within the Aurora Expeditions program, including Alaska, Baja California, the Russian Far East, Raja Ampat and West Papua.

Aurora Expeditions ships boast one of the lowest polluting marine engines in the world, due to a combination of low energy consumption, high fuel-efficiency and a streamlined design. The state-of-the-art Tier 3 engine delivers an 80% reduction in emissions* and can utilise virtual anchoring to hold its position instead of dropping anchor on the delicate sea floor. On-board desalination plants convert seawater to fresh water that is safe to drink. Our ships therefore carry less fresh water on sea crossings, further reducing fuel consumption.

The Sylvia Earle will be the second in the fleet to sail with the patented ULSTEIN X-BOW®, whose inverted bow design, in combination with Rolls-Royce dynamic stabilisers, offers unrivalled stability and comfort1 on ocean crossings. The Ulstein X-BOW® cuts through sea swells, minimising vibrations and disturbances, and makes quicker transits through waves. This also helps reduce fuel consumption by up to 60%*.

The second ship of this design will break ground yet again. The Ulstein X-BOW® on the Sylvia Earle will feature a unique two-level glass lounge in the bow, offering extraordinary views to the front of the ship. In polar regions, this means that passengers will be able to appreciate the majesty of an iceberg immediately as it appears on the horizon. It will also feature an outdoor swimming pool, heated by repurposing engine heat, which will be a welcome addition in warmer regions.

*Tier 3 compared to the older Tier 1 engines.

1Aurora Expeditions does not claim that this will prevent or cure motion sickness or seasickness.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Tags: #expeditioncruising, #smallshipcruising, #cruiseship, #ExpeditionTravel, #AuroraExpeditions, #SylviaEarle

Virtually Kokoda

No Roads Expeditions has created 'Virtually Kokoda', where we will take you along the Kokoda Track, all from the comfort of your own living room/backyard/local park.

Just like with any Kokoda Trek, you will be part of a group of trekkers who will work together, share stories with each other, and get to know each other during these nine days.

Each day you will be set a task or a challenge, which will vary greatly from physical, to artistic, and some will be just plain silly. There will be lots of opportunities to share photos from your own personal Kokoda trek if you have trekked before and, if you haven't trekked Kokoda, a fantastic chance to ask questions.

All you have to do to be part of the fun of 'Virtually Kokoda', is join our private Facebook Group. There are no costs involved, this is about having fun with the No Roads community.

So let's grab our virtual hiking boots (which may be ugg boots) and get ready to take on the most unique trek you have ever experienced, Virtually Kokoda.

Tags: Kokoda, adventure tourism, Trekking

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au
Website: www.noroads.com.au

New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Tahiti tourism bodies throw support behind South Pacific Travel Bubble

This week, the Australia and New Zealand representatives of New Caledonia Tourism, Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority, Tourism Solomons and Tahiti Tourisme formed a working group to help the proposed South Pacific Travel Bubble, or Trans-Pacific Bubble become a reality. The group’s objective is to forge collaboration and positive discussion between the national governments of the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, as well as relevant stakeholders throughout the region, and demonstrate there’s a strong appetite from the tourism industries in these countries/territories for a South Pacific Travel Bubble.

A formal letter was submitted by the group to the offices of both the Australian and New Zealand Prime Ministers, outlining the benefits of including the Pacific nations in a regional travel bubble, including:

• Tourism has a positive impact on the livelihoods of many in the South Pacific, not only from a direct economic benefit standpoint, but also in its ability to unite communities, encourage the preservation of indigenous culture, and place a greater focus on environmental protection. It offers the widest-reaching and fairest economic spread to businesses and communities
• For some of the countries/territories listed, tourism is the number one industry for employment whilst for others it is a high-growth economic driver that is helping aide-reliant countries gain financial independence
• For all the countries/territories listed, Australia and New Zealand represent the most important inbound markets and one of the highest sources of visitor arrivals. This not only provides benefit to the countries/territories in the group, but also job security for the tens of thousands of Australians and thousands of New Zealanders that work in travel and tourism and rely on outbound travel for job security
• Reopening borders with Australia and New Zealand’s South Pacific neighbours and allowing their tourism industries to reboot is undoubtedly the fastest and most effective way Australia and New Zealand can help

The group also outlined in its letter that there have only been 88 cases of COVID-19 and zero deaths in New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Tahiti combined, and that they recognise any proposal for a reopening of international borders would require considerable planning and negotiation between various government bodies, along with strict control measures and enhanced health monitoring.

Andrew Cavallaro, Australian / New Zealand Market Representative, Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority, said of the group’s lobbying, “Tourism is a vitally important source of employment and economic driver for our South Pacific neighbours, all of whom are heavily reliant on Australian and New Zealand visitors for their survival. We play a pivotal role in helping these Pacific islands find their feet again following the devastating impacts of COVID-19 and opening borders to establish a South Pacific bubble is undoubtedly the fastest and most effective means to helping them reboot."

"With the aim of prompting and quickly progressing these conversations at a government level, we have established a collaborative working group of South Pacific tourism boards to lobby for a South Pacific Bubble akin to the proposed Trans-Tasman Bubble currently being discussed. We hope that by submitting letters of endorsement to the Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand, and to both government’s Foreign Affairs and Pacific ministers, that consideration is given for a reopening of borders between Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific as soon as is safe and practicable.”

Caroline Brunel, Account Director, Tahiti Tourisme, Australia and New Zealand, echoed Andrew’s sentiments. “The concept of a South Pacific bubble is of great importance to many people - and not just those desperate to get back to a tropical island, which I think many of us are dreaming of right now! Tens of thousands of Australians rely on outbound travel for their jobs, and tourism is the life blood of entire nations in the South Pacific,” she said.

"Collectively, the nations of the South Pacific have done an incredible job of flattening their respective COVID curves, if not eradicating the virus all together. We want to work together to facilitate safe travel wherever we can, and the concept of an inclusive bubble is one that works. We are coming together to keep the conversation going, and to assist wherever we can to make a South Pacific Bubble a reality.”

Sally Pepermans, Director, New Caledonia Tourism, New Zealand, added, “It’s great to see these four nations coming together and facilitating discussion on a South Pacific travel bubble. Opening travel between New Zealand, Australia and the South Pacific will have resounding benefits to the economies and people of New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Tahiti. We are committed to working together to foster a safe environment for travel so borders can reopen. We are here, we are ready to talk and most importantly we are ready to welcome our neighbours from New Zealand and Australia again as soon as possible.”

Andrew, Caroline and Sally are available for further comment upon request. High res images of the destinations can be accessed here.

Website: www.newcaledonia.travel/au

Heritage Expeditions Indonesian Explorer

Following the success of its inaugural ‘Indonesian Explorer’ voyage from Raja Ampat to Papua New Guinea, specialist expedition tour operator Heritage Expeditions will run the two-week cruise again departing 28 September 2020.

Taking in remote, little-known volcanic islands, ‘Indonesian Explorer’ showcases the region’s rich concentration of flora and fauna, its jungles and beaches and tropical waters teeming with sea life and spectacular corals.

Botanists, bird enthusiasts and nature lovers will have opportunities to spot species including up to 10 species of Bird of Paradise and experience rare wildlife encounters.

Highlights will including swimming with thousands of stingless jelly fish off Misool Island and with the gentle whale sharks in Kwatisore Bay in the Cenderawasih Marine Park.

Beginning in Sorong, West Papua, the voyage explores Raja Ampat, or Four Kings Island, which comprises 1500 tiny islands covered in lush jungle and surrounded by turquoise seas, which form part of the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine habitats and Indonesia’s least developed, easternmost islands.

Moving on to West Papua, passengers have the chance to trek into the rolling hills and tropical rainforest of the Arfak Mountains, and to take a zodiac cruise along the Mambero.

Heritage Expeditions 

New Zealand-based Heritage Expeditions has been a pioneer in environmentally responsible, conservation-focused voyages to some of the world’s least-explored, wild and biologically rich regions.

The family operated company specialises in taking small groups of up to 50 ‘intrepid wildlife and wilderness enthusiasts on adventures’.

Travelling on board Spirit of Enderby or Akademik Shokalskiy, the voyages ranging from eight to 31 days, and visit remote, indigenous communities and rarely-visited sites such as the sub-Antarctic island of Macquarie and Russia’s Wrangel Island, accompanied by expert botanists, ornithologists and naturalists.

Website: www.heritage-expeditions.com
Debra Taylor at debra@toucanmoon.com

Challenge yourself to the Kokoda Trail in 2020 Save $200 on 2020 departures

With 2020 fast approaching there is no better time to start making those New Year’s resolutions and South Sea Horizons has just the challenge to add to that list.

The Kokoda Trail has been a place of pilgrimage for Australians, and others, for many decades. It is a place of ANZAC reverence and of personal challenge.

South Sea Horizons has been leading groups along the Kokoda Track since 2008 with an exceptional trek completion rate of 99%. In 2020, travellers can not only experience the Kokoda Trail, but can enjoy $200 off selected tour dates.

The Kokoda track is one of the many walking tracks in Papua New Guinea that existed long before the Europeans discovered this part of the world. It was used for trade and cultural interaction between tribes and is still used for these purposes to this day. During the course of World War II, the Japanese decided to use this trail as means of ground attack against the Australians in Port Moresby. The idea was to take Port Moresby and use it as a base from which to stage a direct assault on Australia.

One end of the track lies in the north of the country at a village called Kokoda. It winds up and down over the rugged Owen Stanley ranges and finishes in the south at Ower’s Corner nearby Port Moresby. Both Kokoda and the Northern coastal plains were the scene of violent close contact jungle warfare as the Australians retreated in the face of the Japanese onslaught. The Japanese were finally stopped at Imita Gap as they had extended their supply lines too far in the rugged terrain and began to die of starvation. The Australians then chased them all the way back to the northern coastline.

Today the remains of the war lie strewn in the jungle and the track has reverted to quiet solitude, disturbed only by occasional trekking group. There are several villages along its length inhabited by peace-loving, hospitable locals. These are the descendants of the people who became known during the war as the ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels’ because of their selflessness in helping wounded Australian soldiers.

Papua New Guinea owned and operated, South Sea Horizons practise responsible-tourism that gives back to the communities they interact with. They only employ local Papua New Guineans as porters, historians and cooks. The local porters used while trekking include direct descendants of the last remaining ‘Fuzzy-Wuzzy-Angels’.

Embark on a South Sea Horizons Kokoda Expedition 2020.

Packages are on sale from now until February 28th 2020 or until sold out, for the following departures

• 24th April 2020 – Kokoda – Owers Corner
• 6th June 2020 – Kokoda to Owers Corner
• 6th July 2020 – Kokoda – Owers Corner

To book, phone +61 432 744 490 or email tours@southseahorizons.com. To find out more, visit www.southseahorizons.com/.

Regional Tourism Sector Achieves 3.16 Million Visitor Arrivals in 2018

“2018 was a favorable year for the regional tourism sector with a total of 3.16 million visitor arrivals during the year. Of this, air arrivals were 2.14 million in 2018, 1.6% above 2017 while sea arrivals, mainly cruise (day visitors) were 1.02 million,” said SPTO Chief Executive Officer, Chris Cocker. These figures were released by the South Pacific Tourism Organisation in its 2018 Annual Visitor Arrivals Report.

The Report also noted that Pacific tourism receipts or visitor spending in destinations contributed US$3.8 billion or 11.1% to the region's GDP and generated 131,010 jobs placing the tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth and employment creation for the Pacific Islands.

Highlights of the 2018 Annual Visitor Arrivals Report include:

• In terms of air arrivals, Fiji continues as a popular destination, accounting for 40.7%, French Polynesia 10.1%, Cook Islands 7.9%, Samoa 7.8%, Papua New Guinea (PNG) 5.7%, New Caledonia 5.6%, Vanuatu 5.4% and Palau at 5.0%.
• For total visitor arrivals (both air and cruise), Fiji led with 33.1%, New Caledonia followed at 18.1% whilst Vanuatu was third at 11.1%.
• Air arrivals by key source markets rose by 13.5% with Europe, USA and New Zealand leading growth at 11.7%, 8.9% and 4.4%, respectively in 2018.
• Australia and New Zealand continued to dominate tourist arrivals at 50.7%. USA followed at 10.5%, Europe 9.7%, Other Asia 7.7% and Pacific Islands at 7.1% share.
• 9% of tourists were in the region for leisure whilst visiting friends and relatives (VFR) represented 13.9% and business 12.1%.
• National tourism budgets for Pacific Island Countries in 2018 were US$105.75 million. Of this, marketing and promotion accounted for 56.7 of the total budget.

The 2018 Annual Visitor Arrivals Report is an annual SPTO publication for member countries and private sector members. The Report provides detailed analysis on tourist arrivals by destinations, source markets, air and cruise arrivals and earnings. Figures are derived from reports provided by the National Statistics Offices and the National Tourism Offices of SPTO member countries.

The report is available to SPTO member countries and private sector members. For access to the report, please contact membership@spto.org.

Website: www.spto.org/

P&O Cruises Reveals Exclusive Itineraries to Papua New Guinea as it Unveils 2019-2020 Program

Conflicts Island

P&O Cruises Australia is offering six dedicated cruises to the colourful, cultural and tropical paradise of Papua New Guinea in its latest program release, calling at Alotau, Kitava Island, Rabaul, Kiriwina Island and the Conflict Islands.

One of the highlights is a new 11-night round-trip voyage to one of the most remote locations in the Coral Sea, the fascinating Conflict Islands.

The exclusive itinerary on board Pacific Aria departs Sydney Harbour mid-November 2019 and calls at the picturesque group of 21 islands which surround a bright blue lagoon and are home to one of the world’s most biodiverse reef systems.

In 2016 P&O became the first cruise line in the world to offer calls to the Conflict Islands, bringing the pristine white sand beaches, World War II history, lush flora and exotic animals of Papua New Guinea within reach of more Australian holidaymakers.

The latest program sees five 10-night New Guinea Island Encounter cruises departing Brisbane with an option for families to take advantage of the two Papua New Guinea cruises taking place during the school holidays. Fares start from $1139* per person quad share departing Brisbane on September 19, 2019.

The cruise line’s latest brochure also features an exotic line-up of six new one-way cruises to or from Singapore including an 18-night Australia & Southeast Asia Discovery cruise departing Adelaide in March 2019 and calling at Port Kelang, Langkawi and Penang in Malaysia and Phuket in Thailand.

P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell said the new program offered an exciting selection of unique longer cruises to Asia and Papua New Guinea combined with the extremely popular shorter getaways, themed cruises and voyages to the South Pacific Islands enjoyed by guests all year round.

“In our latest program we continue to offer cruises from more Australian home ports than any other cruise line in the market with round trip itineraries from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Auckland,” Mr Myrmell said.

“During this season we have scheduled dry docks for Pacific Explorer and Pacific Dawn in Singapore which has provided an opportunity to offer a choice of new cruises of 13-nights or more to the Far East.

“The Conflict Islands continue to prove extremely popular two years on from our first voyage and we’re pleased to offer this stunning corner of the world up to guests with a new itinerary from Sydney.

“Each year we aim to provide unique shore experiences at the destinations we visit. From traditional cooking classes in Alotau, the capital of Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay Province to discovering the ancient volcano in Rabaul on Papua New Guinea’s north-eastern tip – there is something for everyone to enjoy in Papua New Guinea,” he said.

The new 2019-20 program will deliver 136 cruises in total including 64 SeaBreak cruises of 2, 3 and 4-nights in duration departing Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland. Fares start from $569* quad share for a three-night comedy cruise on Pacific Explorer from Sydney on November 8, 2019.

Conflicts Island

Other highlights include seven P&O Main Event cruises themed around the Australian Open, Christmas and New Year plus a new 4-night Australia Day cruise from Brisbane departing January 24, 2020.

Meanwhile, P&O will offer 38 cruises to the popular South Pacific Islands between 7-12 nights from Sydney, Brisbane and Auckland. Fares start from $711* quad share for a seven-night cruise from Brisbane leaving November 1, 2019.

For more information visit pocruises.com.au, call 13 24 94 or see a licensed travel agent.
*Subject to availability, conditions apply

Kokoda 2017 - Alzheimer's Australia NSW

After the success of their first overseas challenge fundraiser – Kilimanjaro 2017 - the Alzheimer’s Australia fundraising team are thrilled to announce that this year’s challenge will take their supporters to the Kokoda track in Papa New Guinea! 

Emma from Alzheimer’s Australia says “The Kokoda track is so rich in a history that is close to the hearts of many Australians and so we thought we would give people the opportunity to combine the challenge with raising funds to help people affected by dementia in Australia. This will be an experience that participants will be proud of and reminisce about for a very long time.”

Each participant has a fundraising target of $2,500, making this trip extremely worthwhile for the charity but also very achievable for the trekkers. The Alzheimer’s Australia fundraising team will be there for participants every step of the way, providing support, advice and materials to help each person smash their target!

For over 70 years the story of the Battle of Kokoda has been told by survivors, memoirs and war records. No matter the interpretation the poignant narratives tell a very human story of comradeship and true grit that took place along the formidable Kokoda Trail, single file trail that links New Guinea’s interior to the coast near Port Moresby. The Kokoda Track is simply a prevailing journey of endurance and indomitable spirit.

When you begin the 96km trek you will feel the same level of physical exhaustion in the same way the Diggers and their Papuan brothers once experienced when they fought the Japanese. You will also quickly gain a sense of Diggers’ camaraderie and share a similar bond with your own group as you meet the environmental challenges that awaits in New Guinea’s interior; the deep ravines and precipices of the Owen Stanley Ranges, the raging waters only accessed by a log bridge and miles of inhospitable terrain though dense rainforests. And in a quiet moment of reflection, you may even think about the men who lived with the constant threat of another enemy ambush.

Wonder how they persevered when they fell sick with malaria or were shot. Or even imagine how they walked day after day in the searing heat with their with feet covered in festering blisters, but as you look across the remarkably beautiful and untamed panoramas from atop Papua New Guinea’s highest peak, you will feel a sense of exhilaration at having experienced one of the world’s most extraordinary treks that is steeped in history and valour.

At the heart of your journey is Oro Province, one of the most beautiful landscapes in Papua New Guinea. Located between the Solomon Sea and the foothills of the Owen Stanley range is the sleepy village of Kokoda where the northern end of the Kokoda Track ends. Established as an outpost for miners travelling to the Yodda Kokoda gold fields in the 1890s, Kokoda’s airfield became the central focus of Allied and Japanese interests during the 1942 Kokoda Trail Campaign.

Starting at Owers' Corner near Port Moresby (or v/v from Kokoda) your expert Australian led trekking experience will include camp stays (in tents) near the villages and battlefields at the forefront of the campaign while enjoying the warmth of Kokoda Spirit’s Papuan hosts.

At the end of your journey you will walk away with a sense of personal triumph at having trekked one of the most challenging tracks in the world. 

And your spiritual bond with the heroic men who left their footsteps along the Kokoda Track will forever stay with you.

To find out more about this opportunity, please visit www.fightdementia.org.au/nsw/kokoda2017 

or contact Emma at emma.jackson-south@alzheimers.org.au

AccorHotels Official Accommodation Partner of Rugby League World Cup 2017

Andrew Hill, CEO of RLWC2017
Simon McGrath,
COO of AccorHotels Pacific

AccorHotels has been named the Official Accommodation Partner of the Rugby League World Cup 2017 (RLWC2017) taking placing in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea from 27 October until 2 December 2017.

The countdown is on for international rugby league's pinnacle international event with games set to be played in Auckland, Brisbane, Cairns, Canberra, Christchurch, Darwin, Hamilton, Melbourne, Perth, Port Moresby, Sydney, Port Moresby and Wellington.

The partnership with the RLWC2017 will see AccorHotels be home for the teams, officials and tournament organisers in every Australian and New Zealand host city, across hotel brands including Pullman, Novotel, Mercure and ibis.

In addition to the men's tournament, this partnership extends to the Women's Rugby League World Cup to be played in Sydney from 16 November – 26 November, with the final in Brisbane on 2 December 2017.

The announcement of the RLWC2017 adds to AccorHotels' growing list of sporting partnerships as preferred accommodation partner with organisations such as NRL, AFL, Tennis Australia, Swimming Australia, Cricket Australia, Netball Australia, Softball Australia, Baseball Australia, and Australian Baseball League.

Chief Executive Officer RLWC2017, Andrew Hill said: “We are pleased to partner with AccorHotels and we look forward to utilising the Accor network during both the men's and women's Rugby League World Cups.

“AccorHotels is the market leader when it comes to looking after the unique requirements of elite sporting teams, having successfully partnered with other major events in both Australia and New Zealand.

“As tournament organisers, we want this year's event to be the greatest ever Rugby League World Cup and we look forward to working with AccorHotels on delivering a first class off-field experience for competing teams, officials and guests.”

Chief Operating Officer AccorHotels Pacific, Simon McGrath said: “We are delighted to have been selected by the Rugby League World Cup 2017 as their Official Accommodation Partner.

“We believe it will be an outstanding partnership that will benefit both parties considerably as we are very much attuned to the requirements of sporting organisations.

“Our hotels look forward to providing the very best in service for Rugby League World Cup 2017 teams, staff and tournament goers,” concluded McGrath.

For tournament information visit ww.rlwc2017.com
To book accommodation visit www.accorhotels.com

Qantas Launches Services from Brisbane to Port Moresby

Qantas has started a daily service between Brisbane and Port Moresby, providing customers across Australia and the global network with improved connections to Papua New Guinea.

The service operates daily, using a refreshed 174 seat B737- 800 aircraft featuring 12 business class seats, upgraded in-flight entertainment and improved seats with new covers.

It replaces Qantas' previous, turboprop-operated service between Cairns and Port Moresby, and is timed to enable business travellers to arrive in Port Moresby at midday, take meetings in the afternoon or next morning, and return the next afternoon.

Qantas and Air Niugini have agreed to codeshare on routes between Australia and Port Moresby.*

Qantas International CEO Gareth Evans said the route would meet strong demand from the corporate market, in particular the resources sector.

“We're really pleased to be giving our customers more seats and better connections on this important route,” Mr Evans said.

“Brisbane's a growing hub that joins our domestic, trans-Tasman and international networks, and the clear message from our customers was that it was the ideal base for our Port Moresby operation.

“We're proud to be continuing the role we've always played in supporting business, investment and trade between Australia and Papua New Guinea.”

Qantas in Papua New Guinea:

Qantas began services to PNG in the 1940s with two light aircraft stationed in Lae for local operations. Qantas' four engine DC4 Skymaster began flying the Sydney – Port Moresby – Lae route in 1950. In 1959, Port Moresby was used as a refueling point for Qantas flights to Hong Kong.

*The Qantas and Air Niugini code share is subject to government and regulatory approvals.

www.qantas.com.au

SPTO Wishes PNG a Happy Independence Day

The South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) joins its member countries to congratulate the people of Papua New Guinea as they celebrate their 41st Independence Day.

“Papua New Guinea is a country of immense potential, rich with natural, cultural and biological diversity, and as such, it has much to offer the world in terms of tourism,” said SPTO Chief Executive Officer, Chris Cocker.

“SPTO is proud to work with Papua New Guinea on the ongoing development and marketing of its tourism industry,” he added.

The country begins celebrations with their biggest annual tourism event next week from the 21st to 27th September in Port Moresby. Organized by the Papua New Guinea Tourism Industry Association in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority, the PNG Tourism Week includes National Tourism Conference, Lukim PNG Nau and World Tourism Day activities for visiting travel agents and media representatives, as well as for the general public. The theme for the week festivities is Tourism for Development.

“We are honored to be invited by our member, the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority to be a part of this and join in their celebrations for World Tourism Day commemorating the theme “Tourism for All – Promoting Universal Accessibility”, Cocker added.

This also marks his first official visit to PNG since being appointed CEO in June. Mr Cocker will be meeting with key tourism stakeholders as well as speaking at the Marketing workshop and National Tourism Conference on the 22nd and 23rd of September.

On this occasion today, SPTO and its member countries join Papua New Guinea in celebrating the anniversary of its independence.

Based in Suva, SPTO works with 16 Pacific island countries to market and develop tourism in South Pacific region.