As the City of Port Moresby has seen a boom of infrastructure in the last number of years, residential developers have been taking advantage of the rise and tapped into the high-end spectrum of accommodation. One developer in particular, NPL Development Ltd, has seen the increase in demand for quality accommodation and housing and after 2 years of construction has made their vision a reality.Set on the highest point of Touaguba Hill comes the latest in luxury and stylish architectural design, the towering Touaguba Hill Paradise Apartments. Beginning construction in June 2016 and completed in October 2017, this newest edition to the downtown area has already captured the eyes of investors and would-be tenants alike. Just glancing up from Ela Beach at the impressive structure leaves you fixated in awe at how much of an ambient mood the view from the top would give emanate. From the moment you drive through the front gate, the evenly spaced buildings look just as impressive from up close with the structural stability and flawless designs to match.The location itself conveniently sits within close proximity to the beach, shops, cafes, restaurants, hotels and health centres, making it ideal for those not wanting to venture too far out of town. Stepping into another world is an understatement as you are bombarded with exquisite workmanship from the buildings to the landscaping.    Architecture and DesignNPL Developer Ltd’s Manager Director Dato’ Jimmy Poh has said that "the development of Touaguba Hill Paradise is a collaboration of international team of designers and real estate firm to deliver a very well thought out living space with style and flair." To enter Touaguba Hill Paradise is to enter into a world of classic architecture at it’s finest. The apartment block is divided into three buildings: Blocks A and B together on the lower level with Block C sitting slightly higher above on the hill. It is worth mentioning the vantage point that the upper levels of Block C have to bask in the wondrous views of Ela Beach and the vast sea on the horizon. Built on the highest point of Touaguba Hill, all the buildings boast 7-storeys high and from the exterior to the interior, provide quality finishes inspired by a well thought out architectural plan.The architect and design team have gone to great depths to give an artistic and aesthetic touch. Strategically set from a high point, the buildings and individual units are designed in a way that encapsulates nature and adds value to the picturesque backdrop of ocean views. To counter the sweltering humidity of Port Moresby, each unit is tiled throughout to repel heat and keep the unit cool. The airy floor plan also helps to allow a steady flow of ocean breeze to provide that natural cooling effect especially in the night time. Throughout the unit, the light wall colours help illuminate the interior and with the aid of large windows allow a generous amount of natural light to sweep through. Add in the sweeping views of the ocean as you get higher and the convenience of location, you have yourself an apartment to be proud of. ApartmentsEach apartment has been carefully designed to give a range of preference according to number of rooms/bathrooms and floor area. The buildings have their own lifts with admission to floors strictly with access card to ensure privacy and security. As you make your way into each building you are immediately met by the stellar touches of elegance from the lobby as you exit to lift to the front door of the units.Luxury awaits as you step into each unit with a tiled floor matched with light wall colours that creates a vibrant look. The most notable thing you will notice is the spacious floor plan that makes possibilities endless to inspire the mind to decor at will. Depending on the type of unit, the rooms run symmetrically along or opposite each other from the lounge room and are relatively large in space. Fitted with their own queen sized beds, air conditioning and wall TV, the rooms seem almost nostalgic of a hotel atmosphere. The lounge is just an extension of what the rooms have to offer with an open plan to entertain family and friends when occasions permit. The kitchen provides great space to move around at will and even inspire the inner chef while the balcony creates the perfect opportunity to enjoy a casual afternoon or lazy morning while soaking in the panoramic views and cool breeze of the ocean. AmenitiesTouaguba Hill Paradise takes pleasure in providing alluring facilities and amenities that are complementary to other high-end apartments in its pristine location. The aim of the residence is to cater to its tenants by presenting as many advantages as possible for maximum satisfaction. The main aim is to instill a firm mindset in it’s tenants to enjoy comfort at home and take advantage of these amenities.Located in between the apartment buildings sits perfectly a glamorous sized pool with fountains creating an oasis to indulge in. The pool is perfect for those hot and humid days where you just want to escape from the Moresby heat and treat yourself. When entertaining the guests and family becomes too populated in the units, extend the gathering to the outdoor entertainment area that is designed to invite the cool ocean air and provide a great setting for fun times. On the other hand, if you want to skip the relaxation and burn off some sweat, take a walk into the state of the art gym with its wide range equipment and weights to occupy the casual goer to the gym junkie.With the constant power and water shortages in the city, residents can be well assured through two generators that supply electricity and efficient water supply with nine water tanks. The buildings offer ample basement car parking for both tenants and guests and an easy accessible road through the premises. To keep the high standard of the property, the facilities and grounds are continually serviced and maintained and staff is always on call 24/7 to alleviate any issues.  SecurityFeel safe and secure in a well maintained location without having to worry about security. Touaguba Hill Paradise takes pride in delivering an impressive security system. Designers have taken into consideration extra security and ease of access into each unit by installing a 4-way access on each door through touch screen pin code, access card entry, normal key entry and an impressive fingerprint biometric scanner. For convenience, an intercom with video and voice capabilities allow you to stay within the confines of the unit to monitor visitors as they come and go. The boundaries that border the property are equipped with security lights, electric sensors, motion sensors and cameras and have 24-hour security with a good number of guards that patrol the premises. The grounds are continually monitored with its steady supply of cameras which provide supervision in the well equipped surveillance room. It is safe to say that Touaguba Hill Paradise provides luxury living in premises that solves the problem of security while providing maximum assurance for its tenants.   AvailabilityTouaguba Paradise offers a range of units for rent with one, two and three bedroom apartments starting from just K2,500 per week.  Click Here to make an enquiry.

Papua New Guinea is one of the the most culturally diverse countries in the world and is also one of the most rural with only an estimated 18% living in urban areas. The country has approximately 852 known languages and has a population of over 8 million people.Being one of the least explored countries in the world, PNG has a lot on offer. While the list is long, this article will look at some of the main attractions as well as the best places to live in. AttractionsPapua New Guinea is known as the land of the unexpected or surprises and as one of the least explored places, it has a lot on offer in terms of attractions.The Bird of Paradise is one of the main attractions of PNG and features on the national flag.  This member of the Paradisaeidae family habitats Eastern Australia and New Guinea and is best known for the elaborate mating ritual, where the male displays its plummage in a fascinating unique method. The country is famous for its bird watching as it is home to a thriving bird population due to specific habitats and climates favored by the endemic species and the lack of predatory animals. Birdwatching is available through out the country from he coastal and island locations to the rugged peaks of the highlands. PNG is famous for endemic species such as the Raggiana and the Blue Bird of Paradise including the fire maned Bowerbird.Other attractions include the various mountain peaks such as the Mount Wilhelm which is 4, 509 metres or the country’s 2nd highest peak which is Mount Giluwe which is 4, 367 metres in height. The Tavurvur which is a active stratovolcano near Rabaul on the island of New Britain.Another famous drawcard is the Kokoda Track which is trek of 96 kilometres inland through Owen Stanley Range, made famous as a major battle ground between Allied and Japanese forces during World War Two, or the Black Cat Track which is a rough overland track in the Morobe Province and runs from the village of Salamaua to the mountains then to the township of Wau. Popular residential localities within Papua New GuineaThe following is an overview of popular residential localities within PNG, including security of the area, local amenities such as shopping, essential services, social hubs, proximity to business centres and tourist attractions. National Capital DistrictBorokoBoroko offers quick access to many sporting and recreational facilities, such as the National Football Stadium, the Rita Flynn Netball Centre and Bisini Parade Grounds, all of which are all located along the same road and are an easy five to ten minute walk of each other. Many national and international events are hosted along this stretch of road.From Boroko you have easy access to other suburbs, one of Pom City’s main public bus stops is here, so getting to and from work or school is easier. Boroko offers a police station, a fire station, a post office, banks, a craft market, many grocery stores; service stations; pharmacies and other health services; beauty parlours; schools and an assortment of churches. It is regarded as Port Moresby's central commercial and shopping hub. WaiganiWitness the nation's monumental events at Waigani. Not only is it one of the largest suburbs in the country but Waigani also has the most national and cultural attractions in it. The National Parliament, the National Museum, the Prime Minister's official residence, the Port Moresby National Arts Theatre, the National Library, National Archives, the PNG National Court, Morauta Haus (office of the Prime Minister of PNG) and the city’s only golf course - the Royal Port Moresby Golf Course are all within a five minute drive of each other, essentially sharing fences with each other.Waigani also hosts Vision City, Port Moresby's largest shopping mall and home to fashion outlets, restaurants and the food court and a wide range of both local shops and international franchises.  It has PNG's main cinema on the top floor as well as a popular nightclub, and connects to Stan;ey Hotel.Opposite Vision City is the Sir John Guise Stadium, the main venue of international sporting events.  The stadium is also home to the annual Real Estate Show, hosted by Hausples.Waigani is as versatile a neighbourhood as they come. It has a wide range of educational facilities from private, to church run to public institutions, there is daycare to tertiary institutions that offer an array of skills and subjects. There is entertainment for the artistic, for the athlete, there’s entertainment for the computer and gaming nerds, movies, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and pubs, motor cross clubs - if there is one suburb that truly has it all, it is definitely Waigani. GordonsThe Gordons suburb is the industrial hub of the capital city. It has the most businesses and warehouses but it also features a vast residential area with many standalone houses. Gordons is the closest to Jackson’s International Airport out of the four suburbs featured. Boroko Foodworld and RH, two of the largest shopping outlets, are located within Gordons. For many expatriates this suburb is attractive because of its ease of its location in the city - easy to get to offices in good time and if you want a weekend escape outside of town to explore the rugged mountains or the white sandy beaches of Central Province then this is an ideal location to search. Downtown Port MoresbyDowntown Port Moresby or simply ‘Town’ is the most expat preferred suburb because of its captivating view of the sea overlooking both Fairfax Harbour and Walter Bay and the proximity to the city's Central Business District. Prime social clubs (Yacht Club and the Aviat Club) are all within a 10 minute driving radius. Major hotels feature in Town, including Crowne Plaza, Grand Papua and Ela Beach Hotel, all of which offer high quality accommodation and excellent cuisine.The area hosts a number of iconic buildings, such as Kina Haus (formerly Deloittes Tower) which was PNG's tallest building one point.  New developments are now dwarfing Kina Haus, such as the Old Parliament Haus Towers and China Railway building, both of which will boast commercial, residential and shopping facilities.Downtown is also home to the newly developed Ela Beach which is open to the public and features basketball courts, parking and general entertainment and is next to APEC Haus which was completed just this year specifically for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation, hosted in Port Moresby for the first time.  Beyond APEC Haus is the new Paga Hill Ring Road which is a beautiful walk or drive around the spit with stunning sea views.  This takes you to the Harbourside complex, home to commercial office space, seafood restaurants and a buzzing nightlife. Morobe ProvinceMorobe Province is located on the North Eastern part of Papua New Guinea. Morobe has one of the most versatile environments in PNG with beautiful white sandy beaches, savannah plains, swamps, low land rainforest to rugged mountain peaks. There are over 101 languages spoken here. The Province is considered the link to highlands and islands.Lae City is the capital of Morobe province, the second largest city in the country, and is the commercial and industrial hub of the country. Morobe province has a massive land area that is yet to be developed and many developers are taking advantage of this by building large industrial type structures and residential properties to accommodate those that will work in those properties. Particularly after the 6 mile suburb onwards there is rapid infrastructure growth. You can travel by road from Lae to Madang or to all the Highlands provinces. Madang ProvinceMadang Province is located on the Northern coast of PNG. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in PNG with its rugged mountains, dense virgin forest and pristine beaches, in fact it is the most popular dive destination in PNG. Madang is also a popular historical and anthropological area due to it having 173 of PNG’s languages; and World War II left behind a legacy of 34 sunken ship that offer dive sites to explore at Hansa Bay, near Bogia.The colourful Madang Township has been called the "prettiest town in the South Pacific" (Papua New Guinea Travel, 2018). Madang town has modern urban facilities, including hotels, department stores, bustling markets and historical artefact shops and displays in the Cultural Centre. Madang is also a key destination for meetings and conferences.Like Port Moresby, Madang has seen much infrastructural changes in the last 5 years as a result of the rapid growth of mining and tourism industry. There are many new residential type properties in Madang town and the same is occuring in areas outside of Madang town. The highway from Madang continues to either the Morobe province or you can venture up to the Highlands Region. Western Highlands ProvinceMt Hagen is the capital city of Western Highlands province but is also the hub of the Highlands Region with it being the main stopover for road travellers intending to take the Okuk Highway to Wabag, Southern Highlands and Hela Provinces. Hagen is a bustling commercial centre where wealth from coffee and tea plantations had fuelled the initial development of the town, now however the mining industry has spurred the growth of the real estate industry in this province.Western Highlands Province also has a robust tourism industry with majestic mountains and beautiful flora and fauna, this province is known for its beautiful art and craft and it is referred to as the wild frontier of the Highlands region.Kagamuga International Airport being the hub of the highlands airway daily sees flights in and out from private operators that bring in personnel to and from mine sites in the Southern Highlands, Enga Province and Hela Province. East New BritainEast New Britain province is located on an island to the north of the PNG mainland. It is the north eastern part of the island on which both East and West New Britain are located on.Rabaul used to be the major town in East New Britain Province until the disastrous eruptions of Mt Tavurvur and Vulcan in September of 1994. This event signified the moving of all major services to Kokopo town. Tokua Airport is the main airport in East New Britain with plans to upgrade to an international airport in 2019.East New Britain is a major tourist hub in PNG with its riveting World War II history. There are Japanese cave systems, barge tunnels, aircraft wrecks and submarines, volcano climbing, scuba diving, snorkeling and trekking. It a perfect tourism investment location especially considering that the government has chosen this province to invest in for tourism development under its Tourism Master Plan. West New BritainWest New Britain sits on the south western part of the island of New Britain. Kime is the provincial headquarters of West Britain Province. The largest income from this province is from exporting oil and it is covered with many oil palm plantations (especially in Kimbe) and there is also some logging in the interior and on the south coast.Tourism is also fast becoming a profitable industry in this province with Walindi Plantation Dive Resort attracting divers globally, there are also beautiful fishing and snorkeling spots on offer in this area. The Muruk cave system in the Nakanai area of West New Britain is believed to be the deepest recorded in the southern hemisphere.

Papua New Guinea has a growing and thriving real estate market and, coupled with an increased income, more and more people are looking at owning their very first homes. This demand for housing has seen a few homeowners consider the prospect of selling their current properties.A recent survey carried out by PNG’s leading real estate portal, Hausples.com.pg, has revealed that as people’s confidence in owning their own home increases, a majority believe it is a good opportunity to take advantage of this demand and sell their properties. If you happen to fall within this group of people, there are a few things to undertake to ensure that you get more returns on your property and that it is marketable. Invest in a clean up crewOver the years, dust and grime tend to build up around the home. The exterior of the house loses its gloss and the roof needs to be upgraded.  When you are readying your house for the market, it is not good to have a smelly and grimy house as this will deter potential buyers. This is an ideal time to invest in a clean up crew who will be able to carry out the major refurbishments around the house as well as cleaning the walls ready for painting.Once the clean up crew has finished, then the weekly cleaning can be done by the family. It is always good to remember that to solve any ongoing issues.  For example, it may be tempting to cover up a blocked drain during a property inspection. However, the sale may take several months to complete and a heavy rain can cause flooding because of the blockage.  This will cost you more money in the long run, so nip the problem in the bud and fix the root cause before it gets out of control.Remember, no one likes a smelly house. If you smoke, scrub the upholstery and carpets. Wash down the walls and ceilings with a mild cleaner and ensure that the vents in the air conditioning unit cleaned. If you have pets, ensure that any stains are removed and that their dog houses or corners are spotless. Remember Curb AppealAt times, the landscaping clinches a deal. The landscaping or the curb appeal makes a great first impression and a well kept lawn and a neat garden can, in fact, increase the value of your home.  If you have walkways or paths leading to your house, make sure that they are cleaned and free from debris. It can be a great idea to water blast the exterior of your property in order to get rid of cobwebs and to give it a fresh and clean appearance. Clean your closets.When you have an open home or prospective buyers stop  by for an inspection, they will most likely check the cupboards and closets. It is therefore an opportune time to go through all that you have in your closets and throw away the unnecessary, keep the must-haves and organise it properly. This way, it will look like there is a lot more space in your closets.Upgrade your kitchenWhile real estate is all about location, it is always wise to upgrade your kitchen. A kitchen is the centrepiece of a house. It is where the family spends time cooking, washing dishes and even recapping on the day whilst they prepare the evening meal.If you have a bit of money, spend it updating the counter tops and the window frames. Upgrade all the kitchen appliances and install hanging lights, which will add a chic appearance or finish to the kitchen. However, if you do not have much finance, opt for inexpensive updates like fresh paint and new cabinet hardware such as door handles, knobs, etc. This will give your whole kitchen a fresh and new feel. Give your room purposeAt times, we will convert one room in the house into a place where we put all our knick-knacks and almost everything which is not needed. When planning to have an open house or your home listed, it’s time to clean it up. Clear out all the thing you don’t need and make your house  as spacious as possible. Change the colours in the rooms. Grab a paint brush and focus on the trims and heavily used rooms. Paint over bright bedroom colors to more neutral tones and touch up areas that need to be retouched.  Let the sun inNatural light is a huge bonus when selling your home. Let the sun shine in and ensure that your windows are clean and not obscured by dusty drapes or torn curtains.These are some of the ways you can ensure that your house is marketable and that prospective buyers will look at it the way you first looked at it when you bought the property. However, when considering selling, it is always a good idea to get to know a valuer who can also assist in setting the right price for your house. Generally speaking, real estate appreciates over time but the simple tasks, such as keeping your home clean and tidy, will see that you make the most of your return.

Taking care of your flower or vegetable garden is a pass time for many as some consider it therapeutic whilst others do it as a hobby.No matter whether it is a pss time or a hobby, gardening is indeed a central aspect of any house. A strategically place pot plant in a room can make a small house look roomy and spacious, it can transform a barren landscape or an eyesore into a relaxing part of the whole building.Taking the necessary steps and ensuring that your garden is well kept will see that caring for your flower and vegetable garden is not a mammoth task. Plant care and gardenThere are several things that can be done to the garden during the dry spell or season. Assess your gardenThere are certain plants that can survive a dry spell and which also improve the landscape during this season. Identify areas or plants that need to be saved. Once you have done this, you will need to concentrate your attention to these areas and consider watering them regularly.The roots of various plants grow at different depths and the trick is to identify then apply just enough water to moisten the roots by focusing water into these areas you have identified. This keeps the trees and canopy green. Know your gardenIrrigate your garden slowly. Slow soaking limits run off and encourages plants to develop deep root systems that are better able to tolerate droughts. The heavier the soil, the more important slow soaking is in preventing runoff. To minimise evaporation, it is best to irrigate in the early morning or in the evening. Build water basinsThis is done by building or gathering soil in a mound around the plant. This is known as soil berm.  At the base of the mound is a small trough which you can fill with water and the water will then be soaked up. Reconsider cutting our grassLonger grass will shade the soil and reduce evaporation. This doesn't mean not cutting the lawn however you could leave more green to show and the grass a little bit longer as opposed to the usual length. Apply mulchSpread a layer of mulch over the soil around plants as mulch reduces evaporation, insulates the roots from extreme temperature change and helps prevents weeds which can choke out much needed water. Use Terra-cotta potsUsing the terra-cotta pots is advisable as it is good at water retention. For extra insulation, put smaller pots inside the big ones or bury them up to their rims in the ground. If it is hard to locate terra-cotta pots, an better alternative is the plastic ones. Plant close togetherWhen water is scarce, space your plants close together as possible. You will find that water is saved as they are closer especially during time of watering and that the plants act as a natural shade and wind barrier for one another. In addition to this, planting closer together will see less weeds as compared to when the plants are far apart.Items to keep around the house for drought seasonRoot irrigator - this hose-end device has a needlike shaft  that injects water into the ground, directly irrigating the rots and seeing no water lost to evaporation.Sampling rod - this device is a metal tube which can be shoed into the ground. When pulled out, twist it back and it shows a cross section of the soil and shows how wet or dry the soil is which in turn tells you whether or not to water the soil now or not.Soaker hoses - porous hoses which all water to seep through their length. These special hoses can be run along flowers and shrubs or even along hedges and vegetables to allow plants to soak up the water.Rain tank/barrel - during the normal weather, a lot of rain will fall. It is best to catch this rain and store it for the dry season.Flowering plants for your gardenIt is always essential to know your climate before you undertake any gardening.If drought and dry spells have become common in your province over the past few years, it is important to know which plants are best suited for the climate. It is a time consuming effort which could see you in the end losing alot of money.Imagine trying to plant a water lily as your centre piece in your garden if you are located in one of PNG’s drought prone areas. This would mean that your water bill and consumption would be high as you would have to ensure that your pond is always full. Therefore, it is good to know which plants are well suited for dry weather.Cotinus along with Buddleia are good examples of plants that are best suited for dry weather. They grow well in low water levels and shut their system down and can tolerate dry periods for some time. The two plants have adapted t such weather conditions by growing smaller leaves which are closer together.Portulaca or Purslane is another plant which is found in the tropics and warm temperature regions. There are between 10 - 400 different species of this plant which is colourful and it is also considered as a pest by some countries.   Other plants that grow well in dry weather include Bougainvillea, Agave as well as the Blanket flower. Many gardeners think that you can not produce good produce without extra water but some plants are surprisingly drought tolerant. Herbs that produce aromatic oils are the ones to benefit the most as drier conditions mean more oil.  Climbing French beans are another egetable that adapts well to the dry weather as compared to the usual runner beans. Lettuce, spinach and even sweet potatoes  if well watered and cared for also produce tastier produce during this dry weather period. Alternative water source for the gardenAs the dry weather continues, many local authorities will place restrictions or bans on water usage. As such, this would at times mean that one will have to consider using grey water. Grey water is water that has been used around the house such as in the washing machine, bath, shower or for washing up.Grey water does not store well and can start to stink if kept stagnant for long. It is best used within 24 hours to prevent the spread of bacteria. Never use water from toilets or dishwashers or use water that you know contains bleach  or other harsh chemicals which can be bad for the plants.

As time goes by, fashion dies out and a new trend starts. This sees a lot of money and time spent however if you invest in timeless home decor, refurbishing every now and then may be a thing of the past.Imagine opening a magazine from five years ago and reading a story which seems like it just happened today. That is what we call “timeless” and the same can be achieved for your home. Timeless designs or décor is understated, simple yet sophisticated.What is timeless decorTimeless Decor is also known as Transitional style or “new take on old classic”. This is where designers combine traditional and modern styles and at the same time incorporate the use of lines, curves, not a lot of ornaments and use colour palettes which are neutral.Curves combined with straight lines in a transitional style décor will see a look that is comfortable and relaxing and an uncomplicated design which is classic, timeless, and clean.ColourColour palettes are typically neutral and subtle and may be monochromatic. The focus is on the colour of the interior and not on the upholstery or the floors. When choosing colours for your house, always be very cautious. At times, many colours may appeal to you or be in fashion however it will not stand the test of time. It may be best to incorporate the colour you choose with accent pieces and accessories.Neutrals play a important role in traditional home décor. They accentuate a space without overpowering it. Colours such as beiges, grays and off-whites have a strong presence and when mixed with bright white in ceilings and doorways, they produce timeless decor. These are colors you should choose as they form a perfect backdrop for formal furnishings and colourful artwork. You can also opt for classic colours like black, navy blue and dark greens that are often complemented by these neutrals.FurnitureUnlike contemporary furniture, transitional style focuses on comfort and practicality to meet the lifestyle of an active household. The scales of furniture pieces are ample but not overwhelming. Texture is important and therefore when choosing a furniture piece, always ensure that you are considering the surroundings and the colour scheme.Timeless design is functional and sensible. It is a style that suggests a quiet confidence. It’s not over the top nor is it boring. Timeless design is perfectly scaled and proportioned.  When creating this functional space you will see that your furniture should fit in a room perfectly. It should belong to a room and be neither too large as to overpower, or too small as to seem unimportant.Many designers suggest investing in solid antique pieces to give your space a sense of history that can forever be expanded onto.  Antique furniture, even though reflective of the past, becomes timeless when incorporated with other styles and furnishings.How to achieve this in your: 1. Living roomTo create a room that is timeless, steer away from oversized and puffy couches as well as those which appear to be overly streamlined or which look like those that should belong in a doctor's clinic. Timeless design, much like classic design, also steers away from overly decorated and busy patterns, shapes and spaces. In this concept, having less is often the best.When out shopping for your DIY project in redecoration, always keep an eye out for retro sideboards, plantation shutters, classic wooden photo frames and an ornamental mirror.The plantation shutters while giving the room a breezy look and will keep passers-by from snooping. Their clean lines add to the room’s bright feel and also has an exterior kerb appeal. The retro sideboard will transform the living room’s look and also ensure that the little knick-knacks are kept out of the way. It is also a good place to place precious ornaments and pictures. The best type of sideboard is one made of teak or rosewood.The picture frames can be used to create a picture cluster. You may have seen many houses with the picture clusters and the reason that they are a very good idea is that these picture clusters can be used to reflect your personality. You can align or misalign them, mix and match and yet they all seem to match and appear as one.A persian rug thrown on your floor is another good idea for your living room as its warm colours give the space a homely feel and also a little bit of excitement. It can also warm or cosy up a modern space. The hand woven Persian rugs are expensive however one can also use a traditional PNG mat which will also add a personal touch to the living room.The oldest trick in the book is to have an overmantle mirror. For old school sophistication, go for a French styled mirror with an ornate plaster or gilt painted wooden frame. These mirrors will give the room a sense of space and light.For patterns, use bold ones such as stripes, plaids and checks with a lot of natural materials in your home. It is best to steer away from bric-o-brac or little knick-knacks. A room with the least amount of ornaments is the simplest and best way to go. 2. KitchenOnly a handful of kitchen styles and colour schemes survive the constantly changing fashion scene. This means that we are not to be caught up with the latest and hottest kitchen layout that will soon fade out and make your home look outdated and at times very tacky.  Some colours to use for your dream kitchen are beige, ivory and a combination of white and grey as these are neutral. These colours when used correctly will give off a warm and striking effect which will inturn give off an elegant touch. Another colour which is timeless is striking yellow as this will make your room appear bigger and more welcoming. You can off-set these colours with a splash of green. Another colour or shade which gives off a chic and timeless impression is  Earthy brown.To ensure  that you have the right appliances to go with the colour of your kitchen, stick to stainless steel. This will ensure that you do not have a monotone area. Add in a few touch of colour when changing your faucets, your light fixtures or even choosing your flooring. It would also be fun to get creative with the ceiling where we can use a low gloss finish. However, if you have a big kitchen area, it would be a great idea to use a dark tone for the ceiling and have hanging light fixture. Also, when dealing with your cabinets, always remember that open shelving creates a casual atmosphere and you will be able to reach all your necessities easily.There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to renovating your kitchen. If you are renting, get permission from your landlord to paint the cabinetry and change the cabinet hardware. Imagine a bland cabinet and then it is transformed into a beautiful chalky white with upgraded handles, and suddenly you'll feel like you're in a new kitchen. Build exactly what you want, but always remain on the classic side of things. 3. BedroomIt is important that you choose furniture that will stand the test of time and yet having a good taste. A lack of ornaments and decoration with very little accessories will ensure that all focus is on the simplicity and sophistication of your bedroom. Stick with wooden furniture or beds as the beauty of the wood will always see your bedroom look chic.A scattering of local artwork or paintings such works by Andy Nombri, abstracts by Winnie Weowa and Jakupa Ako will also give your bedroom a local touch and personalise it as well.Timeless design is a relatively easy one to achieve. Your background should be neutral, and not busy. Emphasise clean lines and shapes and your home’s natural architectural details. Add classic colors such as dark green, navy and black as they complement the neutrals so well. Invest in a few pieces of antique furniture. Any furniture which comes from over 20 years ago are considered antique and if it hard to get, even reproductions will do.In Papua New Guinea, a visit to the local markets and thrift shops will see artifacts galore and even may see one get a  bargain. This coupled with the various hardware shops will see a variety of paint available.

Waigani | Source: YouTubeWaigani Suburb, or colloquially referred to as Waga, is centrally located between the Tokarara, Ensisi, Gordons and Gerehu suburbs, and sits ideally northwest of downtown Port Moresby and southwest of Jackson’s International Airport. As one of the largest and most iconic suburbs in Port Moresby, Waigani is home to several historical landmarks such as the National Parliament, National Museum, the National Library, Port Moresby’s National Arts Theatre, National Archives, Morauta Haus, and the newly refurbished City Hall.The sharp number of the population living in Waigani can be a pro or a con depending on your experience of the area. But one cannot deny the fact that since 2018’s APEC Summit, Waigani has experienced a boom in infrastructure development, thanks to the likes of: The Independence Boulevard; The Convention Center; Koura Way (connecting both Waigani and Hanuabada via Tokarara and June Valley); and,Keni Vani Road (links Gerehu and Rainbow with 8 and 9 mile); and,The Sir Manasupe Haus (formerly Pineapple Building) Map of Waigani | Source: Goolge maps1. Witness the nation's monumental eventsNot only is it one of the largest suburbs in the country but Waigani also has the most national and cultural attractions in it. The National Parliament, the National Museum, the Prime Minister's official residence, the Port Moresby National Arts Theatre, the National Library, National Archives, the PNG National Court, Morauta Haus (office of the Prime Minister of PNG) and the city’s only golf course - the Royal Port Moresby Golf Course are all within a five minute drive of each other, essentially sharing fences with each other.  2. AffordabilityIn the main, Waigani is home to a variety of property types to suit different needs and wallet sizes. From bedsitters to executive apartments, there is no doubt you will find what you are looking for in terms of price and quality affordable real estate. Prices range from as low as K600 (approximately AUD$208) through to K10,000 (AUD$3,458) per week.  3. AccessibilityBy accessibility we mean in the terms of access to conveniences, ease to move from that suburb to another, and road condition. Waigani had recently seen upgrades of roads and new access roads afford residents the ability to quickly move from Waigani to other suburbs. Like Boroko, Waigani allows ease of access to many conveniences: schools, groceries, a police station, postal services, four banks, service stations; pharmacies and other health services; and there are more churches in this suburb than Boroko. 4.VersatilityBedsitter, luxurious hotel, town house, church, market or an international sporting event - Waigani is as versatile a neighbourhood as they come. The suburb has a wide range of educational facilities initiated by private enterprises, churches and public institutions, with an array of subjects and teaching skills to suit. There’s lots to do at Waigani, for instance sports and entertainment; whether you’re an artist, an athlete, or a gaming nerd, there’s an active spot for your ingenuity to come alive. If there is one suburb that truly has it all, it is definitely Waigani. 5.SecurityIn the early 90s, Waigani shared boundaries with two other suburbs (Morata and Gerehu Stage 6) that were notorious for holds up and robberies. Modernization and a steady stream of education and employment opportunities gradually rewrote the collective attitude of the majority of inhabitants, thus, turning both suburbs into livable areas, just like any other.6. Aesthetic appealWaigani has many monuments and are found strategically located throughout the area, some in the form of infrastructure. There are structures that are graceful, symmetric and simply marvels of modern architecture; then there are also structures those that are utilitarian with carefully landscaped flower beds. and For the most part, Waigani has many mango and raintrees that sufficiently afford shades  and beautify residential areas. 7.Waigani MarketWaigani Market is one of only 3 markets in the nation’s capital that is normally active between 8am and 6pm, daily. If you are looking for cheap, organically grown fresh fruit and vegetables in a secure location (the police station is right next to the market), then look no further than Waigani market. 8. The biggest shows happen hereShow us a venue that can cater to a variety of sports and entertainment activities, and I’ll show you one that triples the effort. Yes, Sir John Guise stadium deserves a second mention, because of its location and its multi-purpose capacity. The Sir Guise stadium is usually the ideal venue for major events such as local trade shows, international sporting events, and live entertainments. The Real Estate shows from 2017 to 2019 utilized the stadium’s multi-purpose indoor complex and immediate outdoor space to that effect. Not too far down from the stadium are the  Australian High Commission, Japanese Embassy, and the iconic Sir Manasupe Zurenuoc Building, formerly Pineapple Building.All these factors make Waigani one of two of the most sought after suburbs to live in Port Moresby. 2018 Real Estate Show at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex All of these factors make Waigani one of two of the most sought after suburbs to live in Port Moresby.If you would like to see what is available for sale or rent in Waigani you can click Here. Remember you can refine your search to Buy or Rent, you can define the Property Type your are looking for and you can search for a particular price range by clicking and entering the relevant data on the tabs. For more information you can Subscribe to our Newsletter to receive news and updates about New Developments, Land Titles News, Insurance Information, Real Estate & Housing Demand trends and other information for developers or home buyers.

Port Moresby OverviewPort Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea and often called by its abbreviation POM or POM City, is presumed to be the largest city in the South Pacific, with an estimated 2020 population of just over 400,000, and distributed over a surface area of 240 kilometers, which roughly represents 1,500 residents per square kilometer. The City of Port Moresby is found on the island of New Guinea, a landmass shared with Indonesia, and lies south-east of the coast of the Papuan Peninsula, to which it significantly outlines the shores of the Gulf of Papua. Early HistoryPort Moresby sits on traditional land largely owned by the Motu-Koitabu people, who were mostly hunters, gatherers and seafarers, that normally traded with other indigenous communities - through the barter system - in the Gulf of Papua (Gulf Province today). Following Captain John Moresby’s proclamation of the land as British Empire-owned in 1873, the Queensland State of Australia annexed Papua 10 years later and declared it British-owned. In 1945, the United Nations merged the two territories into a trusteeship of Australia. The Territory of Papua and New Guinea had its first general election for its House of Assembly in 1964, preceding subsequent polls in 1968 and 72. In December 1973, the territory was granted self-governance and gained independence from Australia, in September of 1975.After independence After independence, Port Moresby became the seat of government and an important hub for the private sector in the post-independence period.The expansion of the PNG economy – thanks to a thriving extractive industry – triggered  a much needed growth for Port Moresby.  Successive national governments and municipal authorities rolled out modern facilities, complimenting increased investment in property development by the private sector. Today, Port Moresby’s skyline has evolved from low-set buildings to multistory apartment blocks and penthouses.While the PNG capital benefited over the years from the country’s economic maturity, the United Nations estimated that 37% of PNG’s population still live below the national poverty line, making the country one of the poorest in the world.  The city’s population has increased dramatically in the last four decades as more Papua New Guineans left their rural communities and migrated to Port Moresby and other urban centers in search of employment opportunities and a new way of life.  EconomyPort Moresby’s economy mainly revolves around the service industry, as output from businesses with a presence in the manufacturing and primary sectors. However, these sectors do not have a major impact on the city’s economic cycle. The growth in the service industry has been largely driven by a decade of positive growth in the PNG economy, burgeoned by the construction phase of the $US19 billion ExxonMobil-led PNG LNG Project; the largest resource extraction project in the Asia-Pacific region. Construction at the project site in both the Hela and Central provinces began in 2010, with the first gas export to Japan occurring in May 2014.  By the end of 2013, the PNG LNG Project had employed over 14,700 people including 5,600 Papua New Guineans. According to ExxonMobil the project delivered over 2.13 million hours of training which focused on developing the technical and professional skills of the workers that were recruited. Training facilities run by the company in Port Moresby and the Highlands had trained over 1600 workers since 2011. The city’s hosting of the 2015 Pacific Games and the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in 2016 also led to a massive investment by the PNG National Government in sporting facilities and logistics to the tune of K1.2 billion. The public works programs for both international events resulted in more employment for thousands of locals.Port Moresby’s 2018 APEC and its calendar of monthly meetings culminating with the Leaders’ Summit in November of that year, were expected to create further opportunities in the service industry for local businesses, as approximately 7000-10,000 participants traveled to PNG. The construction of the iconic APEC Haus, the venue for the leader’s conference, was underway that time and was scheduled for completion in July of that year.  Property developmentPort Moresby has a burgeoning property market that has evolved from low-set housing in the early years to multistory buildings, apartments and event penthouses in various parts of the city. The construction of multistory buildings and apartments for high-end customers were previously restricted to only Touaguba Hill, Paga Hill, Town area, Boroko and East Boroko. However, property investors began moving out of their comfort zones and in search of other suburbs to invest in. Today multistory buildings and apartments can be found in Gordons, Gordons 5, Waigani and Seven Mile in a major show of confidence in these suburbs.  Hot sellersProperty and land sold in and around individual suburbs of Port Moresby especially Touaguba Hill, Paga Hill, the downtown area, Boroko and East Boroko attracted a hefty fee. The price for a plot of land or a property (including apartments in a building) located in one of the above suburbs can sell for more than K1 million on the open market. Security and increased accessibility to amenities, and facilities including supermarkets and schools tend to be the driving force that ultimately leverage increased costs.  InfrastructureThe previous government under Peter O’Neil had invested millions of Kina into public works around Port Moresby. New road upgrades, causeways, roundabouts and the Kumul Flyover which directly links Waigani and Jackson’s Airport over Erima Suburb are the fruits of this investment. To date, this investment alone amounted to K3.2 billion, not only in Port Moresby, but in other provinces as well. This was part of the then Medium Term Development Plan and the National Transport Strategy 2011-2030.Water supplyThe National Government-owned utility company Eda Ranu is responsible for water and sewerage services to Port Moresby residents. The water quality is guided by the World Health Organization (WHO) Drinking Water Quality Guidelines.  ShoppingPort Moresby’s retail sector continues to evolve to this day, and is home to some of the most impressive shopping experiences you can get. Names like Waterfront, RH Hypermarket, Boroko Food World at Gordons, Stop ‘N’ Shop, Harbor City, all make for a great place to start.  Vision City Mega Mall, Port Moresby’s only integrated shopping complex, and by far the largest shopping mall throughout the South Pacific, is another shopping destination worth your day and time. Dotted with fun shops, a movie theatre, a night club, food bazaars, and low-key bars, there’s no shortage of attractions to go around. So when you’re in Port Moresby for shopping, it’s not entirely about what you will buy, but where?Educational institutionsAs with Port Moresby’s retail sector and every other sector that thrives on progress, the city’s education system is no different, thanks to both the public and private education providers.That in mind, Port Moresby is home to such notable universities as University of Papua New Guinea (or UPNG) which celebrated its 53 years in 2018, and Pacific Adventist University (PAU), which is a 40 minute drive outside of the city.Pacific Adventist University (PAU) is a 40-minute drive outside Port Moresby and Divine Word University has an NCD campus, which mainly caters for working class students. Other institutions include the Institute of Business Studies (IBS), Port Moresby Business College, Port Moresby Technical College, Institute of Education, International Training Institute (ITI) and the International Education Agency (IEA) or TAFE College at Ela Beach. For secondary education, you have Port Moresby National High School (POMNATS), Saint Joseph's International Catholic College, Port Moresby Grammar School, Port Moresby International School (POMIS), Jubilee Catholic Secondary School, Caritas, Don Bosco Technological Institute (DBTI), Gordon Secondary School, Kilakila Secondary School, Marianville Secondary School and the De La Salle Secondary School. LifestyleWith different ethnicities, and over 800 languages, the beauty of PNG lies in the fact that everyone tends to live in oneness with each other, majority of the time. It’s surprising that though Western culture appears to be dominant in especially a city like Port Moresby, cultures and traditions of old still remain strong among the population, and is proportional to the geographical locations.With advancement in pace and culture, you would think that by now Papua New Guinea will have succumbed to the dominance of Western culture. Unfortunately, that is half the truth, as traditional lifestyles clearly exalts the topography of each ethnicity in the country. Mannerisms, habits, mindsets, and foods remain purely Papua New Guinean, although there are exceptions such as dress codes and living standards, where both have assumed an upscale trend in major centers.  Safety And SecurityAs with any country in the world, there are good parts and bad parts. Of course, crime in Papua New Guinea is no laughing matter. However, there are certain things to do and advice to adhere to, with respect to travelers to PNG to have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.Sexual violence tends to be a major issue in PNG. While statistics lean more towards Gender Based Violence, one would be foolish enough not to acknowledge that living in PNG poses a different experience for everyone concerned.As a rule of thumb, Papua New Guinea, for the most part, is safe to visit, because of some of its major tourist attractions that are rich with history and have also received world recognition. While you're in the country and decide to experience the cities, townships, suburbs and villages to ensure a footprint, 9 times out of 10 your travel will be safe.Problems only come when you’re not in tune with your surroundings, and you wander off the main streets, or end up in an alley or settlement without a local area guide. Since it's easy to get caught up with Port Moresby’s energy and vibrancy, never forget to keep your wits about you.The gap between the haves and have-nots continue to widen, so be cautious when using your new iPhone, opening your cash-filled wallet, or changing the lenses of your new DSLR camera in public. Healthcare Port Moresby’s population has access to a variety of professional healthcare providers. The publicly-funded Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) is PNG’s national referral hospital, and offers first-hand practical experience for trainee-doctors, mainly selected from the UPNG School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Port Moresby’s major hospital has an Accidents & Emergency Department that opens 24 hours a day, and charges its patients a subsidized fee unlike private sector providers, who often enforce a pay-first policy.Other healthcare providers include the Pacific International Hospital (PIH), Paradise Private Hospital, Saint Mary’s Hospital, 2K Medical Clinic, Port Moresby Medical Service, Korobosea Clinic, and Aspen Medical at Konedobu.  Transport The Jackson International Airport at Seven Mile is the main international gateway into and out of PNG. The airport is 10-15 minutes drive from the Port Moresby CBD, through the Poreporena freeway and Kumul flyover, and is less than 10 minutes from Boroko and Waigani. The national carrier Air Niugini offers daily services to the Australian cities of Cairns and Brisbane and weekly services to Singapore, Tokyo, Manila and Nadi (Fiji).

OverviewLae is the capital of Morobe Province, and the second largest city in Papua New Guinea. It is situated on the northern coast of the Huon Gulf Peninsula, within close proximity to the Markham Delta. The city is considered as the industrial axis of Papua New Guinea, because it has more industrial capacity than both Port Moresby and Mount Hagen combined. The city of Lae retains an impressive internal road network, serving the logistics needs of both Madang Province and the Highlands Highway, which significantly stretches up to 700km.The official population of Lae City, based on data compiled by the PNG National Statistical Office, continues past 148,934 to date, which is inclusive of its 11 suburbs: Bumayong, Bugandi, Chinatown, Dowsett, Eriku, Malahang, Taraka, Tent City, Voco Point, 3 Mile and 6 Mile. The traditional custodians of the greater Lae area are the Butibam and Kamkumung villages, who happen to be the first inhabitants of the land that is currently Lae city. However, the battle for land ownership between the two villages has been ongoing since the colonial days. Lae was built on the back of the Wau-Bulolo gold rush, with prospectors and miners using Lae airstrip as the transport hub to fly equipment to the fields, during the 1920s. The town grew as miners flew in from around the world with the Morobe Goldfield, at one point,  hosting 700 expatriates and over 6000 local miners. Overtime, Lae city developed into both a major cargo port and manufacturing base in PNG, with almost 20 foreign and locally-owned companies operating alongside each other.In the years that followed, more established routes were developed and penetrated throughout much of Lae, allowing stories and histories to be told and retold as the city matured. It was not until 2014 when a mammoth plan for development was forecasted by the Asian Development Bank for the Lae wharf, named as the ‘Lae Port Development Project’, which amounted to a hefty sum of $390 million.Upon project completion, the wharf had an additional 250 meters spread on top of an  existing base of 600 meters, purported to ease shipping congestion.Being the industrial axis of Papua New Guinea, Lae became an important point of entry to the Highlands region, resulting in a revitalised economy that stemmed from major sectors such as distribution, manufacturing, fisheries, mining and agriculture gaining strength. HistoryLae was established as a township in 1900 when German traders set up a branch of what was then known as the New Guinea Company in Lae.German missionaries arrived in numbers between 1915 and 1919 at the Territory of New Guinea, which was administered by the Germans and was later handed over to Australia, following the defeat of Germany in World War I. Missionaries from the Lutheran Church later settled in Lae and have had a profound effect on the lives of Lae residents and the province’s population since. The town eventually came under the Australian colonial administration following World War I.However, not much of a development was seen other than a police station and an administration center, until the Wau-Bulolo gold rush in 1926.In 1941, the Australian government chose Lae as the new capital of the Territory of New Guinea following the 1937 volcanic eruption in Rabaul. But the status-change wasn’t effective immediately, as the region came under fire from World War II, largely due to the invading Japanese Imperial Forces, who went on to occupy the township together with Salamaua; both areas were then turned into major Japanese bases on the island of New Guinea. Following defeats at Kokoda Track, Guna and Wau, the Japanese retreated to Lae and Salamaua, where they made a last stand that saw weeks of fierce fighting, before succumbing to defeat in September 1943. The Australian colonial administration founded Lae’s local government in 1971, followed by the proclamation of Lae as a city in 1972. Between 1978 and ‘79 – backing the establishment of the Morobe provincial government – the Lae City Interim Authority was created under the Development Authority Act 1981. The city authority became the Lae Urban Local-Level Government Council in 1997, as a patronage to the National Government’s provincial and local-level government reforms. EconomyLae’s economy relies heavily on the distribution, manufacturing, fisheries, mining and agriculture sectors, thanks to its strategic location as the gateway to the Highlands region, as well as its establishment on the northern coast of PNG, which links up with other provinces in the Mamose and New Guinea Islands regions. The completion of the ADB-funded project was ensured through an investment by the then National Government, that was worth K250 million. The project was aimed at rehabilitating Lae’s major roads between 2013 and 2016, alongside the construction of a four-lane highway, to link both Lae and Nadzab and succinctly resuscitate the city’s private sector. The redevelopment of the Nadzab airport in 2018, came in at a whopping K600 million, a project funded by the Japanese government at that time. The scope of the project was to allow for an increase in air traffic to Lae and Morobe Province following its commissioning. Some of the large businesses currently based in Lae include: Paradise Foods Limited, Halla Cement, HBS PNG Limited, iPi Group, Trukai Rice, SP Brewery, Bismark Maritime, South Pacific Steel, Papindo Group of Companies, Prima Small Goods, Lae Biscuit Company, Citylink Motel, MMK Transport, Barlow Industries Ltd, Mapai Transport, PNG Metal Fabricators and Homestate Cooperation. Having already benefited from the construction phase of the $19 billion ExxonMobil-led PNG LNG project, as the city had produced and transported thousands of tons of goods to service the project site in the Highlands, putting Lae in the box seat to capitalize on the extractive industry. The Wafi-Golpu gold and copper project, situated approximately 65km south-west of Lae, was the brainchild of Newcrest Mining Limited, who  came off a K12.7 billion investment. InfrastructureTransportHealthcareUtilities TransporLae’s Nadzab Airport is a 30-40 minute drive from the city, and is the key link by air between Morobe province and other major centers throughout PNG. The national carrier, Air Niugini, offers daily air services to Lae and other townships from Port Moresby. PNG Air, a third level airline company, also frequents this route out of Port Moresby.On land, the National Government is responsible for maintaining a 137km stretch of road, comprising Independence Drive, Markham Road, and the Milford Haven Road. The other remaining portions are the sole responsibility of Lae City Council.The National Government, that time, invested K250 million between 2013 and 2016 to restore the city’s road infrastructure, which saw most of them resealed. In addition, a four-lane highway was constructed to ease the traffic congestion that occurs between Lae and the Nadzab Airport. Work began that year (2018) to redevelop and upgrade the Nadzab airport, which was planned to receive international flights, presumably overseen by the Japanese government, back then.Healthcare The Angau Memorial Hospital is a publicly-funded health institution that also provides a 24-hour emergency service as well as houses the National Cancer Center. Other healthcare providers include the Lae International Hospital, Eriku Medical Center and Dr Garap’s Clinic.Water supplyGovernment-owned utility company, Water PNG Ltd, manages Lae City’s water supply and sanitation services to the residents. Water quality is guided by the World Health Organization (WHO) Drinking Water Quality Guidelines. Water PNG is also responsible for the city’s sewage and the main water catchments throughout the region. ShoppingCurrently, Lae is experiencing a surge in department and hardware stores, banks, travel agencies and a plethora of small shops and business owners. The major players in this regard include the likes of Papindo Lae Toptown Shopping Centre, Papindo Supermarket, Lae Plaza, and Brian Bell Plaza. Educational institutionsThe Papua New Guinea University of Technology (UNITECH) leads education service providers in Lae and offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs to both local and international students. Other tertiary education institutions include the Lae Technical College, one of the largest in the country that offers polytechnic certificate and diploma courses, and others such as The International School of Lae, Busu Secondary School and Coronation College.  LifestyleLifestyle in Lae City is slightly different compared to Port Moresby, basically in terms of dressing, behaviour and local expressions. Everything else has striking similarities. What you experience in Port Moresby you can expect the same in Lae. The only exceptions are the terrain, area development and geography.Generally, the city of Lae is at the epicenter of several villages, thus the overall lifestyle borders on three-quarter traditional and one quarter Western culture.Safety And SecurityLike Port Moresby, and everywhere else within PNG, taking precautions when out and about is your number one ally at this juncture. As we’ve mentioned whilst in Port Moresby, the gap between the haves and have-nots continue to widen, so be cautious when using your new iPhone, opening your cash-filled wallet, or changing the lenses of your new DSLR camera in public. In public transport, make sure you shut the windows, or if you prefer to enjoy the breeze, keep your phone, camera or wallet in your bag always. The chances of your valuables being snatched through the window are ridiculously high. This also goes for open car windows and even if you're cycling. It all goes back to the idea of always being aware of your surroundings.If someone approaches you and demands your belongings, hand them over. No matter how tough you are, they could be carrying anything and your possessions are not worth your life.If you've planned ahead and have electronic copies of your passport and essential phone numbers (insurance claims number, friends or family contacts, bank number to cancel cards) then you're already landing on your feet.EmergencyLet’s hope that nothing bad ever happens to you while in Lae. But f you need to phone the emergency services, keep this in mind:Lae’s police division is considered the most proactive and community-focused disciplinary force PNG has to offer. Lae’s police force is currently in a partnership with the local mobile phone operator, Digicel, to maintain the initiative behind its local emergency toll free number: +675 7090 3300. Police emergencies can still be contacted through a landline on: +675 473 5401.

From the laid back surrounding of Jacksons Airport to one of three bustling city suburbs of Port Moresby, equal in standing with its own unique scene, attraction, and history, get to know Port Moresby and its diverse ethnicity with Boroko as your starting point.You may find it overwhelming with all the choices; so many price tags, wantoks and of course the road conditions, whether it’s accommodation to rent or buy. We all want our abodes to be effectively affordable, accessible, versatile, secure and have aesthetic appeal, followed by carefully considering the suburb and indeed the neighborhood in a city like Port Moresby, before you even begin your search.According to the 2020 PNG Real Estate Survey, both Boroko and Waigani turned out to be the most of attractive neighbourhoods to live in. With a past as memorable as the red, white and black colors of the Papua New Guinea's flag, Boroko was once the epicenter of Port Moresby’s city life between the ‘80s and ‘90s. The suburb, though it has lost most of its appeal to Waigani’s Vision City Mega Mall, it has come a long way to maintaining its dignity as a livable suburb to date.Let’s consider some reasons why Boroko remains a highly sought after suburb to live in:1.The happening in BorokoUsing a map, you can easily figure out why this particular suburb is one of the highly sought-after suburbs in Port Moresby, provided you know what you’re looking for. Major sporting facilities such as the National Football Stadium, the Rita Flynn Netball Courts and Bisini Soccer Grounds are found here, just minutes apart from each other. These facilities also play host to many international sporting events.2. AffordableAffordability is relative to your income. What you find affordable may be extremely expensive to someone else, and this is one of the best things about Boroko! There is a price tag that is just right for everyone! You can find apartments as low as K800 a week to serviced townhouses at K4,000 a week, and more.3. AccessibleWhen we talk about accessibility, we mean access to conveniences, access to other suburbs and also the actual driving conditions of the streets. Boroko can be described as the center of Pom City.From Boroko you have easy access to other suburbs, one of Pom City’s main public bus stops is here, so getting to and from work or school is easier. Boroko offers a police station, a fire station, a post office, two banks, a craft market, many grocery stores; service stations; pharmacies and other health services; beauty parlours; schools and an assortment of churches.Overall the condition of the roads and the general security reputation of the suburb make it one of the best choices in the nation’s capital. 4.VersatilityBoroko is the most versatile suburb you can expect to live in. it can be a short stroll from your residence, training grounds or shopping intentions. From bedsitters to daycares to educational institutions of all intents and purposes, can be found in this suburb.Various denominations are also present in this neighbourhood, as well as there are clubs and betting shops to choose from. Even with both residential and commercial properties, and not to mention industrial and sporting facilities, Boroko has quite an offering compared to competing, eclectic suburbs in the nation’s capital.5.Secure Security is one factor that many Papua New Guineans consider seriously when deciding where to live, and this is one reason why many people prefer to live in Boroko. Despite the area’s notoriety for prostitution and petty crimes, it is generally a quiet neighbourhood to live in. The police station located in this suburb also helps with maintaining the law and order, not only in this part of the city but right throughout Port Moresby..6. Aesthetic appealBoroko is built on what used to be swampland in the 1930s, meaning that the actual land is sustainably rich and makes for pretty good gardens, if you have the time. The suburb is surrounded by rolling hills, and numerous streets that are outlined by white frangipani and orange ixora plants that remind you - in case you forget - that you are in the heart of the tropics.7.The freshest, organic food at affordable pricesIn terms of fresh organic foods, Boroko has one of Port Moresby’s three major fresh food produce markets. Boroko market is located opposite the National Football Stadium with a huge variety of fresh fruit, vegetables, poultry and at times, depending on the weather, seafood. Boroko market is another wading pool of the local SMEs, and one of many areas within the city where you can actually support and promote local produce. 8.The best 'Kalsa' spotThere was a time when between every June and September, Port Moresby had weekly pre-independence and provincial day celebrations.No other province sees as colourful or as dedicated a show of cultural pride as than NCD, where the cooking pot had at least one of the 800 cultural ingredients. During this period, people living in other suburbs have to either send word to back home for someone to bring an item or two for ‘bilas’, or go searching the markets for these ornaments. Boroko residents, however, had one of two things to make the most of: unwind at home or take a casual stroll down to the craft market that happened every Monday to Saturday, from 9am to 4pm.

OverviewKorobosea is a suburb of Port Moresby and is located between East Boroko, Kirakira village and the Two Mile Hill area.It is predominantly a residential area and within the vicinity of public and private health service providers such as the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) and the Pacific International Hospital (PIH).Most properties in Korobosea were previously government-owned medium to high cost covenant housing, which were later sold to the tenants (public servants) or ended up in private ownership through various government give-away schemes.The nearest large supermarket is the Supa Value Stoa (SVS) next to the PNG Defence Force headquarters at Murray Barracks. There are smaller shops located at China Town in East Boroko.A privately-run public transport system connects Korobosea with East Boroko, the Boroko commercial area and the Port Moresby CBD through Two Mile Hill. HistoryThe suburb is named after Korobosea, a large village whose inhabitants the Motu-Koitabu are considered the traditional landowners of Port Moresby. Korobosea, located on a hill overlooking Joyce Bay and Walter Bay, was the first village for the indigenous population in the area.Over the years some villagers left Korobosea and moved to the foot of the hill to establish what is now called Kirakira. Mahuru village, which can be found between Korobosea and Kirakira villages, is an offshoot of Kirakira village.  The descendants of the original settlers of Korobosea can still be found living at the site of the old village and have a population of about 1000 people. ResidentialAn increasing number of owners of what was previously government-owned medium to high-cost covenant housing have reinvested in their properties and are now putting them up for rent.The close proximity of Korobosea to Port Moresby’s two large health service providers and the Boroko commercial area make it an attractive location for working-class Papua New Guineans who want to rent. SchoolsKorobosea is home to the International Education Agency (IEA)-run Korobosea International School. Other schools in close proximity to the suburb include the Port Moresby Grammar School, Port Moresby International School (POMIS), Kilakila Secondary School (close to Kirakira village) and the Ted Diro Primary School at Murray Barracks. HealthcareOn top of the services offered by the PIH and PMGH, there are other healthcare providers in the area. These are Paradise Private Hospital, 2K Medical Centre, Korobosea Clinic, and the University of PNG School of Medicine and Health Sciences dental clinic.The UPNG School of Medicine and Health Sciences is next to the PMGH and trains PNG’s doctors. EmergencyThe Port Moresby police metropolitan command is stationed at the Boroko commercial area and is a 10-minute drive from Korobosea. Adjacent to the Boroko police station is a PNG Fire Service station, which can respond to emergencies within the community.

OverviewThe suburb of Gabutu is located on the coast in the south of Port Moresby overlooking Walter Bay and Manubada Island with the Coral Sea in the back.It is a scenic part of the PNG capital and was in the colonial days a location of choice for mixed-race families. Konebada Beach on the waterfront is frequented by residents while Manubada Island just off the coast of Gabutu is a popular picnic spot for city residents.The suburb is predominantly residential except for Karius Road where a few local businesses have their premises. The road also provides sole access for drivers to the Taikone and Vabukori villages.   HistoryGabutu was – prior to the arrival of the British colonial administration – a fishing area for Korobosea and later Kirakira villagers.Manubada Island just of the coast of Gabutu used to be a gardening area for its traditional owners. The reefs close to the island were also a fishing ground for the Vabukori and Pari villagers.Gabutu, Koki and Badili were the three Port Moresby suburbs with the largest number of resident mixed-race families in the pre and post-independence PNG. Today third to fourth generation mixed-raced families with European and Filipino ancestry still call Gabutu home. Office spaceGabutu is primarily a residential area with just one pocket of the suburb allocated to the churches (Catholic Church, Church of Latter Day Saints and the Assembly of God) and a small business center that houses the offices of local business Patrick’s Transport and Patrick’s Cellars. The Don Bosco Technical School is within the premises of the local Catholic Church. ResidentialThe association of Gabutu with mixed-race families is epitomized in the size and quality of the architectural design in a lot of the properties found here. A number of these properties were renovated by the owners and are today on the rental market. In 2015 the National Housing Estate Limited (NHEL) – the business arm of the National Government’s National Housing Corporation (NHC) – signed an agreement with Korea Palace Construction Ltd and Korea Niugini Housing Ltd to embark on a K2.17 billion mixed-use land development project in Gabutu. The public-private-partnership project will see the construction of ten 15-storey apartment blocks overlooking Konebada beach in Gabutu and is a project supported by the O’Neill government. SchoolsThe Don Bosco Technical School is the only education institution that is resident in Gabutu. Other schools within the vicinity of the suburb are Kilakila Secondary School, Kilakila Primary School and the Sevese Morea Primary School at Vabukori. HealthcareThe nearest health facility is the Four Square Church-run Kaugere Clinic in Kaugere, a 10-minute drive from Gabutu. The Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH), Pacific International Hospital (PIH) and other private clinics are a 15 to 20-minute drive at Three Mile. TransportAccess to Gabutu is through public transport (Bus Route 22) from Koki and Bus Route 10 from Manu Autoport (East Boroko). Government emergency The nearest police station is located at Badili while the PNG Fire Service station at Four Mile (Boroko commercial area) and Town can attend to emergencies at Gabutu.

Papua New Guinea OverviewHere is all you need to know about Papua New Guinea, the country specs, key features and the latest real estate prospects and trends.Papua New Guinea (PNG) occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and shares international borders with Australia, Indonesia, Solomon Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia. It is an attractive investment destination and has immense potential in tourism, thanks to its flora and fauna and cultural and linguistic diversity.  It comprises 20 provinces, the autonomous region of Bougainville and Port Moresby, the National Capital District (NCD).Location and Economy of PNGPapua New Guinea (PNG) occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea and shares international borders with Australia, Indonesia, Solomon Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia. PNG is 160km north of Australia and includes over 600 islands and 5,000 km of coastline across 463,000 sq km.  The country comprises 22 provinces, the autonomous region of Bougainville and Port Moresby, and the National Capital District (NCD).PNG is endowed with natural resources and is home to one of the world’s largest tropical rainforests. The country has significant gold, silver, copper, nickel, cobalt, crude oil, natural gas and other mineral deposits. Forestry, mining, petroleum, agriculture and livestock, tourism and hospitality, fisheries, and manufacturing are the major economic drivers in PNG.PNG History and CultureArchaeological evidence suggests that the Island of New Guinea was first settled over 50,000 years ago by humans who likely arrived in two different migration groups at different times.  The first European contact occurred in the 16th century when Portuguese and Spanish explorers chanced upon the main island. Jorge de Menezes, a Portuguese explorer, called it “Papua” when he visited in 1526 – 1527. Spaniard Ynigo Ortiz de Retez called the island “New Guinea” in 1545 as he thought its inhabitants resembled indigenous populations on the African Guinea coast. The island’s southern area was colonised by the British in 1884 and was known as British New Guinea. In 1905, the territory was transferred to the Australian Commonwealth and renamed the Territory of Papua.The northern region, along with parts of the Highlands and Islands regions, was Germany’s territory and known as German New Guinea. Australian military forces captured these areas during World War 1 and administered the region afterwards. When PNG became independent in 1975, the names Papua and New Guinea became amalgamated, hence the name Papua New Guinea.The current estimated population of PNG is ~8.94 million with foreign nationals making up 1% of the total population. The majority of the population live in rural areas, with up to 25% of people residing in urban centres.PNG is reputedly the most ethnically diverse country in the world, with over 850 languages. Geographic regions broadly categorise Papua New Guineans: New Guineans (from the Momase area on the north mainland), Papuans (from the south), Highlanders and Islanders. Port Moresby, the capital of PNG, is situated within a natural harbour on the southwest coast of the mainland. The capital is culturally diverse, and the estimated population of Port Moresby is 400,000 residents.Climate of Papua New GuineaPapua New Guinea is within the tropics, with a typical daytime temperature in the lowlands between 30 - 32 °C and dropping to 23 - 24 °C at night. Although the seasons are influenced by the trade winds (dry season between May and November) and northwesterly monsoons (wet season between December and March), the coastal areas are typically hot and humid all year round, and rain is common.Port Moresby tends to be drier than the rest of the country, receiving an average rainfall of 1020mm a year due partly to its sheltered location. By comparison, Madang gets an average of 3500mm of rain a year. The Highlands region is refreshingly cooler, with temperatures between 20 - 29 °C during the day, dropping to below 15 °C at night. Frost and snow are not uncommon in high altitude areas.Languages in PNGOfficial languages of PNG include English, Tok Pisin (also known as Pidgin English), PNG Sign language and Motu. English is widely spoken and used in the courts, by the government and the education system. English is typically spoken when conducting business, and translators are rarely required.Indigenous languages and local dialects number 850+.Currency, Credit Cards and GST in PNGThe PNG Kina is the currency of Papua New Guinea. One Kina (K) is constituted by 100 Toea (t) - pronounced “toy-ya”.Banknotes are denominated in K100, K50, K20, K10, K5 and K2. Coins in circulation are K1, 50t, 20t, 10t and 5t.All transactions in PNG are subject to 10% goods and services tax (GST). The GST component of a good or service is usually included in the published prices. Most shops, restaurants, and major hotels accept Amex, Diners, Mastercard and Visa credit cards.There are three banks in PNG: Bank South Pacific (BSP), Kina Bank and Westpac Bank. They all issue debit cards on request, as well as standard bank cards which can be used on EFTPOS in most major stores, but can’t be used for online transactions. Be warned, the queues at the bank can be quite long and tiresome, so setting up internet banking at the time of opening the account is wise.Cost of Living in Papua New GuineaPapua New Guinea is an expensive country to live in, from housing to food and lifestyle costs. Rental prices have been compared to Manhattan or Sydney, and there are several reasons for this. The land tenure system favours traditional (customary) land ownership, and only a small proportion of land in PNG is state-owned (~3% by some estimates). Therefore, there is a shortage of land that is available for development, making land prices high. Secondly, many properties have essential services supplied that would not be typically required overseas, such as security, backup electricity and backup water. Secure, quality rental accommodation starts at K1,500 per week for a very affordable home and up to K6,500 for a luxury apartment. Many goods in PNG are imported, and as such, most products include the cost of freight and duty, which are higher than overseas markets. The following table compares commonly purchased groceries against common currencies. PGKAUDUSDGBPEURPHPExchange Rate Aug 2021 (Approx)10.390.290.210.2414.37Properties (per month)      3-Bed Mid Range Apartment 13,000.005,070.003,770.002,730.003,120.00186,810.003-Bed Luxury apartment 21,666.678,450.006,283.334,550.005,200.00311,350.00       Groceries      Coffee 225gm15.005.854.353.153.60215.55Milk 1l6.002.341.741.261.4486.22Cola 500ml3.501.371.020.740.8450.30Bottle water 500ml3.001.170.870.630.7243.11Sliced White Bread5.502.151.601.161.3279.04Rice 500gm3.001.170.870.630.7243.11Cheese (imported)18.007.025.223.784.32258.66Head of Lettuce (local)12.004.683.482.522.88172.44       Eating Out      Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant140.0054.6040.6029.4033.602,011.80Meal for 2 at a high-end restaurant250.0097.5072.5052.5060.003,592.50Local Beer12.004.683.482.522.88172.44Imported Beer15.005.854.353.153.60215.55Bottle of Wine60.0023.4017.4012.6014.40862.20Bottle of Spirits180.0070.2052.2037.8043.202,586.60       Education      From3,000.001,170.00870.00630.00720.0043,110.00To56,000.0021,840.0016,240.0011,760.0013,440.00804,720.00       Social Clubs per annum      From1,900.00741.00551.00399.00456.0027,303.00To4,300.001,677.001,247.00903.001,032.0061,791.00

Waigani Suburb, or colloquially referred to as Waga, is centrally located between the Tokarara, Ensisi, Gordons and Gerehu suburbs, and sits ideally northwest of downtown Port Moresby and southwest of Jackson’s International Airport.  As one of the largest and most iconic suburbs in Port Moresby, Waigani is home to several historical landmarks such as the National Parliament, National Museum, the National Library, Port Moresby’s National Arts Theatre, National Archives, Morauta Haus, and the newly refurbished City Hall.The sharp number of the population living in Waigani can be a pro or a con depending on your experience of the area. But one cannot deny the fact that since 2018’s APEC Summit, Waigani has experienced a boom in infrastructure development, thanks to the likes of: The Independence Boulevard; The Convention Center; Koura Way (connecting both Waigani and Hanuabada via Tokarara and June Valley); and,Keni Vani Road (links Gerehu and Rainbow with 8 and 9 mile); and,The Sir Manasupe Haus (formerly Pineapple Building) 1. Witness the nation's monumental eventsNot only is it one of the largest suburbs in the country but Waigani also has the most national and cultural attractions in it. The National Parliament, the National Museum, the Prime Minister's official residence, the Port Moresby National Arts Theatre, the National Library, National Archives, the PNG National Court, Morauta Haus (office of the Prime Minister of PNG) and the city’s only golf course - the Royal Port Moresby Golf Course are all within a five minute drive of each other, essentially sharing fences with each other.2. AffordabilityIn the main, Waigani is home to a variety of property types to suit different needs and wallet sizes. From bedsitters to executive apartments, there is no doubt you will find what you are looking for in terms of price and quality affordable real estate. Prices range from as low as K600 (approximately AUD$208) through to K10,000 (AUD$3,458) per week. 3. AccessibilityBy accessibility we mean in the terms of access to conveniences, ease to move from that suburb to another, and road condition. Waigani had recently seen upgrades of roads and new access roads afford residents the ability to quickly move from Waigani to other suburbs. Like Boroko, Waigani allows ease of access to many conveniences: schools, groceries, a police station, postal services, four banks, service stations; pharmacies and other health services; and there are more churches in this suburb than Boroko.4.VersatilityBedsitter, luxurious hotel, town house, church, market or an international sporting event - Waigani is as versatile a neighbourhood as they come. The suburb has a wide range of educational facilities initiated by private enterprises, churches and public institutions, with an array of subjects and teaching skills to suit. There’s lots to do at Waigani, for instance sports and entertainment; whether you’re an artist, an athlete, or a gaming nerd, there’s an active spot for your ingenuity to come alive. If there is one suburb that truly has it all, it is definitely Waigani.5.SecurityIn the early 90s, Waigani shared boundaries with two other suburbs (Morata and Gerehu Stage 6) that were notorious for holds up and robberies. Modernization and a steady stream of education and employment opportunities gradually rewrote the collective attitude of the majority of inhabitants, thus, turning both suburbs into livable areas just like any other.6. Aesthetic appealWaigani has many monuments that are found strategic points throughout the area, some in the form of infrastructure. There are structures that are graceful, symmetric and simply marvels of modern architecture; then there are those that are utilitarian with carefully landscaped flower beds. For the most part, Waigani has many mango and raintrees that sufficiently afford shades  and beautify residential areas.7.Waigani MarketWaigani Market is one of only 3 markets in the nation’s capital that is normally active between 8am and 6pm, daily. If you are looking for cheap, organically grown fresh fruit and vegetables in a secure location (the police station is right next to the market), then look no further than Waigani market.8. The biggest shows happen hereShow us a venue that can cater to a variety of sports and entertainment activities, and I’ll show you one that triples the effort. Yes, Sir John Guise stadium deserves a second mention, because of its location and its multi-purpose capacity. The Sir Guise stadium is usually the ideal venue for major events such as local trade shows, international sporting events, and live entertainments. The Real Estate shows from 2017 to 2019 utilized the stadium’s multi-purpose indoor complex and immediate outdoor space to that effect. Not too far down from the stadium are the  Australian High Commission, Japanese Embassy, and the iconic Sir Manasupe Zurenuoc Building, formerly Pineapple Building. All these factors make Waigani one of two of the most sought after suburbs to live in Port Moresby.

Hausples.com.pg  is very excited to announce the launch of a new “International Section” featuring Fijiand Australian properties.Whilst Hausples.com.pg is very proud to be advocating for better access for housing for the average Papua New Guinean, our new international section recognises that some lucky citizens and residents are considering property purchases overseas. As such, our new International Section features Australian and Fijian properties; the most common countries for PNG nationals and expatriates to purchase real estate.In this newsletter we consider the lifestyle and financial benefits for Papua New Guineans to invest in Australian properties.  An upcoming newsletter will focus on Fiji and a further exciting strategic partnership for Hausples, our real estate agents and our sellers and landlords. Stay tuned! Why consider purchasing in Australia?One of the most valued benefits for Papua New Guineans when purchasing Australian properties is the availability of high quality education. When you couple this with the strong investment returns available on Australian properties, it’s not surprising that Australia is an investment hotspot for PNG nationals.Cayman Properties’ Queensland international marketing specialist Angela Vinnicombe says “An increasing number of PNG families are realising the dual benefit of investing in Australia now with a view to achieving significant capital returns once their children complete their education and return to PNG. The families then have the option of renting the property out to further their investment or selling it.” Which cities to consider?Strategically, the most popular locations for education and  investment in Australian properties are Cairns and Brisbane in Queensland.Angela says that for senior schooling and university education, Queensland and Papua New Guinea have a natural affinity with a similar climate and short travel distances from Port Moresby to Cairns of 1 hour and 40 minutes, whilst to Brisbane the trip takes just 3 hours.“80% of my Papua New Guinean client base is investing to support their families educational aspirations and Queensland is seen as the ideal market” explains Angela. Where to invest and buy Australian properties?“The best locations to invest in are those with easy access to a mix of both Government and private schools, universities and other tertiary institutions such as TAFE. These locations are sought ofter by both local Australians and foreign citizens, this ensures strong demand and the  potential for rapid capital growth” says Angela.Cairns is one of the most sought after cities by Papua New Guineans. According to Angela “The beach suburbs of Trinity Beach, Trinity Park and Kewarra Beach are particularly popular due to their close proximity to the beach and natural parkland areas. In addition, these suburbs are a short walk or bus trip to the commercial hub of Smithfield which is home to restaurants, shopping centres and the popular James Cook University. James Cook University is well renowned and offers a wide range of courses in business, law and science.’Outside of Cairns, Angela cites Brisbane as the second most in-demand city for investments. “The capital of Queensland, Brisbane has all of the conveniences one would expect from an international city. Suburbs likely to achieve strong capital growth include Brighton and Narangba in the north, while in the south Crestmead, Logan and Beenleigh are seeing strong investment returns.Finally, the Gold Coast is experiencing a renaissance, with the subsurbs of Pimpama, Coomera and Helensvale proving very popular given their proximity to the GriffithUniversity Parkwood campus.Of course there aren’t just investors looking to purchase residential properties in Queensland. More and more Papua New Guineans and foreign expatriates are diversifying their portfolio with strategic investments into blue-chip commercial, industrial and retail properties. Are you interested in finding out more about purchasing property in Australia? Click Here.

How much you need to bring with you as a family moving to Port Moresby depends largely on how long you are planning to stay and how frequently you will be making trips back home or abroad.Perhaps in contrast with most travel advice you’re likely to get, if you’re planning for a long-stay it’s advisable to come with as much as you can. There are a number of ways to transport your personal effects to PNG. Depending on the distance your goods need to travel, many choose to ship via containers. Also, the world famous DHL operates a fantastic, reliable service here in PNG (+675 325 9866). Day-to-day basics such as nappies, soaps, baby food, fresh whole milk and formula are readily available in all the major supermarkets, but certain childcare products are difficult to come by in Port Moresby. Any large-scale baby equipment, especially those which you would prefer to be accredited with a recognisable safety standard, such as cots and car-seats, need to come with you wherever possible. Items such as high-chairs, ride-on outdoor toys, baby baths, changing tables and bouncy chairs are available to buy in Port Moresby, but at a premium cost and generally, low quality. Finding good quality new children’s clothing, just as with adult clothing, is a challenge. It is advisable to bring as much as you can and to plan ahead with larger sizes to put away for future use. If you find yourself short, very basic cheap clothing imported from around East Asia is available in Kids World in Vision City, and the two toyshops inside the Waterfront shopping complex. That said, Port Moresby is nothing if not unpredictable, and it is possible to occasionally find good quality baby merchandise. The baby store Patini in Vision City, RH Hypermarket, also in Vision City, and the home-store Brian Bell in Gordons have all be known to stock global-branded baby merchandise (such as Fisher-Price and Britax). There is also a healthy trade in second-hand goods operating within the expat community. Goods for sale are advertised on notice boards in The Royal Yacht Club and The Aviat Club and can be bought at the regular garage sales and house clearances held in compounds and apartments throughout the year. For older children, stationery is not a problem. School supplies and arts and crafts materials are covered by Theodist Stationers, which has an extensive range of products that would compete with similar suppliers anywhere. There is also a well-stocked stationer (Star Office) in Vision City. Books are trickier to come by. There is one bookstore in Vision City (Star News Link) that stocks a modest, though impressively diverse (and costly) range of quality children’s books. It is advisable to bring as many as you can with you, and to check for second-hand bookstalls often present at the monthly craft markets, as well as at special events held at the two main social clubs and the international schools. The availability of books might be less of a concern if your children will be attending either of the two international schools as they have libraries of their own. Between the two main international schools, education and childcare is covered from 18-months through to 18-years and both schools are well-equipped and have respectable academic reputations. The Early Learning Centre, a division of the The Ela Murray International School, is the only International pre-school in Port Moresby, and provides excellent facilities. If your children will be staying at home, you might be in need of a nanny. There is no shortage of people looking for work as nannies and babysitters in Port Moresby. Childcare qualifications are rare, but many will have a wealth of experience. Either way, there will likely be some trial-and-error involved in the process before settling on the right person for your family. Ask for recommendations from others who are pleased with their child-carers. There are doctors and paediatricians holding internationally recognised qualifications operating in most medical facilities throughout the city, with the best reports coming from the Pacific International Hospital. If the company you are working for in Port Moresby comes with medical cover from the International SOS Clinic based at Airways Hotel, most routine procedures, including child vaccinations, can be handled there. Otherwise if you are travelling to Port Moresby with a young child, you will need to consider the possibility of returning to your country of origin, or making special arrangements for a trip to Australia, in order to continue a vaccination program. There is no shortage of activities for children and families in Port Moresby. In addition to the more obvious attractions, such as the National Orchid Gardens and Wildlife Park, and the lovely Nature Park, there is also tennis coaching available, swimming lessons at the Aviat Club, and free children’s cookery classes at Airways Hotel. For very young children, there is a weekly toddler group held at The Royal Papua Yacht Club, a baby group for mothers with babes-in-arms held weekly at The Grand Papua Hotel, as well as a network of informal play groups hosted by different families every week. There are safe, well-maintained and well-equipped children’s outdoor, under-cover playgrounds in The Royal Papua Yacht Club, The Aviat Club, and Airways Hotel. There is also the indoor, air-conditioned, soft-play centre ‘Kiddieland’ hidden away in Gordons Business Park. Most cafés and restaurants in Port Moresby welcome families, but the eateries that best accommodate children, and are equipped with high-chairs, includeThe Beachside Brasserie in Ela Beach Hotel (where babyccino can be made on request!), Sails Café and Macdhui Restaurant in The Royal Papua Yacht Club, Hog’s Breath Café in Vision City Mall, and the Poolside Restaurant and Deli at Airways Hotel. Port Moresby is famous for all the wrong things, which is the real crime since there is so much more to life here. Nevertheless, the city has been deemed one the five more unliveable in the world. So if you have your reservations about moving your family here, take heart from this: life in Port Moresby fosters resourcefulness, stoicism and a sense of humour in people, and if you can live in paradise here, you can live in paradise anywhere! DirectoryDHL: www.dhl.com/en/pg/country_profile.htmlVision City Mall: Waigani Drive, Waigani http://www.visioncity.com.pg/Theodist Ltd: Waigani Drive, Waigani http://www.theodist.com/Ela Murray International School: elamurray.comPort Moresby International School: www.pmis.iea.ac.pgPatini: Vision City Mall https://www.facebook.com/PatiniStore/ or http://www.visioncity.com.pg/shopBrian Bell: Kennedy Road, Gordons http://www.brianbell.com.pg/The Royal Papua Yacht Club: Harbour City, www.rpyc.com.pgThe Aviat Social and Sporting Club: Aviat Street, www.aviat.comPacific International Hospital: Stores Road, Boroko, www.pih.com.pgThe International SOS Clinic, Airways Hotel, Jacksons Parade, https://www.internationalsos.com/en/about-our-clinics_1518_3935.htmThe National Orchid Gardens and Wildlife Park: 14-MileThe Nature Park: Waigani Drive & Goro Kaeaga Road, Waigani, https://www.facebook.com/PortMoresbyNatureParkThe Grand Papua Hotel: Mary Street, www.grandpapuahotel.com.pgAirways Hotel: Jacksons Parade, www.airways.com.pgLittle Angels Kiddieland: Gordons Business CentreThe Beachside Brasserie: Ela Beach Hotel, Ela Beach RoadHog’s Breath Café: Vision City Mall http://www.hogsbreath.com.sg/contact_us.htm

Restaurants and Bars (In no particular order) Harbourside Precinct (Alibi’s, Enzo’s, Duffy’s, Spices, Daikoku etc.)Location: Along the Stanley Esplanade Harbourside East, Downtown Port Moresby, Port Moresby 121 Papua New GuineaWebsite: www.facebook.com/harboursideprecinctPhone: +675 313 7900Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11am to 10pmHarbourside East and West are on Fairfax Harbour in downtown Port Moresby. The decking sits over the water’s edge providing a pleasant open-air experience. There are a great range of quality dining areas with Alibi Bar and Grill (Western cuisine), Asia Aromas (Thai and Chinese Cuisine), Daikoku (Japanese Steak house), Tandoor on the Harbour (Indian), Duffy Café (Western Cuisine), and Enzo’s Express Takeaway (steak, pizza and takeaway). It is also an excellent place to catch up with friends, with live music in a laid-back environment. Car parking is available with 24/7 security. Port TerraceLocation: Port Terrace Restaurant & Bar, C/O Crowne Plaza Residences, Lot 24, Section 8, MacGregor Street, Port Moresby, Papua New GuineaWebsite: www.portrestaurant.com.pg Phone: +675 308 3130Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday - 6:30am to 10pmLocated next to the Deloitte building downtown, this restaurant and bar is the newest addition to the Port Moresby CBD scene. Port Terrace has a range of meals to choose from for breakfast, lunch or dinner. For breakfast, you can’t go past the eggs benedict or the pancakes. With the early opening time, it’s also a great place to grab a morning coffee before heading out for the day. The lunch and dinner menus offer a wide variety with a good selection of fresh seafood, steaks and vegetarian-friendly options. If you are looking to hang out with friends and enjoy a few drinks, the Port Bar has a great selection to choose from, and the night lights from the Port Terrace are simply amazing. There is ample parking with security.  Airways (Baccus, Poolside, 7-C’s, Deli etc)Location: Jackson Intl Airport, Jacksons Parade, 7 Mile, Boroko, Port Moresby 111Website: www.airways.com.pg Phone: +675 324 5200General Operating Hours: 6am to 11pm DailyAirways Hotel and Residences is an oasis of understated luxury and one of the most unique airport boutique hotels in the world. It is nestled into the mountainside in its own botanical gardens, with stunning views from the crystal clear waters of Bootless Bay to the majestic mountains of the Owen Stanley Ranges, just 2 minutes from Jacksons International Airport.Residents and guests have a range of exciting dining options: the Vue Restaurant and Lounge Bar (buffet and a la carte), Deli KC (Italian cucina dining style), Seven C’s coffee shop, Bacchus Restaurant (one of the premier dining experiences in Port Moresby), and Havanaba Bar (adjacent to Bacchus Restaurant and specializes in fine wine and whiskeys). The Hilton HotelLocation: Wards Road, Hohola, Port Moresby, 121, Papua New GuineaWebsite:www.hilton.com/en/hotels/pomsmhi-hilton-port-moresby Phone: +675 7501 8000General Operating Hours: 6am to 11pm DailyThe Hilton at Hohola provides some excellent restaurants and bars, including the Copper and Summit Bars, and Mumu restaurant. The Copper Bar, located in the lobby, has a relaxed vibe with comfy lounge chairs. The Summit bar, located on the top floor, provides scenic views of the cityscape and mountain ranges surrounding the Hilton. Summit specialises in serving premium whiskey, designer cocktails, international beers, wines and spirits. The unique Mumu restaurant serves the ‘Mumu’, a traditional dish in PNG; it includes wrapping food items in a parcel, cooking them with hot stones, and then sharing the food with family and friends. The Mumu restaurant has a pleasant open-air atmosphere with outdoor and private dining options available. Car parking with 24/7 security is provided. The Stanley Hotel and SuitesLocation: Lot 8 and 9 Section 515, Sir John Guise Drive, WaiganI NCD, Port Moresby 121Website: www.thestanleypng.com Phone: +675 302 8888General Operating Hours: 6am to 10pm DailyThe Stanley Hotel and Suites offer a range of fine-dining experiences. Located right next to Vision City, you can find café’s, bars, lounges, and restaurants conveniently within the same location. The Rainforest Café, situated right next to the lobby, serves café meals with a range of coffees and fresh fruit juices. Green Haus is an elegant dining venue with a high-end buffet and an excellent à la carte menu of western dishes. Also, on the ground floor, you can find the Monsoon bar with great cocktails and a small food menu. The Stanley Hotel also boasts premium options with their Executive Club lounge, the Silver Leaf restaurant and the Mezz bar, all found on level 19. Silver Leaf offers an à la carte fine-dining menu that can be enjoyed with a stunning city view. The Mezz bar has a classy, elegant atmosphere, and it’s a great place to enjoy premium wines and cocktails. The Executive Club Lounge caters to guests staying on executive floors, private members, and hotel suite guests; it provides complimentary additional services and facilities, including breakfast, evening beverages, and canapés. Car parking with 24/7 security is provided. The Lamana HotelLocation: 1 Famagusta Road, Waigani, NCD, Papua New GuineaWebsite: www.lamanahotel.com.pgPhone: +675 323 2333 or +675 7373 0600General Operating Hours: 6am to 10pm DailyThe Lamana Hotel offers a selection of diverse dining experiences to suit many tastes, from their Café Palazzo, to The Italian (authentic Italian food), Rios at the Temple (Brazilian churrasco), and Spices Restaurant (Indian). If you want to experience Port Moresby nightlife, The Gold Club at Lamana is the most prominent nightlife venue in PNG, with big screen TV’s, pool tables, karaoke and DJs spinning decks until early in the morning. Car parking with 24/7 security is provided.  Dream InnLocation: Cnr Toliman Cres and Waigani Drive Waigani, Port Moresby 121 Papua New GuineaWebsite: www.facebook.com/www.dreaminn.com.pg Phone: +675 325 3600Operating Hours:  Monday to Sunday - 6.30am to 9pmDream Inn Luxury Apartments host the Big Boi Burger Bar. Serving everything from excellent hamburgers to a Sunday roast and big screens to watch sports, this is the perfect spot for a night out with family or friends. Car parking with 24/7 security is provided. Duffy CaféLocation: Gabaka Street, Gordons, Port Moresby, PNG Website:www.duffypng.comPhone: +675 325 8528Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday: 8am - 4pm, Sunday - Closed Duffy Café, locals simply call it ‘Duffy’s’, is a hotspot for Port Moresby coffee lovers who enjoy Duffy’s range of excellent fresh roasted beans. Their menu has a mixt of cuisines, including vegetarian-friendly meals. Duffy prides themselves on their traditional bread making, and their range of delicious cakes, pastries, bread and sweets are made in-house. Seating is available in the air-conditioned restaurant area, or you can enjoy the closed off decking/garden space outside furnished with lounge chairs and hanging pot plants. Securing a car parking space can be challenging in busy periods; however, the location is well-secured.  Vision City (Various restaurants and bars)Location: Lot 7, 8 and 9, Section 429, 131 National Capital District, Waigani Dr, Port MoresbyWebsite: www.visioncitypng.comContact: Phone: +675 302 8555Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday - 9am to 10pmVision City is PNGs largest shopping mall and hosts a great range of restaurants, cafés and bakeries, as well as a diverse food court.Quality steaks are available at Hog’s Breath Cafe, or enjoy classic Chinese cuisine at Dynasty’s Restaurant for full sit-down meals. There are several Asian restaurants available, including King Hot Pot, Korean Garden, Hosi Ramen, and Happy Dumpling. Cuppa also serves excellent coffee and offers both full meals and sandwiches. Food Junction is an integrated eatery with various cuisines at affordable prices, catering for local, Asian and Western tastes.Fast food outlets include Big Rooster, Burger House, Shakers, and Yellow Captain for pizza. Bon Café serves good coffee, sandwiches and pastries for takeaway. For a special treat, Italian Gelato has a full frozen selection for those with a sweet tooth. Fu GuiLocation: Kawai Drive, Gordon Port Moresby National Capital District Papua New GuineaPhone: +675 323 0188Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday - 10am to 9pmFu Gui Village Restaurant, or ‘Fu Gui’, serves Chinese and Malaysian cuisine and is popular for lunch; the standout dish on the lunch menu is the salt and pepper squid. The diner offers a wide range of meals that can be shared, with laksa, nasi lemak and the highland chicken all great options. The complex is well-secured with ample car parking. Jeanz Café - Gordon’s Plaza (Brian Bell Gordons)Location: Gordons Plaza, Kawai Drive, Port Moresby, NCD, PNG  Website: https://gordonsplaza.com/retailers/jeanz-cafe/Operating Hours: Monday to Friday - 8am to 6pm, Saturday - 8am to 5pm, Sunday - 9am to 5pm.Jeanz Café is a refined café dining experience. They serve excellent Arabica coffee and a range of diverse café food, cakes, and pastries. Conveniently located among various retailers within the Gordons Plaza, it’s an ideal spot for a caffeine boost and a bite to eat after a busy day shopping.     Gateway HotelLocation: Jacksons Parade, 7 Mile, Port Moresby, NCD, PNGWebsite: www.coralseahotels.com.pg/gateway-hotel-apartments/dining/General Operating Hours: 6am to 10pm DailySituated near Jacksons Airport, the Gateway Hotel has several restaurants and bars to enjoy. The Wild Orchid Restaurant and Bar near the poolside serves a buffet and à la carte menu with fresh produce from local markets. The Jackson’s Restaurant and Bar has scenic views overlooking the Jacksons Airport Runway with inside out and outside seating. There is a range of fantastic cuisine, including fresh salads, char-grilled meals, fresh seafood, steaks and pasta. If you need takeaway or are in a hurry, Enzo’s Express Takeaway serves food on-the-go, such as chicken wraps, muffins, and pizza. The Sizzlers Restaurant serves steaks, fresh seafood and boasts a buffet-style fresh salad for dining. Gateway also has a somewhat hidden bar called the Departure Bar located near the reception, and it’s a great place to enjoy a drink.   Ela Beach HotelLocation: Ela Beach Rd, Port MoresbyWebsite: www.coralseahotels.com.pg/ela-beach-hotel-apartmentsPhone: +675 321 2100General Operating Hours: 6am to 11pm DailyThe Ela Beach Hotel, unsurprisingly located along Ela Beach, has recently been revamped and offers diners a great selection from the Salt Restaurant, Beachside Bakery, Enzo’s Express Takeaway, and the Beachside Bar. The Salt Restaurant serves western-style and fresh seafood; they have cosy restaurant seating inside, or you can enjoy your meal by the poolside. Beachside Bar boasts a nice open space with a cooling sea breeze in the evenings. They have TV’s so you can watch sports while enjoying beers, wines, spirits or cocktails. The Beachside Bakery offers a range of freshly baked bread and pastries. Enzo’s Express Takeaway at Beachside is perfect for takeaway food or a quick coffee. The Ela Beach Hotel is a well-secured venue with ample parking.   Edge by the Sea (Edge Café)Location: Edge Apartments, Harbour City, Port Moresby, NCD, PNGWebsite: www.mojofood.co/Email: [email protected] Hours: Daily - 7am to 4pmEasily remembered as the ‘Edge Café’, this is a convenient location for that essential morning coffee or quick bite before you start the day. The food selection includes menus for both breakfast and lunch. Featuring an array of fresh & healthy salads bowls, burgers and fish and chips, there’s plenty to choose from any time of the day. Edge Cafe has a laid back atmosphere that customers enjoy, especially with the ocean views.  Mojo Social (Mojo’s)Location: Ground Floor PWC Haus, Harbour city Port Moresby, NCD, PNGWebsite: http://mojofood.co/Phone: +675 79955264Email: [email protected] Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday - 3pm to 12pmMojo Social, or as regulars call it ‘Mojo’s’, is a hidden gem within the confines of Harbour City. Enjoy Mediterranean and Western cuisine in a spacious setting with a refreshing beverage. Mojo’s steaks, slow-cooked beef brisket, pastas and pizzas have the regulars coming back for more.There is ample secure parking at Harbour City.  Element Restaurant and BarLocation: MRDC Haus - Corner of Musgrave Street and Champion Parade, NCD, Port MoresbyPhone: +675 72527887Operating Hours: Sunday: 8am to 12amMonday - Wednesday: 7am to 10pm Thursday and Friday: 7am to 2am Saturday: 8am to 2am Element Restaurant and Bar offers modern Vietnamese fusion cuisine, conveniently located in downtown Port Moresby. Element’s food can be enjoyed both indoors in their restaurant area or outdoors on their terrace. If you are craving good Vietnamese food, this is the place to go, with excellent classic Vietnamese dishes like beef pho and contemporary options such as coconut panna cotta. Elements is a great place to enjoy an evening out, especially seated on the terrace, with the downtown city lights and a refreshing breeze. There is also a lounge to enjoy drinks while watching sports on a big-screen TV. Ample parking is available both outside and underground with 24/7 security.

The first thing anyone moving to Port Moresby should know is that it’s an extraordinary place to live. Expatriate life in the city naturally comes with an array of not inconsiderable challenges, but it is also culturally fascinating, an open forum of opportunity and often exceptionally beautiful. The hilly nature of the city allows for breath-taking views across the harbour, the ocean and its many islands, the sunsets are unbeatable and the air is unpolluted. A drive through the city may one minute present a network of settlements and inauspicious office blocks, before revealing around the next corner a dazzling slice of ocean and undulating coastline.Picture: Port Moresby | Source: remotelands.comA typical day in Port MoresbyA typical working day6.00am Wake up and read the Post Courier.6.30am Workout at the Yacht Club gym, followed by breakfast and fresh coffee.7:30am Drop the kids off at the Ela Murray School.8.00am Start of the working day.10.00am Coffee meeting with a customer at Duffy’s.12.00am Lunch meeting with a prospective client at Stanley.1.00pm Back to the office for a Zoom meeting.2.00pm Afternoon coffee meeting at The Edge.5.00pm Work finishes. Stop by at Waterfront to buy groceries.6.00pm Glass of wine on the balcony and enjoy spectacular sunset views over the Coral Sea from the balcony. 7.30pm Dinner of freshly caught tuna, local potatoes and salad.8.00pm Watch the international news on Hitron. Maybe an HBO or Netflix movie A typical weekend7:00am Brisk 4km around the Paga Ring Road with the dog.8:30m Full English breakfast at The Edge washed down with locally produced coffee.10:00am Shopping trip to Vision City. Drop the car off for valet service in the car park.12:00pm Lunch at Hogs Breath.1:00pm Paradise Cinema to watch the latest Hollywood blockbuster.4:00pm Grocery shopping at Waterfront and grab a quick coffee at Poppy’s.5:00pm Social drink with friends at the Aviat Club.8:00pm Date night at the Bacchus restaurant at Airways Hotel. Whether it’s for a short-term business secondment, or migrating with your family for a long stay, whatever your reason for moving to Port Moresby the prospect can seem daunting. Where to live and what to pack, where to shop and how to get about? This is the first in a series of articles aimed at providing some of the answers.Before addressing some of the finer points here, it’s worth pointing out that how smoothly and quickly you assimilate and settle into life in Port Moresby will depend on how you use the communities, both expatriate and local, that you find yourself in. The expatriate community in Port Moresby is welcoming and sympathetic to newcomers. There really is a wealth of variety when it comes to the types of communities that exist in its midst, and it is always waiting to be utilised. Whether you are into sport or films, there will be an informal group set up somewhere with shared interests. There are cycling and triathlon groups, scuba diving and fishing clubs, organised hill-walking groups, art classes and a book club to name but a few, and if you cannot find a group catering for your specific interest – starting one yourself in Port Moresby is easy since both the city and its diverse residents are especially open to people with energy and ideas for start-ups. You can find people offering all manner of services, from homemade take-away pizza delivery and made-to-order cakes, to acupuncture or tailoring.It is these communities which will likely provide most of what you’re looking for, because the transient nature, not only of expatriate life, but of life in a developing country, means that people do come and go and services available one year might not be available the next. Apart from car sales and house clearances, which are staples of Port Moresby life, its fluid nature makes creating any conclusive and comprehensive guide to life in Port Moresby tricky. However, with that in mind, the following articles will address some of the relatively reliable specifics about life in Port Moresby. Renting, Driving and Home MakingThe rental market in the city is competitive, the rental costs incomparable with most other cities in the world, and the presence of major companies in PNG can put added pressure on the most desirable properties (related link: Properties for Rent Port Moresby). However, construction of residential properties, especially apartment blocks, is currently major business in Port Moresby and the city is a myriad of apartment complexes in various stages of construction. Whether you want an incredible view of the sea, or somewhere close to work, there will be something for you. The key is to see a wide range of properties and then act quickly when you find the one you want. The market is in the hands of the landlords, so you need to be prepared to do the chasing. Don’t be hindered by an apathetic seller, pushing for what you want will pay off.Next you will want to equip your new home. Although it’s advisable to bring any specialist electronic or kitchen equipment with you (such as external hard-drives, tablets and coffee machines), when it comes to the basics Port Moresby can more than adequately provide what you need. There are a number of home stores including Brian Bell, Courts and Homemaker. RH Hypermarket in Vision City has a generous home-store section, as does the housewares store in the Waterfront. Prices will be high, the range and quality will be variable, but the unpredictable nature of Port Moresby means that once in a while you’ll make an unexpected discovery: recent examples include IKEA children’s products in BNBM Home Centre, Cath Kidston plates in SVS, and Maxwell & Williams dinnerware in Brian Bell.Where you will grocery shop will largely depend on your location. The Foodworld branches in Boroko and at the Waterfront are arguably the most accessible. The largest supermarket is RH Hypermarket in Vision City, and there are a number of smaller SVS Supermarkets scattered about the city. As with most aspects of life in Port Moresby supermarket stock is unpredictable and unreliable. That said, the range and diversity might surprise you, and as with the restaurants on offer in the city, grocery provision is clearly influenced by the city’s East Asian trade. In addition, expatriates of many other nations will find familiar produce on the shelves, especially in Foodworld, where there are sections dedicated to imported goods from America, New Zealand and India, among others. Another possibly surprising feature of Port Moresby’s supermarkets is its provision for people with special dietary requirements, with sections set aside for gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free and egg-free products.Where Port Moresby falls short when it comes to groceries is in its range of dairy products, which are always thin on the ground, as well as its range of fruit and veg. Most vegetables are imported, which of course makes them expensive, and although this is set to change in coming years with more investment in local production of vegetables, for the time being, it’s a good idea to get to grips with local produce, which is cheaper and more readily available.Electronic goods can be purchased in Port Moresby, with several dedicated stores in both Vision City Mall and the Waterfront Mall as well as specialist stores scattered about the city. The range of products available is fair but not extensive, and as prices are high electronic goods are often traded second-hand among the expat community.It’s very likely you’ll be able to purchase a second-hand car via these same channels and the sale of vehicles, especially, is advertised on public noticeboards in The Royal Yacht Club and The Aviat Club. Ela Motors, Boroko Motors and PNG Motors are the more prominent vendors of new cars in the city.A car is a necessity for anyone living for any length of time in Port Moresby. Unless travelling with an official guide, public transport should be avoided, as should walking any distance on the street. The roads in town are generally fair. The further one travels from the city centre, the greater the decline in the quality of the roads, but one of Port Moresby’s surprises is that traffic is not generally a problem. Rush hours are busier times, but even then traffic jams are unusual. Though it is important to remain vigilant, especially when waiting at traffic lights or pedestrian crossings, it does mean that getting from A to B is usually a fairly speedy process, and you should not find yourself on the road for long. As Port Moresby is not a large city and the roads are generally clear, crossing from one side to the other should not take longer than about twenty minutes. Every driver needs to take the precautions of ensuring the vehicle’s windows are tinted and kept closed, and the doors locked. Avoid making impromptu stops, plan your route ahead so as not to get lost, and let someone know when and where you will be travelling. If you are planning a trip outside of the city, it is wise to travel with others in convoy. Otherwise navigating the road systems is Port Moresby is relatively straightforward and as with any city anywhere in the world, road accidents are a more likely experience for drivers and passengers than car-jacking or robbery.Security issues are not confined to the roads, of course, and it is important to take special care to protect your home. Most compounds and apartment complexes will come with security provision: guards at the gate, sensor alarms and high fences. Nevertheless, it’s still important to lock doors and windows at night, especially if living on the lower floors, and when someone makes a house call make certain of whom you are letting inside. If you are employing local staff to work in your home, be sure that you can trust them before leaving them alone in the house, and ask them to not to disclose details of your life once they return home. If renting a house outside of a compound, you will need to access security services, install an alarm system and always check all windows, doors and exterior gates are locked well before dark.In addition to security, those planning to stay long-term and choosing to rent a house outside of a compound will need to set up refuse collection (usually handled by the National Capital District Commission), and install internet and television.Local cleaners, gardeners and odd-jobbers are easy to come by, and recruitment usually takes place via word-of-mouth. Be prepared for the possibility that it may take a few attempts before finding the right person for the job. Wherever possible, ask for recommendations from others who are happy with the people who work for them.It is imperative every newcomer to Port Moresby arrives with good insurance cover. Doctors with internationally recognised qualifications operate out of most of the city’s medical facilities and the Pacific International Hospital is known to provide a good level of care. Many companies with expatriate employees will invest in medical cover from the International SOS Clinic based in Airways Hotel. In addition, there is an accredited dentist operating from a clinic inside the Holiday Inn.Also, be aware that incoming visa requirements for Australian travellers to Papua New Guinea will change on 1 March 2014. Be sure to visit www.pngcanberra.org/visas for details on hot obtain the correct visa.Port Moresby has no single emergency number to call following an accident, but there are ambulances stationed in most major medical facilities in the city and so it is advisable to keep either a local number or your insurer’s number handy. DirectoryBrian Bell: Kennedy Road, GordonsCourts: Spring Garden RoadHomemaker: Scratchley Road, BadiliVision City Mall: Waigani Drive, WaiganiRH Hypermarket: Vision City MallWaterfront Shopping Mall: Champion ParadeBNBM Home Centre: Kennedy Road, GordonsSVS Foodland: Harbour CityFoodworld: Poreporena Freeway, Boroko, and Waterfront Shopping MallThe Royal Papua Yacht ClubThe Aviat Social and Sporting Club: Aviat StreetEla Motors: www.elamotors.com.pgBoroko Motors: www.boroko-motors.comPNG Motors: www.pngmotors.comSecurity Services Directory: www.png-online.com/business-category/security-servicesNational Capital District Commission: www.ncdc.gov.pgInternet: www.datec.com.pgDaltron http://www.daltron.net.pg/services/technical-services/Pay Telivision: http://hitron.com.pg/Mobile Phone Services: https://www.digicelgroup.com/pg/en/mobile.htmlMobile Phone Services: http://www.bmobile.com.pg/Pacific International Hospital: Stores Road, Boroko, www.pih.com.pgThe International SOS Clinic: Airways Hotel, Jacksons Parade, https://www.internationalsos.com/en/about-our-clinics_1518_3935.htmWR Dental Clinic: Holiday Inn Hotel, Waigani Drive & Wards Road