Buka: The Gateway to Bougainville's Hidden Treasures

• HelloKam na
  [kam na]
• GoodbyeLukim yu
  [lookim yu]
• YesYes
  [Yes]
• NoNogat
  [nogat]
• Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plis]
• Thank youTenkyu
  [tenkyu]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [sori]
• How are you?Yu stap gut?
  [yu stap goot]
• Fine. And you?Mi stap gut. Yu?
  [mi stap goot. yu]
• Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long English?
  [yu save toktok long english]
• I don't understandMi nogat save
  [mi nogat save]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [mi laik lookim menu, plis]
• I don't eat meatMi nogat kaikai mit
  [mi nogat kaikai mit]
• Cheers!Nogat
  [nogat]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik bayim, plis
  [mi laik bayim, plis]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Go we!
  [go we]
• Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [kolim polis]
• Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [kolim dokta]
• I'm lostMi lusim
  [mi lusim]
• I'm illMi sik
  [mi sik]

• I'd like to buy...Mi laik baim...
  [mi laik baim]
• I'm just lookingMi jas lukim
  [mi jas lookim]
• How much is it?Em i stap long moni?
  [em i stap long moni]
• That's too expensiveEm i longpela moni
  [em i longpela moni]
• Can you lower the price?Yu inap kisim daun pris?
  [yu inap kisim daun pris]

• What time is it?Em i hap long taim?
  [em i hap long taim]
• It's one o'clockEm i wan taim
  [em i wan taim]
• Half past (10)Hap pasten
  [hap pasten]
• MorningMonin
  [monin]
• AfternoonApinun
  [apinun]
• EveningEvenin
  [evenin]
• YesterdayDesde
  [desde]
• TodayTude
  [tude]
• TomorrowTomoro
  [tomoro]
• 1Wan
  [wan]
• 2Tu
  [tu]
• 3Tri
  [tri]
• 4Fo
  [fo]
• 5Faiv
  [faiv]
• 6Sikis
  [sikis]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eit
  [eit]
• 9Nain
  [nain]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Em i stap we?
  [em i stap we]
• What's the address?Em i stap long adres?
  [em i stap long adres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu inap soim mi (long map)?
  [yu inap soim mi (long map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Nogat
  [nogat]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wan tiket (long ....)]

Before European contact, Buka Island was inhabited by the indigenous Bougainville people, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional practices. The island's communities were organized into clans, each with their own customs, languages, and social structures.

In the 1760s, the first recorded European contact with Buka Island was made by French explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville. This encounter marked the beginning of European interest in the region, although significant settlement did not occur until much later.

Buka, along with the rest of the Bougainville region, became part of German New Guinea in the late 19th century. The German colonial administration introduced plantations and infrastructure, although they faced resistance from the local population.

During World War II, Buka Island was strategically important and was occupied by Japanese forces in 1942. The island later became a battleground as Allied forces sought to reclaim it, resulting in significant military activity and civilian impact. Buka served as an important airstrip and base during the war.

After World War II, Buka became part of the United Nations Trust Territory of New Guinea, administered by Australia. During this period, efforts were made to develop infrastructure and improve local governance, paving the way for eventual independence.

The late 20th century saw Buka heavily impacted by the Bougainville Civil War (1988-1998). The conflict between the Bougainville Revolutionary Army and Papua New Guinea's government forces led to significant strife and displacement of local populations. Buka served as a haven for displaced people and played a crucial role in peace negotiations.

In 2005, following the peace agreement, the Autonomous Bougainville Government was established. Buka was chosen as the interim administrative capital. This period marked significant progress in self-governance and reconstruction, with a focus on rebuilding and fostering peace.

In recent years, there has been a strong movement towards cultural revival and preservation on Buka Island. Efforts to document and celebrate traditional practices, languages, and art forms are ongoing, ensuring that the rich heritage of the Bougainville people continues to thrive.

Buka is located in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea. The main access point is Buka Airport (BUA), which has regular flights from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, and other regional airports. Alternatively, you can reach Buka by sea via ferries and cargo ships from Rabaul or other ports in the region. Be sure to check the current schedules and book your transport in advance.

Buka is a small island, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, local taxis and private car hires are available. Public minibuses, known as PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles), are a common and affordable way to get around. Keep in mind that road conditions can be rough, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.

The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). While some hotels and larger businesses in Buka may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to more remote areas.

Buka is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Petty theft can occur, so keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded areas. Certain neighborhoods may have higher crime rates; it is advisable to inquire locally about safe areas to visit.

In case of emergency, dial 111 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Buka. It is recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting local communities. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering religious or sacred sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A slight nod is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Buka like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss the chance to explore nearby islands and beaches, which offer stunning landscapes and opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Participate in a traditional sing-sing (dance) if you get the chance, as it offers a unique insight into the local culture.