Goroka: The Heartbeat of Papua New Guinea's Highlands

• HelloMoni
  [moh-nee]
• GoodbyeGutpela gut
  [goot-peh-lah goot]
• YesYes
  [yes]
• NoNogat
  [no-gut]
• Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
• Thank youTenkyu
  [tenk-yoo]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [soh-ree]
• How are you?Yu stap gut?
  [yoo stap goot]
• Fine. And you?Mi stap gut. Na yu?
  [mee stap goot. nah yoo]
• Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Tok Pisin?
  [yoo sah-veh tohk-tohk long tohk pee-seen]
• I don't understandMi no save
  [mee no sah-veh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [mee lie-kim loo-keem meh-noo, plees]
• I don't eat meatMi no kaik kapul
  [mee no kai-kahp-ool]
• Cheers!Tingim yu!
  [ting-eem yoo]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik pai, plis
  [mee lie-k pie, plees]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Go liklik!
  [go lee-kleek]
• Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [koh-leem poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [koh-leem dohk-tah]
• I'm lostMi lusim
  [mee loo-seem]
• I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]

• I'd like to buy...Mi laik baim...
  [mee lie-k bah-eem]
• I'm just lookingMi tasol lukim
  [mee tah-sohl loo-keem]
• How much is it?Em i klostu hau?
  [em ee klohs-too how]
• That's too expensiveEm i moa 'spensiv
  [em ee moh-ah es-pen-seev]
• Can you lower the price?Yu ken paitim prais?
  [yoo ken pie-teem price]

• What time is it?Hausait taim?
  [how-sah-eet tah-eem]
• It's one o'clockEm i wan o'klak
  [em ee wahn oh-klock]
• Half past (10)Haf pasten (10)
  [hahf pahs-ten]
• MorningMoning
  [moh-neeng]
• AfternoonApinun
  [ah-pee-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [ee-veh-neeng]
• YesterdayYesde
  [yes-deh]
• TodayTede
  [teh-deh]
• TomorrowTumoro
  [too-moh-roh]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Faiv
  [fahyv]
• 6Sikis
  [see-kees]
• 7Seven
  [seh-ven]
• 8Eit
  [eyt]
• 9Nain
  [nayn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Em istap...
  [em ees-tahp]
• What's the address?Wanem adras?
  [wahn-em ad-rahss]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu ken soim mi (long map)?
  [yoo ken soym mee long map]
• When's the next (bus)?Wanem taim namba?
  [wahn-em tah-eem nahm-bah]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wahn tee-keht long]

Before European contact, the Goroka region was home to several indigenous tribes. These tribes lived in a traditional society, practicing agriculture, hunting, and gathering. They developed unique cultures, languages, and customs that are still evident today.

The first recorded European contact with the Goroka region occurred in the 1930s when Australian gold prospectors ventured into the highlands. This initial contact led to the gradual opening of the area to the outside world.

During World War II, the Goroka region played a significant role as a strategic location for the Allies. The highlands provided a base for the construction of airstrips and support facilities, which were crucial for military operations in the Pacific Theater.

After the war, Goroka began to develop rapidly. The establishment of the Highlands Highway connected the town to the coastal ports, facilitating trade and growth. Goroka became a hub for education, health services, and administrative functions in the Eastern Highlands Province.

The Goroka Show, first held in 1957, is one of Papua New Guinea's most famous cultural events. This spectacular festival showcases the traditional dances, music, and costumes of various tribes from the highlands and beyond. It has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.

Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia in 1975. Since then, Goroka has continued to evolve, balancing traditional practices with modern influences. The town remains an important center for cultural exchange and economic activity in the region.

Goroka is accessible via the Goroka Airport (GKA), which receives flights from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. Air Niugini and PNG Air are the primary airlines that operate these flights. The flight from Port Moresby to Goroka typically takes around one hour. Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus or hire a private car for a scenic but lengthy drive from Port Moresby, which can take approximately 10-12 hours due to road conditions.

Within Goroka, transportation options include local taxis and minibuses known as PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles). Taxis can be hired for a day or for specific trips, and it's advisable to agree on a fare beforehand. PMVs are the most common form of public transport and are quite affordable. For exploring the nearby areas, renting a car might be a convenient option. However, be aware that road conditions can vary, and driving can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the region.

The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). While credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Goroka, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Goroka, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Port Moresby if you are planning to explore rural areas where ATMs might be scarce.

Goroka is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's important to exercise standard travel precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. The Kakaruk Market area can be busy and crowded, making it a hotspot for pickpocketing, so keep an eye on your belongings. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive items. It's always best to travel in groups and use reputable transportation services.

In case of an emergency, dial 111 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Goroka Base Hospital is the main medical facility in the area. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies available in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always keep a list of emergency contacts and the address of your accommodation handy.

Fashion: Do dress modestly to respect local customs, particularly in rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do be respectful of local religious practices and traditions. When visiting churches or sacred sites, dress conservatively and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful when using PMVs. Don’t argue with the drivers or other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A simple 'hello' or 'good morning' in the local language, Tok Pisin, is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept hospitality graciously. Don't refuse food or drink offers, as it can be seen as impolite.

To experience Goroka like a local, visit the Goroka Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and traditions. Don’t miss the annual Goroka Show if you’re visiting in September, where you can witness traditional dances and customs from tribes across the region. For a unique experience, take a trip to the J.K. McCarthy Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the Eastern Highlands.