Kimbe: A Tropical Haven in Papua New Guinea

• HelloGut moning
  [goot mawn-ing]
• GoodbyeGo bi
  [goh bee]
• YesYes
  [Yes]
• NoNogat
  [no-gaht]
• Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
• Thank youTangkyu
  [tang-kew]
• 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 Inglish?
  [yoo sah-veh tohk-tohk long in-glish?]
• I don't understandMi no save long dispela
  [mee no sah-veh long dis-peh-lah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [mee lake look-eem meh-noo, plees]
• I don't eat meatMi no kaik kapul
  [mee no kaik kah-pool]
• Cheers!Bilong gutpela hap
  [bee-long goot-peh-lah hahp]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik baim, plis
  [mee lake bah-eem, plees]

• Help!Help!
  [help!]
• Go away!Go lusim
  [go loo-seem]
• Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [koe-leem poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [koe-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 lake bah-eem...]
• I'm just lookingMi tasol lukaut
  [mee tah-sol loo-kawt]
• How much is it?Em i kainkost?
  [ehm ee kine-cost?]
• That's too expensiveEm i stap long spes
  [ehm ee stap long spehs]
• Can you lower the price?Yu inap lusim pris?
  [yoo ee-nahp loo-seem prees?]

• What time is it?Wanem taim?
  [wah-nehm tah-eem?]
• It's one o'clockEm i wan o'klok
  [ehm ee wah-n oh-klok]
• Half past (10)Long hap pasten
  [long hahp pah-sten]
• MorningMornin
  [mohr-nin]
• AfternoonApinun
  [ah-pee-noon]
• EveningEvenin
  [ee-veh-nin]
• YesterdayDei ya
  [deh yah]
• TodayTudei
  [too-deh]
• TomorrowTumoro
  [too-moh-roh]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Faiv
  [fayv]
• 6Sikis
  [see-kees]
• 7Seven
  [seh-ven]
• 8Eit
  [ayt]
• 9Nain
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Wara...?
  [wah-rah...?]
• What's the address?Em i adras?
  [ehm ee ad-rahss?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu inap soim mi (long map)?
  [yoo ee-nahp soy-mee mee (long map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Nao long taim bai kam namba wan?
  [now long tah-eem bah-ee kahm nahm-bah wahn?]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wahn tee-keht (long ....)]

Long before European explorers set foot on the shores of what is now Kimbe, the region was inhabited by indigenous Melanesian tribes. These tribes thrived on the rich natural resources, engaging in fishing, hunting, and subsistence farming. Their culture was deeply rooted in oral traditions, with stories and legends passed down through generations.

The first recorded European contact with the Kimbe area was in the 19th century by German explorers. By the late 1800s, Germany had established colonial control over parts of Papua New Guinea, including the New Britain island, where Kimbe is located. The colonial period saw the introduction of new agricultural practices, Christianity, and European customs, which significantly impacted the local way of life.

During World War II, New Britain, including Kimbe, became strategically important. The island saw significant military action as Allied forces fought to dislodge Japanese troops entrenched in the region. The war left a lasting impact on Kimbe, with remnants of military installations and equipment still evident in the area today. These relics serve as a poignant reminder of the island's turbulent past.

After World War II, Kimbe began to develop more rapidly. The introduction of the copra and palm oil industries brought economic growth and an influx of settlers and workers from other parts of Papua New Guinea and overseas. This period also saw improvements in infrastructure, including the construction of roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, which further spurred the town's growth.

Kimbe is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich tapestry of indigenous traditions and customs still alive today. The town hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, showcasing traditional dances, music, and arts. These events are a vibrant celebration of the local heritage and provide a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the cultural fabric of the region.

Kimbe is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its marine biodiversity. The area is part of the Coral Triangle, known for its rich marine life and coral reefs. Conservation efforts have been underway to protect these natural assets, involving both local communities and international organizations. The town's commitment to preserving its environment is an integral part of its identity and appeal.

Kimbe is located on the north coast of New Britain Island in Papua New Guinea. The nearest international airport is Hoskins Airport (HKN), approximately 30 kilometers away from Kimbe. Flights are available from Port Moresby, the capital city, and other major cities in Papua New Guinea. From Hoskins Airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service to reach Kimbe, which typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

Kimbe is a relatively small town, and many of its attractions are accessible by foot. For longer distances, local taxis and minibuses are readily available. These are relatively inexpensive and can be hired for short trips within the town or to nearby villages. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer exploring at your own pace, but be aware that road conditions can vary.

The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). While some hotels and larger restaurants in Kimbe may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Kimbe, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in larger cities like Port Moresby before traveling to Kimbe.

Kimbe is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Be cautious of your belongings in crowded places such as markets. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Kimbe, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Consult with locals or your accommodation for real-time advice on safe areas.

In case of emergency, dial 111 for immediate assistance. Kimbe has a local police station as well as medical facilities, including the Kimbe General Hospital. It is highly recommended to have 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 conservatively, especially when visiting villages and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or participating in local ceremonies, dress modestly and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do greet the driver and other passengers when boarding. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kimbe like a local, visit the Kimbe Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nearby coral reefs, which are among the best in the world for diving and snorkeling. For a unique experience, participate in a local sing-sing, a traditional gathering with music, dance, and costumes.