Madang: The Jewel of Papua New Guinea's North Coast

• HelloOllo
  [oh-loh]
• GoodbyeGudbai
  [good-bye]
• YesYes
  [yes]
• NoNogat
  [no-gat]
• Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
• Thank youTangkyu
  [tang-kyoo]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [sor-ee]
• How are you?Yu stap gut?
  [yoo stap goot]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Na yu?
  [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 tok
  [mee no sah-veh long tohk]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [mee laik loo-keem meh-noo, plees]
• I don't eat meatMi no kaik kapul
  [mee no kai-kahp-pool]
• Cheers!Chea!
  [chee-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik baim, plis
  [mee laik bah-eem, plees]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Go pinis!
  [go pee-nees]
• Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [koh-leem poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [koh-leem dok-tah]
• I'm lostMi lusim rot
  [mee loo-seem roht]
• I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]

• I'd like to buy...Mi laik baim...
  [mee laik bah-eem]
• I'm just lookingMi tasol lukim
  [mee tah-sol loo-keem]
• How much is it?Em i stap long hamas?
  [em ee stap long hah-mahs]
• That's too expensiveEm i moa cost
  [em ee moh-ah cost]
• Can you lower the price?Yu inap loaem prais?
  [yoo ee-nahp loh-ahm prah-ees]

• What time is it?Em i kol wanemtaim?
  [em ee kohl wah-nehm-tah-eem]
• It's one o'clockEm i wan o'klak
  [em ee wahn oh-klaak]
• Half past (10)Hap pasim (10)
  [hahp pah-seem]
• MorningMonin
  [moh-neen]
• AfternoonApinun
  [ah-pee-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [ee-veh-neeng]
• YesterdayDeste
  [des-teh]
• TodayTude
  [too-deh]
• TomorrowTomoro
  [toh-moh-roh]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Faiv
  [fah-eve]
• 6Sikis
  [see-kees]
• 7Seven
  [seh-vehn]
• 8Eit
  [ayt]
• 9Nain
  [nayn]
• 10Ten
  [tehn]

• Where's a/the...?Em i stap wea...?
  [em ee stap weh-ah]
• What's the address?Em i stap long adres?
  [em ee stap long ad-rehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu inap soim mi (long map)?
  [yoo ee-nahp soh-eem mee long mahp]
• When's the next (bus)?Wanemtaim bai kamap nambawan (bas)?
  [wah-nehm-tah-eem bah-ee kah-mahp nahm-bah-wahn bass]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wahn tee-keht long]

Madang, located on the northern coast of Papua New Guinea, has been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous groups such as the Bel people. These early settlers lived in harmony with the rich natural environment, relying on fishing, agriculture, and trade. Traditional customs, dances, and rituals remain an integral part of the local culture, reflecting the deep-rooted heritage of the indigenous communities.

The first European contact with Madang occurred in the 19th century when German explorers and traders arrived. In 1884, Germany established a protectorate over the northern part of Papua New Guinea, including Madang. The town was initially named 'Friedrich-Wilhelmshafen' in honor of Emperor Wilhelm I. German colonial rule brought significant changes, including the introduction of new agricultural practices and the establishment of plantations.

During World War II, Madang became a strategic location due to its coastal position. In 1942, Japanese forces occupied the town, transforming it into a critical base for their military operations. The area witnessed fierce battles between Japanese and Allied forces. The remnants of wartime infrastructure, such as bunkers and airstrips, can still be found, serving as silent witnesses to this tumultuous period.

After World War II, Madang was placed under Australian administration as part of the United Nations Trust Territory. The post-war period saw significant reconstruction efforts, including the development of infrastructure and public services. Madang emerged as an important commercial and administrative center, attracting people from various parts of Papua New Guinea and fostering a diverse and vibrant community.

Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia on September 16, 1975. Since then, Madang has continued to develop economically and culturally. The town has become a hub for tourism, drawing visitors with its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush rainforests. Madang's rich history and cultural heritage are showcased through its museums, traditional festivals, and local crafts.

Madang is accessible by air through Madang Airport (MAG), which has regular flights from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. Airlines such as Air Niugini and PNG Air operate these routes. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Lae, which is an adventurous way to see the coastline, though it can be less reliable due to weather conditions.

Within Madang, local transportation options include PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles), taxis, and rental cars. PMVs are a popular and inexpensive way to get around, though they can be crowded and less reliable. Taxis are available but always agree on a fare before starting your journey. Renting a car gives you more flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and larger restaurants, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Madang, but it's prudent to withdraw sufficient funds in Port Moresby or Lae to avoid any inconvenience.

While Madang is generally a safe destination, it's important to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. Areas with higher crime rates include the settlements around the outskirts of the town. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. It's advisable to consult local authorities or your accommodation for updated safety information.

In case of emergency, dial 111 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospital is Madang General Hospital, which can handle most medical emergencies. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages and cultural sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially of people and religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient when using PMVs. Don’t expect strict schedules. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake or a friendly 'Good day'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept hospitality. Don't refuse food or drink as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Madang like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals, who are often very friendly and eager to share their culture and stories. Don't miss out on visiting nearby islands for snorkeling and diving, as Madang is renowned for its underwater beauty. Also, consider taking a walk along the Madang Coastline Walkway for stunning views and a chance to interact with local fishermen and villagers.