Milne Bay Province: The Jewel of Papua New Guinea

• HelloKoari
  [ko-ah-ree]
• GoodbyeKwaher
  [kwah-hair]
• YesAe
  [ay]
• NoEne
  [eh-neh]
• Please/You're welcomeAlikai
  [ah-lee-kai]
• Thank youTenk yu
  [tenk yoo]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [soh-ree]
• How are you?Wanem yu yet?
  [wah-nem yoo yet]
• Fine. And you?Gud. Na yu?
  [good. nah yoo]
• Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Inglish?
  [yoo sah-veh tohk-tohk long ing-glish]
• I don't understandMi no save
  [mee noh sah-veh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [mee like look-im men-oo, plees]
• I don't eat meatMi no kaik kai
  [mee noh kai-eek kai]
• Cheers!Kolopa!
  [koh-loh-pah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik painim moni, plis
  [mee like pie-nim moh-nee, plees]

• Help!Halivim mi!
  [hah-lee-veem mee]
• Go away!Go we!
  [goh weh]
• Call the Police!Kol Polis!
  [kohl poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kol dokta!
  [kohl dohk-tah]
• I'm lostMi lusim
  [mee loo-seem]
• I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]

• I'd like to buy...Mi laik baim...
  [mee like bai-eem]
• I'm just lookingMi tasol lukim
  [mee tah-sol look-im]
• How much is it?Emi stap long hamas?
  [eh-mee stahp long hah-mahs]
• That's too expensiveEmi tumas skelim
  [eh-mee too-mahs skay-leem]
• Can you lower the price?Yu inap lusim pres?
  [yoo ee-nahp loo-seem prees]

• What time is it?Istap wanem taim?
  [ee-stahp wah-nem tah-eem]
• It's one o'clockIstap wan o'klok
  [ee-stahp wah-n oh-klok]
• Half past (10)hapas (10)
  [hah-pahs (ten)]
• MorningTaim bilong monin
  [tah-eem bee-long moh-neen]
• AfternoonTaim bilong apinun
  [tah-eem bee-long ah-pee-noon]
• EveningTaim bilong evenin
  [tah-eem bee-long eh-veh-neen]
• YesterdayDeste
  [des-teh]
• TodayNau
  [now]
• TomorrowTumoro
  [too-moh-roh]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Faiv
  [fah-eve]
• 6Sikis
  [see-kees]
• 7Seven
  [seh-vehn]
• 8Eit
  [ate]
• 9Nain
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Wanem ples...
  [wah-nem plehs]
• What's the address?Wanem adris?
  [wah-nem ad-rees]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu inap soim mi long map?
  [yoo ee-nahp soh-eem mee long map]
• When's the next (bus)?Long wanem taim bus bi kam?
  [long wah-nem tah-eem bus bee kahm]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wah-n tee-ket long]

Milne Bay Province has been inhabited for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting that the first settlers arrived over 50,000 years ago. These early inhabitants were part of the Austronesian migration, bringing with them advanced seafaring skills and agricultural practices. The region developed a rich tapestry of cultures and languages, many of which still thrive today.

The first European to sight Milne Bay was the Spanish navigator Luís Vaz de Torres in 1606, during an expedition to the Pacific. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the area was named by Captain John Moresby of the Royal Navy. He named the bay after Sir Alexander Milne, a distinguished admiral. This period marked the beginning of increased European interest and eventual colonization.

In the late 19th century, Christian missionaries arrived in Milne Bay, aiming to convert the local populations. The London Missionary Society and later the Methodist Mission established churches, schools, and medical facilities. These missions played a significant role in shaping the social and cultural landscape of the province, introducing Western education and healthcare.

Milne Bay was a significant battleground during World War II. In August 1942, the Battle of Milne Bay became a turning point in the Pacific War. Allied forces, primarily Australian troops, successfully repelled the Japanese, marking the first major defeat of Japanese land forces during the war. This victory boosted Allied morale and secured the bay as a vital base for subsequent operations in the Pacific.

Following World War II, Milne Bay Province, along with the rest of Papua New Guinea, moved towards self-governance. In 1975, Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia. Milne Bay Province, with its diverse cultures and rich history, became an integral part of the newly formed nation, contributing to its cultural and economic development.

Milne Bay Province is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Kenu and Kundu Festival, which celebrates traditional canoe and drum-making skills. The province is also famous for its intricate carvings, weaving, and dance performances. These cultural expressions are not only a testament to the region's rich heritage but also an attraction for visitors from around the world.

In recent years, Milne Bay Province has seen significant development, particularly in tourism. The pristine beaches, coral reefs, and historical sites draw tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation. Efforts are ongoing to balance development with the preservation of the natural environment and cultural heritage, ensuring that Milne Bay remains a unique and sustainable destination.

Milne Bay Province can be accessed primarily through Gurney Airport in Alotau, which has regular flights from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. Airlines such as Air Niugini and PNG Air operate these flights. Additionally, Alotau can be reached via sea, as it is a common port of call for several cruise lines. Once in Alotau, smaller boats can be used to reach the various islands within the province.

Transportation within Milne Bay Province includes taxis, minibuses, and boats. Taxis are commonly used within Alotau and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Minibuses operate on fixed routes and are a cost-effective way to get around. For inter-island travel, boats and ferries are the primary modes of transportation. It's advisable to book these in advance, especially during peak seasons.

The official currency is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants in Alotau, but cash is essential, especially when traveling to remote areas and islands. ATMs are available in Alotau, but it is wise to carry enough cash for your entire trip if you plan to visit rural areas.

Milne Bay Province is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in less populated areas. Petty theft can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings. Although Alotau is relatively safe, always stay vigilant and avoid displaying valuables openly. Some remote areas may have limited police presence, so be cautious.

In case of an emergency, dial 111 for police, medical, or fire assistance. Alotau has a hospital and several clinics for medical emergencies. It is crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as remote areas may lack advanced medical facilities. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in Alotau.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos in sacred sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient. Public transport can be crowded and schedules may not always be punctual. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a handshake. A simple 'hello' in the local language (Tok Pisin) goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse food or drink, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Milne Bay Province like a local, visit the local markets in Alotau where you can buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss exploring the islands, diving in the coral reefs, and attending local festivals to immerse yourself in the vibrant community life.