Rabaul: The Enchanting Volcanic Jewel of Papua New Guinea

• HelloTok
  [tohk]
• GoodbyeLiklik
  [leek-leek]
• YesEm
  [ehm]
• NoNogat
  [noh-gaht]
• Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
• Thank youTenkyu
  [ten-kyoo]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [soh-ree]
• How are you?Yumi stap gut?
  [yoo-mee 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-glesh]
• I don't understandMi no save long dispela
  [mee no sah-veh long dees-peh-lah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [mee like look-eem meh-noo, plees]
• I don't eat meatMi no kaik kaik
  [mee noh kai-kai]
• Cheers!Nogut!
  [noh-gaht]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik bai, plis
  [mee like by, plees]

• Help!Halivim mi!
  [hah-lee-veem mee]
• Go away!Lusim mi!
  [loo-seem mee]
• Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [koh-leem poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [koh-leem dok-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-m]
• I'm just lookingMi lukim tasol
  [mee look-eem tah-sol]
• How much is it?Em i stap long hamas?
  [ehm ee stap long hah-mahs]
• That's too expensiveEm i stap gutpela moni
  [ehm ee stap goot-peh-lah moh-nee]
• Can you lower the price?Yu ken kisim i stap lus?
  [yoo kehn kee-sim ee stap loos]

• What time is it?Kilim taem?
  [kee-leem tah-em]
• It's one o'clockEm i wan taem
  [ehm ee wahn tah-em]
• Half past (10)Haus pasten
  [hows pah-sten]
• MorningMoning
  [moh-neeng]
• AfternoonApinun
  [ah-pee-noon]
• EveningEvenin
  [eh-veh-neen]
• YesterdayDei yestede
  [day yes-teh-day]
• TodayTudei
  [too-deh]
• TomorrowTomoro
  [toh-mo-roh]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Faiv
  [fah-eve]
• 6Sikis
  [sik-ees]
• 7Seven
  [seh-vehn]
• 8Eit
  [eyt]
• 9Nain
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [tehn]

• Where's a/the...?Wara em...
  [wah-rah ehm]
• What's the address?Em i gat adres?
  [ehm ee gaht ah-dress]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu ken soim mi long map?
  [yoo kehn soy-mee mee long map]
• When's the next (bus)?Next taim bus i kam?
  [neks tah-eem bus ee kahm]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket long...
  [wahn tee-keht long]

Rabaul has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human activity dating back to prehistoric times. The indigenous Tolai people have long called this area home, developing a complex society based on fishing, agriculture, and trade.

In the late 19th century, Rabaul became a focal point for colonial ambitions. The Germans established a presence in the region in 1884, and Rabaul was later declared the capital of German New Guinea in 1910. The town flourished under German rule, with significant infrastructure development, including roads, buildings, and a harbor.

Following the outbreak of World War I, Australian forces captured Rabaul in 1914. After the war, the League of Nations mandated the territory to Australia. Under Australian administration, Rabaul continued to grow, becoming a key administrative and military hub in the Pacific.

Rabaul's strategic location made it a prime target during World War II. In January 1942, Japanese forces invaded and occupied the town, transforming it into a major military base. Rabaul became heavily fortified, with extensive tunnel systems and airfields. The Allied forces launched numerous bombing raids, leaving much of the town in ruins by the war's end.

After World War II, Rabaul was rebuilt and continued to serve as a significant center for the region. Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia in 1975, and Rabaul played a key role in the newly formed nation's development. The town was a vibrant center of commerce, culture, and education.

Rabaul is situated on the edge of a volcanic caldera, and its history is marked by volcanic activity. In 1994, a major eruption from Tavurvur and Vulcan volcanoes devastated Rabaul, covering the town in ash and forcing the evacuation of its residents. Despite the destruction, the resilient community has continued to rebuild and adapt to the challenges posed by its volatile environment.

Rabaul is rich in cultural heritage, with the Tolai people maintaining their traditional customs and practices. The region is known for its vibrant music, dance, and art. The Baining fire dance, a spectacular and ancient ritual, is one of the many cultural highlights that visitors can experience. The town also hosts various festivals and markets that showcase local crafts and produce.

Rabaul is located on the northeastern tip of New Britain Island in Papua New Guinea. The nearest international airport is Tokua Airport (RAB), which is around 20 kilometers from Rabaul. You can reach Rabaul by taking a domestic flight from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. Several airlines operate daily flights between Port Moresby and Tokua Airport. From Tokua Airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Rabaul.

Rabaul is relatively small, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles) and taxis are available. PMVs are the most common form of public transport and are quite affordable. Taxis are more expensive but offer more comfort and convenience. Renting a car is also an option but be aware that road conditions can be challenging, especially after heavy rains.

The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Rabaul, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in larger towns or cities before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Rabaul is generally safe for tourists, but it is essential to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some areas in Rabaul have higher crime rates, particularly those targeting tourists. Areas around the old town and the market can be hotspots for petty crime, so stay vigilant.

In case of emergency, dial 111 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Rabaul. It is 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 modestly, especially when visiting local villages or religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photographs in sacred sites or of local people. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a nod. Avoid overly enthusiastic greetings as it may be considered inappropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Rabaul like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Papua New Guinean goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory for breathtaking views of the town and surrounding volcanoes. For a unique experience, take a boat tour to the nearby islands and explore the beautiful coral reefs and marine life.