On our way to PNG

Today we are at sea which gives us time to reflect on what we have done, relax a little bit and hopefully get some of our gear dry. Fortunately we have a balcony. Most of the wet shoes and swimming gear etc can be dried on the balcony, it is certainly warm enough and there is a breeze when the ship is moving. I have been extra cautious this trip and packed two different ways to protect my legs. One for general off ship activities that involve walking and the other for snorkeling. I also have long pants for swimming and long sleeved bathers meaning a lot of clothing to dry. Then there are the shoes. I have reef shoes as well as runners that could be used for wet landings if I need to. But again both have to be dried.

I was reflecting on the fact that finally tomorrow I will get to see some of PNG. This is a place I have wanted to visit for a very long time. In fact, since my final year of University when I studied a subject that covered some of the culture and history of the country up until Independence. I have no idea what to expect. For most of us, what we hear about is just how dreadful things are in Port Moresby, a violent place and somewhere most people have no desire to visit. We won't be going there. Given how far away this place is from just about anywhere apart from Australia and New Zealand, I've been asking people why they have decided to travel to the other side of the world to two different third world countries. More than half the passengers are from Europe and unsurprisingly most of them are French with eight German speakers. Some people are here for the diving, most have said it's for the adventure. One woman from Iceland said she just always wanted to come here.nThis is interesting because the age demographic is on the older side like ourselves (but not old).

As so often happens in the Pacific Islands w when we are greeted we are presented with garlands. I particularly liked the one made from the leaves of a tropical plant. I know it is one that grows in Queensland. It has lasted longer than the frangipane flowers.

There are a number of interesting presentations today, you can never be allowed to be bored on board the ship. One of the presentations covers the cultural aspect of the exchange of goods. Exchange can happen as a trade. For another, for building relationships, for hard currency or payment of a bride price. The items that are made and traded include pottery, shell necklaces and intricate carvings as well as some very precious woven work.Read more