What are the iconic experiences that define Papua New Guinea for travellers? That’s the question we asked award-winning travel writer Ben Groundwater, who has been to more than 60 countries around the world, including PNG.

Groundwater’s story in the May/June issue of Paradise lists the Kokoda Trail, of course. But there’s also diving at Milne Bay, staying with locals at a remote island village, and kayaking the fjords in northern Oro Province.

“Visitors feel it the minute they touch down in Port Moresby, the moment the aeroplane doors open and they step out onto the tarmac,” Groundwater writes. “There’s an air of adventure that permeates Papua New Guinea, a sense that here, a courageous soul will find what it’s looking for.”

The adventure theme continues in this issue with a gruelling trek to the top of PNG’s Mount Giluwe, followed by a descent down the other side where no outsiders have been recorded walking before.

For surfers, we visit Papatura Island Retreat in the Solomon Islands, where uncrowded waves peel on the reefs daily. Accommodation is in jungle huts beside the beach. In the dining room, where the dress code is bare feet, you’re likely to tuck into mud crabs and flame-grilled crayfish.

Military expert and author Dr Peter Williams last wrote for Paradise in 2017, with a piece about the Kokoda Trail. In this issue, he explains the Battle of Milne Bay, the scene of Japan’s first defeat on land during World War II.

Our writers also take readers on a culinary journey of the region.

In an extract from Michelle Tchea’s book, Chef’s Collective, we meet four chefs who are conquering Asia. We also review Port Moresby’s Sogno Ristorante Italiano, and we step inside a Hong Kong eatery where snake is on the menu, if you dare.

And don’t forget the Paradise Annual 2018. The special collectors’ issue includes the most popular stories and photos that have appeared in the regular issues of Paradise, as well as a brand-new guide to all of PNG’s 22 provinces, with photos.

The free annual is due in Air Niugini offices, airport lounges and hotels from early May. Limited hardback issues will be for sale at leading retailers, including ‘A Little Something from PNG’ at Port Moresby’s Jacksons International Airport.

Happy flying and reading.

Robert Upe, Editor

Paradise Magazine, May/June 2018

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