Hi friends
Am joining the ranks of PNG aviators.
does anyone have anything to add to the following, to help a mate out? this was given to me by an aid worker over there
Cheers
Well the good news for you is that you are a guy, this means that things will be easier rule wise for you. anyway so small tips would be the following: PNGers do not show very much physical affection between males and females so distance yourself from the PNG women, this means no hand holding, no hugs, nothing of that sort, not even a hand on the shoulder or back. This is all because it will make the woman look bad to her people and also to protect you because in their culture doing any of these things can be seen as a commitment of marriage. Another thing is to not look people in the eyes over there, women take it as a come on from men and vice versa, but if a man looks in another mans ees it can also be seen as a challenge. Also never (well try your hardest not to) walk behind a woman, always walk infront of them, it is just a cultural faux pas. Also the men will be very physical with you. They see nothing wrong with holding hands with other men, it is a friendship thing. They Love hugging as well. Aslo never call a PNG girl your 'friend' it is a sexual term to them.
The country will smell terrible in the more country parts, it is a smell you will have to get used to. some common sence stuff would be to not carry large portions of money, keep your wallet in your front jeans pocket, do travel alone (it is safer for men to do this but some people will try to steal your money, especially in MT. Hagen.). But beyond all the scar stuff PGN is a wonderful country, the people will love to talk to you and look at you because you are white skinned and they will gather around you, dont be frightened (if you smile alot at them then you should be more than fine.)
Anyway I hope this helps some.
~MXXX