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East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea

Enrico Salte

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The history of Rabaul is one of wreckage and regrowth. Modern historians will find a treasure trove of World War 2 relics, tunnels and caverns to explore within driving distance of Rabaul. Close to the now thriving centre of Kokopo, are the remnants of Gunantambu mansion, built in the 1880s by the legendary Queen Emma.

The drive from the airport, now located at Tokua about an hour from Rabaul, is along a narrow road winding its way around the glittering waters of the Gazelle Peninsula. Through the coconut trees villages of thatched huts surrounded by colourful flowerbeds and tropical fruit trees look out over calm waters.

East New Britain has a fascinating World War 2 history and visitors can explore Japanese caved systems, barged tunnels, aircraft wrecks and submarines.

Culture
The people of East New Britain have been seen as culturely diversified with rich and unique traditions. The "tumbuan" seen above signifies spiritual dancers and traditional cermonies that demonstrates a history well kept and used in todays society. The Tolai people of the Gazelle Peninsulla have continued to use the traditional shell money called "tabu". They use the tabu as a contribution to the Tolai male secret society of tumbuan and dukduk, for distribution to people at death ceremonies, as payment of a bride price, for settling disputes, to purchase land or even garden food from local markets.

Flora and Fauna
The tropical nature of the province, with its evergreen rainforest vegetation and rugged mountain ranges, the imposing volcanoes which surrounds the town of Rabaul and the beautiful Simpson harbour have made East New Britain an attractive and adventurous place to visit. The marine resources are diverse and the tropical environment provides opportunities for bush trekking, mountain trekking, mountain climbing and cave exploration.

Attractions
War wrecks also litter the surrounding reefs. The excellent visibility makes this an exciting dive spot all year round. Dive trips, day tours as well as charter boats for fishing can be organised through any of the accommodations or tour operators.
Forty five minutes by boat from Kokopo are the Duke of York Islands offering sport diving, snorkelling and picnics under the coconut trees.

The lagoons around this historical group of islands provide all-weather canoeing, wind surfing and water skiing and are a haven for visiting yachts. Air Niugini provides daily flights to and from Tokua airport or connections through to other New Guinea Island destinations.

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Jennym604, 2011-05-25 07:06:56