PNG is an expensive place and it can seem unreasonable from a travellers' point of view: costs are pretty much at expense account levels but comforts are relatively few. There is no tradition of cheap hotels and restaurants. Once you get out of the towns, however, you can live for virtually nothing (there's virtually nothing to buy). If you can look out for yourself, you can get by on almost nothing - you can walk, you can buy a canoe, you can stay with a family or in a school or police station (but be sure to give them some money for their hospitality - no one likes a freeloader). If you live on sago (powdered palm pith) and sweet potato you can certainly travel the country very, very cheaply.

You can change travellers' cheques in every major town, but queues will be long and you'll have to be patient. In remote areas you'll need cash kina, preferably small bills as people are unlikely to have change. ATMs are numerous in major towns and will issue cash for Visa and MasterCard credit cards. Credit cards are accpeted in most hotels and restaurants.

Tipping is not customary anywhere in PNG, and the listed price is what you'll be expected to pay. There is no tradition of bargaining either, and you'll quickly cause offence if you try to haggle over the price of a souvenir.

Back to top ^

Shop Online

Advertisement

Book Your Trip

Travel insurance. Be covered by our recommended partner.

Compare & book flights from 100's of domestic & international airlines.

Hotels & Hostels

Booking hotels is simple with Lonely Planet. See our reviewed and recommended hotels in one place and book online. Browse hotels ›

Lonely Planet Newsletters

Updates, offers and inspiration - straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now ›

Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

Lonely Planet