The world of birds is a fascinating one, and in this issue of Paradise we look at what makes Papua New Guinea such a popular destination for birders from all over the globe.
We provide a field guide to some of PNG’s key birdwatching areas and interview Phil Gregory, one of PNG’s most experienced birding guides.
“Birds of paradise (known locally as kumuls) are undeniably PNG’s flagship birds,” he tells reporter Belinda Jackson. “If you go to the right places, they are very straightforward to see,” he says. “Just 45 minutes east of Port Moresby, at Varirata National Park, is one of the country’s best sites.”
Continuing with the bird theme, the spectacular cover of this issue, photographed by David Kirkland, shows a tribesman from the Simbu Province wearing an elaborate headdress of feathers.
With eyes still to the sky, Paradise takes a close look at Air Niugini’s next generation of planes that will deliver a raft of benefits, including increased passenger comfort.
Our story profiles the A220 aircraft that will be introduced into service from next year.
We journey to Rabaul in this issue. The town was heavily bombed during the war, and it has been devastated by volcanoes, but it pushes on regardless and is a major destination for cruise ships and tourists.
Marisa Howden (author of the recently released novel set in PNG, A Dangerous Land) reports on the town’s attractions and its unflinching spirit.
Another town in the spotlight in this issue is Lae, the second-largest town in PNG.
Our special six-page Lae Business Report interviews the president of the Lae Chamber of Commerce and profiles some of the local businesses that are making an impact.
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stay in one of the world’s great hotels? We take you inside Raffles Hotel in Singapore for a revealing look at the rooms, the food and the facilities.
To check-in to one of the suites in this impeccable property can set you back US$1000 per night.
On the homefront, our reviewers check-in to the Wewak Boutique Hotel in Wewak and dine at Ang’s Restaurant in Port Moresby.
Ang’s is a no-frills Chinese restaurant that offers “amazing value” according to our reviewer.
We also look at a PNG coffee shop that is at the top of its game, and our Wine Guru column provides tips on how to pair food and wine.
Robert Upe, Editor