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Digital Nomad Guide to Papua New Guinea | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Papua New Guinea

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Papua New Guinea is not a particularly popular destination for digital nomads, although it is becoming increasingly popular. The most popular cities for digital nomads in Papua New Guinea are Port Moresby, Lae, and Madang. Digital nomads like living in Papua New Guinea because of its low cost of living, its diverse culture, and its beautiful landscapes. A digital nomad can live on a monthly budget of around $1,000 in Papua New Guinea. This budget should cover accommodation, food, transportation, and other basic necessities. The culture of Papua New Guinea is very diverse, with over 800 different languages spoken in the country. The culture is heavily influenced by traditional beliefs and practices, as well as by Christianity. Foods popular in Papua New Guinea include sago, sweet potatoes, taro, fish, and pork. Traditional dishes include saksak (a type of dumpling made from sago flour), kokoda (a type of raw fish dish), and hinava (a type of salad made from grated coconut and onion).

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How do I meet people in Papua New Guinea?

When we asked people living in Papua New Guinea about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Papua New Guinea often join clubs and activities such as golf, tennis, sailing, and rugby. Expats also join social clubs, such as the Port Moresby Expatriate Club, which organizes events and activities for expats. Additionally, expats often meet people through their work, by attending local events, or by joining local churches or other religious organizations. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, such as the Goroka Show, or by joining local sports teams," said one expat who made the move to Papua New Guinea.

What is life like in Papua New Guinea?

When we asked people living in Papua New Guinea what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Papua New Guinea can be both exciting and challenging. The country is home to a diverse range of cultures and landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore and experience something new. Expats and digital nomads will find that the cost of living is relatively low, and the country is well-connected with reliable internet access. However, the infrastructure is still developing, and the language barrier can be a challenge. Expats and digital nomads should also be aware of the potential risks associated with living in a developing country, such as crime and health risks. Despite these challenges, many expats and digital nomads find that the rewards of living in Papua New Guinea far outweigh the risks," said one expat who made the move to Papua New Guinea.

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Where should I live in Papua New Guinea?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Papua New Guinea can be a challenge. It is important to research the area you are interested in living in and to consider the cost of living, safety, and availability of amenities. You can start your search by looking online for rental listings, or by contacting local real estate agents. Additionally, you can reach out to expat communities in Papua New Guinea to get advice and recommendations from people who have already made the move. Finally, you can also look into staying in a hotel or hostel while you search for a more permanent residence," remarked one member in Papua New Guinea.

What do I need to know before moving to Papua New Guinea?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Papua New Guinea, they said:

"Before retiring in Papua New Guinea, expats should be aware of the country's tropical climate and the potential for natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and cyclones. Expats should also be aware of the country's high crime rate and the need to take extra precautions when travelling. Additionally, expats should research the cost of living in the country and the availability of healthcare and other services. Finally, expats should be aware of the cultural differences between their home country and Papua New Guinea, and be prepared to adapt to the local customs and traditions," said one person in Papua New Guinea.

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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Papua New Guinea?

"Expats in Papua New Guinea appreciate the warm hospitality of the local people, the vibrant culture and the unique customs that are still practiced today. They also enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the country, with its lush rainforests, rugged mountains and pristine beaches. The diverse range of wildlife and the opportunity to experience traditional tribal life are also highly valued by expats. Additionally, the country's rich history and cultural heritage are a source of fascination for many," said one person in Papua New Guinea.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Papua New Guinea?

"Expats in Papua New Guinea often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate. Expats may also find the lack of infrastructure and modern amenities to be a challenge. Finally, the climate can be difficult to adjust to, as temperatures can be quite extreme," remarked one member in Papua New Guinea.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Papua New Guinea for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Papua New Guinea for an extended period of time, you will need to obtain a valid visa. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa, such as a business visa, student visa, or work visa. Additionally, you may need to apply for a residency permit, which will allow you to stay in the country for a longer period of time," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Papua New Guinea.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Papua New Guinea?

We asked people in Papua New Guinea if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be aware of and respect the cultural norms of Papua New Guinea. It is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local customs and to be respectful of the local people and their beliefs. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking in a loud or disrespectful manner. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local taboos and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding gift-giving and to avoid giving gifts that are inappropriate or offensive," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Papua New Guinea.

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What are healthcare services like in Papua New Guinea?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Papua New Guinea, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Papua New Guinea are provided by both the public and private sectors. The public healthcare system is largely funded by the government and is the primary source of healthcare for the majority of the population. The quality of public healthcare varies greatly, with some areas having better access to resources and services than others. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, but the quality of care may not be as good as in their home countries. Expats in Papua New Guinea often use the public healthcare system, but they may also opt for private healthcare services if they can afford it. Private healthcare services are generally more expensive than public healthcare, but they may offer better quality care," explained one person living in Papua New Guinea.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Papua New Guinea?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Papua New Guinea often appreciate the country's diverse culture and friendly people. They also enjoy the country's stunning natural beauty, with its lush rainforests, rugged mountains, and pristine beaches. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the lack of infrastructure and modern amenities challenging. Additionally, the cost of living can be high, and the country's political and economic instability can be a source of concern," said one member in Papua New Guinea.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
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AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
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Contribute to Papua New Guinea Network Contribute
Help others in Papua New Guinea by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Papua New Guinea.

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