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Milne Bay Situated on the southeastern tip of PNG is Milne Bay, named in 1873 after Lord Milne of the British Navy. This maritime province boasts many spectacular reefs, islands and cultures. Most of the local population are seafarers who depend on the sea for their livelihoods. Ceremonial gift exchanges and trade between the locals are among the richest cultural heritages in the Pacific. Milne Bay came to prominence in World War II when an allied base was established here to safeguard the vital sea lanes from PNG to Australia as well as the eastern approach to Port Moresby. Today relics of warplanes, trucks, tanks and pontoons can all be found above and below the sea. War memorials are located on the periphery of Alotau. The Milne Bay Province consists of four districts: Alotau, Esa'ala, Kiriwina/ Goodenough and Samarai/Murua. Alotau is the main administrative and business centre and is a 15–minute drive on sealed roads from Gurney Airport. In and around Alotau there are several main supermarkets and other smaller outlets for essentials. Souvenir shops sell local products such as carvings, herbal products and jewellery. There are about 50 local dialects, though English is widely spoken throughout the province. The local economy is largely dependent on primary produce such as palm oil, cocoa, coffee, minerals and marine products. A local eco-friendly tourist industry is also being pursued and encouraged as a potential source of revenue. The weather can be unpredictable at times with sudden and heavy torrential downpours. October to December generally enjoys the best and most consistent weather while January to March usually experiences strong southeasterly winds. Milne Bay is a popular fishing destination. Game fishing tours can be arranged through a number of charter operators. Diving is excellent thanks to the diverse marine life as well as WWII relics. One easily accessible shipwreck is Mascoota at Wagawaga. Island hopping tours can be organised from Alotau to the neighbouring islands of Samarai and the Engineer Group, or to Goodenough, Ferguson and Normanby. Regular small boats and cruises service these destinations. Air Niugini runs several flights a week from Port Moresby to Gurney Airport. Rural Alotau is serviced by Airlines PNG twice weekly from Gurney to Misima, Kiriwina; and weekly services north to Rabaraba and the islands of Salamo and Vivigani. Tawali Resort Somerset is centrally located and is ideal for all visitors to Lord Howe Island. Neds Beach, the lagoon, restaurants and shops are within easy walking distance of the property. Somerset has 25 self-catering units nestled in subtropical palm groves alive with hibiscus and frangipani. Tracks meander through the gardens and palms enhancing the atmosphere and privacy of the resort. Guests can choose from Superior or Standard accommodation. All units have separate bedrooms and living areas, en suite bathrooms, plus covered verandas for entertaining and relaxing. Each unit is equipped with a fridge and microwave, television, linen, fan, electric blankets, bath and beach towels. On-site facilities include covered gas barbecues, coin-operated laundry machines, day lounge, small library and pay phone for STD and local calls. Internet access is available during office hours for guests who bring their own laptops. The courtesy bus provides airport transfers and transport to restaurants for evening meals for the convenience of all guests. Somerset is the perfect location for visitors wanting to enjoy and explore the wonderful attractions that have made Lord Howe Island famous. Enjoy a relaxing holiday at Somerset. Tel: +675 641 0922 +847 461 1984 (USA) Fax: +1 510 8651754 Email: reservations@tawali.com www.tawali.com PO Box 674, Alotau, Milne Bay PAPUA NEW GUINEA 206 www.paradisesonline.com