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Featured Journey Photos
Rabaul History
A living WW2 museum
Fire Dancing
A true spectacle in the jungle
The Bainings People
Centuries old tradition
WWII History
Our 'Escape from Rabaul' Journey retraces the steps of Australian soldiers as they attempted to outrun the invading Japanese.
| FAQs |
How will I know if I am fit enough?The wilderness training programme will ensure that you have overcome all obstacles. Just remember, we are NOT training you for a race. We want you to take small steps so you can really enjoy the sights, sounds, smells and hear the stories.What sort of Medical immunization do I need?The following recommendations are not absolute and you should consult your personal doctor based on your previous medical history.
Consult with you personal doctor for anti-malaria tablets. There are a number of different types on the market at the moment. What sort of clothes do I wear?Bring two casual sets for travel and hotel activities. When trekking through the jungle or island hopping, we find the use of Skins™ are excellent. They are comfortable, breathable and dry very quickly. Walk and swim in them and they keep any little creatures on the outside. On a personal note, I use them for all worldwide adventures and they have never failed. Unfortunately, I am known in other parts of the PNG jungle as ‘Black Suit’ !!What sort of shoes do I wear?The days of wearing heavy hiking boots went out with the ark. The key to enjoying a walk is the weight on your feet and if the shoes drain water. Studies show that for every kilogram on your feet is equivalent to carrying 7 kilograms on your back. Lightweight sneaker brands such as Salomon or a good quality sneaker will suffice. Trapped water in a waterproof Gortex boot causes major problems such as bacterial foot rot. To put it simply, the more holes in your shoes the better.How do I look after my feet in the jungle?Prevention rather than cure is best. By using Vaseline in conjunction with an anti-bacteria foot powder will keep your feet in the best condition. The use of a coolmax sock linear with an outer sock will also assist in keeping moisture away from your feet.Should I use trekking poles?Two poles reduce the impact of trekking on your knee joints and leg muscles. Infact, they take 20% pressure strain off your legs. You walk like a spider. With the ‘hands above the heart’ position, circulation is improved and your heart rate is reduced. The ‘rhythm’ created by walking with poles leads to relaxed, more regular breathing and increased stamina. It doesn’t take long to get use to them and I can promise you, you will never look back. The poles assist in ankle support, hence being able to wear light weight shoes. It’s just been smarter.Do I carry a pack?A Baining Porter will be carrying your pack. He will be behind you every step so if you need something, just ask. For yourself, an adventure racing vest with a built in camel back is your best bet... tried and proven. The vest has small pockets at the front which allow you to carry nibbles, pocket camera etc at close reach and a small amount of space in the back for a spray jacket. It’s just like wearing a shirt.Do I have my own tent?Yes, you do and it will become your home for 5/6 nights. They are premium two person tents so you will have plenty of room to make yourself at home. The tents have a dual door access which is refreshing to let a cross-breeze flow through.What do I sleep in?Sleeping bags will cook you alive so a silk sheet/bag works great.What sort of trekking food will I be eating?I personally enjoy my ‘Chai Latte’ morning and night so there is no ‘Pablo’ coffee here. Pasta (carbohydrates) and tuna (protein) is usually the staple diet along with the customary cherry ripes or any other favorite chocolates. Muesli is a great start in the morning with power bars, energy gels and Tuna during the day.If you have some favorites, please list them under Special requests on the Client Reservation Form. The trekking food is broken down into 24 hour packs so you will know if you have eaten 7 days food in the first two days. What happens at meal time?Each person is responsible for preparing their own meals out of their 24 hours ration pack. At the time, you may share cooking with another person or as a group. The use of a fire or the MSR stoves are available.Is the water safe to drink?Water in any remote location needs to be treated correctly. Regardless of the water looking clear or not. We use Steripen water purifiers which use a UV light ray instead of chemicals to purify the water. If I explained the technology to you, we would be both confused so take it from someone with a weak stomach, they work and are excellent.Where will I be camping?We aim to be at particular areas each night. This may be at a remote village or by a river. The group may even want to experience the clearing of a jungle to make an instant bush campsite. Whilst we are visiting island church missions, camping on the beach is the best choice in front of a roaring fire. A great time to feel nature flow over you.How do I shower?As some of the villagers are a small distance from rivers, you wash along the way in your skins. There are plenty of creeks. As simple as sitting down in the water and having a cool wash.Where do I go to the toilet?There are plenty of trees to choose from. Personally, and sparing you details, I would refrain from using any village toilet anywhere in PNG.What if I am having my period during the trip?Our group coordinator, Gillian will be able to discuss these issues with you.How do I stop chaffing and thrush?The use of Skins™ without underwear for both men and women will greatly reduce the chance of this happening.Can I get assistance in required personal gear?One of the pathfinders will personally fit you out at a discounted rate through our Brisbane supplier for your own personal gear.Can I bring gifts for the villagers?Sure. As long as it is small and lightweight. Frisbees, colouring books for the children, skipping ropes. Lollies go a long way as well. As for the older boys, they love the Broncos.How much money do I bring ?You may come across an item at the markets to bring home to your family. A minimum of 300 Kina ($150 AUD). The hotel in Rabaul takes VISA, MASTERCARD, AMEX. |