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Moving to Papua New Guinea | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Papua New Guinea

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 04, 2023

Summary: Expats and digital nomads move to Papua New Guinea for its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Papua New Guinea are Port Moresby, Lae, and Madang. People looking for a place to live in Papua New Guinea can search online for rental listings, contact real estate agents, or ask around in the local community.

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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:

"Papua New Guinea is a culturally diverse country with over 800 languages spoken. Expats should be aware that English is not widely spoken outside of the major cities, so it is important to learn some of the local language. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Papua New Guinea is higher than in many other countries, so it is important to budget accordingly. Additionally, the healthcare system in Papua New Guinea is not as developed as in other countries, so expats should make sure they have adequate health insurance coverage. Finally, expats should be aware that the crime rate in Papua New Guinea is higher than in many other countries, so it is important to take necessary precautions to stay safe," said one expat in Papua New Guinea.

How do I find a place to live in Papua New Guinea?

We asked 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," said one expat in Papua New Guinea.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Papua New Guinea?

"Expat homes and apartments in Papua New Guinea tend to be modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, internet access, and other amenities. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer a greater sense of security and privacy. Expat homes and apartments are often located in the capital city of Port Moresby, as well as in other major cities such as Lae and Madang. Expats can also find housing in smaller towns and villages, although these tend to be more basic and rustic," explained one expat living in Papua New Guinea.

What is the average cost of housing in Papua New Guinea?

If you are thinking about moving to Papua New Guinea, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Papua New Guinea varies greatly depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, housing in urban areas is more expensive than in rural areas. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city can range from around $200 to $500 per month, while rent for a two-bedroom apartment can range from around $400 to $800 per month. In rural areas, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from around $50 to $150 per month, while rent for a two-bedroom apartment can range from around $100 to $250 per month," remarked one expat in Papua New Guinea.

Should I buy or rent a home in Papua New Guinea?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Papua New Guinea, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Whether you should buy or rent a home in Papua New Guinea depends on your individual circumstances. If you plan to stay in the country for a long period of time, buying a home may be a more cost-effective option. On the other hand, if you are only planning to stay for a short period of time, renting may be the better option. It is important to consider the cost of living in Papua New Guinea, as well as the availability of housing, before making a decision," said one expat in Papua New Guinea.

What should I pack when moving to Papua New Guinea?

We asked people living in Papua New Guinea to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Papua New Guinea, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Bring clothing that is lightweight and breathable, as well as items that will protect you from the sun. It is also important to bring items that will help you stay connected to your home country, such as a laptop, phone, and any necessary chargers. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a first aid kit, insect repellent, and any necessary medications. Finally, it is important to bring items that will help you adjust to the culture, such as books about the local customs and language," said one expat who made the move to Papua New Guinea.

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What cultural faux pas 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. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Papua New Guinea.

Why do people move to Papua New Guinea?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Papua New Guinea, they responded:

"Papua New Guinea offers expats a unique cultural experience, with a diverse range of languages, customs and traditions. The country is also home to some of the world's most spectacular natural landscapes, with lush rainforests, rugged mountains and pristine beaches. Expats can also benefit from the country's low cost of living, with affordable housing and a wide range of goods and services. Additionally, the country's strong economy and growing infrastructure make it an attractive destination for those looking to start a business or invest in the local economy," commented one expat who moved to Papua New Guinea.

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How are healthcare services 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," wrote one expat living in Papua New Guinea.

What are medical services in Papua New Guinea like?

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

"Medical services in Papua New Guinea are limited and often inadequate. The country has a shortage of medical personnel, and many of the existing medical facilities are poorly equipped and lack basic supplies. Access to healthcare is also limited due to the country's remote location and lack of infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the government is working to improve access to healthcare and has made progress in recent years," wrote one expat living in Papua New Guinea.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat 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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