Wayzata World Factbook 1995/World Factbook - 1995 Edition - Wayzata Technology (1995).iso/mac/text/Build/orig cis/TA141.TXT

Text File | 1993-07-09 | 4KB | 69 lines

Papua New Guinea - Consular Information Sheet
July 9, 1993

Country Description:  Papua New Guinea is a parliamentary democracy.
Tourist facilities are somewhat limited.

Entry Requirements:  A passport and onward or return ticket are required. As
of February 10, 1993, travelers may obtain 30 day tourist and single entry
business visas issued upon arrival at Port Moresby's Jackson Airport.  An
AIDS test is required for a work permit. For longer stays and more current
information, the traveler may contact the Embassy of Papua New Guinea, Suite
300, 1615 New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, tel. (202) 745-
3680.

Areas of Instability:  The government of Papua New Guinea does not allow
travel to Bougainville, the largest island in the North Solomon Province,
because of an active armed insurgency.  An Indonesian secessionist group
remains active along the largely inaccessible Papua New Guinea/Indonesia
border.

Medical Facilities:  Medical Facilities in Port Moresby are generally
adequate for emergencies.  Most serious endemic diseases, such as malaria,
cholera, dengue fever and hepatitis B, are not a problem for travelers.
Hospitals and pharmacies are small and limited to urban centers and
missions.  Malaria prophylaxis are often used.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  More specific
information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline, tel. [phone].

Information on Crime:  Crime is a concern in Papua New Guinea.  Armed
robberies and assaults on women have been a problem in Port Moresby and
other urban centers.  Criminals often victimize and rob persons who are part
of large crowds, for instance, while attending sporting events, concerts,
political rallies, etc.  Hitchhiking or hiking in rural areas and visiting
isolated public areas such as parks, golf courses, beaches, cemeteries, etc.
is risky.  Persons traveling alone face greater risks than those who are
part of an organized tour.  Most resident foreigners avoid using public
motor vehicles or taxis, relying instead on their sponsor or a rental
vehicle for transport.  Travel outside of Port Moresby by car at night can
be hazardous.  Visitors can inquire locally concerning security conditions
before driving between towns.  U.S. citizens may obtain additional
information on safety precautions from the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police, and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.

Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws of the country in which
they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal
drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated
information on travel and security within the country.

Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Port Moresby City at Armit
Street.  The mailing address is P.O. Box 1492, APO AE 90553; telephone (675)
211-455/594/054.

No. 93-188

This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 13, 1992 to
reflect recent changes in procedures for obtaining visas, to add information
on crime in Papua New Guinea, and to provide information concerning the loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport.