Melanesia is a special place in the southwest Pacific Ocean that varies from island to island. Rich in resources and with a multiplicity of people with interesting and diverse cultures, customs, rituals, myths and legends, the countries of Melanesia will not be forgotten easily.
Melanesia is a region extending from the western side of the East Pacific to the Arafura Sea, north and north-east of Australia. The term was first used by Jules Dumont d'Urville in 1832 to denote an ethnic and geographical grouping of islands distinct from Polynesia and Micronesia.
Today d'Urville's racial classification is known to be inaccurate because it obscures the very great cultural, linguistic, and genetic diversity in the area and combines two quite distinct groups, the Austronesians (who have a much wider distribution than just Melanesia) and the Papuans (who themselves comprise a number of separate groups). A further complication is that the term Melanesian is sometimes used to refer solely to the Austronesian peoples of that region, especially when contrasting them with the Polynesians and Micronesians (both of which groups are also Austronesian).
In contrast, the geopolitical conception of Melanesia is widely used. For example, the Melanesian Spearhead Group Preferential Trade Agreement is a regional trade treaty governing the states of Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and Fiji. 'Melanesia' is also current as a geographic term, to refer to the area when national, ethnic and linguistic distinctions are not relevant.
Melanesian Mythology
Melanesians do not concern themselvs with heirarchies of the gods or people. In Polynesia a ruler would try and establish his lineage from the gods and rule with strict authority. In Melanesia it was much more hodge podge, less a captive audience, and persons were in day to day struggles than wasting their time with heavy beliefs.
In most parts of Melanesia, the Europeans arrived with both indifference and brutality, and took the place by storm. In larger New Guinea however, the Eurpoeans were religated to the coasts, and were not able to make a huge difference in religion, culture and linguistics. Thus the mythology which started here and moved to the islands, remained very much in tact at its source, it was never removed because of modern thought, and in fact even today, there are mountain people who barely show any signs of living in the modern world, who's myths underline the seriousness they have towards their relationship with nature, and their very survival.
No matter how isolated a culture, its myths do not remain the same, and with the arrival of the Western man, their myths say that the day was coming, accepting and even helping the social change towards materialism.
In pre-colonial times, Melanesians knew little beyond their own neighbours with whom they fought and traded. The Arapesh were a semi-nomadic tribe living on the north side of the Sepik River, and who thought the whole world was nothing more than an island. The Busama of the coastal Huon Gulf saw themsleves as the center of the world, and if you travelled beyond the known territories, you needed to climb solid thatch to get to heaven.
The more explorative Trobian islanders traded extensively with neighbouring islands, and believed the world called Pilola was a few hundred square miles in size, and to the west and south was a land of winged and tailed people, north was ordinary men (probably New Britain) and east was a dangerous land comprised only of women.
Each small community had its own unique way of looking at the world. Each tiny community had their own set of mythological characters, that seldom were transferred to other communities.
Melanesian society does not possess the sort of social stratification typical of Polynesia, where a nobility had a vested interest in establishing their descent from the gods. The typical Melanesian, if such a person exists, is not concerned with a hierarchy deities nor does his mythology unfold a sequence of creation. So earthbound is he that he neglects almost completely the more "elevated" themes which inspire the myths of Polynesia and Micronesia. He is not so much concerned with the origin of all men as with the origin of his own social unit, his clan and his moiety or his totem. This knowledge establishes his identity and defines his mode of behaviour; it determines whom he calls brother, and whom he may marry and the young people for whom he is responsible.
Beliefs before man in Melanesia
Melanesian's tend to believe that earth was here before the mythological beings came upon it. They came from the sky, the sea, from underground, or just from somewhere, ideas were very loosely determined. They tended to make adjustments, such as raising the sky, or adding or taking away the sea. The Iatmul of the Sepik River area of New Guinea say that the dry land was created when a spirit put his foot upon mud.
The details of the beliefs of mankind's beginnings were as varied as the number of places people occupied. Generally man came fully grown from the sky or underground, or a tree released him. Others claim he was made from clay and sand or was carved of wood. Kiwaians thought their 'father' was a crocodile and the human was carved out of wood then his face was painted with sago milk. First he oped his eyes, then twitched his nose and then he sounded like a crocodile. He wasn't happy until until he had freinds to talk to, so three more were made. But two refused to listen amd learn, and rather than being satisfied with consuming sago milk, they started killing animals for food. Suddenly, they transformed into half-crocodiles, and no one wanted anything to do with them.
The Papuans of Keraki on the south-west coast believe all beings came from the sky. All weird creatures except the snakes and the crocodles went back to the sky when they were finished, so that's why there are still snakes and crocodiles. Too much rain means the sky beings are unhappy, and that the great rattn pillar that holds the world up will break under the weight so they would stand prepared to defend themselves for if any sky beings would fall down.
In one story, man was trapped inside a palm tree and uttered strange noises, to Kambel cut the tree down, releasing man. At night, a white shiney object rose from the palm tree, escaped Kambel's grasp, and became the moon.
Among the stories that discuss man emerged from the underground, the north Massim area believed that life underground was a mirror of that above it, with the same rules, skills and beliefs. An ancestress would come up from holes on the coral or rock, and help determine future land use and inheritance. On the Kirawina peninsula one site became especially renouned as ifrom it came the first dog, iguana, pig and snake - the ancestoral animal of each of the four main clans.
Two very different brothers are often central to many Melanesian myths, names vary amoung the islands, often resulting in battling ogres, and the one who is the strongest and smartest is usually the victor. One of their stories involves one brother with only fruit to eat, while his brother eats meat. The former follows the latter, and watches him say something and the hill opens and he runs inside and grabs a chicken, then leaves as the hill closes behind him. When the other brother tries the same thing, he is too slow, and all the animals escape. The two brothers end up fighting until their wives insist they stop fighting each other and go fight the ogre.
Marunogere of the Kiwai Papuans was quite the hero, pulled people from holes in the ground and showed them how to construct 100 meter long houses, he taught them to be warriors by rolling around on a boar carcas, he made a hole and installed sex organs, and he would be happy to die if he felt the house sway with young virgins locked in their first embrace. The ritual life giving plays out each year in real.
In Melanesia, the sea and the jungle are full of scarey spitits, flourescent wounds worn by rare ghosts, sometimes spititual doubles of people presently alive. The Kukukuku tribe in the New Guinea mountains have a myth that a spirit resembling a boy's uncle talked him into piercing his nose septum, and wearing a bird bone in it. Later the boy became a great warrior, and thus started the ceremonial nose piercing.
For more detailed info on Oceania mythology, click on Jane Resture's excellent website
People
The original people to the Melanesia are appear to have cultural and linguistic bonds to Papua New Guinea. They have been carbondated thirty five thousand years atleast to have made it to the main Solomon Islands, and perhaps they had even drifted to smaller islands to the east.
About four or five thousand years ago, and in particular along the north east coast of New Guinea, and some of the stepping stone islands leading to the Solomons, did the Austronesian people come in contact with the Papua speaking people who pre-existed there. After a long period of interaction, combining of languages and cultures and genes, did a small group of Austronesian speaking people venture east to become the first Polynesians.
Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia and Vanuatu use the word 'Melanesian' to designate a similar cultural and colonial heritage, but many feel it is racial, and prefer to be called by their island's name, Fijian, for example.
From this point we will look at the individual countries and other destinations of Melanesia.
Melanesia hotels
As mentioned above, the following Melanesia hotels had to qualify to be listed here. They must be independently owned and operated, meet minimum eco-friendly requirements, rise to the top after a series of former guest reviews, and their average nightly double occupancy room rate must be less than US$150 per night.
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Our most qualified Melanesia hotels under $150 (in order and by location)
Viti Levu hotels
- Uprising Beach Resort - ‘Uprising’ is resort style backpacking on the beach with so much to offer you day and night. When you lay eyes on our mile long sandy beach, dazzling waters, lush coastal forests, and picturesque islands scattered on the horizon, you’ll know you’re somewhere special. Come play or just relax under the shade of… yes a coconut tree. Chill out in a hammock, feel the cool sea breeze and truly experience what it is to be on ‘Fiji time’. Then when the sun goes down the beach bar fires up! The setting…tropical, the vibe…sublime, the experience… Our awesome accommodation & rates is what sets up apart from other resorts. Creative, unique, bright and airy. Every bure, room and living space has been thoughtfully designed to blend traditional architecture with a casual elegance. And they all have ocean views and balconies. Our fabulous camping site (nick named ‘the projects') is there to accommodate those on a really tight budget. You don’t need to be cashed up to live well here; we have a bed to suit all budgets.
- Bekana Garden Island Resort - Bekana is a small, family-owned island off the west coast of Viti Levu. With thirty hectares of lush mangroves, tropical gardens, coconut palms and sandy beach, Bekana is only 20 minutes from Nadi airport and just a 10-minute boat ride from Lautoka. Small and intimate, Bekana keeps true to the traditional Fijian values. You will be greeted with warm Bula smiles and treated like family, making it so much harder when it’s time to leave. Bekana has scheduled boat transfers to Lautoka daily, allowing you to mingle with the locals and explore the town returning at your leisure to the sanctuary of the island. Bekana offers you a true island experience with easy access to the mainland, the airport, and is ideally located for day trips to the outer islands.
- Tanoa International Hotel - Tanoa International Hotel is Nadi Airport's premiere hotel, conveniently located just three minutes from the international terminal. It offers superior accommodation and service in a peaceful tropical setting. Attention to detail ensures a memorable stay.
- Natadola Beach Resort - Situated on arguably Fiji's best beach, miles of pure white sand and clear blue waters make Natadola Beach Resort incomparable - just you and Fiji. Natadola offers all-tide swimming and reef snorkelling at either end of the beach…or just relax by our magnificent fresh water swimming pool, set amongst tropical blooms and lush greenery. With only 11 large Suites you can always find seclusion and privacy at this exclusive beach resort on the mainland. (No children under 16 years of age). Personalised service from our friendly staff will ensure a memorable stay. Situated on Viti Levu's Coral Coast, we are able to deliver our guests (by vehicle) to Natadola Beach within one hour of clearing Customs at Nadi International Airport.
- Tanoa Rakiraki Hotel - your rustic home away from home in the quaint township of Rakiraki, Fiji! With its quaint, old-world ambience and genuine island hospitality, this Fiji Hotel offers truly comfortable and relaxing Rakiraki accommodations that every Fiji tourist should experience for themselves. A breezy and breathtaking two and a half hour-drive from the Nadi International Airport, the Tanoa Rakiraki Hotel is a truly cozy place to stay, offering you a relaxed pace, home-style cooking, and a memorable Fiji holiday! Whether you are visiting Fiji on vacation, business or even for your wedding, Tanoa Rakiraki Hotel in Nadi Fiji is your Fiji hotel of choice.
- Club Fiji Resort - John and Elly Bullock realised a personal dream when in the early ' 90s they opened Club Fiji, a charming and intimate resort on the beach in Nadi Bay. For John, an ex-airline pilot and Elly, whose background is in restaurants, this was the chance to build, from the ground up, something unique in Fiji tourism, a product with a distinctly Fijian flavour yet offering good food and quality accommodation at an affordable price. Situated eight kilometers from Nadi International Airport on the main island, and just four kilometers from busy and bustling Nadi Town, you could be forgiven for thinking you were right in the middle of a typical Fijian koro or village. Surrounded by sugar cane farms and small winding dirt tracks, the resort's lush tropical gardens provide an almost rustic setting. Coconut palms abound, as do colourful native plants like bougainvillea, allamanda, and heliconia. But it is in the evening when you feel the special ambience of this pretty and peaceful resort. A canopy of stars above, kerosene flares faintly illuminating the palms, and the quiet, relaxed solitude of a tropical island night.
- Beachside Resort - If you are looking for nice Nadi accommodation, Beachside Resort – a small, intimate 21 room boutique Nadi budget resort, offers a range of spotlessly clean, comfortable rooms, at affordable prices. Perfect for those working on a limited budget who are seeking Nadi budget accommodation whether you are in transit or wanting to spend more than a day or two at a lovely, welcoming Nadi budget resort. All accommodation features cool ceramic tiled floors and is designed to take advantage of the tropical sea and mountain breezes.
Nadi hotels
- Raffles Gateway Resort - Each room has air-conditioning, television, 3 Free in house movie and CNN, tea and coffee making facilities, refrigerator, private bathrooms, radio, and a hair dryer. Air-conditioning, television, 3 Free in house movie and CNN, tea and coffee making facilities, refrigerator, private bathrooms, radio, and a hair dryer. Only 5 miles from Nadi town and 15 miles from Lautoka there are a lot of activities that can be done during the day. To make sure that you enjoy your sleep our rooms are accommodated with all the latest and most comfortable items. You can relax in our pool bar, which is open from 8.00am to 12 midnight. While having a drink or eating you can enjoy the Fijian music which is played every night or you can taste the traditional Fijian drink "kava".
- Namad's Skylodge - Nomads Skylodge is Flashpacking! That's Flash Backpacking and budget Nadi accommodation at its best with cheap backpackers beds and great value for money hotel style accommodation. Nomads Skylodge has a huge variety of budget accommodation options, including backpacker dorm beds, private rooms and family accommodation all with ensuite and air-conditioning. The property is located on 11 acres of lush tropical gardens, 10 minutes from Nadi International airport and 10 minutes to Nadi Town. With free airport transfers, bar, restaurant and daily activities it's the perfect place to start your Fijian adventure. Fiji is famous for its crystal clear waters, sandy beaches and island getaways, with Nadi as its international gateway, the jumping off point to the Yasawa, Mamanuca Islands and the Coral Coast. Relax on isolated islands, experience adventure, culture and the warmth of the Fijian people. Hospitality like you won't experience anywhere. Nomads Skylodge is the perfect place to start your Fiji holiday.
- Namuka Bay Lagoon - Authentic Fijian Bures constructed painstakingly with sinews, thatched with grass. Ensuite toilet, showers with essential amenities. Tariff inculdes 3 meals daily with morning and afternoon teas. Great Activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay with Namuka Bay Lagoon. Visiting a sacred limestone cave, hiking in the rolling mountains, snorkelling, hand line fishing, bamboo rafting, picking wild tropical fruits, volleyball, birdwatching, visiting a fruit bat sanituary, kava ceremonies with locals. Namuka Bay Lagoon gives a great opportunity to enjoy the Fijian island style in your own way. An adventure you can not afford to miss!!!
Kadavu Island hotels
- Matava - The Astrolabe Hideaway - On the remote and magnificent island of Kadavu, Matava - The Astrolabe Hideaway boasts secluded splendour whilst also satisfying your spirit of adventure. Bordered by the Great Astrolabe Reef and set amidst lush tropical surroundings, Matava is a small and intimate getaway, designed to blend with its natural environment. Set amidst lush tropical surroundings, Matava - The Astrolabe Hideaway is designed to blend with its natural environment. Traditional thatched Fijian bures nestled in the rainforest accommodate up to 22 guests and offer privacy, comfort and superb ocean views. As a PADI certified resortand only a stone's throw away from the Great Astrolabe Reef, Matava offers the perfect environment to scuba dive, snorkel, surf, fish, kayak with opportunities to trek, visit villages, bird watch or simply relax and unwind. Matava is a genuine eco-hideaway designed to cause minimal impact on the environment and to promote conservation awareness with our local community and visitors. Ecologically conscious yet adventure driven Matava heralds a new breed in holiday experience.
- Hotel Rakiraki - Two and a half hours drive north from Nadi Airport, along the spectacular scenic and coastal roads, is the quaint rural township of Rakiraki….also the gateway to the northern outer island resorts. Rakiraki is a colonial township that captivates visitors with its old world charm and serenity. The hotel is two minutes from town.It is the half way point between Nadi and Suva, and presents a different Fiji, one that many visitors never see. Tanoa Rakiraki is certainly a gourmet's delight. Fresh seafood, local fruits and vegetables straight from the garden and legendary authentic Indian dishes are all served in a uniquely Fijian way. Tanoa Rakiraki offers 36 modern and comfortable rooms as well dormitory style accommodation. The region around Rakiraki is well worth exploring. When you're not heading inland or checking out the islands close by, you can opt for lawn bowls on well-kept greens, half-court tennis, swimming, or just relax on an inviting sun-lounger. Peaceful, reminiscent of a by-gone age, fabulous food and a different side of Fiji - all this combines to make your stay at Tanoa Rakiraki rather special.
Sigatoka hotels
- Bedarra Beach Inn - The Coral Coast is 80 kilometers long, lined with barrier reef lagoons and beaches, on the sheltered southern side of Viti Levu and about half way between Nadi and Suva. The temperate climate and incredible scenery make it a popular tourist retreat. Bedarra Beach Inn is about half way along the coast and close to the river town of Sigatoka (pronounced sing-a-toka). In our area you'll find spectacular scenery with deep river gorges, picturesque native villages and natural bays and inlets. Your first decision will be to select which type of room you'd like to stay in. We have two types at Bedarra Beach Inn; Deluxe & Standard. No matter which type of room you decide to reserve, it will be air conditioned, have a ceiling fan, a refrigerator, tea and drip coffee making facilities and a hair dryer. Irons & boards are available on request and we have a laundry service. Bedarra Beach Inn is famous for the best tropical cocktails on the Coral Coast and during your stay our resident 'Shakers' will be happy to help you try them all... (One at a time of course!) Our Talanoa (Let's Chat) Bar is unique! It's right in the Main Hall and especially designed to encourage everyone to get to know each other. Every day we have Happy Hour and most nights the Main Hall is alive with the melodies of our resident Fijian serenaders.
- The Crow's Nest - The Crow's Nest is an intimate resort of individual villas among bougainvillea vines, hibiscus blooms and tall coconut palm trees, which face the famous Coral Coast living coral lagoon. The villas are on terraces, each with a magnificent view of the lagoon and ocean. There is ample space - each villa has a split level design, with sleeping and living areas as well as cooking facilities. The décor is nautical because of the original owner's love of the sea and this is especially evident in the poolside restaurant which is uniquely decorated with old charts, brass and copper artifacts, and antique ships accessories. The resort was built as a romantic rendezvous between the late Paddy Doyle - one of Fiji's tourism personalities - and his girlfriend (later his wife) Julie. The couple were often separated because of their different business ventures so Paddy built the Crow's Nest at Korotogo near Sigatoka, halfway between where they each worked. Thus the lovers were reunited and (as the storybooks say) lived happily ever after! ... And Fiji gained an intimate, romantic resort. The resort has recently been extensively upgraded and refurbished to meet discerning standards, but maintains its nautical origins.
Beqa Island hotels
- Lawaki Beach House - Our "mini-resort" is the ideal getaway place for both tourists and locals from the main land. Only a 60-minute boat drive from Navua away - and a further 45 minutes from the capital Suva - you will hardly find a more beautiful place to escape. Our spacious beach house has a large kitchen, a dining area and an open lounge. TV, radio an electronic piano/organ and our small library are all available to our guests. Communication with the outside world is possible with our mobile phone (but we suggest you only need it for emergencies - it could spoil your stay). Meal packages are available. You can choose three full meals a day, or just one or two. If you plan to go for a boat/dive trip or an inland excursion, we can also prepare a handy lunch box. It is not easy to wrap up all features of Lawaki Beach House, but here you find some: remote tranquil island location but easy accessible from Fiji's capital Suva, unspoilt, white sandy beach mit intermittent rock formations, Fijian "bure levu" (english: big house) with all amenities, fresh and drinkable spring water, sustainable farming and livestock' environment-friendly, biodegradable recycling; solar power system, fascinating coral reef and marine life less than 25 meters from the beach fantastic ocean view towards the islands of Yanuca und Viti Levu -> terrific sunsets assured' friendly multi-lingual Swiss-Fiji hosts, excellent and creative cuisine with local food and international dishes, cozy and homely atmosphere, eco-tourism activities: snorkeling, diving (prior notice required), kayaking, fishing, star-gazing, endless beach strolls, mountai, trekking, fire-walking, Fijian meke, musical "grog" sessions...and...and...and..., Furthermore: English and German books in our library, TV and Video, table tennis, badminton, boccia, games, electonic organ, PC for learning the latest software...and...and...and...
Malolo Island hotels
- Funky Fish Beach Resort - Funky Fish Beach Resort - Fiji Islands. A small and friendly island resort with something for everyone! Situated on the majestic Fiji island of Malolo in the heart of the Mamanuca group just 15 kms from Fiji international airport. The resort offers dramatic sunsets, is close to Fiji's great surf breaks, and delivers a very special experience - swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear waters on the surrounding coral reefs, unforgettable! Accommodation to suit everyone! Newly opened since 30th June 2005, the Funky Fish Beach Resort has several different accommodation options: Premium beachfront 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom bure's. Dormitory accommodation and private bedrooms.
- Musket Cove Island Resort - The island of Malolo Lailai is 585 Acres with 12 beaches, lush tropical gardens and coconut plantations. Over the last 20 years private homes have been constructed on the island adjacent to Musket Cove island Resort. All homes have access to the facilities available on the island to enjoy the combination of resort living and the privacy of your own island home or villa. 30 lots have been leased with half of these already built on. We are now pleased to announce the availability of 6 new lots on the Eastern side of the island overlooking a long stretch of white sand beach and crystal clear waters of the Mamanuca Islands.
Ovalau Island hotels
- Royal Hotel - The Royal Hotel (Heritage listed) is the oldest continuously run hotel in the South Pacific. Looking more like a roadhouse straight from the pages of W. Somerset Maugham and Robert L. Stevenson, the Royal Hotel is a national and regional treasure. Owned and operated by the Ashley Family for over 3 generations, the Royal Hotel, is your home away from home. Built in the 1860s, by a sea captain, with coral limestone from reefs surrounding the island of Ovalau (the cement walls of the hotel are the original foundations), the Royal Hotel is the last of it's kind from Fiji's turbulent past. The Royal was one of more than 60 pubs that lined Levuka's rowdy waterfront, catering to every imaginable traveller. There were frequent raids from warring tribes, violent altercations among the settlers, disease and blackbirders trading their human cargo. The Hotel's front steps were often the site of many slave auctions. Times may have changed, but the Royal remains. Situated adjacent to the waterfront, in the heart of Levuka town (the Old Capital of Fiji), The Royal Hotel represents the finest embodiment of Levuka's Colonial past. Old fashioned touches such as home-style cooking, polished hardwood floors, a century old billiard table, Fijian artefacts and historical photos all add to the character and atmosphere of the Royal Hotel, making your stay here a truly memorable and unique experience.
The most qualified Papua New Guinea hotels under $150 (in order)
Papua New Guinea offers a wide choice of accommodation for tourists. Port Moresby has international hotels including the Crown Plaza and Airways International, mid range hotels such as Lamana and guest houses. The regional areas offer International and budget hotels depending on the size of the town and some provinces have guest houses. There is a new eco-tourist lodge in Alotau called Ulumani Treetops Lodge, the place is beautiful overlooking the Milne Bay and offers a new bungalow or backpacker options.
Port Moresby hotels
- Lamana Hotel - We take care of you from arrival to departure with a complimentary 24-hour airport shuttle service. We have a business centre and also offer secretarial services that include typing, photocopying & faxing at a low cost. Walking from the lobby to the rooms, water features & gardens surround the hotel giving it a tranquil setting for guests. The modern rooms are fitted with direct dial phones, a fridge, air-conditioning and electronic key access.
Madang hotels
- Madang Resort - A hidden jewel in the South Pacific, Madang is a totally unexpected montage of tribal cultures, immense beauty, friendly people and pristine diving. An absolute must to discover, whether you're a keen diver, an adventurer or just wanting to relax and let the world go by. Ideally located at the entrance of Madang Harbour is the Madang Resort, PNG's most completely facilitated resort offering guests world class diving, restaurants, accommodation, amenities, reef cruises, water sports and more. But don't take our word for it, come on over and see for yourself. We know you'll want to come back! The Resort offers more 150 suites, cottages, bungalows in three categories ranging from standard, deluxe, executive plus presidential bungalows and cottages. Most suites have private balconies overlooking the beautiful harbour or gardens. All have private bathrooms, split system air conditioning, ISD telephones, colour TV with 20 satellite channels, radio, refrigerator and mini bars in de-luxe and executive suites. The facilities include an olympic-sized salt-water swimming pool, a children's wading pool plus secluded rools in the Raffles Wing and Villas. A Dive ship is located neat the marina. The Forum Park provides an excellent venue for cultural events, a tennis court and heli-pad. In the main complex there are shops, an art gallery, MTS Tour/Cruise Office, a business Centre, hair salon, restaurants, bar and access to the Sana Convention Centre.
Mount Hagen hotels
- Haus Poroman Lodge - Haus Poroman translates to "House of Friends" and is the only place to stay if you are visiting Mt. Hagen and wish to experience the atmosphere that is Papua New Guinea. All this beauty, history and culture at a price fit for your budget Enjoy the native charm of accommodation in a traditional haus with modern conveniences. Lounge by the inviting open fire in the main lodge with owners, staff and fellow travellers. Or find solitude hiking or relaxing in the gardens. Walk in the multi-tiered gardens featuring exotic flowers, trees and herbs. Hike to stunning waterfall or local villages, accompanied by our friendly guides. Take tours to regional attractions, including the Mt Hagen market, coffee and tea plantations, unspoiled rainforest or to the neighbouring province with mudmen performances. Good value. Enjoy a traditional PNG mumu dinner or a delicious western style meal.
Lae hotels
- Lae International Hotel - Combining the luxury of resort style accommodation with the needs of today's corporate traveller, the Lae International Hotel offers over 100 tastefully appointed rooms, including four spacious suites. We invite you to experience the natural beauty of the tropics as the Lae International Hotel proudly offers the best hotel accommodation and facilities in PNG. Nestled in extensive tropical gardens, it is ideally located in the heart of Lae, PNG's second largest city. Whether your visit is for business or that hard-earned holiday, allow us to welcome you to our Oasis of Luxury in the Heart of Lae. The Lae International Hotel takes great pride in providing guests with exceptional services and facilities. That's what makes us special. We aim to make your stay with us a very memorable experience. We'll spoil you! At the end of a beautiful tropical day, it's easy to relax and enjoy an exotic cocktail in one of our lounge bars, or just put your feet up after an invigorating game of tennis or swim in the pool. Our gymnasium is fully equipped for the ultimate work out, should you wish to work up a sweat before calling it a day!
Kavieng hotels
- Treehouse Village Resort - World Class Scuba Diving & U/W Expeditions, Rainforest Walks & Cultural Activities, the world's largest living TreeHouse located near friendly Kavieng, New Ireland, Papua New Guinea, the TreeHouse Village EcoResort provides environment compatible accommodation with beach-front bungalows and the main TreeHouse Suite. Our activities include scuba diving, fishing, snorkeling, surfing, canoeing, jungle walks, rainforest treks, cycling, bird watching, culture and expedition tours. The tropical surroundings will inspire you to appreciate the exotic flora & fauna, observe the Melanesian village life or just relax and read that book you planned to do. If you want to get physical there is an eclectic selection of sporting activities, wilderness trips or cultural events available. You could also pamper yourself with a relaxing aromatherapy massage in the privacy of your own beach front Bungalow. The first floor of the main TreeHouse is located 6 meters up amongst the large knurled limbs of a 200 year old callophyllum tree. It has the balcony, dining area and bar. On arrival you will be welcomed with a courtesy drink by our friendly Melanesian staff. Meals are served in the TreeHouse over looking the Pacific Ocean and resort, on the beach or delivered to your Bungalow. Breakfast & lunch is your choice and the evening dinner is selected from our tropical buffet. Tropical reef lobster, mangrove crab and fresh deep sea snapper are often available and we occasionally have a traditional Mumu. Our fruit & vegetable are grown organically in the village gardens and we shop at the local market daily.
Alotau hotels
- Alotau International Hotel - Alotau International Hotel has 22 well-appointed rooms. Each room has a balcony where you can relax and enjoy the panoramic views of Milne Bay. Each room has the following modern facilities for your comfort: Air-conditioning, Television with remote control, Cable TV, Direct dialing telephone, and access to the internet. Alotau International Hotel has a dedicated team of friendly and professional staff to ensure that every guest has a memorable stay in the hotel. We also have ample car parking facilities and round-the-clock security. Enjoy all day dining in our informal restaurant, open from 6 am to 10 pm. Overlooking the breathtaking Milne Bay, the restaurant offers a wide selection of local and international cuisine and a selection of wines. The restaurant also caters to room service during the operating hours. Alongside the restaurant and overlooking the Pool, the bar has a fine collection of wines and sprits. Amidst the sprawling lawns and overlooking the bay, it is ideal for an evening of informal get-together over cocktails and grill.
The most qualified Solomon Islands hotels under $150 (in order)
- The Wilderness Lodge - Situated lagoon-side by Peava village, Gatokae Island, at the southeastern tip of the Western Province, the wilderness lodge features traditional construction using sago palm leaf, wild bitalnat palm and village-sawn hardwood with exotic timber and pandanus mat interior. Catering for a maximum of six to eight guests, the lodge has been designed to meld the atmosphere of the Gatokae rainforest and ocean with the lifestyle of the neighbouring small village whilst retaining Western comforts and convenience. Tariff is inclusive of all meals which feature local organic produce and seafood, and traditional and Pacific themes with an accent on health. Satellite telephone available should you need to stay in touch. The lodge has a solar power system with 240V/110V inverter for charging cameras etc, wood-fired hot shower, and LPG refrigeration and cooking. A deepwater jetty provides walk-in boat access and easy swimming and snorkelling access with large, safe, swim steps, and tamdem kayak and dugout canoe at your disposal. You have the world's best coral reefs and most prolific and varied fishlife, lush tropical rainforest, and spectacular scenery right on your doorstep. The lodge has prime access to the three wild and uninhabited islands of Bulo, MaleMale, and Kicha, the 2900 foot jungle-clad peak of Mt Mariu, and ancient fortified villages and ceremonial sites. The reef and rainforest scenery represents a photographers dream. Hornbills, eclectus parrots and megapodes coexist with frigate birds, terns, herons, and sea eagles - refer to our 'hiking' 'birding' pages for information. The surrounding reefs and islands have provided unique opportunities to the world's best underwater photographers and appeared in leading journals and books. The surrounding ocean provides freediving and snorkelling opportunities unsurpassed anywhere on Earth - pristine unexplored reefs with caves, swim-throughs, abyssal dropoffs and an extraordinary array of life from the tiniest exotics and crustaceans to wahoo, sailfish, and tuna. Resident schools of barracuda and electric blue fusileers are a fixture on the points and walls, and the deep channel between Peava and Bulo Island has a resident school of spinner dolphins. Refer to our 'snorkeling', and 'freeediving & spearfishing' pages for info and images.
- Uepi Island Resort - Uepi Island: A barrier reef island, covered in rainforest, defined by fringing reef and sandy beach; flanked by the warm waters of the lagoon on one side, and the oceanic depths (6000ft/2000m) of "The Slot", a deep marine abyss, on the other. Uepi Island Resort: A relaxed and intimate resort, providing the chance to experience the natural wonder and culture of this authentic and exciting part of the Pacific. Imagine yourself on a small tropical island perched on the edge of the longest lagoon in the world. At Uepi Island Resort, situated on one of the barrier reef islands which defines the edge of the magnificent Marovo Lagoon, you need share this unique experience of paradise with only a few other people. This area of the Western Province, Solomon Islands, offers opportunities for visitors to experience the culture of local people whilst relaxing in a tranquil environment. Six bungalows, two units and two guest rooms offer clean, comfortable accommodation and the 32 bed maximum capacity ensures that all guests enjoy privacy and the intimacy of a small group of people. The resort meals are based around fresh local seafood and organically grown fruits and vegetables, prepared by talented local chefs.
Vanuatu
The most qualified New Caledonia hotels under $150 (in order)
There are many places around New Caledonia that are affordable and in good condition. All you have to do is search around and you will find somewhere to sleep within your price range.
Gran Terre and Noumea hotels
- Le Lagon Hotel - Right near to the hotel are: 2 bus stops, two food stores, banks, a surf shop, 2 casinos, the Noumea Aquarium, restaurants, snack bars, the tourist train, a taxi boat service to discover the islands of the lagoon, the tourist office, the loyalty islands tourist office. The hotel Le Lagon offers you:reception24/24, an inbound travel agency, in-house laundry facilities, a one-day laundry/dry-cleaning service, daily room service for the apartments, currency exchange, hair dressing saloon, and free beach activities. All our apartments are equipped with: a kitchen and dining area (one and two bedroom apartments), phone with separate Internet connection (cable not provided), colour satellite TV with numerous English language programs and films, dry cleaning service (except on sunday), client laundry and ironing facilities, air-conditioning and ceiling fans.
- Hotel Lantana each - Ideally located on the Anse-Vata seafront, near banks, snacks, restaurants, shops and curios, the Hotel Lantana Beach will welcome you in a real warm and friendly host atmosphere. Athletic, cultural activities can be practiced during your stay. Nautical activities such as windsurfing, snorkeling, canoe-kayak, beach chair. A service of taxi-boat allows to profit from the numerous islets facing the hotel. Equipment in the rooms : bath, TV, air-condiitionned, fridge, telephone with direct line and laundry service.