A number of Papua New Guinea accommodation providers have been recognized in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards 2026, highlighting the country’s growing reputation for quality hospitality and exceptional visitor experiences.
The awards are based on reviews and ratings submitted by travelers from around the world over a 12-month period. Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards recognize businesses that consistently earn positive reviews and rank among the top-rated listings on the platform. According to Tripadvisor, award recipients are among the top-performing hospitality businesses globally based on genuine traveler feedback.
Among the Papua New Guinea accommodation providers recognized in 2026 are:
The recognition reflects the commitment of Papua New Guinea’s tourism and hospitality operators to delivering high-quality accommodation, personalized service, and memorable guest experiences.
For travelers considering Papua New Guinea as their next destination, these awards provide valuable insight into properties that have consistently impressed guests from around the world. From waterfront resorts and island escapes to business hotels and boutique accommodation, the recognized properties showcase the diversity of experiences available across the country.
Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority congratulates all award recipients for their achievement and their contribution to strengthening Papua New Guinea’s tourism reputation on the global stage.
As international travel continues to recover and grow, positive visitor reviews and globally recognized accolades play an increasingly important role in influencing travel decisions. The recognition of multiple Papua New Guinea properties in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards demonstrates the country’s ability to deliver world-class hospitality while offering visitors authentic cultural and nature-based experiences.
For more information on accommodation options in Papua New Guinea, visit the Papua New Guinea Travel Website.
Citi Boutique Hotel in Port Moresby, is pleased to announce today that it has been recognized in Tripadvisor’s® Travelers’ Choice® Awards for 2026. Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award winners are among the top 10% of listings around the world on Tripadvisor.
As the world’s largest travel guidance platform, Tripadvisor has unparalleled authority with travelers and diners. This award is based on genuine feedback from anyone in the community who has visited and left an authentic, first-hand review on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of travelers’ favorites.
“This award validates Citi Boutique Hotel’s Vision of ‘Service that enhances experiences’ is being realized by it’s daily mission of ‘Success for the deliverer of excellence (our staff), relisher of excellence (our patrons), and believer of excellence (our owner)’. “We are honored to be included among travelers’ favorites this year. Travelers’ Choice is one of the most recognized and coveted awards in the travel space, so it is valuable to us…” – Saif Jugari (Group General Manager – Citi Group (PNG) Ltd.
“Congratulations to Citi Boutique Hotel on its recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2026,” said Matt Dacey, Chief Marketing Officer, Tripadvisor. “Ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took time to go online and leave a glowing review about their experience. We hope this recognition continues to drive business to you in 2026 and beyond.”
Check out all the reviews and discover more about Citi Boutique Hotel here, click: City Boutique Hotel on TripAdvisor
About Citi Boutique Hotel
Citi Group (PNG) Ltd is a Papua New Guinean owned property owner, developer, operator, and management company, encompassing: Citi Hospitality & Citi Properties; alongside a sister company that owns Comfort Inn – Cairns City (53 keys), branded with Choice Hotels. Citi Hospitality is a mid-scale & mass-market brand comprising of five properties (190 keys) and one upcoming hotel (60 keys). Citi Properties manages projects such as the new development of Citi Boutique Suites – Lagatoi Place, the Mogoro Moto commercial building in Port Moresby’s prime downtown, and various projects around Hohola, Touaguba Hill and Ela Beach. Visit the hotel’s website at: www.citigrouppng.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea — 8 June 2026
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) has noted recent public statements by the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA) regarding the collection of approximately K2.7 million in Green Fees from international travellers since October 2025.
PNGTPA wishes to make it clear that it was not consulted on the introduction and implementation of the Green Fee policy and does not support the current Green Fee mechanism in its present form.
As the statutory authority responsible for the promotion and development of tourism in Papua New Guinea, PNGTPA believes that any charge imposed directly on international visitors should be subject to proper consultation, economic impact assessment, industry engagement, and whole-of-government policy coordination before implementation.
LACK OF CONSULTATION
PNGTPA was neither involved in the development nor implementation of the Green Fee policy.
To date, there has been:
- No formal consultation with PNGTPA;
- No structured policy engagement with the tourism sector;
- No tourism impact assessment presented to PNGTPA;
- No agreed governance framework involving tourism stakeholders; No mechanism for tourism industry participation in the management or oversight of the fund.
IMPACT ON TOURISM COMPETITIVENESS
Papua New Guinea remains one of the most unique and rewarding destinations in the world, but it is also widely recognised as a relatively high-cost destination compared with many competing destinations in the Pacific and Asia-Pacific regions.
PNGTPA is concerned that imposing additional costs on international travellers without adequate consultation or clear demonstration of benefits may negatively impact visitor perceptions and destination competitiveness.
CONCERNS OVER REVENUE MANAGEMENT
PNGTPA notes statements that approximately K2.7 million has been collected through the Green Fee mechanism, while no projects have yet been funded.
CALL FOR A COMPREHENSIVE POLICY REVIEW
PNGTPA respectfully calls on the National Government to undertake a comprehensive review of the Green Fee policy and its implementation arrangements, with consultation involving PNGTPA, tourism stakeholders, airlines, accommodation providers, provincial governments, and business representatives.
SUPPORTING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM THROUGH PARTNERSHIP
PNGTPA supports responsible environmental management and recognises the importance of protecting Papua New Guinea’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage. However, environmental initiatives that directly affect visitors and tourism businesses must be developed through transparent, evidence-based, and consultative processes.
CEO STATEMENT
“PNGTPA was not consulted on the Green Fee policy and does not support the current mechanism in its present form. While we recognise the importance of environmental conservation, any charge imposed on international visitors must be properly assessed, transparently governed, and developed through meaningful consultation with the tourism industry and relevant stakeholders.
Papua New Guinea is already a relatively high-cost destination. Policies that directly impact visitor travel decisions should support, not hinder, our efforts to grow visitor arrivals, create jobs, and strengthen tourism’s contribution to the national economy.’
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) is a statutory body wholly funded by the Government of Papua New Guinea and established under the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Act 1993.
For further information, contact the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority, Office of the CEO: lesley.timothy@papuanewquinea.travel
Website: www.papuanewguinea.travel
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pnqtourismpromotionauthority/
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) officially launched its Financial Policy & Procedures Manual (FPPM), PNG Marketing Strategy 2025–2028, and the PNGTPA Staff Housing Policy & Procedures Manual on Thursday 4 December 2025 at the Holiday Inn, Port Moresby.
The event was attended by the staff from TPA, representatives from the private sector, academic institutions, government departments, financial institutions, tourism industry members and TPA’s new board who witnessed the unveiling of the three major documents that will guide the organization’s internal governance, financial management, marketing direction, and staff welfare over the next several years.
The Financial Policy & Procedures Manual formalizes TPA’s financial governance compliance system as a self-accounting statutory body fully funded by the Government of Papua New Guinea. The manual aligns with the TPA Act 1993, the Public Finance Management Act 1995, the 4th Edition of the Public Service, the Audit Act 1989, and other relevant government regulations. It is an internal governance tool that the organization expects all staff and management to comply with.
The PNG Marketing Strategy 2025–2028 reflects the agency’s renewed commitment to repositioning Papua New Guinea as a leading destination for adventure and cultural tourism. Developed through nationwide stakeholder consultations and informed by global travel trends following the COVID-19 pandemic, the strategy’s ambition is to position PNG as the world’s emerging destination for meaningful, transformative, high-value experiences.
The Staff Housing Policy & Procedures Manual introduces a comprehensive and equitable system designed to ensure TPA staff have fair access to affordable housing opportunities. Guided by the motto “Providing Affordable Housing for All,” the policy sets the goal for all staff to own homes before exiting TPA. The policy is supported by an annual implementation budget that covers all necessary equity assistance and suspensory loans. It is managed by the Housing Committee, which was established in May 2021 and has played a central role in the formulation, consolidation and review of the policy.
Speaking during the launch, the Chief Executive Officer of TPA, Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, said the three documents collectively represent a new era for the organization’s internal systems and external mandate.
“The launch of these documents demonstrates our alignment with best practice and our commitment to transparent and accountable management of public funds. Good governance is the foundation of a strong and resilient tourism sector, and we are lifting the standard for how we operate as a government agency,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo added that the Marketing Strategy reflects the aspirations of both the industry and the nation.
“This strategy is a bold step toward repositioning Papua New Guinea globally. It reflects the voices of stakeholders from across the country and signals that we are ready to welcome travelers, ready to compete internationally, and ready to redefine what adventure and cultural tourism truly mean. Let the work begin,” said Uvovo.
The CEO also emphasized the importance of staff welfare as part of TPA’s long-term transformation.
“Our people are at the heart of our mission. The Staff Housing Policy ensures stability, dignity and long-term security for our employees and their families. When we invest in our staff, we strengthen the very foundation of our work and the future of the tourism sector,” said Uvovo.
TPA extended its appreciation to the Board, management, staff, the Housing Committee, the Corporate Affairs and Finance Divisions, partners, former committee members, and all stakeholders who contributed to the development of these documents.
The launch of these three major documents marks a critical milestone in strengthening TPA’s internal systems and guiding the organization’s strategic direction for the years ahead. With improved governance, a clear marketing vision, and enhanced staff welfare structures, PNGTPA is positioned to lead the rebuilding and growth of Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector with renewed confidence and purpose.
Papua New Guinea Introduces 20-Year Tourism Policy to Strengthen Industry and Communities
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) officially launched the Papua New Guinea National Tourism Policy (NTP) 2025–2045 on Tuesday 18 November at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby.
The launch signifies the culmination of more than a year of extensive nationwide consultations across the public and private sectors, academia, non-governmental organizations, and community representatives.
Developed with the support from Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI), an Asian Development Bank technical assistance program undertaken in partnership with the governments of Australia and New Zealand, the review of the NTP 1995 was conducted in December 2022, followed by Key Informant Interviews and regional consultations in 2023. An Issues Paper was developed to guide the policy drafting and a National Tourism Policy Stakeholder Validation workshop was facilitated in December the same year. Following the validation, the draft NTP 2025-2045 was put through numerous rounds of technical vetting before obtaining endorsement from the National Executive Council in August 2025.
The NTP 2025-2045 serves as a guide for whole-of-government efforts to achieve a multistakeholder shared tourism vision. It will be implemented through the Tourism Sector Development Plans (TSDP) convened by the Authority every five years, outlining specific agreed medium term strategic actions for all public, private and community stakeholders. The NTP 2025-2045 is framed around fifteen (15) Policy Areas comprising five (5) cross-cutting themes and ten (10) tourism enabling functions.
Policy Areas by Cross-cutting Themes -1) Environmental Sustainability, 2) Cultural Heritage Preservation and Promotion, 3) Empowerment of Resource Custodians, 4) Inclusive Economic Growth and 5) Resilience Building.
Policy Areas by Tourism-enabling Functions – 6) Tourism Sector Governance, 7) Air Connectivity, 8) Hub-based Destination Development, 9) Niche-based Visitor Experience Development, 10)
Investment in Tourism Supply, 11) Public Infrastructure and Services, 12) Tourism Industry Standards, 13) Workforce Development, 14) Destination Marketing and 15) Visitor Entry and Safety.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, described the policy as a transformative roadmap for tourism in Papua New Guinea.
“The launch of the National Tourism Policy marks a new chapter in our tourism journey as a nation.
This policy provides the strategic direction needed to position Papua New Guinea as a leading nation in tourism, a country that celebrates its rich cultural diversity, pristine natural environment, and authentic adventure experiences,” said Uvovo.
Mr. Uvovo emphasized that the policy’s implementation will focus on strengthening partnerships between government agencies, provincial authorities, tourism operators, and local communities.
He also highlighted the importance of building resilient tourism infrastructure, promoting investment, and supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within the tourism industry.
The launch event was officiated by the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Honorable Belden Norman Namah and attended by senior government officials, industry leaders, development partners, and representatives from across the country.
The PNG National Tourism Policy 2025–2045 provides a long-term vision to ensure that tourism contributes meaningfully to national development, creates employment opportunities, supports cultural preservation, and enhances the well-being of communities throughout the country.◼️
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) launched its Hello Poro Tourism Campaign alongside the 50th Independence Destination Tour Packages on Friday 5 September 2025 at Kwalimu Haus, Waigani in Port Moresby.
The launch, held as part of the nation’s 50th Independence Day Anniversary celebrations, is a part of TPA’s initiative to encourage Papua New Guineans to explore their own home.
The Hello Poro Campaign is a storytelling-driven media initiative that will highlight Mt. Hagen, Kavieng, Port Moresby, and Wewak as hero destinations through TPA’s social media reels, YouTube content and booking-enabled websites.
Alongside the campaign, the 50th Independence Tour Packages will offer ten curated four-day packages across the four main tourism regions, each subsidised by 50 per cent to make travel more affordable and accessible. Partner operators include Buna Treks & Tours, Paiya Tours, Bougainville Experience, PNG Tour Guide, and others who are collaborating with PNGTPA to deliver these experiences.
These initiatives are expected to drive higher visitation during the Independence period from September to December 2025, increase visibility for local operators and SMEs, strengthen domestic tourism habits, engage communities in showing PNG’s culture and history Speaking at the event, TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo said the initiatives reflect TPA’s
commitment to strengthening the tourism brand, boosting visitor engagement, supporting SMEs, and encouraging greater domestic travel.
“Tourism tells the story of who we are as Papua New Guineans – diverse, united, and welcoming. Hello Poro shows our people, our culture, and our destinations with authenticity and pride, while the subsidised Independence Tour Packages ensure that more people, both here at home and abroad, can share in these experiences. This is an investment in our long-term growth as a tourism nation,” said Uvovo.
The launch event featured remarks from industry representatives, media partners, and tourism operators. Guests were treated to a preview of the campaign video, a showcase of the subsidised tour packages, entertainment by Wan Squad, and a prize draw.◼️
A two-decade journey through Kirkland’s lens reveals the vibrant spirit of Papua New Guinea.
More than 20 years of photography of Papua New Guinea has been captured in a new book released this week as part of the country’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
Australian photographer David Kirkland has published Papua New Guinea – The Last Great Frontier, his sixth book on the country since he began capturing promotional photographs for the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) back in the early 2000s.
Kirkland highlighted the significance of PNG’s unique culture.
“It’s been one of my great privileges to return to this country frequently over the years and capture photographs that have been used to promote PNG worldwide.
To me, this country has always been The Last Great Frontier – an exceptional experience for the adventurous traveller. No where else in the world – and I’ve travelled it widely – offers such a spectacular array of culture and colour. And, in all the time I’ve travelled the country, I’ve only ever been welcomed by the friendliest of people,” said Kirkland.
According to Kirkland, his new book is the most prestigious publication he’s ever produced to reflect the status of the country’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
“It’s a large coffee table book – twice the size of my earlier books – which includes the best 150 photographs I’ve captured from throughout the country. I’d like to think it’s a unique testament to the country’s beauty, its tremendous cultural diversity, and the changes that have taken place since I first wandered the highlands around the time of the Mt Kare gold rush.
Since I arrived here, I’ve been working closely with the TPA which has been an exceptional partner. A member of its staff has travelled with me over the length and breadth of the country ensuring the images we captured appealed to the markets likely to be interested in the experience offered by PNG”, said Kirkland.
He also added that the book draws attention to what he considers to be the fragility of Papua New Guinea’s rich traditional culture.
“Papua New Guinea is changing rapidly. It has moved from the stone-age to the space age in less than a lifetime, and I fear much of its traditional culture – the thread that links generations – is being lost in the process”, he said.
I’d like to think my book draws attention to both the value, and vulnerability, of traditional practices in this country,” said Kirkland.
Coinciding with the release of the book, 150 large photographic prints by the photographer are being hung as a permanent collection throughout PNG’s K665 million Waigani Court Precinct.
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) has secured more than 1,000 copies of renowned photographer David Kirkland’s newly released book, Papua New Guinea – The Last Great Frontier.
The acquisition will support its promotional efforts locally and abroad, providing a powerful visual tool to inspire travel and highlight PNG as a unique destination for adventurous travellers.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo commended Kirkland on his new publication and he highlighted the importance of capturing PNG’s rich culture through photography.
“This publication is a visual chronicle of Papua New Guinea’s journey over the decades. As we celebrate 50 years of nationhood, David Kirkland’s work captures the essence of our people, culture, and natural beauty that continue to inspire travellers from around the world.
For over 20 years, David Kirkland has been one of our strongest partners in sharing Papua New Guinea’s story with the world. His lens has helped position our country as The Last Great Frontier, a destination for those seeking adventure, authenticity, and cultural richness,” said Uvovo.◼️
Papua New Guinea Showcased Adventure and Culture at NATAS Holidays 2025 in Singapore
Papua New Guinea was featured as a Partner Destination at the 2025 NATAS Holidays Travel Fair, held from 15–17 August at the Singapore EXPO Halls.
Under the banner PNG: Adventure Meets Culture, the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), in collaboration with Air Niugini and Changi International Airport, and supported by the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS), highlighted the country’s unique cultural and adventure tourism experiences to the Singaporean market.
As part of the showcase, Papua New Guinea cultural performers took centre stage at Singapore’s iconic Jewel Changi Airport on Sunday, 17 August, with a free public performance at the Forest Valley attraction. Known for its lush indoor gardens and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, Jewel provided a stunning backdrop to celebrate PNG’s culture with travellers and visitors from around the world.
In addition to the live performance, a Papua New Guinea photo booth and display wall was installed at Changi International Airport in honour of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. The installation, featuring striking imagery of PNG, will remain on display for one month.
“Our presence at NATAS Holidays 2025 was a strong opportunity to share Papua New Guinea’s story with Singapore — a city that is itself a hub for international travellers,” said Joel Keimelo, Executive Manager – Marketing & Promotions, PNGTPA. “Through culture, adventure, and collaboration with valued partners like Air Niugini and Changi Airport, we invited travellers to discover the million different journeys Papua New Guinea has to offer.”
The NATAS Holidays Travel Fair is Singapore’s largest consumer travel showcase, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Papua New Guinea’s participation reinforced the country’s growing appeal as an authentic cultural and adventure destination in the Asia-Pacific region.◼️
PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Corporation (SMEC) signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday, 27 June 2025 at the Kokoda Trail Motel in Port Moresby, formalising a partnership focused on advancing micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) development in PNG’s tourism sector.
The MoU sets a collaborative framework to deliver business development services including entrepreneurship training, business formalisation support, and compliance assistance tailored specifically for tourism MSMEs. The partnership will also support financial literacy, training of trainers, and shared use of regional business hubs across the country.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo and Small and Medium Enterprises Corporation’s (SMEC) Managing Director, Mr. Petrus Ralda, signed the MOU. The signing was witnessed by Executive Manager for Research and Business Development, Douglas Keari, and the Director of SME Business Advisory & Capacity Building, Diana W. Guria.
The MOU outlines key areas of cooperation, including the delivery of “Start Your Business” and “Improve Your Business” training programs, support for business registration processes, assistance with tax compliance, and development of customized training materials for tourism operators. Costs associated with training logistics, materials, and trainer expenditure will be shared.
Ralda praised the initiative as a vital step in bridging tourism and entrepreneurship.
“Tourism has enormous potential to lift communities out of poverty and drive sustainable growth. This MOU allows us to reach deeper into rural and remote areas where tourism opportunities exist but lack the technical support to flourish,” said Ralda.
The partnership also includes mechanisms for joint oversight, regular communication, and review of projects, ensuring transparency and strategic alignment throughout its implementation.
Speaking on behalf of the CEO of TPA, Keari welcomed the partnership, highlighting the benefits of the MOU for the tourism industry members.
“This MoU marks a new chapter in our efforts to strengthen the grassroots level of our tourism economy. For too long, aspiring tourism entrepreneurs have lacked access to the training, resources, and the support needed to grow. This collaboration with SMEC fills that gap by ensuring our MSMEs are equipped to thrive in both local and international markets,” said Keari.
He added that the partnership aligns with TPA’s broader mission to stimulate sustainable tourism development and build resilient local economies.
“Through this partnership, we are creating the foundation for a more inclusive tourism industry, one that empowers our people, protects indigenous knowledge, and supports long-term economic growth,” said Keari.
During the graduation Mr. Keari and Mr. Pundu also graduated as ILO SIYB Trainers. Since first participating in 2023 TPA has graduated 6 staff as trainers. The training will enable TPA to conduct business startup and management training to Tourism SMEs throughout the country.