5 Best Hotels in Papua New Guinea

An airport hotel it may be, but many consider this to be the best lodging option in Port Moresby, and with its location just a 10-minute drive from downtown, it also makes a convenient base. This stylish luxury retreat is surrounded by its own botanical gardens, and—if you ignore the adjacent airport—the views all around are superb. Large rooms have private balconies and marble bathrooms. Facilities in the hotel include a fitness center with an infinity swimming pool, as well as squash and tennis courts in addition to the usual steam room and massage center. There are also four restaurants and several shops on-site, making this a safe, modern, and comfortable escape from the sometimes nerve-jangling city.

Opened at the end of 2011, this is Port Moresby's newest and best downtown hotel. From the sleek marble lobby to the tastefully decorated modern guest rooms, this is an all-round luxurious escape from the city outside. There is an outdoor pool with Jacuzzi, a spa and fitness center, and a top-notch bar and brasserie, the latter serving Asian and Pacific Rim cuisine. Some rooms have fabulous ocean views.

There are few hotel bargains in Port Moresby, but this at least makes one of the best mid-range choices. Rooms here are modern and fairly well-maintained, a definite consideration in PNG. The on-site Palazzo restaurant serves some of the best food in the city, and there is a fitness center with a small pool and a tennis court. The hotel also offers some of Port Moresby's better nightlife, as it's home to a nightclub, casino, and 6 bars. If you aren't planning to visit the nightclub, try to get a room as far from it as possible to avoid being disturbed by the noise.

Around 16 km (10 miles) east of downtown, this offshore-island hotel technically bills itself as a dive resort, but there is no compulsion to don a wetsuit. Even if you don't want to check out the nearby underwater World War II wreck sites, this still makes a friendly and relaxing getaway. There is a secluded sandy beach nearby, and the island is big enough that you can go walking, birdwatching, or snorkeling. Or just unwind. Rooms are simple, with polished wood floors, and have sea views and a/c. All meals are included in the rate, and the food is very good. Airport transfers are also included, and take around 30 minutes all-told, by road and boat. The only drawback to the location is if you have business in the city—the traveling time may make this unsuitable. But if you are in no hurry, there are few better options in PNG, especially in the price range.

While not cheap by most international standards, this is the best, safe budget hotel in Port Moresby. The friendly and efficient motel-style accommodation has large and comfortable—if simply furnished—modern rooms with a/c. Some are "themed" with large colorful murals on the walls. There is a bar and restaurant on-site, and if you get bored with sitting in a restaurant, there's also a take-out pizzeria. Free airport transfers are available.