Tourists visit Madang
The National, Friday February 20th, 2015
By DOROTHY MARK
MADANG came alive yesterday when more than 2500 tourists and crew from the cruise liner Pacific Dawn visited the town.
The town was packed from 7am with people from surrounding areas to watch the liner and the tourists arrive. Handicraft sellers set up their stalls along the roadside to offer tourists souvenirs.
Police officers and tour guides assisted traffic and ensured the safety of the visitors.
Tour guides wore orange T-shirts and guided groups to popular sites such as the Kalibobo lighthouse, the beachfront from Kalibobo to Tusbab and the central business centre.
They were entertained by PNG funny man Kanage at Madang Resort’s forum park.
Those who visited the tourism bureau were treated to a show by local theatre groups.
A mini cultural festival added flavour to the day.
Manus, Hagen and Madang dancers joined the Manam Tarangau dancers to perform for the visitors.
A heavy downpour after midday failed to dampen the festivities.
Angela McMillan, 51, and Tanya Jackson from Hervey Bay, in Queensland, said they had a good time on a boat ride around Madang harbour.
Many tourists bought traditional necklaces, bracelets and carvings
The cruise liner left Madang at 5pm.