Smooth going in and around Irian Jaya

Smooth going in and around Irian Jaya

WAMENA, Irian Jaya (JP): Below are tips for travelers to Irian
Jaya.

Getting there: Garuda flies four times a week from Jakarta to
Jayapura, while Merpati provides a daily service. From Jayapura,
Merpati serves Wamena daily.

Accommodation: Different types of hotels and guest houses are
available in Wamena.

Getting around: Tourists interested in sightseeing and
visiting the villages around Wamena can charter public
transportation or take vehicles available at hotels. Ask your
hotel about local guides.

Money matters: Banking services, including money changing, can
be done at Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) in town.

Bug bites: All tourists are advised to bring antimalarial
pills because the disease is endemic in the area, particularly in
villages. Pack sweaters and other warm clothing because Wamena is
cool, particularly at night.

Photo fees: Shutterbugs must be prepared to part with cash
every time they take a photo of a Dani tribesperson, either male
or female. They typically ask for Rp 1,000 for each photo, but be
ready to pay more to those in traditional attire, such as koteka
(penis sheaths) and grass skirts.

Smoke alert: Smokers should bring extra packets of cigarettes
because the tribespeople like to smoke. If you are smoking in
public, be prepared for the locals to approach you for a
cigarette.

Firm hand: If you are interested in a handicraft, ask how
much; if it sounds right, pay up. Bartering is not advised. If
you are not interested, be polite but firm in saying no.
Otherwise, you are likely to be followed back to your
accommodation -- and the sellers are fully prepared to wait until
you come out.(leo)