Whats the low down on PNG, is it safe?

Im getting alot of mixed reviews about PNG, is it safe, and are visa's even capable of getting?

http://stephensexcellentadventures.blogspot.com/

I know someone who's moved there for work-he says for locals life is hard and dangerous.

Most expats are well set up security wise and have little trouble living every day lives but crime is ever present.

See the PNG link in my signo line for my opinion on this.
In brief, I always found it safe, though Singapore it is not.

My wife and I found it safe. We had no issues with wandring by ourselves through the small towns - but only during the day. At night it was a little dicey; Wewak comes to mind - I took a walk with the hotel security guard, he had a gun and did not feel safe and insisted we go back.

But with that said, the people were extremely friendly and pleasant. Be sure you know their customs and how to interact. Will save you some trouble. There are many books to read.... And of course, do not walk around flaunting wealth and possessions - but that goes for about any city , except Singapore where everywhere is safe :)

Done 2 trips to PNG now - last one in 09

When out of town or on the small the islands I just make a point of asking people where I can go walking - just to make sure I don't go wandering across someone's land without permission - & so they know I don't see myself as some flipping colonial dinosaur - just be well mannered & friendly & confident, & I'm sure you'll be fine.

If you don't smoke - take a packet with you anyway - the odd offered smoke goes down well with the locals & always ask permission before you start taking pictures - but in my limited experience they love to see pictures of themselves & take every opportunity to wander into shot ;-)

The kids go mental especially & crowd round to see the back of the camera. If you are blonde like me they normally want to touch the hair on your arms or your head - but they're normally a bit shy - so I always pull my own hair so they know it's OK to have a pull too.

Works wonders for me, & the grown ups seem to appreciate it that you're making yourself accessible to the kids natural curiosity.

Have a brilliant time. I think PNG is the most amazing place & I am already looking forward to my third trip in a couple of years.