Street crime or other dangers in Solomon - PNG

Hi guys,

I'm just starting to plan a 2-3 weeks trip to the Solomon, eventually combining it with parts of PNG. I haven't thought much of an itinerary yet, just getting the very first info about the countries. I'd like to ask whether someone can give me an idea of how bad crime in these places (especially in Solomon) is, or whether there is any other safety issue to be aware of. Guidebooks, travel advisories, and comments from expats suggest crime is quite a serious problem (especially when they talk about PNG), but I wonder how realistic this info is. I've been in other countries where people think you'll be dead next day, but they were amazingly safe, so better check with those who have already been on the ground. Any advise/comment will be much appreciated.

THANKS!

First, and most important point: Solomon Islands is not PNG. It has never had anything like the worst of Port Moresby.
I have lived there and travelled through most of the country over the last 20 years, including the 5 years (1998-2003) of ethnic tension, and never felt my safety was at risk. However, I always heeded the advice of local friends and never went where they advised me not to.
The main advice (as in any country) is to be careful of your bags, money etc (especially in the main market in Honiara, and on inter-island boats used by the locals. (My toothbrush was one of a handful of items stolen from my bag on one trip). Most crime is petty and opportunistic.
Expats living in expat areas of Honiara, and obviously well-off by local standards, can be targeted. However, I lived in a modest neighbourhood where most of my neighbours were locals, and never had a problem.
I feel as safe in Solomon Islands as I do in my home town in Australia.

A year ago I travelled from Indonesian West Papua to Vanimo (on the border), and then continued to the following destinations by land and sea:

Vanimo - Aitape - Wewek - Angoram - Wewak - Madang - Kainantu - Goroka - Mt. Hagen - Tari - Mt. Hagen - Lae - Wau - Lae - Labu Tari - Lae - Rabaul - Nematanai - Kaivieng - Kontu - Nemateni - Rabaul - Buka - Buin - Shortland Islands (Solomon Islands) - Gizo - Honiara.

I spent three months in PNG travelling alone, and I can honestly say it was one of the best experiences of my life. As a child, I always wanted to visit the country (mostly for evolutionary biological purposes), yet also because of the anthropology and culture. However, it was the people who made the trip so special - they are without doubt the most friendly and hospitable people I have ever met and would often bend over backwards to help you. They walk you to places, cook for you, take you fishing, invite you to stay at their homes, and then call all their relatives elsewhere in the country and arrange for you to stay there places (and often invite you for beers!). I have never known anywhere quite like this and I am now looking into finding work there (I am from the UK) so I can go back and visit the people who were so kind. And exactly the same can be said for the Solomon Islands, too.

Yes, the major cities are rough and you need to be careful - especially in PNG. I would suggest befriending locals (which is always the most fun and the best way to learn about the region), and when a city, stay in at night (especially in Mt. Hagen and Lae; I did not go to Port Moresby, yet I have been told to be extra careful here); however, the Solomon Islands are a lot safer. Also, go to the countryside and the villages - these are the most interesting places.

I hope this helps, and if you need anymore information please let me know,
Regards,
Jonathan

Ditto what Ozzie said, I have never had trouble in Honiara, not even during the 'tensions,' although I understand things have changed since my last visit, but as I stay with locals when I'm there I don't run into any trouble either. Just take care, the same as you would anywhere unknown. Port Moresby is a different kettle of fish.