The Best of PNG!

Hi All!

Just graduated from med school and in 2 weeks I head to png to work in the hospital in pt. moresby. I have ~ 8 days before work to see the country. I'll be alone and have about $1K max to spend. In 8 days what would you recommend. I'm just a guy mid 20's, would like to avoid unnecessary safety risks, dont usually travel w/tours but sounds like it may be the only way. What would you experts recommend to be able to:

1) feel like I've "really seen" some real PNG
2) See culture without watching pre-rehearsed awkward shows on lawns infront of lodges.
3) Take in the jungle/nature.
4) Scuba dive (if time allows)
5) Would you recommend a "tour" or am i safe as long as i hop around by plane and get to lodging by taxi etc? Is there such a thing as joining a few others with a smaller scale operation, a guide, and really just travel through and experience the country?? I feel like i'd like to be off the beaten track,whatever that means there..but safe too.

Thanks so much in advance!!!

-Jefff

PS I've read nearly all the posts on here and really appreciate everyone's advice and suggestions they've written in other posts.