Asmat Region, West Papua, Indonesia

What's the story behind the photo?:

We enjoyed the whole series of photos, documenting a very different lifestyle. We wonder if the invention and now the popularity of paddle boards here have originated from Papua.

I wanted to visit eastern Indonesia and found a cruise that started in Palau, worked its way south thru the Moluccas, then along the coast of west Papua down to Asmat region. From their, it worked its way west across the southern isles of Indonesia ending in Bali. It was a small, higher-end cruise ship that was not cheap. However, when I looked into doing it by myself or with a few other people, it seemed like a bargain (mas o menos :-))

Not many cruise ships call on these ports but when they do, the natives seem to go all out. In retrospect, I suspect that if you travel by yourself or with a small group, you will not see these extensive displays of traditional culture. I suspect the cruise ship pays them well (by their standards) to put on a good show. Now, the cruise line needs to teach them to shed their wristwatches, polyester swimsuits, sunglasses, and other modern touches when they do their cultural re-creations! The two days in the Asmat region were the highlight of the trip but in the weeks ahead I will posting images from other ports of call. Stay tuned. 

I won't mention the cruise line as I don't believe they have immediate plans to do this itinerary again and because you will be appalled at the prices they charge. That said, the zodiac trips and onshore daytrips are hot, exhausting and sometimes take place in appalling conditions. It is really nice (particularly for us older farts) to have a clean, cool place with good meals to retire to in the evening. 

Gregory,

I think you are onto something with your paddleboard theory. :-)

Thanks for the background. Sounds like it was a once-in-a-lifetime trip!

Jim,

Thanks for the back story- really interesting- and thanks for sharing your trip with us land bound folks- enjoy the rest of it!

Thank you for the details of your trip Jim.  I did search Asmat and did find out it was Papau. I guess it pays to start at the start :)