What we've learned in this week's travel
In the Trobriand Islands, in Papua New Guinea, locals play a raucous form of cricket, which was introduced by missionaries in the 1890s while local clans were fighting. “They thought cricket would curb their aggression,” says Maurice, a tribal elder. “But my ancestors found cricket boring, so they added their own touches.” Pacific Islands » p8-p9
The Pōhutu geyser, in Te Whakarewarewa Valley, Rotorua, can blast water as hot as 180C up to 30m into the air. The geyser erupts once or twice an hour. About 15 years ago, it erupted for more than 250 days. New Zealand » p11
In 2018, World Animal Protection did research into the social and financial situation around elephant tourism across Thailand and found entire village economies are dependent on exploitation of the giant animals. Asia » p14-p15
If you find yourself sitting in front of Jarrod Gilbert on a short-haul flight, there’s fun to be had by reclining your seat. “If you recline your seat on a plane, you are an ass,” he says. Opinion » p19
On her OE, Antoinette Naera stayed in a flat in East Finchley, London with 16 people living in a four-bedroom home. “With four people to a bedroom, each person had the bed every fourth week, which was revolting,” she tells Elisabeth Easther. He Tāngata » p20
Guests arriving at Ovolo Central Hong Kong, receive a goodie bag with gummy bears in it. Also, there’s a free minibar. Room Check » P22
The Lavender Express train from Sapporo to Furano only runs during summer when the famous lavender fields are in bloom. “I recommend it as very comfortable way to enjoy the scenery,” says Denise Stephens. Train Check » p23
In his new book Booked: A Traveler’s Guide to Literary Locations Around the World, Richard Kreitner suggests Monroeville, the Alabama hometown of Harper Lee and setting for To Kill a Mockingbird ,isin danger of becoming a “Disneyland for racists”. Review » p26
Fodor’s soon-tobe-released 25 Best Melbourne guidebook features a photo of the Gold Coast on the cover. “Ha ha ha,” laughed the Travel Editor nervously. Travel Wires » p27
There is a museum in Chicago that has an old German U-boat stored in its basement. Letter to the Travel Editor » p27