19 Rabaul Hotel

Against all odds, the Rabaul Hotel survived the 1994 eruption of Mount Tavurvur, which buried the town in volcanic ash. The building was one of the few left standing and, these days, is a thriving hotel, and historic landmark, in Mango Avenue in the rebuilt town. It has about 40 modest rooms, a highly praised Asian-style restaurant (it also serves Western dishes) and an enthusiastic host/ owner, Susan McGrade, who is an oracle of local history and things to do in the area. rabaulhotel.com.pg