π΅π¬ Lae, Papua New Guinea - Beyond the Headlines
π First Impressions vs. Reality β’ Pre-trip fears: "Jungle law" & machete-wielding bandits (thanks, media!) π° β’ Actual vibe: Curious locals taking selfies WITH me π€³ β’ "Turns out we were both exotic creatures here!" ποΈ Ghost Town Charm New Year's Silence Meets Adventure: β Abandoned streets = Perfect photo backdrops πΈ β Improvised sign language with betel nut vendors π₯₯ β "The only βrobberyβ was a kid stealing my heart with his gap-toothed grin" Pro Tip: Carry cigarettes as currency when shops are closed π¬ π΄ Cultural Exchange 101 β’ My camera: Capturing stilt houses over the water β’ Their phones: Snapping pics of my "ghost-pale" skin π» β’ "When a grandma patted my cheek to check if sunscreen would rub off..." #TravelWithoutPrejudice #HumanConnections