The inside of a large caldera is an unusual place to house a town, but this is exactly where you will find Rabaul. On cruises to Rabaul you will see that the natural curve has created a sheltered harbour, mostly filled by Blanche Bay, and the region is rich and fertile, suggesting the reasons for settlement here. The surrounding landscapes rise and fall with volcanic cones, including Vulcan and Tavurvar, which are still active. Along the dusty streets, locals sit on the pavements selling local produce and colourful 'belim' sacks. Stately plantation houses lie in wider New Guinea.
