Rabaul, Papua/New Guinea

Rabaul, the capital of New Britain Island in the Bismark Archipelago, is the largest of Papua New Guinea's islands. Rabaul, the former provincial capital, is located in the Gazelle Peninsula on the southern side. Covered by tropical rain forests and surrounded by a colorful coral reef, Rabaul is also sprinkled with World War II relics.

Decimated during World War II, Rabaul was rebuilt following the war, only to be ravaged again by the eruptions of volcanoes Tavurvur and Vulcan on September 19, 1994.

Rabaul's capital is now in Kokopo, about 15 miles to the southeast. While most of Rabaul has not yet fully recovered to its glory days, the city is living up to its history of rebirth. Hotels are operating, the market continues to trade, stores are open, and the harbor is still an impressive site.