by Philippe AMIOT, Source: Flickr.com
Imagine waking up and realizing that you’re in the middle of one of those perfect computer beach wallpapers, where the sky is obvious, the sea is ideal blue and a few fishing boats are lost on the horizon that you at all times look at with utter awe. Now add hearing French on every corner and you have this perfect southwestern Pacific paradise – New Caledonia.
Things you need to know
That the capital is Noumea, and has a population of around 280,000 people, with the majority being European, Polynesian, Indonesian and Vietnamese. The city is located in a deep sea port, which is also the main port of New Caledonia. Ok, so we’re done with the formalities, let’s move on to the fun part shall we?
by Philippe AMIOT, Source: Flickr.com
Transport
Instead of using an airport coach transfer, opt for the cheaper and easier option specifically rental car transportation.
Money
There’s an ATM at the airport, and You will need XPF 150 (1 USD is 112 XPF) for the highway to and from the airport. If you can, try to avoid using credit cards as a form of payment.
As for costs, a croissant is about XPF 100, cheese is 70, a six-pack of beer is around 600 and a baguette is normally 500. If you want to buy fruit and vegetables, go to the market rather than the supermarket as there will be much cheaper options.
by Philippe AMIOT, Source: Flickr.com
Things to see
New Caledonia, besides its lovely scenery, has far more must-sees to offer. Some of them are:
The towering Amedée lighthouse
Make this your top precedence for visiting as it is among the tallest lighthouses in the whole world and is of immense historical importance. It was made during the reign of the wondrous Napoleon and transported here piece by piece. You will have a tremendous and tiring time climbing the 247 steps to take in the most astonishing views of the whole island.
Explore the beach
In a sea of lovely villages crammed with likeable locals and exquisite buildings, you will find the village of Yate, where you will see waterfalls, lakes, lovely beaches, etc.
Make sure you visit the shell-covered beaches of Cook’s Bay and are rightfully called probably the most lovely places in the world.
by Philippe AMIOT, Source: Flickr.com
Tjibaou Noumea Cultural Center
This is a museum that celebrates Kanak culture and is a perfect blend of present-day architecture and historical Kanak traditions.
Things to do
Admire the unique wildlife
Because this island has a distinctive and isolated climate, you’ll witness probably the most distinctive wildlife worldwide. You can opt for bird watching, eco tours (where you’ll learn all about the variety of wildlife) and lots of other astonishing learning activities. Do not miss this opportunity.
Take the Noumea train
You’ll experience a soothing tourist train ride where you will enjoy great city views, beach views, and meet locals.
Enjoy Kuto beach
This incredible white sand beach is the perfect place for people, couples and families. You can play with coconuts, swim and snorkel in this incredible turquoise water, and then relax at the beach bar.
by Philippe AMIOT, Source: Flickr.com
Eating out
Noumea is crammed with many top quality French cuisine restaurants like La Paparazzi, Rimba Cafe, Duke etc. Rimba is the cheapest, La Paparazzi and Duke are great for families as they offer very large kids meals (you can split one meal between two kids ) and they also provide crayons and paper for the little ones so they do not get bored.
If you’re a fussy eater, fear not, there are a number of popular food brands at your local supermarket.
Just that. Try to work on your French a little before coming, just in case and no need to wish a nice vacation, because here you’ll certainly get it. Goodbye!
