Do you enjoy being on the go, exploring your destination and ticking off your bucket list? Are you a culture vulture? Or is chilling out, maxing, relaxing all cool more your style?
Whatever the case may be, discover how New Caledonia can cater to your taste.
THE BEACH BUM
Are you a sun junkie? Does the mere thought of white sands and azure seas send you into a jig? Are you the master of seaside lounging?
You, undeniably, are the beach bum; chilled out, sun-kissed, content.
Fortunately, New Caledonia is more than equipped to deal with your unique brand of holiday-making. Here, you can stretch yourself out on bays and beaches that draw over 100 000 tourists each year. If you’d like to venture beyond Noumea’s Anse Vata (and you’re not on a budget), take a day trip to one of the other five islands that orbit the mainland. The soft sands of Ile des Pins, Duck Island and Ouvea are without rival.
THE HONEYMOONER
Are you seeking the perfect romantic getaway for you and your partner? Does hiding away in paradise sound like bliss? Are you itching to kick off your new life together in the best possible way?
You are the honeymooner; happy and head-over-heels.
Tropical New Cal. is a delight for newlyweds looking to sit back, relax and spend quality time with one another. Its beaches are pristine and secluded, and it enjoys more than 200 sunny days per year. Although it is an exotic island destination, New Cal. is also unmistakably French. Couples will relish the unique fusion of Franco-Melanesian present in the culture, architecture and cuisine.
THE FOODIE
Do restaurants and local delicacies turn you on? Do food snaps dominate your camera roll? Is the way to your heart through your stomach?
You are the foodie; hungry; experimental; discerning.
And New Cal. certainly won’t disappoint. There’s something for every breed of foodie here – meander through the diverse international food stalls at Port Moselle, sample the traditional French menu at L’Hippocampe for something a little fancier, or make like a Noumeen and try a bougna. This Kanak ‘bundle’ contains yam, taro, sweet potato, Chinese greens and chicken, all infused in a coconut broth, wrapped in a banana leaf and slow-cooked for hours. The result? A creamy, sweet and filling meal.
THE INTREPID EXPLORER
Are you constantly on the lookout for a bona fide travel experience? Are you a memory hoarder? Do your eyes twinkle at the prospect of sightseeing and cultural immersion?
You, my friend, are the intrepid explorer; restless and up for everything.
Although New Caledonia is small – indeed, you can easily cover the mainland in a day if determined – it bears a rich and colourful history that is sure to sate your hunger for knowledge. New Caledonia’s Northern region, a short 30 min flight from Noumea, is a land of lush vegetation, sandy coves, waterfalls, and the warm company of the Kanak people.
THE LEADER OF THE (FAMILY) PACK
Are you travelling with an entourage? Do you find yourself crafting elaborate itineraries to keep the kids entertained? Did you pick New Cal. because it was exotic enough to feel like a holiday, but close enough to minimise the toll of being in transit?
You are the undisputed leader of the (family) pack; determined, alert, slightly frazzled.
Never fear. New Caledonia is a family-friendly archipelago. If the prospect of cool refreshing dips in the Pacific loses its sheen, hop aboard ‘Le Petit Train’, a mini train that unveils Noumea in the most scenic way possible. You’ll see quaint colonial houses, bougainvillea and the capital’s key attractions, including the provincial town centre, Botanical Gardens and Bird Park.
Don’t miss the engaging interactive displays at the Noumea Aquarium – they’re also a boon for restless kids.
Images: IMDb
