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More Australians than ever are putting New Caledonia on their travel bucket list, but there are ways to enjoy this tropical oasis whether you’re on the money or on a budget.
The country is a French-occupied piece of land made up of dozens of islands known for their palm-fringed beaches and incredible coral reefs, with the capital, Nouméa, home to the vast majority of the 271,000 residents.
While it certainly ranks as an overseas destination, for Australians it’s a short three-hour flight Aircalin out Sydney to get to Nouméa, making it much easier than traveling to Europe for the summer.
Tontouta International Airport, where you land, is just an hour’s drive from the capital, with hundreds of restaurants and outdoor activities on your doorstep. There is even a shuttle service – called rainbow – to take you comfortably from baggage drop to your hotel.
So what are the unmissable moments in New Caledonia? FEMAIL has explored the mainland to find out what to book for your next vacation.
If you’re looking for a hotel that gives you great bang for your buck, look no further than the waterfront Beaurivage Hotel, which is just meters from the trendiest bars and restaurants – with the beach on your doorstep
HOW TO DO IT ON A BUDGET
New Caledonia is often considered the ultimate honeymoon destination, and while it certainly caters to newlyweds, there are a range of activities for adventurous singletons and families alike.
For a hotel that offers you great value for money, look no further than on the water Beaurivage Hotelwhich is just meters from the trendiest bars and restaurants – with the beach on your doorstep.
The rooms are spacious, the check-in desk is open 24 hours a day to cater to all your last-minute needs, and it’s surprisingly quiet inside despite being so close to the action.
Certain rooms offer their occupants a view of the sea via a small terrace located to the side of the bedroom, with modern conveniences such as air conditioning providing a welcome respite from the heat.
If you want to be closer to the city center the Gondwana Hotel is a stone’s throw from the marina with a modern shower, large beds and breakfast included
If you want to be closer to the city center Gondwana Hotel is a stone’s throw from the marina with modern shower, large beds and breakfast included.
This inherently eco-friendly three-star hotel is perfect for a few nights exploring the city streets, with free and unlimited WiFi as a welcome bonus.
While in town a visit to the Tjibaou Cultural Center is a must, with the opportunity to explore the eight acres of land on your own or on a guided tour.
Named after Kanak political leader Jean-Marie Tjibaou, the Tjibaou Cultural Center was built to celebrate the history and culture of the local Kanak and to recognize the cultural diversity that exists throughout the Pacific region.
While in town, a visit to the Tjibaou Cultural Center is a must, with the option to explore the eight acres of land on your own or on a guided tour
Don’t miss the capital’s aquarium either, located just down the road from the Beaurivage Hotel. It has unique coral species alongside the usual favorites like sharks and turtles
It’s a fascinating display of history and architecture with just enough cover over your head in case a sudden downpour ruins your outdoor activities.
The capital Aquarium is also not to be missed and is just down the road from the Beaurivage Hotel. It has unique coral species alongside the usual favorites like sharks and turtles.
It’s one of Noumea’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s easy to see why – a guided tour will expand your knowledge of several harmless – and dangerous – marine life that you’ve likely never seen or heard of before.
One of the most inexpensive restaurants in Noumea is At Pastaga Creperie which offers both sweet and savory French crepes with many delicious dessert options.
It’s important to order a side of apple cider with your meal, as is customary when eating crepes.
HOW TO DO IT WITH CASH TO SPLASH
With islands and French food galore, you’ll be spoiled for choice in New Caledonia.
In Noumea alone you can book a modern and spacious room in the Castle Royal and enter the unique Aqua Royal Spa for a soak in the warm water tubs or switch it up by heading to the sauna.
They even host aqua aerobics classes with an instructor if you want to work up a sweat while looking out at the sea.
On the menu you don’t want to miss pot and corkscrew with its extensive wine list and lively atmosphere, The little cafe – which is only open for lunch on certain days of the week – and The roof for uninterrupted sea views while you eat and drink to your heart’s content.
On the menu, don’t miss Marmite Et Tire Bouchon with its extensive wine selection and lively atmosphere, Le Petit Cafe – which is only open for lunch on certain days of the week – and Le Roof (pictured) for an uninterrupted view of the restaurant Ocean while you eat and drink to your heart’s content
If you’re looking for a special keepsake to take home, stop by pearl house for unique Tahitian pearls at a fraction of the price you would pay in Tahiti itself.
Book a tour for the explorers toutazimuth that can take you from Noumea to the Great South Lands, namely Blue River Park.
You will be immersed in a history stretching back millions of years, with spectacular views and unique stories about how the national park was formed.
One of the special parts is the picnic lunch and swimming spot in a crystal clear river bed.
For the explorers, book a tour with Toutazimut that can take you from Noumea to the Great South Lands, namely Blue River Park
The magnificent five-star Meridien resort features a world-class restaurant overlooking the most pristine bay, a gym, spa and overwater bungalows for you to relax in after a long day kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding
No trip to New Caledonia would be complete without using a ferry or a short flight Air Caledonia to the Isle of Pines.
The magnificent five-star hotel Meridien Resort features a world-class restaurant overlooking the most pristine bay, a gym, spa and overwater bungalows for you to unwind after a long day of kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.
While it certainly comes with a price tag, there’s no substitute for what you’ll see on the island itself, with outrigger tours around Upi Bay and a dip in the natural pool a must-try.
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