My first look at Noumea in New Caledonia was in awe as I flew over the UNESCO World Heritage lagoon which is the largest lagoon in the world. The turquoise blue waters were in contrast to the hundreds of islands that dotted the water. I could see from this viewpoint why New Caledonia is still a relatively untouched Gem in the pacific. While not all islands were covered in the typical white sand beaches of the South Pacific, plenty of them were.
Upon arriving at the airport we were greeted by Swine Flu masked inspectors that were screening everyone for the recent flu outbreak. I was surprised to see that the Americans (and Mexicans) were delayed about 40 minutes to fill out medical questionnaire forms. In the end they were all provided with the phone number to a doctor and were told to report their health to that doctor every morning for the next 5 days. Apparently this is standard now in all French territories.
New Caledonia, is not the typical tropical jungle style island covered in palm trees. The section of the island between the 30 kilometers from the airport and Noumea were mostly grasslands dotted with a variety of leafy trees. It was definitely a surprise to me after having visited the contrasting South Pacific Islands of Tahiti. The main island of New Caledonia definitely has a unique landscape unlike any other South Pacific Island I have seen.
My first stop on this day was to the Tjibaou Cultural Centre which gave a glimpse of the history, artwork and culture that is important to the local people of this country. The cultural show itself was unique as it followed the life of an indigenous person who had to learn the skills and life of his own people. The setting of the show was on the hillside along a pathway and involved about 5 or 6 different performing areas. No word were spoken during the show but the performers moved us along the path as they moved to each new area. It was a great way to see the culture of the local people and fortunately as May is a cooler season the Mosquitoes were virtually non-existent (which I hear is not the case in the heat of the summer).
We continued along the trail to a village of 3 huts with 100 to 200 foot peaks on the top that represented the three regions of New Caledonia. One building represented the main island while the other two represented the Loyalty Islands to the East and the Island of Pines to the South. Each Monday when the Centre is closed they light traditional fires inside the huts to dry out the grass roofs in order to preserves them from the humid elements of the islands.
We finished our tour of the Cultural Centre with a tour of some artwork located inside the uniquely designed building which are similar to a half dozen, half-circle beehives made out of wood. The building itself is one of the most unique structures that one would never see anywhere else. Inside the building there are a series of art exhibits which mostly rotate every 6 months so that there are new things to see.
The next stop was up to a viewpoint that looked over the edge of Noumea and out to the islands along the coast. It was a spectacular view of the surrounding areas and worth a visit or even a picnic stop.
The final stop was at the local Aquarium. It was a simple aquarium but did house some beautiful tanks of tropical fish, turtles and sharks. Most amazing of all was perhaps the recreated coral formations that contained dozens of different types of beautifully coloured coral. It was like walking into an underground world with vibrant colours and shapes of coral that one rarely can see in its natural setting.
Places to stay in Noumea:
Ramada Plaza Hotel – 4 stars – A 2 block walk from the Beach in the main hotel area. A two tower hotel with many ocean views. Home to a Revolving restaurant and Spa.
Nouvata Parc Hotel – 4 stars – Ocean and Garden View suites at this beautiful hotel across the street from the beach in Noumea’s Hotel area. The location of Noumea’s largest convention room which holds up to 1000 people. Packages to stay and learn French are available.
Escapade Island Resort – 4 star – In room TV’s convert to an internet enabled computer. No charge for internet connection. – A 15 minute boat ride from Noumea is this island resort that has New Caledonia’s only Overwater Bungalows. 44 Garden Bungalows and 25 Over-water Bungalows.
La Promenade Hotel – 4 star – Free wireless internet in each room – This Best Western Resort is an all-suites hotel across the street from the beach. Each room comes with a full kitchen and laundry machine. 1 year rental rates are available. Choose from 20 studios, 72 one bedroom, 20 two bedroom or 40 three bedroom appartments.
Le Lagon Hotel – 3 star – Free internet in lobby, Wifi access in rooms for a fee. – 39 year old family run hotel, newly renovated in June 2009. One block from the beach. Choose from 24 small rooms or 39 studios.
Le Meridien – 5 star – Free in-room internet – Deluxe hotel on the beach across the street from Noumea’s Casino. 5 restaurants including 1 beachfront grill. A deluxe hotel that is situated on a beautiful beach and has lots of dining choices.
