NEW CALEDONIA: the territory with a certain 'je ne sais quoi'
Short on time? How about money? No worries. Here are some quick international get away for $1000.
Time off work required: One day
Budget: $1100 Flights: can be as low as $500 return Accommodation: $100-$250/night in Nouméa, depending on what you're after Other costs: $400
Well, bonjour. Think palm trees, azure waters, crisp white wine and French cheese, and you have the perfect image of New Caledonia. While the outer islands (Isle of Pines, Loyalty Islands etc) are worthy of their own adventure, a quick trip to New Cal only really allows you time to see Nouméa and surrounds. Getting there your options are Qantas and Aircalin, and they codeshare, so you'll be one or the other. Heading over on Friday, it's Aircalin getting you in mid-afternoon and coming back home it's a lunchtime Qantas flight.
From the airport into Nouméa, it's a good hour by shuttle bus (don't take a taxi unless you're super cashed up), and you'll be wanting to stay in either Baie des Citrons or Anse Vata. That's where the action is. Nouméa prices are hefty, so it's worth keeping in mind the exchange rate. Wine and cheese (does one need anything more?) thankfully aren't too costly, and some of the experiences can be reasonably effective.
For the Saturday (your full day), I'd suggest you get out of Nouméa to either Duck Island or Amedée Island on a water taxi or tour. The tours are all-inclusive of snorkel equipment and lunch (so can be quite cost-effective). On a warm, clear day, the sea life is just magical and lying on the white beaches interspersed with snorkelling, lunch and a glass of wine, can be a great way to do things (especially when Sydney's having rubbish weather!). If sun and sand isn't your speed, the Tjibaou Cultural Centre is a fascinating insight into the local indigenous culture. If you've a little more cash to splash, a day trip over to Isle of Pines (involving two quick flights there and back) will avail you to some stunning landscapes and a different perspective on the lagoon's majesty.
There's a great range of bars, restaurants and clubs for a range of pricepoints throughout Nouméa. Be sure to catch at least one sunset by the water while in town - it's quite the spectacle over the lagoon!
New Caledonia's a great spot for a quick and easy weekend away that needn't hit the hip pocket too hard, and will allow you a top up of both your tan and French cheese.
