IT'S CLOSE, IT'S TROPICAL, IT'S NOT LIKE ANYWHERE IN AUSTRALIA

It’s close, it’s tropical, it’s very different from anywhere in Australia, yet hardly any of us go there. Having just been there for a memorable break, I’d encourage you to check out New Caledonia for a real change.

First off, while there was political unrest among the indigenous Kanak population in 2024, we saw no signs of trouble. Second, it can be expensive, with food and drinks costing as much as a good Queensland resort. However, if you’re canny, it’s worthwhile.

The capital of New Caledonia, Noumea, is just over two hours by flight from Brisbane, and as it’s just north of the Tropic of Capricorn, it’s on the same latitude as Rockhampton.

My first week there was with five other hikers on a 106km trek through the interior mountains, carrying our own food and gear and staying in simple refuges. We saw no other through walkers on the GR1, as it’s called, but plenty of nature. Three-quarters of all the plants and animals on the big island are endemic, i.e., they only evolved there.

After a challenging week’s walk, my wife flew in for some real rest and recreation far away from digital devices and Australia in general. We stayed in a basic resort, eating tuna and venison, two of the local foods.

We then drove four hours north to stay at Poe’s 17 km of beach alongside the World Heritage-listed lagoon. The coral reef was only two kms offshore, and you didn’t need to scuba dive a simple snorkel and the crystal-clear water did the trick.

Do consider a visit its very different from any other of the Pacific Islands I have visited and if you like French food, language and culture it’s a lot closer. Bon voyage!