Thinking back about my trip to Noumea, a few stand out things come to mind.. Delicious gourmet food, night-life, with a touch of France in the Pacific!

My partner and I flew with Air Calin direct from Sydney, to the ever-developing capital of New Caledonia.  It was a very enjoyable flight that only lasted 2.5 hours.  The service was fantastic and the French wine served on board went down very nicely!

All of our transfers were provided by Arc en Ciel who were prompt and were operated by very friendly locals.

The first hotel we stayed in was the Novotel Surf.

The first room we stayed in was fairly tired and in desperate need of a refurbishment.  We did return to the Novotel later on the trip and were accommodated in a different wing.  This part of the hotel has been refurbished and was a lot nicer than the first room. The Novotel is probably the best located hotel in Noumea as you are a 5 minute walk from the Baie des Citrons, where there is a great strip of bars/restaurants and café's.

The highlight of our trip was staying at the Coral Palms Resort.  Opened in March 2004, this resort is on a private island - a 10 min speedboat ride away from Baie des Citrons.   We were lucky enough to be upgraded to the over water bungalows, which were absolutely amazing! The bungalows offer a private balcony with motorised stairs that extend out to the water so you can swim right up to your doorstep!  For approximately $1000 per night you can enjoy these huge brand new bungalows, fitted out with all of the latest gadgets and gizmo's, you can even request to be picked up by a buggy and driven to any part of the resort if you don't feel like walking!

The food served at the restaurant was exquisite.  Most things served looked more like a piece of art rather than something you would eat!  The flavours were tantalising and the complimenting wine or champagne made for a sensational meal, every time.

Attractions we visited in Noumea included the Zoo, the Noumea Bus and the Cultural Centre.  I'd probably give the zoo a miss as it is full of Australian animals (although seeing a seagull in an aviary was kind of amusing!).  A day trip to the Amedee Light House is definitely a must.  The beach is really beautiful and the lunch is very entertaining!

Overall, I think Noumea is a great destination for a quick get away as it is so close.  The weather is good most of the year round.  There is plenty to do, see and eat, but make sure you bring LOTS of money!

Sarah