Urban Experiences in Noumea
18 URBAN EXPERIENCES YOU'D NEVER EXPECT IN THE PACIFIC
Think New Caledonia is all sun, sand and beaches? Then we have a surprise for you!
The city centre and surrounding suburbs offer many “unexpected” experiences for urban explorers. Shoppers will be drawn to the gorgeous boutiques of Centre Ville and food lovers can taste the flavours of Vietnam and China in the Quartier Asiatique, followed by a sweet treat from the Latin Quarter chocolatiers.
For an insight into New Caledonia’s Melanesian culture, the world-class Tjibaou Cultural Center is a must-see. At the Port Moselle market, fresh produce shines alongside imported cheeses and locally cured meats to bring the blend of French and Melanesian culture to your tastebuds. If architecture is your thing, take the trail through Faubourg Blanchot to see examples of late 19th Century French colonial buildings, and finish up at the impressive St Joseph Cathedral.
BEST HIKING TRAILS IN NEW CALEDONIA
Drag yourself away from the water, pop on your walking shoes and pick a path that’s right for you.
The hiking choices are almost endless, from waterside bay trails and rocky mountain ridges through to tropical rainforests.
A standout area for hiking is Giant Fern Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with many marked and serviced paths winding through an abundance of native plants and wildlife. Or push yourself on the peaks of Shabadran, where your efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking views and glorious beaches.
For those more experienced hikers looking for the next challenge, the two-day Trans-Caledonian hike is a must-do.
FRANCOFOLIES FESTIVAL IN NEW CALEDONIA
The world’s largest French language music festival, the Francofolies Festival, will take place from the 8th to the 10th of September 2017, at the Tjibaou Cultural Centre in New Caledonia.
The festival will include three days of partying to French language music, alongside a festival village atmosphere dedicated to all things New Caledonian.
This inaugural event has attracted numerous renowned international and local artists including: Black M, Boulevard des Airs, Cali, Claudio Capéo, H.F Thiéfaine, L.E.J, Miossec and Youssoupha.
YOGA RETREAT
Winter is well and truly here, so why not escape the chill on a French-themed yoga adventure in New Caledonia.
Just three hours from Auckland, New Caledonia is as French as Provence! Stay in absolute luxury at the Sheraton Deva Resort & Spa, fine-tune your yoga practice in the sunshine and fill up on delicious French cuisine...what more could you wish for?
Four nights priced at just NZD $1,550 per person (twin-share), from 1-5 September 2017
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