Ouvea, New Caledonia

Ouvea, translates to 'the closest island to paradise'.

This island was the most enjoyable stop for me on the cruise. Beautiful beach, warm ocean, peace and quiet. Ahh...heaven!!!!

Earlier, during breakfast, I was listening to a middle aged couple describe their trip ashore. The older gentleman was quite put out by the whole experience. He told a tale of hiking quite a distance to find nothing but a beach for his trouble, I chuckled quietly to myself. What was he expecting to find in a tropical paradise...a casino!!!. I also made a mental note to change my shoes for the hike.

I just about wet my pants from laughing when I reached the beach. The 'hike' took all of ten minutes and involved walking along a straight, flat, road. OMG, some people will complain about anything.

Love KB

Author: Karen Boddey
Photo Source: Karen and Steve Boddey
Revised post to Bubblews 11/12/2013

Next Stop - Isle of Pines, New Caledonia

The Isle of Pines was discovered in 1774 by Captain Cook. As the name implies, the island has a distinctive pine tree skyline, offset against white sandy beaches and blue lagoons. Truely breathtaking.

Love KB

New Caledonia. First stop - Noumea

Noumea was founded in 1854, the name Noumea is derived from a combination of Melanesian words meaning 'island' and 'a small tropical fish'. Initially established as a trading post and then a French fortress. Often described as 'The Soul of France in the South Pacific. Here endeth the history lesson.

This was my second visit to Noumea, I enjoyed my first visit much more, probably because we stayed further out of the city. The inner city was dirty and the people not especially friendly.

I did however, enjoy the tour we took part in later on in the afternoon. I'm sure it will be no surprise to you that we decided to take the 'Wine and Cheese Tour'. Our guide was a funny chap, telling us many stories as we made our way around the city via bus.

We concluded the tour at a small restaurant, guzzled a few wines, dined on french bread and cheese and merrily made our way back to the bus.