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.