Family holidays with children in New Caledonia - attractions and entertainment

New Caledonia is a calm place, and this is very important for vacationers with children. There are no mass strikes, demonstrations, and riots with broken display windows and burning cars that can happen in continental France. This is particularly important for families who, as a rule, want to enjoy a calm and trouble-free vacation. Some may wonder why we compare New Caledonia to France when this tropical country is located in the Pacific Ocean close to Australia. Indeed, the islands of New Caledonia are located to the east of Australia, at a distance of approximately 1,200 kilometers. And France is the protector of New Caledonia that is also known as a special collectivity of France.

Europeans have lived for many years on the islands, so local lifestyle is not much different from the one in Europe. Of course, this is good news for family travelers. Grande Terre, the main island of New Caledonia, is the most comfortable destination for a family vacation. First of all, it is important to mention the colorful and exotic local nature. Children like bright colors and beautiful places, so they will be very excited to see paradise-like tropical landscapes, such as clean beaches with white sand, green palm trees and pines, turquoise water, and bright sun. Pristine local nature looks nothing but stunning. Without a doubt, simple admiration of local landscapes is not enough for children as they need action. Vacationers can be sure that Noumea won’t disappoint them.

A visit to Parc Zoologique et Forestier is an exciting and family-friendly activity. Visitors can see many tropical parrots and other rare birds, some of which are endemic. The symbol of New Caledonia, the Kagu bird, is also fun to watch. This bird cannot fly, and its singing is reminiscent of a dog barking. Three times a week, a special train for children, Chou-Chou, starts its ride in Noumea. Consisting of only several bright yellow carriages, the train offers a two-hour-long journey with an English-speaking guide. Aquarium des Lagons is one more popular destination for children. In this aquarium, visitors can see sharks, stingrays, turtles, snakes, stonefish, and many other species. It is an interesting place to visit for children of all ages. The aquarium consists of several giant reservoirs filled with ocean water, so it has conditions close to the natural habitat of more than 300 species of sea creatures. Daylight is used in Aquarium des Lagons. The inhabitants of the aquarium get food at a certain time of the day, and visitors can watch this process. For children aged 3-12, the aquarium offers interesting lessons dedicated to creatures of the underwater world. There is a one-hour-long lesson for children aged 3 to 6 and a lesson that lasts two hours for older children (7-12 years). Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Explore the diverse flora and fauna of New Caledonia and its unique natural conditions created by coral reefs and warm climate. Almost all beaches of the west coast of Grande Terre are calm lagoons with transparent water. There are no dangerous sea creatures in this part of the island such as, for example, sea urchins. Noumea beaches are perfect for family recreation. Children can try snorkeling and diving, and older children can try scuba diving and kite surfing.

When visiting Noumea, the capital of New Caledonia, vacationers may feel like they are in a European town. For tourists with children, this means the food they are familiar with, as well as culture and traditions that are similar to European. Naturally, it is easier to adapt here. Local lifestyle is relaxed, and the atmosphere of friendliness lingers in the air. Approximately one-third of New Caledonia’s population is immigrants from Europe. Despite the strong presence of European culture, these are still tropical islands with almost half of its population being Polynesians and Melanesians. That being said, tourists shouldn’t forget that they are guests and that they travel with children in an unknown country, so parents shouldn’t relax completely. Everyone in New Caledonia speaks French as this is the official language. English is less widespread, but people usually understand it.

In Noumea, there are water sports centers where children aged 4 to 12 can try different water sports. Basic safety rules and techniques are very important. For example, kids learn what to do if their boat overturns. There are one-time master classes and seminars that last one week. From time to time, local sports clubs offer water sports weekends for visitors of all ages. These events are great for everyone who wants to learn surfing, kayaking, canoeing, and yachting. Such masterclasses are free, so visitors only need to come to a specified beach in time. Parents can come with children and learn together. Local public transport is good only when moving within Noumea borders. The capital of New Caledonia is the biggest city on the islands. It is possible to catch a taxi, but taxi services are usually not cheap. For tourists with children, it may be more beneficial to rent a car especially if they plan to make intercity rides. Restaurants and cafes in New Caledonia offer different cuisines of the world. European cuisine is no exception, but French cuisine is the obvious leader. Hotels, airplane tickets, car rental, and entertainment – do not forget to book everything in advance.