French Connection

For years, New Caledonians have used the catch phrase "France In The Pacific" to promote their country to primarily Aussies, Kiwis, Japanese and Europeans. It's certainly that, as fashionistas cross paths with the more casually-clad locals in brightly colored clothing reflecting an island lifestyle.

That softened Pacific attitude makes this destination even more appealing, especially among travelers into warm tropical weather, captivating culture, inspiring landscapes and water that's as intensely turquoise as it is rich with marine life.

For a little perspective, New Caledonia is composed principally of the Isle of Pines, Loyalty Islands, and mainland divided into Northern and Southern provinces. The archipelago is tucked amid a trio of better-know getaways - Fiji, Australia and New Zealand. So it's a perfect destination for travelers heading to any of these more prominent destinations. But for those into diving, there's little need to go elsewhere. The mainland is cocooned in the world's largest lagoon, with water temperatures that range from an inviting 70 to 82 degrees.

Upon arriving at Tontouta International on my Aircalin flight from LAX, I hit the ground running. I took in the Tjibaou Cultural Center, which paid off in trumps since it gave me a solid background on New Caledonia's Kanak people and what I'd be exposed to on the trip.

After a healthy does of local insight, I headed back to the colorful capital of Noumea. This scenic peninsula city definitely reflects diversity that was fashioned throughout the past by sailors and missionaries, governing French military and the U.S. Army during WWII. Today, Noumea emits a distinctive European feel with its colonial buildings, town square, gardens, markets, designer boutiques, patisseries and sidewalk cafes. For handy sightseeing, a small train makes a scenic circuit that stops at key sites between the city center and the main tourist area of Anse Vata.

Tight on time but determined to explore the Southern Province's interior landscapes, I opted for Caledonia Tours (caledoniatours@lagoon.nc) excursion to Blue River Park. Our host was perhaps the most well versed guide I've ever encountered. The 22,350-acre forest reserve is home to a plethora of native plants and wildlife, including the territory's rare cagou bird.

While my stay was brief, it was certainly filled with a satisfying taste that will lure me back again. Be sure to upgrade from economy to at least business class on the flight, as it's a long haul. And you'll want to be sure to be well rested once you arrive since there's so much to see and do.