NCL
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CFP franc
A visa is not required for stays up to 90 days.
New Caledonia is a French territory comprised of dozens of islands in the South Pacific. It's known for its palm-lined beaches and marine-life-rich lagoon, which, at 24,000-sq.-km, is among the world's largest. A massive barrier reef surrounds the main island, Grand Terre, a major scuba-diving destination. The capital, Nouma, is home to French-influenced restaurants and luxury boutiques selling Parisian fashions.
New Caledonian cuisine is a unique blend of French culinary techniques and traditional Melanesian ingredients, reflecting the island's diverse cultural influences. The cuisine often features fresh seafood, such as fish, prawns, and lobster, due to the island's proximity to the ocean. Local dishes frequently incorporate tropical fruits, root vegetables like taro and yam, and coconut milk, which are staples in Melanesian cooking. The French influence is evident in the use of pastries, cheeses, and wines, creating a fusion that offers a rich and varied dining experience. Popular dishes include bougna, a traditional Melanesian meal cooked in banana leaves, and civet de roussette, a bat stew that highlights the adventurous side of New Caledonian gastronomy.
