Nouméa: A Perfect Combination of Entertainment and Leisure
Nouméa is the capital city of New Caledonia, and even though it might not be the most famous tourist destination, it has a lot to offer. From gorgeous beaches that spread for miles to the cultural heritage that is nothing short of amazing, there is no way any tourist could be bored here. So, if you’re thinking of adding this city to your bucket list, here are a few things you should do and see in Nouméa.
Visit Nouméa’s Central Market
Tasting traditional dishes in charming local restaurants is an important part of getting to know different countries and cultures. However, there is something special about local markets – they are filled with colors, smells, and sounds, and they allow you to really feel the country’s culture. You’d feel like a part of the crowd, and you’d get a chance to explore the local produce. You can even find beautiful handmade jewelry here, which can be a great souvenir that you can take home from the trip. Also, the market is protected from the sun and rain, so you can spend as much as time as you want here.
Learn about the New Caledonian culture
The Tjibaou Cultural Centre is not very close to the city center, but nevertheless, it’s worth visiting. The architecture of this place will definitely leave you speechless, as it was designed by Renzo Piano, a famous Italian architect. It fits into the surrounding nature perfectly, but there is still a sense of modernity and style. You don’t even have to enter the museum to get an insight into the local culture – there is a collection of fantastic Kanak huts and totems right outside in the gorgeous garden. Inside the museum, you can find several exhibitions of tribal art, everyday objects, and sculptures, as well as exhibitions of contemporary art made by local artists.
Visit the Lemon Bay
There is a visible French influence in New Caledonia, so if you’re looking for a place that is all about the French culture, make sure to visit the Lemon Bay. Also known as Baie des Citrons, it consists of a long gorgeous beach with plenty of palms, cafés, restaurants, and small shops. So, you can enjoy a nice swim before a tasty meal in one of the charming restaurants, or you can grab a nice book, find your spot under the sun, and enjoy the breathtaking view of the surrounding nature. If you’d like to see this amazing place and sunbathe on the gorgeous beaches of New Caledonia, there are many great New Caledonia package deals that can fit all your needs. Some of them even include accommodation near the beach, from where you can start off any adventure.
Spend some time at Place des Cocotiers
Place des Cocotiers is the heart of the city. It is famous for its rotunda, a landmark made in the late 1800s. It is a perfect place for people watching, relaxing, and just enjoying the view. Near the famous landmark, you can also find a giant chessboard, and a bit further from the center, there is a botanical garden with many tropical plants. You can also see many palms at the square, as the first “owners” of the location, the military, planted a lot of coconut trees in that area. Also, there is free Wi-Fi, but you probably won’t be spending much time on the Internet when surrounded by such beauty. However, you might want to try “pétanque”, a French bowling game that the locals enjoy playing at the square.
If you don’t know where to go for your next vacation, consider visiting Nouméa. It is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, so whether you’re into relaxing at the beach or trying out the local cuisine, have no doubt that it would be a trip to remember.
