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Introducing New Caledonia
There's no better place to experience the Pacific with a taste of France than New Caledonia, where Melanesian tradition blends with French sophistication. This mix of the chic yet casual, très French but ultimately Pacific comes together with peerless élan in Noumea, the cosmopolitan capital. Dining out and shopping run the gamut from gourmet restaurants to humble roulottes, from Chinatown's colourful shops to the expensively elegant, air-conditioned boutiques on rue de Sébastopol. When you leave the capital, the urban scenery gives way to a wealth of changing landscapes - the rolling plains of la brousse (the bush), lush river valleys, steep mountains coursed by tumbling waterfalls, cool rainforests and wild coastlines.
Grande Terre is the main island with rugged mountains, waterfalls and the world's second-largest lagoon. To the Southeast, lies romantic Île des Pins with its slender pines, white-sand beaches and emerald lagoon. To the east, life proceeds at a leisurely pace in the relaxed Loyalty Islands and the town of Maré, steeped in Kanak culture.
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Latest headlines for New Caledonia
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Ditched helicopter inquiry begins
19 February 2009 4:21PM
An inquiry begins into the ditching of a North Sea helicopter, which overturned after those on board were rescued.
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Hammer comes down on Bull Sales
18 February 2009 12:07PM
The final Perth Bull Sales take place in the town before the auction mart is moved to Stirling.
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Bike race attracts record numbers
12 February 2009 11:24AM
The Etape Caledonia cycle ride in Highland Perthshire is set to be the biggest so far.
