New Caledonia

Only 2.5 hours from the East Coast of Australia and you will find yourself in the French territory of New Caledonia.

Noumea, the nation's capital, is a tropical cosmopolitan Metropolis and the stepping-stone to some of the most beautiful islands and reefs in the South Pacific. This land of contrast is composed of a group of islands: the main island, Loyalty Islands, Isle of Pines, Belep and a myriad of small islands. The barrier reef stretching 1600 km and encircling the mainland island is the world's largest lagoon, and surely one of the most beautiful.

Better known for diving, New Caledonia has great surfing potential, but you need a boat: only one spot is on the mainland. The others are a fair way out (more than 5km!) all along the Great Barrier Reef.

International Airport: Noumea