New Caledonia & Oceania | ITMB 2022

The South Pacific island complex known as New Caledonia, or Nouvelle Caledonie in French, consists of a main island and half a dozen smaller islands collectively called the Loyalty Islands. It is an overseas possession of France and uses the Euro as its currency. Located about halfway between Australia and Fiji, and south of Vanuatu, the main island is one of the larger land masses in the Pacific.

Key Features of New Caledonia:

• Main Island: Features a reasonably well-developed road infrastructure connecting the capital city of Naomea with other urban areas.
• Resort Hotels: Found at various locations along the coastline, offering opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
• Adventurous Territory: While resorts exist, much of the appeal lies in its adventurous nature.
• WW2 History: The islands were important surveillance zones during World War II.
• Popular Tourism Spot: Particularly favored by Australians and New Zealanders.

Reverse Side of the Map:

The reverse side of the sheet portrays the South Pacific for cruising, covering:

• Geographic Scope: From Hawaii to the Marianas, down to New Guinea.
• Countries Included: Eastern half of Australia, all of New Zealand, American Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, the Cook Islands, and Tahiti.
• Cruise Ship Activity: This region is increasingly popular for cruise ships as it combines:
  • Affluent population areas in Australasia and the USA.
  • Exotic yet safe travel destinations.
  • Accessibility primarily through cruise ships, as other means of transport can be expensive.

This part of the world offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and modern travel opportunities, making it a fascinating destination for explorers and cruise enthusiasts alike.