New Caledonia Barrier Reef
Caroline Sabolik
Plants and Animals?
The New Caledonia Barrier Reef is home to 15,000 marine animals and fish species. Over 8,000 of the 15,000 were new species discovered in the reef. This reef is mostly known for it's clown fish, green turtles, and dugongs.
About the Reef
This barrier reef is the second largest reef in the world, located in New Caledonia. It has diverse coral and its reefs are lagoons. It includes multiple types of sea grass, plankton, algae, and tropical coral. Many of its fish come from the Serranidae and Lutianidae families. And for the animals, they come from the Labridae and Pomacentridae families.
How can I get to New Caledonia?
The airfare for each company and the size of the family will vary. However, there are some costs you can take into consideration. For 2 adults on 2 children on Virgin America, there will be 2 stops, 47 hours, and $8715. But for Aircalin, it will be 52 hours, 2 stops, for $8744.
Where can I stay?
Again, the size of the family will vary with the cost. But for a family of 2 adults and 2 children for 3 nights, the Hilton located in New Caledonia's capital, Noumea, would be a total of $1,100. This includes parking and wifi. However, the Hotel Tieti is $730, and includes an airport shuttle, parking, and wifi as well. These prices don't include certain accommodations some families may have (such as beds, room service, etc).
What is there to do?
There are thousands of family friendly biking trails, mountain climbing, swimming, exploring, and so much more! There is the Aquarium des Lagons Nouvelle Caledonle, biking in Parc des Grandes Fougeres, mountains and exploring in Piscine Naturelle, museums such as Tjibaou Cultural Center, and swimming in the Barrier Reef!
Food?
All of the food in New Caledonia is very diverse. For example, they serve foods from Africa, China, France, Indonesia, Italy, and Spain. You can find places to eat that range from street stalls which give small handouts to try, and gourmet restaurants.
Extra Information
You will need to make sure you and your passengers all have their passports up to date. The New Caledonian government recommends that all tourists bring a Visa, French Currency (optional), Hepatitis A shots(B is optional but recommended), Tetanus shots, and Tuberculosis is optional yet recommended as well.