This blog on New Caledonia is for those of you who ever wondered what life on a tiny island in the South Pacific might be like. Tired of bracing winter winds, the stress of an inner city or simply dreaming of a life change? This is a blog about what happens when, in the words of Yogi Berra, "you come to a fork in the road, [and] take it".

27 January 2007

Maré: Last Day

We ended our trip in Maré with a day on the beach and at the pool. Laurent went kayaking, Sophie listened to music, Laurent and I got some great snorkelling in (right at our hotel - highly recommended at Nengone Village), and Pablo hung out with his new sand toys. When the novelty of his new toys wore off, Sophie stepped in with a dance on her hip and a song. Great (relaxing) fun was had by all.

Would we recommend a visit to Maré if ever you get to New Caledonia? Yes, definitely. Is it often visited? No. Why? Probably because there are so many other lovely places to visit in New Caledonia. But, that's no reason - if you can find the time - to skip Maré. It is a wonderful place to both relax and discover.

Photo by Laurent Guiader, 2006.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Bonjour Julie,
Hello everybody.
Thank you very much Julie for your excelent stories reporting on the island of Mare, one of the three Loyaulty islands off shore of the East coast of New Caledonia.
As I was discovering your Bog last week, I noticed the place where you live. You mentionned the " Marina ".
I can see it very clearly on your photograph.
Now then.
This my unexpected question. This " Marina " looks like " Le bain Militaire " to me.
Am I right Julie?
I spent a few year near by.
At the then " Lycee Technique et College annexe " and in 1970 a few months at the military base nearby.
Please tell me if I am right.
A bientot. Marc

JHG said...

Hi, Marc,

Bravo! You guessed it. Our terrace overlooks the "bain militaire". We watch the sun go down on it every evening - and I spent many a moment staring out at it before Pablo came along. I know exactly where you were. In fact, years later, we are just down the street from each other. How funny.

All the best,

Julie

Anonymous said...

Long hikes to secluded beaches, snorkling with the dreaded sea snakes (and other creatures of the deep)????????? Not for this girl. THIS is my idea of paradise--lovely little walk down a path, sitting poolside, possibly sipping a tropical drink, and dancing with Sophie. AAAHHHH--what could be better?
These islands are very beautiful--thank you for the travelogue. If we can come back someday, I would like to see some of them--but perhaps without all the adventure!