Noumea

Nouméa is the capital of New Caledonia, a French territory in the South Pacific, and the French influence is hard to miss. Boulangeries sell proper baguettes and croissants, the wine lists in restaurants are French, and the architecture downtown has a distinct colonial-era look. The cruise terminal is close to the Baie de la Moselle market, which opens daily and sells tropical fruit, fresh fish, and Melanesian crafts. For local flavour, try bougna, a traditional Kanak dish of taro, yam, banana, and coconut milk wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked over hot stones. Anse Vata beach, a short bus ride from the centre, has calm water, a few beachside cafés, and a good view of the lagoon. The currency is the CFP franc, and credit cards work in most shops and restaurants. Smaller vendors and market stalls may want cash, so carry some with you.