Understand

The diverse people of New Caledonia add a vibrant tapestry of cultures to the island. There are 5 major ethnic groups that call this place home: - The indigenous Kanaks, who have inhabited the land for centuries. - Descendants of European and North African prisoners and settlers, bringing their own unique heritage. - People from other parts of France, including the French mainland and overseas regions, who have come to live and work in the bustling city of Noumea. - Polynesian immigrants, adding their own traditions and customs to the mix. - Descendants of earlier Asian settlers, such as Vietnamese and Indonesians, contributing to the incredible diversity. Kanaks make up approximately 40% of the population, with the white population comprising a quarter of the total. The remaining 35% is composed of the other groups mentioned above, each with their own stories and contributions to New Caledonia's rich cultural fabric.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first popular French dish is Ratatouille, a colorful vegetable stew traditionally made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and seasoned with herbs such as thyme and basil. This hearty, non-meat dish is typically served alongside grilled meats or fish.

Another famous French dish is Coq au Vin, a braised chicken dish that originated in Burgundy. It involves marinating chicken pieces in red wine with mushrooms, bacon, onions, and garlic before slow-cooking them until tender and flavorful. The final dish is often garnished with parsley and served with potatoes, noodles, or bread.

Lastly, the iconic French dish, Croissants, are flaky, buttery pastries made from layers of laminated dough, which are then curved into a crescent shape and traditionally served for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Although they are not typically a savory or sweet dish, croissants can be filled with various ingredients like ham and cheese (called a jambon-beurre) or almond paste and sugar (an almond croissant).

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing