Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020 |

# Budget NC Country forums / Pacific Islands & Papua New Guinea / New Caledonia
gettingthere 00:48 UTC 07 May 2007 | Hi there, We are planning on a 4 month trip to Australasia soon with our first destination being New Caledonia (with a focus on the Isle of Pines). We are backpackers and although it has been made clear that NC is not the best place from an expenses point of view, we intend to camp throughout our stay there, therefore hoping that it will not ruin our savings! We are planning to stay there for approximatelly 10 days. There are a couple of questions that we need to ask though: 1) Since we need to stay clear of expensive activities or methods of transport (like car hire), we are mainly looking just to enjoy our days in the sun, while exploring everything there is to be explored by foot (when possible) or a local bus service. Obviously we would be interested in seeing any 'off the beaten track places', such as the Petite Islets around the Ile of Pines. We understand that a boat has to be hired for such an activity. Would this reduce our budget dramatically? 2) Would 10 days be enough to try exploring a second area of NC, like the distant Ouvea? 3) If a trip to both Ouvea and Isle of Pines wouldn't be feasible (in both terms of budget and time), what other cheap options do we have in order to avoid bordom? 4) Has anyone experienced "homestaying" first hand? Are there any opportunities for something like this in the Isle of Pines? How does one begin to organise something like this? Any help would be appreciated! Thanks |
Laszlo 01:45 UTC 07 May 2007 | As a second destination, I would recommend Hienghéne in the North-East of Grande Terre instead of Ouvea - more different. Plus the tourist office there does arrange (very) cheap homestays in traditional Kanak villages nearby (if that's what you want), though I was quite disappointed with such an organized homestay after enjoying genuine hospitality in the rest of Melanesia. But hey, those homestays are cheaper than camping on the islands! A few more tips and thought of mine about the Isle of Pines and Hienghéne. | 1
gettingthere 03:03 UTC 07 May 2007 | Dear Laszlo, thank you very much for the quick response and suggestions! Hienghene sounds interesting. Cheers | 2